2026 Foundations Reading Plan
Welcome to Week 40 of the Foundations F260 Bible Reading Plan!
Watch Heather McAnear introduce Week 40
Previous Weeks
The book of Acts tells us about Paul’s missionary journeys. We read of Paul’s first missionary journey last week in Acts 13-14. This week we will read of his second missionary journey through Asia Minor (modern day Turkey) to encourage Christ-followers. This trip was significant in that by responding to the Holy Spirit’s leading, Paul also went to Macedonia, leading Christianity to spread into Europe and giving us his letters to Philippians and 1 and 2 Thessalonians. Philippi was the first European church!
“By the time Paul became a missionary, there were as many non-Jews as there were Jewish people in the Jesus movement. This conflict of cultures sparked major debate that came to a head in the events recounted in Acts 15” (Bible Project Guide to the Galatians). The Jerusalem Council mentioned in Acts 15 shows the positive outcome when church government works well. At the heart of the debate was the belief of some Jewish Christ-followers that non-Jewish followers should essentially become Jewish by obeying their traditional circumcision and laws. Paul’s continual response was to emphasize that while these practices set the Jewish nation apart, they were not salvific and that non-Jews did not need to follow them for salvation, reiterating that salvation comes from accepting Christ alone.
We will briefly depart from reading in Acts for a couple days this week to read Paul’s letters to some of the churches mentioned in our Acts reading. This was an explosive time of growth in the Christian church and Paul’s letters give us strong examples of how to give our lives to lead others to Christ and care enough about them to help them on their journey with Him. As you read of the ministry of this great disciple maker, note what he does, why, and how. What can you learn from his relationships with Barnabus, Silas, Timothy, Aquila and Priscilla? What can you learn from his passion and frustration with the Galatians? From his tenderness toward the Thessalonians? How can you practically follow the example of the Bereans in Acts 17:11?
How can we best follow Paul’s example in our reading this week? Who in your life needs a word of biblical warning or encouragement? Who might you need to write or visit to encourage them in their faith? Let’s follow Paul’s example in 1 Thessalonians 2:8,
“We were happy to share not only the good news from God, but our very selves because we came to dearly love you”
Weekly Reading:
Acts 15-16
Galatians 1-3
Galatians 4-6
Acts 17-18:17
1 Thessalonians 1-2
Memory Verses: Acts 17:11 and 17:24-25
Further Resources:
What was the meaning and importance of the Jerusalem Council (Acts 15)? (This begins with a succinct summary of Acts’ documentation of the gospel spreading to the Gentiles, beginning in Acts 8 and of how the Jerusalem Council sets a powerful example for us to limit our liberties to promote peace and love.)
https://www.gotquestions.org/Jerusalem-Council.html
What were the key events of Paul's second missionary journey?
https://biblehub.com/q/key_events_of_paul%27s_2nd_journey.htm
Bible Project Overview of Galatians
https://bibleproject.com/guides/book-of-galatians/
Bible Project Overview of 1 Thessalonians
https://bibleproject.com/guides/book-of-1-thessalonians/
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Our reading begins with the fascinating book of Genesis, introducing the creation story, Adam and Eve’s sin and its effect on humanity, the first murder, the flood and God’s covenant with Noah. Relish in the activity, justice and unparalleled grace of God. Day 5 takes us to the book of Job, thought to be written around the same time as Genesis. Job highlights suffering, divine justice and the sovereignty of God.
Attached are some resources to help you get the most out of your daily reading, including Foundations journaling books explaining and utilizing a H.E.A.R. journaling method designed by the creators of our reading plan.
Weekly Reading:
Monday - Genesis 1-2
Tuesday - Genesis 3-4
Wednesday - Genesis 6-7
Thursday - Genesis 8-9
Friday - Job 1-2
Memory Verses for the Week: Genesis 1:27 and Hebrews 11:7
Further Resources:
Book of Genesis Summary | Watch an Overview Video (Part 1) 7.42 minutes
When was Genesis written? | GotQuestions.org
When was Job written? | GotQuestions.org
HEAR Bible Study 90-Day Journal by Ryan David - < Click “Read Sample” under book image for explanation and sample of the H.E.A.R. application method. >
Foundations: A 260-Day Bible Reading Plan for Busy Believers (Journal) by Robby Gallaty (2015-11-01) Adult, teen and children’s version of this journal may be found in the CRBC Book Nook and on Amazon
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This week’s reading begins in Job 38 with some of the most mesmerizing use of language in all the world. Previously in that book, Job and his friends were questioning why Job suffered so badly. In chapter 38, God does not answer their question, but spectacularly makes the case for who He (God) is and why He alone can be trusted for divine wisdom. It is poetry with a punch, delivered by the Ultimate Poet. Read slowly and relish every word. (I cannot read these words without hearing a song that the radio played on repeat in the early 2000s, so I’m including a link to it in the resources below for you to listen to after your reading.)
As you read each day, consider underlining once each word or phrase that gives a clue to the character of God. Hear Job’s humble response in Job 42:1-6. See who God reveals Himself to be to Abraham in Genesis 15-17 and how God responds to Abraham’s faith. Finish your daily reading by looking again at what Scripture revealed about God. Thank Him for those specific character traits and ponder how knowing them should lead you to practically adapt your beliefs and behaviors. Maybe it's acknowledging who is and isn’t in control, or addressing an area of your life where you humbly need to trust His wisdom. This week of reading is rich!Weekly Reading: Monday, Jan. 12 - Job 38-39 Tuesday, Jan. 13 - Job 40-42Wednesday, Jan. 14 - Genesis 11-12Thursday, Jan. 15 - Genesis 15Friday, Jan. 16 - Genesis 16-17
Memory Verses for the Week: Hebrews 11:6 and Hebrews 11:8-10
Further Resources:Reedemer by Nicole C. Mullen (Lyric Video) | Christian Worship Music15 Amazing Attributes of God: What They Mean and Why They MatterHEAR Bible Study 90-Day Journal by Ryan David - ( Click “Read Sample” under book image for explanation and sample of the H.E.A.R. application method. )Foundations: A 260-Day Bible Reading Plan for Busy Believers (Journal) by Robby Gallaty (2015-11-01) Adult, teen and children’s version of this journal may be found on Amazon. -
Welcome to Week 3 of the Foundations F260 Bible Reading Plan!
https://youtu.be/SJ2lJpBdLcY
From Isaac's miraculous birth to rescuing women in some very vulnerable situations caused by others, this week’s reading in Genesis reveals God doing what seems impossible. We also see a great example of how to approach God in prayer and of God doing what is necessary to protect His promises. And, although the Memory Verses are from the New Testament, they refer directly to our Old Testament reading.
This week also introduces our short weekly Monday videos, done by our staff to show you how we are trying to practically apply God's Word to our everyday lives. We hope it will inspire you to look for signs of God's character as you read and to think through how to live like you are choosing to believe He is who He says. Thank you for being on this journey with us as together we become disciples who are fully devoted to knowing Christ, following Him and making other disciples!
Weekly Reading:
Monday, Jan. 19 - Genesis 18-19
Tuesday, Jan. 20 - Genesis 20-21
Wednesday, Jan. 21 - Genesis 22
Thursday, Jan. 22 - Genesis 24
Friday, Jan. 23 - Genesis 25:19-34; 26
Memory Verses for the Week: Romans 4:20-22 and Hebrews 11:17-19
Further Resources:
What is Justification? - https://www.gotquestions.org/justification.html
Video: Overview of Genesis 12-50 (8 min.) - https://bibleproject.com/videos/genesis-12-50/
New Testament on the Justification of Abraham -
https://www.biblestudytools.com/romans/4.html
Ligonier Ministries Article " The Justifying Faith of Abraham" - https://learn.ligonier.org/devotionals/justifying-faith-of-abraham -
Welcome to Week 4 of the Foundations F260 Bible Reading Plan!
In this week’s reading, we will see God begin to trace the fulfillment of His promise to bless the nations through the lineage of Abraham. This will culminate in later New Testament reports of Jesus’ birth and resurrection, but this week we are introduced to some key patriarchs coming from Abraham’s descendants that will help bridge the gap from Abraham to Jesus - Abraham’s son Isaac, Isaac’s son Jacob, and Jacob’s son Judah. Further, we will meet all of Jacob’s sons where the often Biblically referenced 12 tribes of Israel will descend.
You will see an ugly thread of deception this week. As you read each day, note where you see deception and what were its painful consequences. Also note how even deception cannot thwart God’s sovereignty and kindness. (For a clear and uncomplicated explanation of God’s sovereignty, see the Desiring God article linked below on What is the Sovereignty of God!) Spend some time each day thanking God for His faithfulness to His promises and to even work through imperfect people. Humbly consider your own speech and behavior. Have there been any lies, exaggeration, half-truths or misleading behaviors you need to confess to God?
Weekly Reading: Monday, Jan. 26 - Genesis 27-28Tuesday, Jan. 27 - Genesis 29-30:24Wednesday, Jan 28 - Genesis 31-32Thursday, Jan 29 - Genesis 33, 35Friday, Jan 30 - Genesis 37
Memory Verses for the Week: 2 Corinthians 10:12 and 1 John 3:18
Further Resources:https://www.desiringgod.org/interviews/what-is-the-sovereignty-of-god
Book of Genesis Summary: A Complete Animated Overview (Part 2)
Why was a father’s blessing so highly valued in the Old Testament - https://www.gotquestions.org/fathers-blessing.html
https://learn.ligonier.org/devotionals/isaac-blesses-his-sons -
Welcome to Week 5 of the Foundations F260 Bible Reading Plan!
Drama. Drama. Drama. That is what you will find in this week’s reading of Genesis 39-47! Joseph seems to be stuck in a soap opera riddled with betrayal and rescue. But his story is not just a story; it is part of God’s very real story. It portrays with stunning clarity how God can and does redeem even the truly awful circumstances of our lives in life-altering ways. God used the repeated difficulties in Joseph’s life and the famine his family experienced to get all of them to Goshen - a move that would preserve Abraham’s promised lineage that Jesus would eventually be born into.
When you read Joseph’s highs and lows this week, look for how God uses both good and bad circumstances to accomplish preserving Abraham’s lineage. Consider that while it is easy to see God’s care when you get to the end of story, that it must have been hard to see it when Joseph was living in the midst of the messier moments. What about your life? Are you having trouble seeing God’s care in your circumstances? How might He be preserving, protecting, or getting you (literally or figuratively) where He wants you? May this week’s reading and memory verses help you to trust in who God says He is and what He says He will do, even when you cannot see it.
Weekly Reading: Monday, Feb. 2 - Genesis 39-40Tuesday, Feb. 3 - Genesis 41Wednesday, Feb. 4 - Genesis 42-43Thursday, Feb. 5 - Genesis 44-55Friday, Feb. 6 - Genesis 46-47
Memory Verses for the Week: Romans 8:28-30 and Ephesians 3:20-21
Further Resources:
Goodness of God, sung by CeCe Winans - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9sE5kEnitqE21 Bible Verses on Trusting God - https://www.cru.org/us/en/train-and-grow/spiritual-growth/trusting-god-verses.html
“Trusting God When It Doesn’t Make Sense” by Kristen Miller (Devotional) - https://proverbs31.org/read/devotions/full-post/2023/11/08/trusting-god-when-it-doesnt-make-sense
“Trusting God, “ by Kirk Wellum (Essay) - https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/essay/trusting-god/Trusting God by Jerry Bridges (Book) - https://www.amazon.com/Trusting-God-Jerry-Bridges/dp/1631467921/ref=sr_1_1?crid=19439FXP5NN94&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.GkgkgJ128MNKRfBBt0Hjj4q240nqWsNbta35wEb4OYKN1oUri1YJtQjCGa1OznwltF6AJ0wwa5KG-kkOFiYku9xbON5fVTMcO13T4oJWfiHTQOZWwwrP_yWQTeJorHKN8NpjfuMlRY2-BdF9QNs5T7VCO3KMf6rq5TIYIuCIoWCZ3rQU5Y2K_9WHp9XrzcyM4k1RZV-RUad6OaVUHRIbW7wMEtDDRdQXFznZPU3GriA.4tdpcyHBFeIFuXqHxBbBxWUrtOyjB6z0oFyeOoQdrms&dib_tag=se&keywords=trusting+god+by+jerry+bridges&qid=1769112551&sprefix=Trusting+God%2Caps%2C172&sr=8-1 -
Our first memory verse this week (Genesis 50:20) contains one of the most gracious and insightful responses ever recorded regarding suffering at the hands of someone else. Instead of being consumed with bitterness and vengeance, Joseph looked for good and found God’s higher purpose and provision. Instead of blaming God and furthering the familial sin of deception, Joseph chose to trust God and not allow his heart to be hardened.
The real life drama of Genesis continues with a chronological reading of the second book of the Bible - Exodus. This book introduces us to Moses, a descendent of Abraham (by way of Jacob’s son Lev)i. Depending on your age and upbringing, you have possibly seen several cinematic depictions of this week’s readings in Genesis 1-7. Remember that each of those take some liberties with Scripture’s account. Try to read and listen with fresh eyes this week. As incredulous as they seem, the dramatic events of Exodus 1-7 really happened. Look for what God does, how he does it and why. How should it practically shape what you believe about Him? About who and what He can work through? How should you respond when He leads you to do what seems beyond your capabilities?
Weekly Reading:Monday, Feb. 9 - Genesis 48-49
Tuesday, Feb. 10 - Genesis 50-Exodus 1
Wednesday, Feb. 11 - Exodus 2-3
Thursday, Feb. 12 - Exodus 4-5
Friday, Feb. 13 - Exodus 6-7
Memory Verses for the Week: Genesis 50:20 and Hebrews 11:24-26
Further Resources:
“Genesis 50:20 isn’t a Biblical Band-Aid” Article by Scotty Smith - https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/blogs/scotty-smith/genesis-520-isnt-a-biblical-band-aid/
Short commentary on Genesis 50:20 - https://www.biblestudytools.com/commentaries/gills-exposition-of-the-bible/genesis-50-20.html
Bible Project Exodus 1-18 Overview (excellent text synopsis too!) - https://bibleproject.com/guides/book-of-exodus/ -
Beginning with tales of the final plagues on Egypt and the Passover flight out of slavery, our reading this week is action-packed. God parts the sea (Exodus 13-14) and protects the seed/offspring He had covenanted to bless all the families and nations through (Genesis 12:1-3; 18:18; 22:18; 26:4). (See Galatians 3:16 for the New Testament’s explicit naming of Jesus as the seed/offspring God was referring to in Old Testament promises!) God rains down food from Heaven, brings water from rocks and saves His people from attack. Yet…
In at least two different times in our week’s reading, God explicitly asks His people to remember who He is and what He has done (Exodus 16:32; 17:14). Why would they need this reminder? Why would we?
Why do we need to daily remember who God is and what He has done?
Besides the fact that God is worthy of our remembrance and honor, remembering who God is impacts how we think, feel and behave every day of our lives! Knowing and remembering God fuels our faith, helping us to trust in His love, care, resources, provision and to enjoy the gift of His everyday presence. Remembering God fills us with gratitude, leaving less room for worry, discontent, envy, jealousy, and the ugliness of self-centeredness. Remembering God gives us grounded hope for the future. Remembering God is critical to us enjoying and representing Him well.As you read each day, ask God to use these Scriptures to reveal to you who He is and how He wants that to practically impact your beliefs and behaviors this week. Take some time each day to thank God for aspects of His character. Think about how He has and is creatively caring for you. Thank Him for being trustworthy and choose to believe He is big enough to carry you through your present circumstances. We are every bit as apt to forget God’s goodness as the ancient Israelites were. Let’s do better. This week, let’s look for who God is and what He has done, then let’s tell someone about Him!
Weekly Reading:Monday, Feb. 16 - Exodus 8-9
Tuesday, Feb. 17 - Exodus 10-11
Wednesday, Feb. 18 - Exodus 12
Thursday, Feb. 19 - Exodus 13:17-14
Friday, Feb. 20 - Exodus 16-17
Memory Verses for the Week: John 1:29 and Hebrews 9:22
Further Resources:
“What was the meaning and purpose of the ten plagues of Egypt?” (short) https://www.gotquestions.org/ten-plagues-Egypt.html
“The Attributes of God”
https://www.blueletterbible.org/faq/attributes.cfm“10 Incredible Attributes of God (And Why It's So Good to Reflect on God's Character)” (Article)
“The breakthrough that helped me understand the Old Testament” (Interesting article on how the whole Bible really is God’s Word for us. Goes on along with Pastor Rick’s video comment regarding the Bible being a metanarrative and our need to interpret the Old Testament through the lens of the New Testament)
Knowing God, by J. I. Packer (This book is a classic for a reason. Sooooo good!)
https://www.amazon.com/Knowing-God-J-I-Packer/dp/083081650X -
Welcome to Week 8 of the Foundations F260 Bible Reading Plan!
As Tyler aptly explained in his video, God is set apart, so He calls His people to live set apart or specially dedicated for Him. That is important to keep in mind as we are introduced this week to the 10 Commandments and some very detailed instructions for the building of a traveling tabernacle. These are not just a list of Dos and Don’ts or excessive building plans that accidentally ended up in Scripture. These were all inspired by a holy and deeply intentional God who wants us to live set apart for Him.
The 10 Commandments are part of what Exodus 24:7 refers to as “the Book of the Covenant” - the broader Exodus 21-23 teaching that includes encouragement on how to practically apply God’s commands to our relationships with Him and others. For a more expansive explanation, read the Ligon Duncan article that is linked in the Further Resources below. If you are up for being deeply convicted regarding how to apply these commands today, read Jen Wilkin’s book 10 Words to Live By: Delighting in and Doing What God Commands (also linked below). Bottom line:living out these Exodus commands that were “inscribed by the finger of God” (Exodus 31:6) continue to help us live set apart for God’s purposes, including honoring our relationships with Him and others.
And then there are the instructions for the tabernacle. It is easy to get lost in what is detailed and sometimes repeated, but these instructions are there for a reason. Check out the “Heaven invades Earth” article linked below to understand some of the rich symbolism behind God’s instructions. It’s a good week ahead in God’s Word to continue looking for who God reveals Himself to be, what is important to Him, and how He might want us to practically apply these things to how we live. Enjoy!
Weekly Reading:
Monday, Feb. 23 - Exodus 19-20
Tuesday, Feb. 24 - Exodus 24-25
Wednesday, Feb. 25 - Exodus 26-27
Thursday, Feb. 26 - Exodus 28-29
Friday, Feb. 27 - Exodus 30-31
Memory Verses for the Week: Exodus 20:1-3 and Galatians 5:14
Further Resources:
Bible Project Video Overview: Exodus 19-40 (6.27 minutes)
https://bibleproject.com/videos/exodus-19-40/
“The Blood of the Covenant” (article with great explanation of what the Book of the Covenant mentioned in Exodus 24 entails)
https://ligonduncan.com/the-blood-of-the-covenant-93/
“Heaven Invades Earth: Understand the Symbolism & Purpose of the Tabernacle,” (very insightful article)
https://www.logos.com/grow/hall-tabernacle/
Ten Words to Live By: Delighting in and Doing What God Commands, Jen Wilkin (book)
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Welcome to Week 9 of the Foundations F260 Bible Reading Plan!
We will finish our Exodus reading and begin Leviticus - the third book of the Old Testament. Don’t miss The LORD’s clear proclamation of His name and character in Exodus 34:5-7 to the wandering Israelites. Ponder what this meant then and what it should mean to you now. How should you live differently in light of His revealed character?
You will notice this week’s reading assignment has us skip a few chapters at three different points, so this is a good time for a reminder that the Foundations F260 Bible Reading Plan was not designed to read every verse of the Bible, but to read key passages that will give a foundational overview of all 66 books of the Bible. Last year we read through the New Testament, while this year we’re reading foundational passages throughout the Bible. Perhaps next year we will do a full read through the Bible in a year plan. We are building in a way to develop a lifelong rhythm of intentionally reading through God’s Word. By all means, feel free to read the unassigned chapters this week if you like. God breathed every word, so they are all important!
You will find that some of the chapters excluded from the plan this week (Exodus 36:2-39:43) cover material also mentioned in the chapters we will be assigned. For example, Exodus 39 is not included in our plan and talks about the making of priestly garments for Aaron and his sons, but Leviticus 8 (that is assigned) covers dressing and ordaining these men with those very garments and sacrifices, while explaining all the elements. The unassigned Leviticus 1-7 covers sacrifices and feasts of ancient Israel - sometimes referred to as Thanks and Sorry Offerings as the purposes were to express thanks to God or to acknowledge and seek forgiveness for their sins. The unassigned Leviticus 10-15 covers purification laws regarding animals and people. There is a commentary link in the Further Reading section below addressing their symbolism and how Jesus impacted their commanded observance.
Why would God include all these commands regarding the building of the temporary tabernacle, purification laws, and different kinds of sacrifices? Before you begin reading in Leviticus, watch the short 8 minute Bible Project video on that chapter that is linked below so you don’t miss the bigger picture. And remember, our LORD is a highly intentional God who has literally moved heaven and earth so we can be in relationship with Him. It’s time to stop wandering. God has made a way for us!
Weekly Reading:Monday, March 2 - Exodus 32-33
Tuesday, March 3 - Exodus 34-36:1
Wednesday, March 4 - Exodus 40
Thursday, March 5 - Leviticus 8-9
Friday, March 6 - Leviticus 16-17
Memory Verses for the Week:Exodus 33:16 and Matthew 22:37-39
Further Resources:
Bible Project Videos: Overview of Leviticus (8.17 minutes)https://bibleproject.com/videos/leviticus/
Bible Project Character of God Word Studies: Compassion (God’s description of Himself in Genesis, 34 - 5.05 minutes)https://bibleproject.com/videos/character-of-god-compassion/
“What Was the Purpose and Meaning of the Tabernacle in Exodus?" (article)https://www.christianity.com/wiki/christian-terms/what-was-the-purpose-of-the-tabernacle.html
Matthew Henry Commentary on the Whole Bible (Concise):Leviticus (short explanation on why we don’t have to use the sacrificial system today!)
https://www.biblestudytools.com/commentaries/matthew-henry-concise/leviticus/17.html
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We finish our time in Leviticus this week, where we continue to see our holy God make ways for unholy people in Old Testament times to be in His presence. Our music minister, Eric Wall, does a beautiful job in our staff video of pointing out the scandalous grace of God in providing a way for forgiveness. How great is our God!
Midweek, our reading takes us to Numbers - the fourth of the first five books of the Bible, a set of 5 books commonly referred to as the Pentateuch (Greek) or Torah (Hebrew). These books are also known as the Book of Moses, which is explained in one of the Further Reading links below. Numbers begins where Leviticus leaves off, as the Israelites leave Mount Sinai to make their decades-long journey towards the Promised Land. Named for the census numberings taken at the beginning and end of this book, Numbers is a true tale of epic proportions! Note the fullness of God’s character throughout their travels. He is not just a God of justice, or just a God of compassion, or just a God who keeps His promises. His character is all of these and more. And the same God who made a way for those Israelites to be in His presence as they journeyed toward their Promised Land has made a way for us through Jesus as we journey toward ours. May we respond with reverence, awe, obedience, and ceaseless gratitude as we make our way to be home with Him forever.
Weekly Reading:
Monday, March 9 - Leviticus 23
Tuesday, March 10 - Leviticus 26
Wednesday, March 11 - Numbers 11-12
Thursday, March 12 - Numbers 13-14
Friday, March 13 - Numbers 16-17
Memory Verses for the Week: Leviticus 26:13 and Deuteronomy 31:7-8
Further Resources:
“Why is the Pentateuch Referred to as the Book of Moses?
https://www.crossway.org/articles/why-is-the-pentateuch-referred-to-as-the-book-of-moses/?srsltid=AfmBOooz7lxJ8x9e-y_dNnCB9nwXCWt1y7NdcNXiV4Bxy9qDMN4RfMbS“What Are the Lord’s Appointed Times?” (Simple explanation of the reasoning for the Holy Days mentioned in Leviticus 23)
https://www.gotquestions.org/appointed-times.htmlBible Project: Overview of Numbers
https://bibleproject.com/guides/book-of-numbers/
“What Does the Book of Numbers Teach Us?”
https://bibleproject.com/articles/what-does-the-book-numbers-teach-us/ description -
This week introduces us to the book of Deuteronomy and a pivotal time in biblical history. As the last of the 5 books attributed to the authorship of Moses, what we will read is Moses speaking his last words to the Israelites. In his video, Pike mentions that the heartbeat of Moses’ final sermons can be found within our weekly memory verses,
“Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God, the Lord is one.
You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your might.(Deuteronomy 6:4-5)This is frequently referred to as the Shema prayer because the first word, “hear,” comes from the Hebrew word “shema” - a word that is repeated over 90 times in the book of Deuteronomy! In the Hebrew language that has notably fewer words than English and is a more action language, “shema” means to not just physically hear, but to also respond. Hence, it is often paired in Deuteronomy with the command to love. In keeping with the responsive action implied to the original Hebrew word for “hear,” the word “love” also has a volitional (act of the will) component.
What does God most want us to do?
Listen and love Him.And how does God want us to listen and love Him?
With all that we are and all that we have.Pike’s encouragement to memorize Scripture is a primary way we can do that, as memorizing God’s Word puts us in a position to be regularly reminded of it and the magnificent God who breathed it into being. When we memorize God’s Word, we fill our hearts, souls, and might with truth that expands our love for God, which helps us lovingly obey and image Him. Consider the Scripture Memory resources below this week as we listen to and love God with all that we are and all that we have.
Weekly Reading:
Monday, March 16 - Numbers 20; 27:12-23Tuesday, March 17 - Numbers 34-35
Wednesday, March 18 - Deuteronomy 1-2
Thursday, March 12 - Deuteronomy 3-4
Friday, March 13 - Deuteronomy 6-7
Memory Verses for the Week: Deuteronomy 4:7 and Deuteronomy 6:4-9
Further Resources:
Bible Project: Deuteronomy Overview
https://bibleproject.com/videos/torah-deuteronomy/“What is the significance of Kadesh Barnea in the Bible?” (features heavily in the OT and as the site of several significant events recorded in Gen-Deut)
https://www.gotquestions.org/Kadesh-Barnea.html“Why Memorize Scripture?
”https://www.desiringgod.org/articles/why-memorize-scriptureBible Memory App
https://biblememory.com/How Do You Memorize Scripture?
https://www.desiringgod.org/interviews/how-do-you-memorize-scripture
How to Memorize Scripture?
https://www.navigators.org/resource/how-to-memorize-scripture/ description -
Welcome to Week 12 of the Foundations F260 Bible Reading Plan!
Remember waaaaaaay back in Genesis 12:1, 6-7 when we read,
“The LORD had said to Abram, ‘Go from your country, your people and your father’s household to the land I will show you.’……
Abram traveled through the land as far as the site of the great tree of Moreh at Shechem. At that time the Canaanites were in the land.
The LORD appeared to Abram and said, ‘To your offspring I will give this land.’ So he built an altar there to the LORD, who had appeared to him.”
By the time we get to the book of Joshua, hundreds of years have passed and God has reaffirmed to the Israelites that He would give them the land of Canaan in Genesis 15, 17, 26, 28, as well as in Numbers 34. This week, we will finally read of the fulfillment of God’s promise! As we do, think of all that has transpired and that nothing could thwart the fulfillment of God’s promise - not the blatant disobedience of the Israelites, famine, exile, slavery, invading adversaries…absolutely nothing could keep what God promised from happening because God is faithful and always keeps His promises.
“Every word of God proves true; he is a shield to those who take refuge in him.”(Proverbs 30:5, ESV)
We live in a world rife with anxiety-laden realities. As such, we desperately need the shield and refuge of a very present God we can count on. Like the wandering Israelites, iIt’s easy to trust God when He is doing what He says He will do and when He is doing what we want. But, how do we hold on to God and His promises when time goes by and we can’t see them being fulfilled? Our memory verses this week answer that question by reminding us that we must meditate on God’s Word day and night.
“God has told us not just to read or hear his words, but meditate on them. To meditate is to reflect on, to ponder, to mull over, to talk about, to re-read, to re-hear, to say to others, and to hear from the lips of others.”(Peter Adam, “Meditation on the Scriptures: The Key to Personal Transformation”ead the full article linked in the Further Resources section below)
Our brains are busy thinking things that take our hearts and minds away from the truer truths of who God is and how He has promised to care for us. That is why we need the constant reminders that meditation gives us. We are going to reflect on, ponder, mull over, and talk about something, so it is imperative that we actively direct our minds to think on the truer truths of God. No matter how much time has passed since God breathed His Word into being, every word of it is still true. God is still who He said He is. God will do what He says He will do. Check out the meditation helps in the Further Resources section below and remind yourself of God’s ever-present truth this week.
Weekly Reading: Monday, March 23 - Deuteronomy 8-9
Tuesday, March 24 - Deuteronomy 30-31
Wednesday, March 25 - Deuteronomy 32:48-52; 34
Thursday, March 26 - Joshua 1-2
Friday, March 27 - Joshua 3-4
Memory Verses for the Week: Joshua 1:8-9 and Psalm 1:1-2
Further Resources:
Bible Project: Book of Joshua Overviewhttps://bibleproject.com/guides/book-of-joshua/#more-resources“Who was Joshua in the Bible? 10 Leadership Habits from the Life of Joshua”https://renew.org/who-was-joshua-in-the-bible-10-leadership-habits-from-the-life-of-joshua/
“Meditation on the Scriptures: The Key to Personal Transformation” (Instruction on what it means to meditate and practical ways to replace worldly thinking with godly meditation.)https://au.thegospelcoalition.org/article/meditation-on-the-scriptures-the-key-to-personal-transformation/
“Bible Verses About Meditation”https://www.biblestudytools.com/topical-verses/bible-verses-about-meditation/
“How Can I Meditate on God’s Word?”https://www.gotquestions.org/meditate-on-Gods-Word.html
“15 Biblical Truths to Reflect On”https://www.ibelieve.com/christian-living/15-biblical-truths-to-reflect-on.html#google_vignette
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Welcome to Week 13 of our Foundations F260 Bible Reading Plan!
In our time in the books of Joshua and Judges this week, we will again see God as all-powerful, faithful, and holy. We will witness amazing things only God can do as we watch Him protect His people, carry out His promises, and require justice for disobedience. However, it will also reveal the Israelites continuing their cycle of being rescued by God and pledging loyalty to Him, only to fall back into sin and eventually cry out to God for rescue.
Lest we take away nothing from our time in God’s Word but to judge the ancient Israelites, let’s ask God,
What cycles of sin and less than fervent obedience do You see in my life?When do I cry out to You and how?
Is it mostly to ask for what I want and to beg for your help or forgiveness?
How faithful and fervent am I to thank You, sing Your praises, and talk to You
when I’m not in crisis?Are there times, places, circumstances, or relationships where I seem most
vulnerable to disobedience?What choices can I make that will increase my wholehearted devotion to You
and keep me from repeating cycles of sin and inconsistent devotion?After some soul-searching with God, let’s proclaim with Joshua this week’s memory verse,
“But if serving the LORD seems undesirable to you,
then choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve,
whether the gods your ancestors served beyond the Euphrates,
or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land you are living.
But as for me and my household, we will serve the LORD.”
Joshua 24:15Weekly Reading:
Monday, March 30 - Joshua 5:10-15; Joshua 6Tuesday, March 31 - Joshua 7-8
Wednesday, April 1 - Joshua 23-24
Thursday, April 2 - Judges 2-3
Friday, April 3 - Judges 4
Memory Verses for the Week: Joshua 24:14-15 and Judges 2:12
Further Resources: (Check out last week’s Further Resources for more help!)
Bible Project: Book of Judges Overview
https://bibleproject.com/guides/book-of-judges/
“Why can’t I stop sinning? Please help!”
https://www.gotquestions.org/stop-sinning.html“Breaking the Cycle of Sin (Judges 2:11-15)” (Short 6 min audio or text that would be good to read after your reading of Judges 2.)
https://radical.net/podcasts/pray-the-word/breaking-the-cycle-of-sin-judges-211-15/How to Resist Sin (Great Biblical support for 10 Biblical Incentives)
https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/article/resist-sin/Resist Sin (List of Bible verses to claim to help you resist sin.)
https://www.openbible.info/topics/resist_sin -
We concluded our reading last week by being introduced to some strong and inspiring female characters in the Judges narrative - Deborah and Jael. This week will introduce us to new and powerful leaders whose stories are marked by a messy mix of supernatural victories and flawed personal choices. After true tales of epic battles, idolatry, family drama and murder, rash vows and betrayal, we will find ourselves in the very different book of Ruth. With its short and intimate tale of three main characters, it is easy to see the book of Ruth as nothing more than a welcome respite from the cycles of sin and drama. But, make no mistake, the history within this book brings Hope for us all!
Set in the tumultuous time of the Old Testament judges, the book of Ruth connects that to the coming monarchy where King David will be a direct descendant of Ruth. As Jesus is well-documented as from the lineage of King David, the happenings in the book of Ruth place this non-Israelite woman directly into the lineage of Jesus! Please do yourself a favor and read “The Global Message of Ruth” that is linked in the Further Resources segment below! It beautifully details what makes Ruth’s story so astounding - God’s intervention, the significance of her ethnicity, how Boaz’ redemption of Ruth symbolizes God’s redemption, gentile inclusion in the family of God, and more. This is perfect reading to ponder in the week after Easter!
Weekly Reading:
Judges 6-7Judges 13-14
Judges 15-16
Ruth 1-2
Ruth 3-4
Memory Verses: Psalm 19:14 and Galatians 4:4-5
Further Resources:
Bible Project: Book of Ruth Video (7 minutes. Excellent text notes included too)
https://bibleproject.com/guides/book-of-ruth/“The Global Message of Ruth”
https://www.esv.org/resources/esv-global-study-bible/global-message-of-ruth/“What is a Kinsman Redeemer?”
https://www.gotquestions.org/kinsman-redeemer.html“Why is Boaz a kinsman-redeemer important?” (Brief but interesting notes on Boaz typology of Christ and architectural corroboration)
https://biblehub.com/q/Why_is_Boaz_a_kinsman-redeemer_important.htm description -
Welcome to Week 15 of the Foundations F260 Bible Reading Plan!What does it look like to faithfully follow God? We see a solid example this week as we are introduced to the prophet Samuel. Born in response to his mother's desperate prayers and brought up as a child to serve in the temple, Samuel’s life became a testament to the faithful leading of God and to what it looks like to emulate His faithfulness. As has been said, “Samuel was obedient even when others weren’t” (see “Samuel: Faithful Prophet and Honest Judge” linked in the Further Resources below for a brief character study on Samuel with practical suggestions on how to follow his example).Samuel played a pivotal role in history as he was Israel’s last judge/prophet and transitioned them to a monarchy when he anointed and counseled their first two kings. These three men are the main characters in 1 Samuel. As you read of King Saul’s rise and fall, then of David’s anointing to be his successor, look for the role of the Holy Spirit in their lives (1 Samuel 10:6, 10; 11:6; 16:13-23). This was long before the Holy Spirit came to permanently indwell the lives of Christ-followers after the death and resurrection of Jesus in New Testament times, but He was still very active. Fortunately, He doesn’t just come and go in our lives, but is with us always. He is our seal and guarantee of eternal life with God (John 14:16). I highly encourage you to read “What is the indwelling of the Holy Spirit?” linked in the Further Resources below. Ponder both what it means to be indwelled by the Holy Spirit today and the benefits He brings us! Where do you see His activity in your life? What would it look like for you to more closely follow His lead today?
Weekly Reading:
1 Samuel 1-21 Samuel 3, 81 Samuel 9-101 Samuel 13-141 Samuel 15-16
Memory Verses: 1 Samuel 15:22 and 1 Samuel 16:7Further Resources:Bible Project: Book of 1 Samuel Overview Video (7 minutes. Excellent text notes included too)https://bibleproject.com/guides/books-of-samuel/3 Things You Should Know About 1 & 2 Samuelhttps://learn.ligonier.org/articles/3-things-samuelSamuel: Faithful Prophet and Honest Judge (a brief character study of the prophet Samuel and some highly practical and convicting lessons to learn from him)https://www.insightforliving.ca/read/articles/samuel-faithful-prophet-and-honest-judge“What is the indwelling of the Holy Spirit?”https://www.gotquestions.org/indwelling-of-the-Holy-Spirit.html -
Our timeframe this week begins with young David’s killing of the giant Goliath and concludes with the death of King Saul, Israel’s first King. The prophet Samuel had already anointed David as the next king, but David’s road to kingship was not an easy one. While he started out favored by King Saul, that changed quickly when the people sang David’s praises and attributed more victories to him than they did to Saul. As one who had already shown signs of insecurity when he hid at his coronation 1 Samuel 10:20-22), Saul felt threatened by David’s popularity. Our passages this week are a case study of understanding who you are in Christ and of the ugliness of sin and its progression.
Saul’s jealousy led to a dangerous progression of sin including fear, isolation, and irrational bouts of anger to the point of actually seeking to kill David. James captures sin’s cycle in James 1:13-1 (ESV), “Let no one say when he is tempted, ‘I am being tempted by God,’ for God cannot be tempted with evil, and he himself tempts no one. But each person is tempted when he is lured and enticed by his own desire. Then desire when it has conceived gives birth to sin, and sin when it is fully grown brings forth death.”However, carrying out sinful desires is not inevitable. We do have a way of escape, as is evidenced when Paul wrote in 1 Corinthians 10:13, "No temptation has overtaken you... But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can endure it." He goes on in Romans 6:12 to emphasize our personal choice by admonishing, “Let not sin therefore reign in your mortal body, to make you obey its passions.”
As you read of Saul’s decline, ask God where you are vulnerable to sin. Do you have insecurities that make you vulnerable to sin’s temptations? Are they impacting how you see others and your relationships? To your willingness to encourage, celebrate, or even advocate for others? In what ways might they be causing you to fear, hide, or seek harm?
Let’s learn from Saul this week and deal with our vulnerabilities and tendency to sin before our sin has devastating results.1 Samuel 17:46-47 and 2 Timothy 4:17a
Bible Project: Book of 1 Samuel Overview Video (7 minutes. Excellent text notes included too)https://bibleproject.com/guides/books-of-samuel/
“Know Your Identity in Christ: Bible Verses to Memorize” (Excellent listing of who Scripture says we are in Him)
https://www.navigators.org/resource/know-your-identity-in-christ-bible-verses-to-memorize/“Become Who You Already Are: Realizing Our Identity in Christ”
https://www.desiringgod.org/articles/become-who-you-already-are
“7 Scriptures to Stop the Spiral of Sin”
https://www.crosswalk.com/faith/spiritual-life/scriptures-to-stop-the-spiral-of-sin.html -
Welcom to Week 17 of the Foundations F60 Bible Reading Plan!
David finally becomes king in this week’s reading, leaving us a plethora of God-honoring examples to follow and life-ending ones to avoid. David honors God’s anointed King Saul (2 Samuel 1:14-27), honors those who honored King Saul by burying him (2 Samuel 2:4-7), and honors Saul's son, Jonathan, (who was also David’s friend) by showing kindness to Jonathan’s son Mephibosheth (2 Samuel 9:1). David faithfully seeks God’s counsel and follows it (2 Samuel 2:1-2, 19; 5:20-25). He beautifully extols God’s virtues and active leading, while thoroughly expressing his gratitude to God in Psalms 18 and 23, as well as in 2 Samuel 7:18-29. And like our worship leader, Eric Wall, captured in his original song “How David Danced,” David danced in celebration of God’s presence when bringing the ark to his city.
How could a man so ready to sing of God’s favor, goodness, presence, and protection, choose to commit sin so blatantly against God’s clearly expressed commands and holiness? Regardless of the sin of surrounding cultures, David would have known of God’s previous commands for kings not to acquire many wives for themselves (Deuteronomy 17:14-20). And yet, he chose to have multiple concubines and wives (2 Samuel 5:13), going so far as to forcibly take another man’s wife, impregnate her and have her husband killed (2 Samuel 11). It should be impossible for us to read this week and not see how vulnerable we are to likewise make allowances in our lives - to sing God’s praises with our mouths while choosing to still disobey Him.
While there is much to learn from David’s oh-so-human examples, let us not forget that the Bible is really a book about God. As we read each day this week, let’s look for evidence of God’s character and faithfulness to it, regardless of David’s circumstances. Ponder where and how you see God’s presence, activity, and character in your life and in the world around you. Thank Him for times He heard your cries and restored your soul. Seek His counsel and thank Him for how He has led, rescued, and shown you mercy. And may we continue to ask God to reveal our sinful choices, so that we may quickly turn from them and honor the great God that He was and is and ever more will be.
Weekly Reading:2 Samuel 1; 2:1-7
2 Samuel 3:1; 2 Samuel 5; Psalm 23
2 Samuel 6-7
Psalm 18; 2 Samuel 9
2 Samuel 11-12
Memory Verses: Psalm 23:1-3; 51:10-13
Further Resources:
Bible Project Video Overview of 2 Samuel
https://bibleproject.com/videos/2-samuel/
“How David Danced”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KRyO91DZ_7E&list=OLAK5uy_lhVBCjq4TwDS2i1Y_4-7Lsvhj1xVjzsdw&index=14
What does it mean to praise God?
30 Prayers of Praise to Godhttps://www.navigators.org/resource/30-prayers-of-praise-to-god/
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Welcome to a week filled with reading from one of the most poignant books of the Bible - Psalms! Although we will wrap up our reading in 2 Samuel, we will also read many of the psalms coinciding with this time period and its circumstances, as all but two are expressly attributed to King David. The Book of Psalms is unlike any other book of the Bible. As such, it should be read and understood differently. If you haven’t already begun your Bible reading for the week, I would most strongly urge you to first watch two short and animated Bible Project videos of Psalms (https://bibleproject.com/videos/book-of-psalms/ and https://bibleproject.com/guides/book-of-psalms/). Although they are both done by The Bible Project, they highlight different things about the book and are fascinating! Unless you have deeply studied the Book of Psalms and outside resources pertaining to it, you are almost assured to learn something new that will give you a much deeper appreciation for this book that manages to tell the story of the entire Bible.
The Psalms are a prayer book. As such, they do a tender job of teaching and showing us how to communicate with God. This is an intimate book, filled with raw emotion and struggles, agonizing lament and bouts of effusive praise for God’s character and activity, as well as for the unparalleled gift of His written Word. This week we will read of deep confession, genuine gratitude and praise, a challenge for personal holiness, examples of how to focus on God’s character, and a conclusion of what is essentially a love letter to the life-altering benefits of God’s Word. Oh, that we would be inspired to speak this intimately with God!
Weekly Reading:
Psalm 51
2 Samuel 24 and Psalm 24
Psalms 1 and 19
Psalm 103 and 119:1-48
Psalm 119:49-128Memory Verses: Psalm 1:1-7 and Psalm 119:7-11
Further Resources:
Bible Project Video Overview of Book of Psalms
https://bibleproject.com/videos/book-of-psalms/and
https://bibleproject.com/guides/book-of-psalms/)
BOOKS
Psalms: A Prayer Book of the Bible, by Dietrich Bonhoeffer
https://www.amazon.com/Psalms-Prayer-Bible-Dietrich-Bonhoeffer/dp/1506480195/ref=pd_sbs_d_sccl_1_1/131-9597311-2091039?pd_rd_w=U59xX&content-id=amzn1.sym.aa738fbd-ad05-4d11-aae2-04b598db6305&pf_rd_p=aa738fbd-ad05-4d11-aae2-04b598db6305&pf_rd_r=WF10CVC3DQ6QM4HRNQ27&pd_rd_wg=KGRPd&pd_rd_r=8700e2b3-66d4-4025-a393-13ad657b979b&pd_rd_i=1506480195&psc=1The Songs of Jesus: A Year of Daily Devotions in the Psalms, by Timothy and Kathy Keller
https://www.amazon.com/Songs-Jesus-Daily-Devotions-Psalms/dp/0525955143/ref=sr_1_17?crid=S441F3HAN68Q&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.bzoTOkpwPnA0r-Ya-j0hFwtn8-8FinRKtas81PL_KmvM17VuaCFqrbryt5wncEuQmnXpc0DJeJNKAKvce5puOVu4c3bJj7dQfbUz1Zr9n7xi68Ma3DDBPiUNJBLXyB_dNsX9pUcFxtemih7fejwjJ903FTvfJgWkgcG7jNhmCUlQAFkdrR4T7r6M3GPJVIL4GuncvoQquf_EG_fQ0RpOqyWXhdLFI5O_HN4zsPvmMOo_nFXyFppT4M0RVyuGeSVFp6i0zUvb9iL6b2sM1hC_mED-mU614cnpKh9rfjoD0c0.-I1nswW6l-O5GVHTYBijywkpu-lR_z57V33nmrevk9w&dib_tag=se&keywords=psalms&qid=1777666087&sprefix=psalms%2Caps%2C245&sr=8-17
C.S. Lewis on Gratitude: A Morning Prayer to Thank Jesus and Start Your Day in Faith
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dvukJP5o3rcWORSHIP SONGS
Psalm 51 (Wisdom in the Secret Heart) by Shane & Shane
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V1Gc3H_aq6g&list=RDV1Gc3H_aq6g&start_radio=1God of Jacob (Psalm 24) by The Worship Initiative
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wPxwG6HAPW8I Delight in You (Psalm 1) by Shane & Shane
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7o6dz9wTi9Q
Thy Word - Psalm 119, by Ellie Holcomb
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hmFzKYa6EHUALBUMS
Psalms, Hymns and Spiritual Songs, by Shane & Shane (Album)
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B095M7HQFW/ref=sr_1_4?crid=823J2RY99NJW&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.884ISfQDwbHic8enfrsOQObTZYTod4OMROuO6ZYuAufC6w4ag4QM5v4g_DP-YogKaQf0T655w3TFyPG59KTCGXs_oNzqEVgR9vvIwToRDGwpDPU62H6GT8FLn7tJQn2QZ-qI4EV2b-gVc17dY0Ts5EImIMKwL1HZXnPSJSLVH9_fqnBE4xj7rjJSS5ooOZVzR8nNaOQtqVNLudCsbmF7vhtqYbmZ0LSHGTiC4hEGLCY.KhsYtZxLZvrxF0afP_VpdtCPzeEkWsqiYf-kwthhI0s&dib_tag=se&keywords=psalms+shane+and+shane&qid=1777665802&sprefix=psalms+shane+and+shane%2Caps%2C163&sr=8-4description
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We begin our week completing the reading of Psalm 119, a psalm that highlights the great gift that God’s written Word is and exemplifies the psalmist’s devotion to it. Next is Psalm 139 - a personal favorite of many, for its reminder of God’s active omnipotence (power) and omnipresence (presence). Read it slowly and focus on who it reveals God to be and on each of the action verbs describing His activity in our lives (God searches, knows, understands, scrutinizes, encloses, leads, etc).
The remainder of our week will be spent reading the first chapters of 1 Kings. Originally written in Hebrew, 1 Samuel and 2 Samuel were one book, while 1 Kings and 2 Kings together were a second book. Combined, they told a history of the rise and fall of the kings and kingdom of Israel. When Greek became the dominant language, Scripture was translated into Greek. Scroll size led to this history being separated into 4 books about the kingdom - a separation continued to this day. This week, we will see the transfer of the monarchy from King David to his son Solomon. It will initially be a messy transition and we will finish the week by seeing sad signs of Solomon’s decline, but in between we will read of the opulence and detail of the building of the spectacular Temple. Don’t run past the details for they point back to the beauty and abundance of Eden and remind us that the forever kingdom ahead of us will be spectacular!
Weekly Reading:
Psalms 119:129-176; 139
Psalms 148-150
1 Kings 2
1 Kings 3; 6
1 Kings 8; 9:1-9
Memory Verses: Psalm 139:1-3; Psalm 139:15-16
Further Resources:
Bible Project Video Overview of the Book of 1 Kings
https://bibleproject.com/guides/books-of-kings/
Trading Self-Focus for Self-Forgetfulness and Awe, by jen Wilkin (seeing Psalm 139 about God)
https://www.jenwilkin.net/blog/2016/07/trading-self-focus-for-self.html
Psalm 139 Commentary: God’s Pervasive Presence, Intimate Knowledge, and Faithful Comfort, by Jeremy Bouma (Zondervan Academic)
https://zondervanacademic.com/blog/psalm-139-commentary-gods-presence-knowledge-comfort
CH Spurgeon Psalm 139 (this is a quite beautiful but full verse-by-verse commentary on Psalm 139)
https://www.blueletterbible.org/Comm/spurgeon_charles/tod/ps139.cfm
Our Thoughts About God’s Thoughts, by Charles Haddon Spurgeon
https://www.spurgeon.org/resource-library/sermons/our-thoughts-about-gods-thoughts/#flipbook/
1 Kings 6-8| Solomon Builds the Temple, by The Spoken Gospel (both in a short video and written form, a nice devotion overviewing the significance of the Temple)
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King Solomon became known for many things, including his political prowess, widespread fame, and massive wealth. 1 Kings 4 says Solomon “was wiser than all other men” and that “He also spoke 3,000 proverbs” (1 Kings 4:31-32). A proverb is a short saying about a principle that is most often true. They have the lilt of poetry, while offering practical wisdom and advice. Biblical proverbs offer more than knowledge to attain - they offer wisdom, which requires putting knowledge to practical use in how we think and act.
Before we resume reading the history of Solomon and the kingdom of Israel, we will begin this week by reading part of Solomon’s wise sayings in the biblical book of Proverbs. While Proverbs may seem like a collection of random sayings, biblical scholars see much more. Please do listen to and read the Further Resources listed below to hear their wisdom on this book that is referred to as wisdom literature. In the Session 2 video of the Bible Study The Way of Wisdom: A Study of the Book of Proverbs, Jen Wilkin likens a look at the book of Proverbs to putting together a puzzle without a picture of what it is supposed to look like. She explains by saying chapters 1-9 (the prologue or introduction) and chapter 31 (the epilogue or conclusion) are like the corner and edge pieces that frame what is in the middle. The middle pieces (chapters 10-30) contain the wisdom sayings. Just as you would sort the middle pieces of a puzzle into piles according to their colors and patterns, Jen says that understanding what to do with Chapters 10-30 involves putting together verses with similar themes from all those chapters (verses on our words, relationships, homelife, work, wealth, leadership, and heart). As such, it’s not until you see the whole picture come together that you can fully appreciate it. Jen sees the final chapter as not just a picture of a virtuous woman or good wife, but as an example of a life exemplifying the elements within the previous chapters - as an example of what it looks like to practically live out the wisdom of Proverbs and honor God greatly.
Unfortunately, our final reading of the week in 1 Kings 11-12, will remind us that we are all susceptible to knowing what to do, but of not doing it. Of having biblical knowledge, but still choosing not to use wisdom and practically apply our knowledge to how we live. Solomon knew God’s laws for kings, but he disobeyed and the results were catastrophic to not only his family, but for all of Israel. Yes, let’s learn God’s ways and commands. But more importantly, let’s faithfully and practically apply God’s ways to how we believe and behave. Let’s be truly wise.
Weekly Reading:
Proverbs 1-2
Proverbs 3-4
Proverbs 16-18
Proverbs 31
1 Kings 11-12
Memory Verses: Proverbs 1:7; Proverbs 3:5-6 139:15-16
Further Resources:
Bible Project Video Overview of the Book of Proverbs
https://bibleproject.com/guides/book-of-proverbs/
Summary of the Book of Proverbs
https://www.gotquestions.org/Book-of-Proverbs.html
What Does It Mean That Pride Goes Before A Fall? (Proverbs 1618)
https://www.gotquestions.org/pride-goes-before-a-fall.html
How the Wise Man Fell
https://todayschristianliving.org/how-the-wise-man-fell/ description
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This week we enter the point in Israel’s history where coups and kings behaving badly have resulted in the kingdom of David being divided. Ten of Israel's twelve tribes form the Northern Kingdom after it is taken from Solomon’s son. The other two tribes (Judah and Benjamin) unite, with the tribe of Benjamin becoming part of Judah and making up the Southern Kingdom, which includes Jerusalem and the temple. As you read, remember that Judah carries the royal line of David that God promised the Messiah would be born into.
Our reading will compare kings from both kingdoms with the Northern Kingdom seeming a bit more chaotic with lots of turnovers in their kings and all their kings declared as evil. After a brief summary of these renegade kingdoms, you will see a note saying the rest of that king's acts are “written in the Book of the Chronicles of the Kings of Israel.” That refers not to the Bible’s books of 1 and 2 Chronicles, but to a more extensive ancient historic record that one of the Further Resources below explains. The Southern Kingdom kings will be compared to King David and two of them are credited with being true to following God - Asa and his son Jehoshaphat.
God will continually send prophets to warn and speak to the kings. We’ll read of two of the most prominent prophets of the Northern Kingdom this week - Elijah and his disciple Elisha. A close look at Elijah highlights that even those used greatly by God can still experience great discouragement to the point of depression and loneliness. It also shows the creative means God may use to care for those true to Him as we see Him care for Elijah through ravens, a very poor widow, and even an angel. Don’t miss the link below from gotquestions.org on Who was Elijah in the Bible? Not only does it give a nice character study of Elijah, but strongly speaks of the importance of staying attentive to God for the encouragement we need to follow and represent Him well.
What would being more attentive to God look like for you this week?
Weekly Reading:
1 Kings 16:29-17:24
1 Kings 18-19
1 Kings 21-22
2 Kings 2
2 Kings 5, 6:1-23
Memory Verses: Psalm 17:15; Psalm 65:1
Further Resources:
Bible Project Video Overview of the Books of Kings
https://bibleproject.com/guides/books-of-kings/
Book of the Chronicles of the Kings of Israel
https://biblehub.com/topical/b/book_of_the_chronicles_of_the_kings_of_israel.htm
Who was Elijah in the Bible? (excellent overview)https://www.gotquestions.org/life-Elijah.html description
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Welcome to Week 22 of the Foundations F260 Bible Reading Plan!
If you have looked ahead in our reading plan, you may wonder why we are skipping past multiple books and won’t resume our reading in 2 Kings for two weeks. There is a very good reason…
The printed Bibles we most often use today are composed of 66 books that were not written in the order they appear. Rather, the books are gathered by genres (themes) as books are in a bookstore or library. Whereas books in those places are shelved by genres like Mystery, Cookbooks, and Philosophy, the Bible has been sorted into categories such as Law, History, Wisdom, Prophets, Gospels and Acts, and Letters. We have been reading in the history section about the first kings of the Northern (Israel) and Southern (Judah) Kingdoms. As our Foundations F260 Bible Reading Plan follows a more chronological order of how things happened, we will take a brief diversion to read writings from prophets whom God used to warn and guide those kings and their people.
The four prophets we will read from this week (Jonah, Hosea, Amos and Joel) are part of a group referred to as Minor Prophets, or as The Twelve. They are considered minor because their books are much shorter than those who are considered to be the Major Prophets like Isaiah and Jeremiah. These prophetic books of the Bible are rich with history, prophecy, and conviction for modern day behavior. However, unless you are a real student of this period of biblical history, prophetic books can be especially confusing. Please take advantage of using the Further Resources below, as you will find links to some very valuable context.
In general, the Minor Prophets speak out against sin, promote faithfulness to God, and speak of His future restoration and rule. Regarding the writings we will read from this week, these four men prophesied just before Assyria overtook the Northern Kingdom (referred to at that time as Israel) and sent them into exile. While most of the written prophets we will read from over the next several weeks spoke to the Southern Kingdom (also referred to as Judah), such was not the case with three of those we will read from this week. This makes sense as we know the Northern Kingdom would be conquered well before the Southern Kingdom. God sent Jonah to speak to gentiles in Nineveh, the capital city of Assyria )this was an outlier that was not part of the Northern or Southern Kingdom and is now part of modern-day northern Iraq). The Assyrians were already tyrants known for their brutally aggressive empire and would eventually overtake Israel. Jonah’s book is unique in a vast myriad of ways, besides the fact that he gets swallowed by a fish…and lives! Unlike all other prophetic books in the Bible, Jonah is more about the prophet’s behavior than his prophecies, and highlights a renegade prophet running from God. The book’s focus is on God’s compassion and right to choose how He expresses it. It encourages us not to judge God for how He reveals His compassion, but to reconsider our own compassion and trust His goodness.
Hosea speaks to the Northern Kingdom of Israel about spiritual idolatry and God uniquely uses Hosea’s marriage as the context. (Fun fact: This book so compelled author Francine Rivers that she based her widely successful Redeeming Love on it.) The prophet Amos also prophesied to the Northern Kingdom of Israel, but his focus was against oppression and injustice. Joel spoke to those in the Southern Kingdom of Judah about the need for general repentance and change, as well as against invaders.
Each of these four minor prophets, with the exception of Jonah, also spoke of eventual restoration, something that would be important for the original audience to remember when their homeland would be destroyed by Assyria, then Babylon and Persia. God's promised restoration is important for us to remember as well. We too have better days ahead for us when we will live with God in His New Heaven.
Enjoy your time in God’s Word this week and ponder how God might want you to respond to these carefully chosen prophets. What national sins might God warn us of today? What sin might you personally need to turn from? Where do you see God’s compassion and who can you express His compassion to this week? What changes can you make to more faithfully follow God?
Weekly Reading:
Jonah 1-2
Jonah 3-4
Hosea 1-3
Amos 1:1; Amos 9
Joel 1-3
Memory Verses: Psalm 16:11 and John 11:35-36
Further Resources:
Who were the minor prophets? (very brief overview on each of the 12)
https://zondervanacademic.com/blog/minor-prophets
Introduction to the Minor Prophets (More comprehensive look at each of the 12 Minor Prophets and how they overlap chronologically))
https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/essay/minor-prophets/
Bible Project Video Overview of Jonah
https://bibleproject.com/guides/book-of-jonah/
Bible Project Video Overview of Hosea
https://bibleproject.com/guides/book-of-hosea/
Bible Project Video Overview of Amos
https://bibleproject.com/guides/book-of-amos/
Bible Project Video Overview of Joel
https://bibleproject.com/guides/book-of-joel/
What is the chronological order of the 66 books of the Bible?
When and how was Israel conquered by the Assyrians? https://www.gotquestions.org/Israel-conquered-by-Assyria.html
Chart of Old Testament Prophets and Kings (this chart helps you visually see when the prophets were prophesying, as well as to whom and why)https://bible805.com/chart-of-old-testament-prophets-and-kings-where-they-fit-in-history/ -
We will read from two exciting prophets this week: Isaiah and Micah. Both of these men prophesied around the same time as the four prophets we read from last week, but they prophesied after them as well. What that means is they continued to speak to kings and people of the Southern Kingdom (Judah) after Assyria’s brutal empire had conquered the Northern Kingdom (Israel) and when they then came after Judah. They had seen the kind of destruction they were prophesying about and were considered instrumental in guiding Judah’s King Hezekiah during Assyria's attack. They also prophesied of the upcoming Babylonian invasion which would eventually end the era of Israeli kings and send Judah into exile.
Isaiah is considered one of the Bible’s most influential figures. He is considered a Major Prophet not due to his lengthier time of prophesying, but due to the length of his biblical writing. From Judah’s capital city of Jerusalem, he spoke to kings and about big political matters. His book of the Bible contains more prophecy about Jesus than any other in the Old Testament and the chapters we will read are overflowing with supernatural foretelling.
Micah was a Minor Prophet from the more rural area of Judah and spoke against corrupt leaders and advocated justice for the poor and oppressed. He also spoke clearly about Jesus’ coming, even foretelling that Bethlehem would be the place of His birth. Both spoke of God retaining a remnant of believers, of Israel’s future restoration and the coming Messiah from the lineage of David that would be a blessing to the nations. Their messages call us to holy living that honors God and practically cares for others. They remind us that no matter how messy this world gets politically, ethically, morally and otherwise, hope is always ahead for those putting their full trust in God. We are His, He is coming again, and Heaven will be ours!
Weekly Reading:
Isaiah 6, 9
Isaiah 44-45
Isaiah 52-53
Isaiah 65-66
Micah 1, 4:6-13, 5
Memory Verses: Romans 4:20-22 and Hebrews 11:17-19
Further Resources:
What are the Major Prophets and Minor Prophets? (Very short, but a good overview of these important but less talked about books of Scripture. There is a text and an audio option.)
https://www.gotquestions.org/major-minor-prophets.htmlBible Project Video Overview of Isaiah
https://bibleproject.com/guides/book-of-isaiah/ (Chapters 1-39)
https://bibleproject.com/guides/book-of-isaiah/ (Chapters 40-66_Isaiah: The Grandaddy of the Major Prophets
Isaiah chapter 6: Isaiah's vision of God’s holy throne (This is so good! ) https://biblestudytoolbox.com/bible-outlines/chapter/isaiah-chapter-6/
Bible Project Video Overview of Micah (6.39 minutes)
https://bibleproject.com/guides/book-of-micah/ -
Welcome back to the book of 2 Kings and the writings of another major prophet who wrote during that time - Jeremiah. This week’s passages bring us to another turning point in biblical history. To this point, we’ve read of Creation, the Flood, and God’s promise to Abraham of a Promised Land, countless ancestors and that the whole world would be blessed through his descendants (foreshadowing Jesus). A big famine led Abraham’s ancestors (Jacob and his sons which would become the 12 tribes of Israel) to Egypt where they became so numerous that a bad Pharoah enslaved them for hundreds of years. Enter Moses, who freed the Israelites and took them to the Promised Land. Israel rejected God as their King and wanted a human king like the surrounding nations, so God gave them Saul and then David whose grandson’s great disobedience led to the kingdom dividing into the Northern and Southern Kingdoms. Assyria conquered the North and at the end of this week we will read of Babylon beginning to conquer the Southern Kingdom (Judah), which will eventually result in the Jewish people being sent into exile for 70 years.
Jeremiah was unique as a prophet for several reasons. He prophesied about the exile before it happened and continued to prophesy during it. He was known as the weeping prophet due to the tremendous grief he expressed over the people’s idolatry toward God. He was also persecuted, imprisoned, and violently rejected for his prophecies. His writings remind us that God is so sovereign that He can use bad people to do His bidding, as He used Babylon and surrounding nations to fulfill His punishment for Israel. Jeremiah also reminds us that God is full of mercy and true to His promises, no matter how grim things may temporarily seem. While it’s sometimes easier to see God’s hand when looking back on your life, can you see God’s faithfulness in the midst of your current circumstances? What encouragement can you take from this week’s reading?
Weekly Reading:
2 Kings 17-18
2 Kings 19-21
2 Kings 22-23
Jeremiah 1-3:5
Jeremiah 25, 29
Memory Verses: Proverbs 29:18 and Jeremiah 1:15
Further Resources:
Bible Project Video Overview of Jeremiah https://bibleproject.com/guides/book-of-jeremiah/
Who were the major prophets and what did they do
What was the Babylonian captivity/exile?
https://www.gotquestions.org/Babylonian-captivity-exile.html
What is the significance of the Babylonian Empire in biblical history?
https://www.gotquestions.org/Babylonian-empire.html
Who were the Chaldeans in the Bible?
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After the prophet Jeremiah agonized over the sin of God’s people and predicted His judgement in the form of exile, our reading ended last week with the first wave of Babylon exiling Judah’s king and many of its elite. Interestingly, in the midst of Babylon’s multi-year siege, Jeremiah’s prophecies turn to those of hope in Jeremiah 30-33. He assured the Jewish people that God would restore Israel, write His laws upon their hearts, and continue the promised Davidic line to bring the Messiah. They would need to hold onto this promised hope as the book of Jeremiah ends with the complete destruction of Jerusalem and its temple, as well as with thousands of Judah’s Jews sent into exile for decades.
The prophets Ezekiel and Daniel were taken captive with Judah’s elite during Babylon's first attack on Judah, which is why we will also read this week from the books of the Bible bearing their names. They begin by capturing the timeframe at the beginning of Judah’s exile. The books of Ezekiel and Daniel are wildly abundant with visions, parables and allegories. While this week’s reading in Daniel will be limited to narrative, next week’s reading will be more symbolic, filled with apocalyptic (end of the world) visions and prophecies.
Over the full span of the Bible, God will use many different types of literary genres to reveal Himself and His ways. Interpreting the symbolic and prophetic can be more challenging. Please take a few minutes to watch and read through what is linked in the Further Resources section below to help you make sense of these important books. And, as you read, look for any insight you can find on how to best live your life on earth, a place where the Bible also considers us as strangers, foreigners and exiles (1 Chronicles 29:15; Hebrews 11:13; 1 Peter 2:11). The Faithfulness in Exile link below has some great suggestions. What should your focus be? Where should your hope come from? What daily choices can you make to help you keep your focus on the God who will one day welcome you home?
Weekly Reading:
Jeremiah 31:31-40 and chapters 32-33
Jeremiah 52; 1 Kings 24-25
Ezekiel 1:1-3; 36:16-38; 37
Daniel 1-2
Daniel 3-4
Memory Verses: Ezekiel 36:26-27 and Daniel 4:35
Further Resources:
Ezekiel, Jeremiah, and Daniel (Nice short piece on how these men overlapped in history)
https://brothersofthebook.com/2017/08/29/ezekiel-jeremiah-and-daniel/Jeremiah 31 refers to Ephram… Who was Ephraim in Jeremiah 31?
https://www.gotquestions.org/Ephraim-in-the-Bible.htmlBible Project Video Overview of Ezekiel (7.24 minutes)
https://bibleproject.com/guides/book-of-ezekiel/Bible Project Video Overview of Daniel
https://bibleproject.com/guides/book-of-daniel/Faithfulness in Exile
https://biblehub.com/topical/f/faithfulness_in_exile.htm -
Foundations F260 Week 26
Wild visions and prophesies fulfilled come alive in our Week 26 reading! Although we read of King Nebuchadnezzar finally humbling himself before God in last week’s reading of Daniel 4, the following chapter introduces us to his successor’s pride which brought the next movement in the history of Judah’s exile - the shift from Babylon’s rule to that of the Medes and Persians. Daniel continued to be put in a position of great authority under the new regime, but stayed true to the Mount Sinai covenant and prayed only to God. This sent him to the lion’s den where God rescued him (Daniel 6) as dramatically as He did when Daniel was thrown into the fiery furnace (Daniel 3). Daniel’s faithfulness throughout exile and trust in God for His promised future is ripe with examples for us to follow as we await our final home with God.
Daniel 7-12 moves from focusing on Daniel and his friends to focusing on his visions for the future. When I say “future,” I mean their immediate future, a distant future, AND the future that still awaits us! Take heart that Daniel, the one who had previously interpreted dreams for others, was himself very confused by these visions. The symbolizing for future reigning governments is quite fascinating and verifiable as we now look backwards into history. The Further Resources links below will highlight this.
The book of Daniel is often referenced in the New Testament by Jesus, as well as by the writers of the gospels and Revelation. The book of Ezra begins with the King of Persia finally allowing the Jews to return to Jerusalemt to rebuild their temple. All of what we will read this week will continue to march us closer to not just God’s restoration of Israel, but to His kingdom coming to earth through preserving the line of David through Jesus and to His kingdom fully reigning when He comes back for us and permanently establishes His kingdom here forever. Wherever you are in life, remember that it is in the midst of God’s greater story. He is present with you, He is for His people, He is preparing a place for us, and we are to live according to His great purposes (Remember and Rehearse: An Invitation to Participate in God’s Story, J.T. English). Let’s hold onto who He is and what He has promised!
Weekly Reading:
Daniel 5-6
Daniel 9-10, 12
Ezra 1-2
Ezra 3-4
Ezra 5-6
Memory Verses: Daniel 6:25-27 and Daniel 9:19Further Resources:
Bible Project Overview of Daniel
https://bibleproject.com/guides/book-of-daniel/What are the four beasts in Daniel chapter 7?
https://www.gotquestions.org/Daniel-four-beasts.htmlDaniel’s Vision of the Son of Man (for a deeper dive into Daniels ch 7-12 visions)
https://learn.ligonier.org/articles/coming-son-man-unfolding-biblical-eschatologyBible Project Overview of Ezra-Nehemiah
https://bibleproject.com/guides/book-of-ezra-nehemiah/ -
Welcome to Week 27!
Zechariah’s book begins with the reminder that sin and rebellion are what led Zechariah’s people into exile from their land and broke their communion with God. That is a biblical theme established with the account of Adam and Eve in the Garden of Eden (Genesis 3). If you are reading with our Summer Book Clubs the book Remember and Rehearse: An Invitation to Participate in God’s Story, you’ve been challenged to see that God created the world to bring His kingdom to earth. As author J.T. English compellingly articulates, God established His kingdom through creation, which included creating a people and a perfect place for us to enjoy Him in the Garden of Eden (Genesis 1). Their sin against a holy God sent them into exile - no perfect garden, no perfect relationship with God, and their purpose of enjoying God and ruling and reigning as reflections of Him was severely compromised. The rest of the Bible is about God reestablishing His kingdom on earth.
As Zechariah’s people are leaving their literal exile (a fulfillment of Jeremiah’s prophecy (Jeremiah 25), he implores them to return to God as well as the homeland He had given them. The final chapters in Zechariah point to the future messianic kingdom when Jesus first came to earth (9:9; 12:10) and to God’s final and eternal earthly kingdom when He will return for us (8:3; 14). We really are living in the middle of God’s story!
Our reading in Ezra this week speaks of a second group of exiles returning to Jerusalem. While trying to lead the people in spiritual renewal, Ezra succumbs to the leaders’ desire that he encourage the exiles to divorce spouses not following God - something never commanded by God then or in the future (Malachi 2:13-`16; Matthew 19:6; 1 Corinthians 7:12-14).
The book of Esther also happens after the Babylonian exile, but concerns Jews that stayed in Persia instead of returning to their homeland. It is such a compelling and unique book in the Bible, one of only two that are named after a woman.. As The Bible Project explains, “The book of Esther asks us to trust in God’s providence even when we can’t see it working” (https://bibleproject.com/guides/book-of-esther/). That is as timely a message for us today as it was to its original hearers! Where do you need to trust Him this week? With what areas or circumstances in your life? Invest some time this week in reminding yourself of who God is and what He has promised, as well as in talking and listening to Him. He is at work in your life!
Weekly Reading:
Zechariah 1:1-6; 2; 12
Ezra 7-8
Ezra 9-10
Esther 1-2
Esther 3-4Memory Verses: Zephaniah 3:17 and 1 Peter 3:15
Further Resources:
Bible Project Overview of Zechariah (Do not miss this explanation of Z’s bizarre dreams!)
https://bibleproject.com/guides/book-of-zechariah/Bible Project Overview of Esther
https://bibleproject.com/guides/book-of-esther/Remember and Rehearse: An Invitation to Participate in God’s Story (Great Book!)
https://www.amazon.com/Remember-Rehearse-Invitation-Participate-Story/dp/B0DF4RB8LP/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1OODUQXDE0QDW&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.Z9o0FdN0-TqUygAyEeZTaHm_r5Lgvatr0bhgoFXsEAhl1WaZmdbAplDKdXzSXgdrp8RdU2OtadbPql22IawX9iQfipcDs6mlJVPy7b7sy9RzJccDD1trpYIdYy3JbmOAZs4pZ-0EAfZTNYz4Otk5vbrDayuKl5i_ngWbCzDzJMWkTvF-HMOqYWpRka2sxTq3TEfOq7OFKlZZCnrk8yZkx19oFW3CY7iJ1e1zHEPicKg.Jch1SwfBnwD4DBwyk9RxiYDuLXvLME-OpWfCDRAHCYA&dib_tag=se&keywords=remember+and+rehearse&qid=1782531964&sprefix=remember+and+rehearse%2Caps%2C250&sr=8-1What Does the Bible Teach About Divorce and Remarriage? (2 Views from the Gospel Coalition)
Bible-divorce-remarriageWhen You (or a Friend) Face Unwanted Divorce?
https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/podcasts/deep-dish/face-unwanted-divorce/Trust in God’s Providence
https://biblehub.com/topical/t/trust_in_god's_providence.htmItem description -
Foundations F260 Week 28
Week 28 picks up right where week 27 left off - with Esther trying to gain an audience with the king to intercede for the Jewish people. Let’s think more on last week’s closing summary of Esther by The Bible Project, “The book of Esther asks us to trust in God’s providence even when we can’t see it working.” Providence meaning God’s foresight and provision. His divine control. (See the linked articles on God’s providence below.)
Consider God’s use of foresight, provision and control in the book of Esther - the wide variety of what He used for his purposes of preserving the jewish people from anihilation in Susa.
Queen Esther - She had no royal lineage or obvious credentials, but God used the fact that Esther was a beautiful young virgin to move her into a place of great influence over the king. God used that relationship, as well as her ethnicity and willingness to sacrifice her life for her people to preserve them.
Mordecai - God used Mordecai’s work to position him to be in the know and his faithfulness to protect a pagan king to garner gratefulness, respect, and favor by King Xerxes. God used Mordecai’s relationship as a respected and caring uncle to influence and encourage Esther.
King Xerxes - This king wasn’t trying to follow God, but God used the king’s fondness for his queen to listen & be sensitive to her pleas. He even used the king’s inability to sleep at night to prompt some late night reading, reminding the king of Mordecai having saved his life, which then prompted Xerxes to respond with gratitude and favor towards Mordecai thwarting an assasination plot on his life!
As we turn to read in Nehemiah, we will see that, just as with Zerubbabel and Ezra, God prompted a pagan king to send Nehemiah back to Jerusalem to rebuild it…even to the point of giving supplies and support to do it! What an interesting variety of people and positions for God to use for greater purposes. Now think over our Bible reading the past 6 months. The variety of what God has used for His purposes of caring for His people is outstanding!
We have seen God use creation, animals fish (hello Jonah!), angels, visions and dreams, plagues, droughts, famines, rain, rainbows, favor, and people both shady and righteous. He has strongly led by clouds, fire, His Word written and spoken. He has used interpreters, kings good and bad, people for and against him, warning prophets, wars, enemies to His cause and outstanding exiles like Daniel. He has made leaders out of those who stutter and take charge, women done wrong and men fearing for their lives. He has creatively used everything from plants to people, the dust of the ground, and what appeared to be overwhelming difficulty and sorrow. He has wielded miracles and grace, sacrifice and forgiveness to keep His promises, care for His people, and preserve the lineage for Jesus to be born into. This is a God who can (and does!) use anyone and anything for His redemptive purpose. That is a God worth trusting! What might He be using in your life?
Weekly Reading:
Esther 5-7
Esther 8-10
Nehemiah 1-2
Nehemiah 3-4
Nehemiah 5-6Memory Verses: Deuteronomy 29:29 and Psalm 101:3-4
Further Resources:
What is Providence?
https://learn.ligonier.org/articles/what-providenceProvidence
https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/essay/providence/Bible Project Overview of Nehemiah
https://bibleproject.com/guides/book-of-ezra-nehemiah/God Uses Everything: Why Our Suffering is Never Wasted
https://www.desiringgod.org/articles/god-uses-everything -
Foundations F260 Week 29
Nehemiah 7 opens with an important list of names. As a rule, we are not very patient when it comes to reading lists of names in the Bible. We don’t know these people, their names sound weird to our modern Western ears, and we are prone to just quickly read through or even skip them without much consideration. But our God is not One to waste ink. He does what He does and includes what He includes on purpose. Instead of fixating on details God didn’t choose to conclude (i.e., what was Jesus doodling in the dirt when the wannabe stone throwers gathered around the Adulterous Woman in John 8), lets more carefully consider the details He does include. So…why the list of names in Nehemiah 7?
These are the people of the province who came up from the captivity of the exiles
whom Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon had taken captive
(they returned to Jerusalem and Judah, each to his own town,
Nehemiah 7:6
God had promised His people that exile would not last forever - that He would bring His people back to the Promised Land (Jeremaih 29:10-4). But change isn’t easy. We get set in our ways and adjust to our surrounding culture. These names God lists in Nehemiah 7…these represent the miniscule percentage of Israelites who chose to return to their Promised Land after the seventy year exile. God is acknowledging their faithfulness to return to the land He provided them. And, oh how grateful we should be that He honors those who choose to follow Him!
Throughout the Bible God reveals that He has another very special book of names. The Bible refers to it as the Book of Life (Philippians 4:3; Revelation 3:5; 17; 20) or the Lamb’s Book of Life (Revelation 21:27). This book details the names of every person who will get to live in eternity with God. These are those whom have followed Christ and therefore will live in the holy city of the New Jerusalem after Jesus returns for us and God once and for all establishes His forever kingdom on earth. If you have confessed your sin to God (Romans 3:23), acknowledged its rightful consequences (Romans 6:23) and gratefully accepted Jesus as God’s Son and the only way to Him (John 3:16; 36; 14:6; Acts 4:12; Romans 5:8; 10:9-10; 1 Timothy 2:5), then YOUR name is listed in God’s Book of Life! If this is confusing to you, please contact our church office immediately (405-789-3175) and ask to speak with one of our ministers. We would love nothing more than to talk with you about your place in God’s family. Having your name in God’s book is a detail that will spectacularly impact the rest of your life!
Thank You, God, for wanting to include us in Your family and Your very special book of names!
Weekly Reading:
Nehemiah 7-8
Nehemiah 9
Nehemiah 10
Nehemiah 11
Nehemiah 12Memory Verses: Nehemiah 6:9 and Nehemiah 9:6
Further Resources:
The census of returnees
https://biblehub.com/topical/t/the_census_of_returnees.htmIs there a difference between the book of life and the Lamb’s book of life?https://www.gotquestions.org/Lambs-book-of-life.html
David Guzik Study Guide for Nehemiah 8
https://www.blueletterbible.org/comm/guzik_david/study-guide/nehemiah/nehemiah-8.cfm?a=421013Nehemiah 8:13-18 Meaning
https://thebiblesays.com/en/commentary/neh+8:13 -
Welcome to Week 31 of the Foundations F260 Bible Reading Plan!
This is it. The final week of Old Testament reading in our Foundations F260 Bible Reading Plan. The book of Malachi includes the last recorded words God inspired a prophet to write until we get to New Testament. The book is set up as if it's a back and forth dialogue between God and the Israelites who have once again veered far from following Him. Sadly, we will read of the Israelites sinking back into disobedience, dishonoring God’s name and sanctuary, being unfaithful to their marriages, not caring for the poor, and generally not living according to God’s clearly expressed ways.
God affirms His love for His people in Malachi, but His disappointment is palpable, as seen in the opening words of Malachi 2:17, “You have wearied the LORD with your words.” God also accuses them of robbing Him by not honoring Him with their tithes and contributions (Malachi 3:9). This should cause us to stop in our reading to sit quietly before God and contemplate how we might be robbing Him. Are we giving our Creator our very best, or are we robbing Him?
How might God feel about your giving? Are you giving God the best of what you have? Of your time, talents, and resources? Or, are you giving Him your leftovers? Resources you no longer want or feel you can do without, time and money left over after you’ve done what you want with it? Are you giving back to Him whatever talent and blessings He’s given you?
Malachi’s book should convict us, but it also closes with a powerful prophecy of God’s coming messenger and the Day of the Lord. God had sent many messengers to talk to His people on His behalf, but He will seem to go silent at the close of the Old Testament’s final book of Malachi. 400 years will pass before we read of Him again speaking in the New Testament. But just as He seemed silent while the Israelites were in slavery in Egypt, God was still at work. Please take time to read the Further Reading links below on this time period to learn of God’s great work of preparation. That will help you bridge the gap to our beginning to read in the New Testament next week. So much will change during this time. Among other things, Roman rule will set the stage for a common language and transportation system that will allow the gospel to be taken to all people. Good News is coming!
Weekly Reading:
Nehemiah 13
Malachi 1
Malachi 2
Malachi 3
Malachi 4Memory Verses: Psalm 51:17 and Colossians 1:19-20
Further Resources:Bible Project Overview of Malachi
https://bibleproject.com/guides/book-of-malachi/What does it mean to rob God?
https://www.gotquestions.org/rob-God.htmlWhat occurred in the 400 years’ silence? (more detailed account)
https://biblehub.com/q/what_occurred_in_the_400_years'_silence.htmWhat were the 400 years of silence? (shorter but informative account)
https://www.gotquestions.org/400-years-of-silence.htmlItem description -
Foundations F260 Week 31! Welcome to the New Testament! We are in for a beautiful experience in our reading plan the next several weeks. As you may know, each of the first four books of the New Testament are called gospels (“gospel” meaning good news). They were inspired by God, but written by four very different men to write about the good news of Jesus‘ bodily birth, life, death, and resurrection. That means we will hear the perspectives of men with different ethnicities, personalities, experiences, audiences, and writing goals. Some of them were eyewitnesses, while others wrote from carefully researched accounts.
Because there were a lot of happenings and teachings of Jesus to choose from, the gospel writers will only sometimes write about the same things. Even then, they will include different details. By reading the first chapters of all four books this week, we will get a much fuller picture of Jesus moving from having always been with God in Heaven to Him being physically born on earth and eventually baptized by his distant cousin, John the Baptist.
Matthew was a Jewish tax collector turned disciple and eyewitness of Jesus who was writing to a Jewish audience, so his goal was for people to understand that Jesus was the promised Messiah. Because of that, his writing will include a large amount of quotations from the Old Testament. He will include Jesus’ genealogy through His father Joseph, all the way back to King David and Abraham, as evidence of Jesus fulfilling the covenants God made with each of them. Mark (also known as John Mark) didn’t know Jesus personally, but was a co-worker with the apostle Peter and a traveling companion of the apostle Paul on his missionary journeys. He wrote to a Greek audience in their language, with a focus on Jesus as the Son of God and on what Jesus did, as opposed to the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies. Because of this, His gospel moves fast and doesn’t include a lot of OT references or long passages of Jesus’ teaching. He does, however, include vivid details of Jesus’ miracles.
Luke, the only non-Jewish, Gentile convert writer of the New Testament was a physician and close missionary companion of the apostle Paul. Although Greek, Luke quotes often from the Old Testament and alludes that Jesus is the promised Son of God who came for everyone. This will be evidenced in his third chapter which contains a genealogy of Jesus that not only goes through King David and Abraham, but that traces back to Adam. Luke is also the author of the book of Acts. The length of these two books make him the most prolific writer of the New Testament. Luke shares far more accounts than the other gospel writers of Jesus interacting with non-Jews, as well as with marginalized groups like women, the poor, and those notably sinful.
Matthew, Mark, and Luke are called synoptic gospels because they give a synopsis, or summary, of what Jesus said, did, and taught. You will notice that John’s gospel focuses more on who Jesus is, which is why many recommend it as the first book for new Bible readers to read. John seemed to never get over the love of God and also wrote beautifully about it in his letters at the end of the New Testament. This love is captured in what has become the most famous verse of the Bible, John 3:16, “For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life.”
As you read from all four gospels this week and in the coming weeks, note what these books have in common and how they are different. Instead of getting frustrated with our reading plan moving back and forth between the books, pay attention to details you would miss if we only had one gospel writer. Relish Old Testament prophecies being fulfilled and the kingdom of God literally coming to earth! Thank God for giving us such a rich account of His Son who came to die for our sins and who rose again to offer Jews and non-Jews the gift of eternity with God. As our Music Minister, Eric Wall, wrote in his beloved song Once and Again, “He came once. He will come again. Our Saviour He descends in power and in love.” Thank You, Jesus!
Weekly Reading:
Luke 1
Luke 2
Matthew 1-2
Mark 1
John 1Memory Verses: John 1:1-2; 14
Further Resources:
Bible Project Overview of How to Read the Gospel
https://bibleproject.com/videos/how-to-read-gospel/ (Video 5.46 minutes)Why did God give us four gospels?
https://www.gotquestions.org/four-Gospels.htmlCan We Trust the Gospels, by Peter Williams (Well written book exploring the historical reliability of the Gospels)
Luke 1-2: Eyewitnesses to Jesus
https://www.spokengospel.com/devotionals/luke-1-2#videoDoes the Bible Support the Pre-Existence of Jesus
https://www.gotquestions.org/pre-existence-Jesus.htmlThis is He Who Baptizes With the Holy Spirit
https://www.desiringgod.org/messages/this-is-he-who-baptizes-with-the-holy-spirit -
Foundations F260 Week 32!
Our reading of the Old Testament ended in Malachi just over a week ago, with promises of a messenger coming to prepare the way for the Messiah (Malachi 3:1; 4:5). We will read the fulfillment of these prophecies, as well as those by Isaiah (Isaiah 40:3), on the first day of our reading plan this week! John the Baptist is not only the first prophet the Bible mentions since Malachi, but he is also the prophesied prophet who came to prepare the way for Christ.
Speaking of prophecies, remember that the author of this week’s reading is Matthew, one of Jesus’ original disciples and an eyewitness to his life. Matthew was a Jewish man writing to a Jewish audience, trying to prove Jesus was the promised Messiah, so his writing highlights Old Testament prophecies fulfilled through Jesus. A great practice throughout the book of Matthew would be to mark each time he records an Old Testament prophecy being fulfilled. You will be amazed at how many there are.
This week we will read several fascinating accounts captured by Matthew. Chapter 3 focuses on Jesus’ baptism where you will see all three members of the Trinity mentioned, God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit. This shows that God does not morph into different beings, but is one God in 3 separate persons, all alive at the same time. After Jesus’ baptism by John the Baptist, Chapter 4 highlights Jesus’ forty days in the desert being tempted by Satan. Chapters 5-7 include His signature Sermon on the Mount and his teaching on salt, light, and the Lord’s Prayer. These chapters are loaded with theology and famous passages. Chapter 8 captures some dramatic miracles performed by Jesus. Enjoy every Word!
Weekly Reading:
Matthew 3-4
Matthew 5
Matthew 6
Matthew 7
Matthew 8Memory Verses: Matthew 5:16 and Matthew 6:33
Further Resources:
Bible Project Overview of Matthew
https://bibleproject.com/guides/book-of-matthew/How Does Matthew Prove That Jesus is the Messiah?
https://www.biblestudytools.com/bible-study/topical-studies/how-does-matthew-prove-that-jesus-is-the-messiah.htmlWhat Does It Mean to Produce Fruit in Keeping With Repentance?
https://www.gotquestions.org/produce-fruit-keeping-repentance.htmlWhat Is the Sermon on the Mount?
https://bibleproject.com/articles/what-is-the-sermon-on-the-mount/ -
Foundations F260 Week 33
The feeding of the 5,000, Jesus’ transfiguration, the most famous verse in all the Bible, and Jesus’ longest recorded conversation…that is just some of what we have to look forward to in our Bible reading this week!
While the feeding of the 5,000 is included in all four gospel accounts, we will only read Luke’s account this week and John’s next week. Since this and Jesus’ resurrection are the only miracles recorded by all four writers, it would be well worth your time to read all four accounts (Matthew 14:13-21, Mark 6:30-44, Luke 9:10-17, and John 6:1-14) for a more complete picture of this famous feeding. Although this was an intense time for Jesus, He did not see the crowds as an interruption. Rather, He took what one little boy had and multiplied it. Isn’t that just like God? When we give what we have, He makes so much more of it than what we ever could.
There is much to learn from the accounts of Jesus’ miraculous feeding and theologian Andreas Kostenberger succinctly compares and summarizes all their accounts well in the Tabletalk Magazine link found in the Further Resources below.The transfiguration account reminds us of who Jesus was, is, and evermore will be. He was never just a man who walked on this earth. He was present and divine before he humbled himself and came to earth in human form and he will reign in his true glorified form forever more. The “Multifaceted Glory” Gospel Coalition link below beautifully explains the significance of Moses and Elijah joining Jesus during this supernatural transfiguration - don’t miss it! And although there is much more to highlight from our readings this week, our time in the book of John gives us two wonderful gems to mention here. John 3:16 has been called “a short and clear summary of Christianity’s central tenets; highlighting God’s love for people, Jesus as the Father’s Son and the connection between becoming a Christian and everlasting life – a lot to cover in a mere 26 words!” (Most popular Bible verses in every country)
Jesus’ conversation with the woman at the well in John 4:1-42 is fascinating not just due to its length, but because it's a conversation that never should have happened due to where and when it happened, who Jesus talked with, and what they talked about. John alone records this conversation in the gospels and He uses it to reveal much about who Jesus is - He is the promised Messiah who came for all people and is the singular source for eternal life with God. This conversation shows God values women and spiritually curious conversations. Because Jesus came, died, and rose again, He sent the Holy Spirit to live in all Christ-followers enabling us to worship Him anytime and anywhere. For other insights, enjoy the Jesus Film link below.
Soak up every moment in God’s Word this week!
Weekly Reading:
Luke 9:10-62
Mark 9-10
Luke 12
John 3-4
Luke 14
Memory Verses: Luke 14:26-27 and Luke 14:33
Further Reading:
Bible Project Overview of Luke
https://bibleproject.com/guides/book-of-luke/
The Feeding of the 5,000 (a succinct account of how each writer’s details give a full account)
https://tabletalkmagazine.com/article/2025/02/the-feeding-of-the-five-thousand/
Multifaceted Glory: What the Transfiguration Tells Us About Jesus
https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/article/glory-transfiguration-jesus/The most popular Bible verse in every country
Most-popular-bible-verses-in-every-country
Jesus and the Woman at the Well
https://www.jesusfilm.org/blog/woman-at-the-well/ -
Foundations F260 Week 34!
All four gospel writers are featured in our reading this week. They will tell of several of the same teachings and encounters with Jesus regarding divorce, his death, and the future rewards of others, as well his interactions with children, the rich young ruler, his healing of a blind man. In addition, they will each uniquely highlight other parables, teachings, and encounters in keeping with their individual audiences and writing goals.
In keeping with his theologic focus on who Jesus is (His character, deity, humanity and such), John will introduce the first of Jesus’ famous “I AM” statements on day 1 of our reading. We will focus more on John next week as most of our reading then will be in His book, but this introductory I AM statement deserves more than a mention. Please do read the gotquestions.org link in the Further Resources to further ponder this significance.
You will no doubt notice when you read Mark 10 at the end of the week that you have already read almost everything in it from other accounts this week. Remember Mark is the shortest and most compact gospel, focusing mostly on what Jesus said and did. Many biblical scholars think he wrote the first gospel account and that Matthew and Luke used his writing as a key resource for theirs. You may also notice in this week’s reading that Luke alone included several of Jesus’ parables. That is consistent with what we learned a few weeks ago that Luke included far more of Jesus’ parables in his writing than the other gospel authors. Some people like Luke just really like a good story and Luke faithfully shows how Jesus deftly used stories to communicate big truths.
Enjoy your reading this week, remembering that we weren’t given God’s Word just for information, but for transformation. God wants it to impact how we think and behave. Look for what it reveals about God and ask Him how these supernatural truths should lead you to practically adapt your thinking and behavior. Let’s connect the dots between God’s Word and our everyday lives!
Weekly Reading:
John 6
Matthew 19:16-30
Luke 15-16
Luke 17:11-37 and Luke 18
Mark 10Memory Verses: Mark 10:24 and John 6:37
Further Resources:Bible Project Overview of Mark
https://bibleproject.com/guides/book-of-mark/Book of Mark (includes further details about the author and book contents)
https://www.biblestudytools.com/mark/What are the seven I AM statements in the gospel of John?
https://www.gotquestions.org/seven-I-AM-statements.htmlRemember and Rehearse: An Invitation to Participate in God’s Story, by J.T. English (This book focuses on God’s overarching story in the Bible and how our story is part of His story!)
Remember and Rehearse -
Foundations F260 Week 35
Our reading this week begins and ends with Matthew. First with evidence of more prophecy fulfilled and concluding with instruction on signs of Christ’s second coming. Most of our time, however, will be in John 11-16, focusing on the first part of Jesus’ last night on earth before His crucifixion. There is so much packed into these six chapters, but look closely for what Jesus knew and what He wanted others to know, with special attention to who He revealed Himself to be.
In these chapters alone, it is apparent Jesus knew his friend Lazarus was going to die, but would not stay dead in order to glorify Jesus (John 11:4). As noted by the Bible Project video linked in the Further Resources below, the raising of Lazarus from the dead would be the biggest sign of who Jesus was and would make Him highly controversial. Jesus knew it would stir up those who wanted to kill Him, but did it anyway. Jesus knew He would soon be departing His earthly life to go back to the Father (John 13:1, 3; 14:28; 16:28; ). He knew who would betray Him (John 13:11; 14:21). Jesus also knew His disciples would scatter at the end of His life and leave Him alone (John 16:32). I am struck anew at what Jesus knew, yet that He still chose to give His life for us all.
So what did Jesus want those surrounding Him to know? What would he want us to know about Him today?
While last week’s reading in John 6:35 introduced us to Jesus’ first I AM statement in John’s gospel by claiming “I AM the Bread of Life,” we will read three more of Jesus’ 7 I AM declarations this week:
“I am the resurrection and the life.” (John 11:25)
Said to Lazarus’ sister Martha when her brother died, illustrating that he held the power of life and death.
“I am the way and truth and the life.” (John 14:6)
Making it clear that Jesus is not just one way to God, but THE one and only way. While this is not a popular worldly view, God is clear about this in Scripture.
“I am the true vine.” (John 15:1,5)
Giving us a clear word picture of what it looks like to abide in Christ.
Elsewhere in John’s gospel, note what Jesus teaches about how we are to love in John 15. In light of these revelations, how should you adapt your thoughts regarding love? Is it dependent on feeling or circumstances? How are we to love and what would that practically look like in your relationships? What is one thing you can do this week to love someone according to Jesus’ parameters?
Jesus describes the role of the Holy Spirit in John 16. What is His role in the Trinity? What should we count on Him to do and be? In what areas and ways do you need the Holy Spirit to guide you this week? Let’s invest some extra time this week in thanking God for every aspect of His Father, Son, and Holy Spirit Trinity.
Weekly Reading:
John 11; Matthew 21:1-13
John 13
John 14-15
John 16
Matthew 24:1-31Memory Verses:John 13:34-35 and John 15:4-5
Further Resources:
Who was John the Apostle in the Bible?https://www.gotquestions.org/life-John-Apostle.htmlBible Project Overview of John 13-21
https://bibleproject.com/videos/john-13-21/Abide in the Vine (John 15:1-27)
https://www.paultripp.com/john/posts/034-abide-in-the-vine-john-151-27Why Did John Call Himself the Disciple Who Jesus Loved? https://www.christianity.com/wiki/bible/why-did-john-call-himself-the-disciple-who-jesus-loved.html
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Foundations F260 Week 36
Our reading this week begins and ends with Matthew. First with evidence of more prophecy fulfilled and concluding with instruction on signs of Christ’s second coming. Most of our time, however, will be in John 11-16, focusing on the first part of Jesus’ last night on earth before His crucifixion. There is so much packed into these six chapters, but look closely for what Jesus knew and what He wanted others to know, with special attention to who He revealed Himself to be.
In these chapters alone, it is apparent Jesus knew his friend Lazarus was going to die, but would not stay dead in order to glorify Jesus (John 11:4). As noted by the Bible Project video linked in the Further Resources below, the raising of Lazarus from the dead would be the biggest sign of who Jesus was and would make Him highly controversial. Jesus knew it would stir up those who wanted to kill Him, but did it anyway. Jesus knew He would soon be departing His earthly life to go back to the Father (John 13:1, 3; 14:28; 16:28; ). He knew who would betray Him (John 13:11; 14:21). Jesus also knew His disciples would scatter at the end of His life and leave Him alone (John 16:32). I am struck anew at what Jesus knew, yet that He still chose to give His life for us all.
So what did Jesus want those surrounding Him to know? What would he want us to know about Him today?
While last week’s reading in John 6:35 introduced us to Jesus’ first I AM statement in John’s gospel by claiming “I AM the Bread of Life,” we will read three more of Jesus’ 7 I AM declarations this week:
“I am the resurrection and the life.” (John 11:25)
Said to Lazarus’ sister Martha when her brother died, illustrating that he held the power of life and death.
“I am the way and truth and the life.” (John 14:6)
Making it clear that Jesus is not just one way to God, but THE one and only way. While this is not a popular worldly view, God is clear about this in Scripture.
“I am the true vine.” (John 15:1,5)
Giving us a clear word picture of what it looks like to abide in Christ.
Elsewhere in John’s gospel, note what Jesus teaches about how we are to love in John 15. In light of these revelations, how should you adapt your thoughts regarding love? Is it dependent on feeling or circumstances? How are we to love and what would that practically look like in your relationships? What is one thing you can do this week to love someone according to Jesus’ parameters?
Jesus describes the role of the Holy Spirit in John 16. What is His role in the Trinity? What should we count on Him to do and be? In what areas and ways do you need the Holy Spirit to guide you this week? Let’s invest some extra time this week in thanking God for every aspect of His Father, Son, and Holy Spirit Trinity.
Weekly Reading:
John 11; Matthew 21:1-13
John 13
John 14-15
John 16
Matthew 24:1-31Memory Verses: John 13:34-35 and John 15:4-5
Further Resources:
Who was John the Apostle in the Bible?
https://www.gotquestions.org/life-John-Apostle.htmlBible Project Overview of John 13-21
https://bibleproject.com/videos/john-13-21/Abide in the Vine (John 15:1-27)
https://www.paultripp.com/john/posts/034-abide-in-the-vine-john-151-27Why Did John Call Himself the Disciple Who Jesus Loved? h
ttps://www.christianity.com/wiki/bible/why-did-john-call-himself-the-disciple-who-jesus-loved.html -
Foundations F260 Week 37
It is Resurrection Week in our Bible Reading Plan! If ever there was a week NOT to miss your daily Bible reading, this is the one. We will read accounts of Jesus’ Resurrection from all 4 gospel writers, with each of them beginning with early in the morning on the first day of the week after Jesus was crucified. Since preparing someone for burial wouldn’t have been allowed by Jewish law on the Sabbath, early the following morning (aka the first day of the week) would have been the first time these Jewish women would have legally been able to prepare Jesus for burial. It was in going to do so that they became the first to discover that Jesus was not in the tomb…He had risen from the dead! They were also the first ones entrusted to tell others Jesus had risen.
How important is the Resurrection of Jesus? “If Jesus Christ is not resurrected, then we have no hope that we will be, either. In fact, apart from Christ’s resurrection, we have no Savior, no salvation, and no hope of eternal life. As Paul said, our faith would be “useless,” the gospel would be altogether powerless, and our sins would remain unforgiven (1 Corinthians 15:14–19” ( https://www.gotquestions.org/resurrection-Christ-important.html). Thank You, Jesus, for coming back to life!
Matthew 28 will close with Jesus’ command to go and make disciples. Think about our CRBC definition of a disciple as someone fully devoted to knowing Christ, following Him, and making other disciples. Sit quietly before God and ask Him how He would have you respond to that glorious responsibility. What should you do to better know Christ? What is one change you can make to more faithfully follow Him? How might He want you to makes disciples? Who do you know that you can encourage in their Christian faith this week?
Lastly, our final day’s reading in Acts 1 beautifully summarizes Jesus’ activity after He resurrected and before He ascended to Heaven to be with the Father. (1 Corinthians 15 provides another succinct description.) As recorded in Acts 1, Luke also tells them that they will soon be baptized in the Holy Spirit and His power will come upon them. This beautifully sets up our reading next week about Pentecost and the Holy Spirit indwelling all believers. Get ready!!!
Remember as you read this week that the details each specific gospel writer shares is influenced by things like their original target audience and writing purposes. The links in the Further Resources section below do a good job of explaining why there is some variety, so do take a look at them. Soak up what your Resurrection readings this week will highlight about God - His power to resurrect, His tenderness and forgiveness towards Peter, and his inclusion of women in these pivotal moments in history. Consider anew the Great Commission in Matthew 28 and how God would have you make disciples. Ponder the significance of brothers and sisters together being devoted in prayer in Acts 1. Imagine what it would be like to live without the Holy Spirit and thank God each day that we can have Him as our Convictor, Comforter, and Guide. Thank God for ALL that the Resurrection means!Weekly Reading:
Mark 16
Luke 24
John 20-21
Matthew 28
Acts 1Memory Verses: Matthew 28:18-20 and Acts 1:8
Further Resources:
Why is the resurrection of Jesus Christ important?
https://www.gotquestions.org/resurrection-Christ-important.html
How Many Men, Women, and Angels Were At the Tomb of Jesus?
https://apologeticspress.org/how-many-were-at-the-tomb-of-jesus/Mary Recognizes Her Lord (On the importance of Jesus’ Resurrection to establish an eternal kingdom and what happens to our bodies after earthly death)
https://learn.ligonier.org/devotionals/mary-recognizes-her-lord
Mary Sees Jesus and Angels (Was there 1 angel or 2 and how to recognize Jesus)
https://learn.ligonier.org/devotionals/mary-sees-jesus-and-angels -
Foundations F260 Week 38!
Hello Holy Spirit! Jesus had promised the Holy Spirit would come in Acts 1 and WOW did He! His active presence should be impossible to miss in this week’s reading in Acts 2-9.
So…who is the Holy Spirit? In our previous reading, Jesus referred to the Holy Spirit as the Counselor (John 14:16, 26; 15:26: 16:7) and Spirit of Truth (John 14:17). He went so far as to say it was better to have the Holy Spirit with us always than to just have Jesus physically for a while, explaining that the Spirit would “convict the world about sin, righteousness, and judgment” (John 16:7-8), would guide them into truth, declare what is to come, and glorify Jesus (John 16:13-14). We will see the Holy Spirit do all this and more as He fills and speaks to believers throughout this week’s reading.
The rapid growth of Christianity and the Church will introduce us to some fascinating men of faith like Steven, Philip, the apostle Paul, and Barnabus. Soak up everything there is to learn about and from Steven (Acts 6-7) and relish in how God uses the persecution that ignites after his stoning to take the gospel to Gentiles like us (Acts 8)! Absorb with fresh eyes one of the most dramatic conversions in all of Christianity as Saul the persecutor embraced the gift of life in Christ. Thank God for the Barnabuses in this world and ask God who He would have you encourage in their faith.
This week’s reading is Christianity at its very best!
Weekly Reading:
Acts 2-3
Acts 4-5
Acts 6
Acts 7
Acts 8-9Memory Verses: Acts 2:42 and 4:31
Further Resources:
Acts 2:1-4 Meaning (Great insights into Pentecost and the imagery of wind, breath and fire as they relate to the Holy Spirit throughout Scripture)
https://thebiblesays.com/en/commentary/act+2:1?highlight=Acts+2%3A1-4What are the names and titles of the Holy Spirit?
https://www.gotquestions.org/names-Holy-Spirit.htmlWhat does it mean that the Holy Spirit will guide you into all truth (John 16:13)?
https://www.gotquestions.org/Holy-Spirit-willHow Do We Know the Holy Spirit Is a Person?
https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/blogs/justin-taylor/how-do-we-know-the-holy-spirit-is-a-person/What is the role of the Holy Spirit in our lives today? (clear and concise)
https://www.gotquestions.org/Spirit-today.htmlWho Is the Holy Spirit? (Excellent article that isn’t too lengthy, but has a bit more substance than the brief gotquestions one above.)
https://www.watermark.org/blog/who-is-the-holy-spiritDelighting in the Trinity, Michael Reeves
https://www.amazon.com/s?k=delighting+in+the+trinity&adgrpid=187381726698&hvadid=779632352351&hvdev=c&hvexpln=0&hvlocphy=9028722&hvnetw=g&hvocijid=8611896423183540268--&hvqmt=e&hvrand=8611896423183540268&hvtargid=kwd-300404919029&hydadcr=17807_13794490_2332415&mcid=c2eed8fb3d623d1ca9fb05eff02723f3&tag=googhydr-20&ref=pd_sl_1xw3j2fcxl_eForgotten God: Reversing Our Tragic Neglect of the Holy Spirit, Francis Chan (book) https://www.amazon.com/dp/1087787416?lv=shuf&channelId=500&plpRedirect=mhFallback
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Foundations F260 Week 39!
The Good News of the Gospel is for Gentiles too! This week of reading highlights the exciting time in history when salvation through Jesus spread beyond the Jewish people. Acts 10 opens with an interesting set of visions which move the very Jewish apostle Peter to share the gospel with a Roman Gentile named Cornelius, as well as with the family and friends Cornelius had gathered. While Cornelius knew of God, Peter told them about Jesus. This is the first time the Bible notes the gospel being preached directly to a Gentile audience (https://www.blueletterbible.org/comm/tbs/meaning/act-10-v34-43.cfm?a=1028045) and of a gospel audience receiving the gift of the Holy Spirit. When later questioned about meeting and eating with uncircumcised Gentiles, Peter shared of the visions, angels, and Holy Spirit which led to the incredible encounter and his conclusion, “Therefore if God gave to them the same gift as He gave to us also after believing in the Lord Jesus Christ, who was I that I could stand in God’s way?” (Acts 11:17)
Next, we see God bring great redemptive good from the earlier stoning of Stephen (Acts 7). The persecution that had led the Jewish followers of Jesus to scatter into surrounding areas now uniquely placed them among Greeks with whom they shared their faith in Jesus. Because of this, “considerable numbers were brought to the Lord” (Acts 11:24). Saul, who was at Stephen’s stoning and had been an active part of persecuting Christ-followers (Acts 7:58-8:2) has since had a conversion experience of his own (Acts 9) and was brought to Antioch to help teach the new Christ-followers there (Acts 11). Incredible!!! The man who formerly persecuted Christ-followers goes all in on making disciples of Christ, to the point of being led by the Holy Spirit to embark on missionary journeys emphasizing sharing the gospel with Gentiles (Acts 13)! You should be able to feel the excitement in this week’s reading of Acts.
We will end our week by taking a break from the book of Acts to read the book of James. At first glance, they may seem at odds in their respective emphases on faith and works. Bible teacher, Katie Orr, does a nice job of explaining how the theology in Acts and James actually overlaps in the Gospel Project article linked at the end of the Further Resources below, so I’d encourage you to take the time to read it. While reading the books of Acts, look for their common emphases on living out an active faith that bears the fruit to caring for others. What people or groups are you showing favoritism to? Who are the vulnerable God would ask you to help, and how? What practical ways would God want you to live out your faith? In what particular area(s) do you need God’s wisdom? Let’s follow the examples in Acts and James and get practical about about living out our faith this week!
Weekly Reading:
Acts 10-11
Acts 12
Acts 13-14
James 1-2
James 3-5Memory Verses: James 1:2-4 and 2:17
Further Resources:
The Apostle Paul: Acts 8-12
https://bibleproject.com/videos/gospel-acts-2/When and why was Saul’s name changed to Paul?
https://www.gotquestions.org/Saul-Paul.htmlBible Project Overview of James
https://bibleproject.com/guides/book-of-james/Who Was Right: James, Paul, or Both?
https://gospelproject.lifeway.com/who-was-right-james-paul-or-both/