Biblical Literacy Podcast

Pastor Brent Johnson continued with the series, Lesser-Known Women of the Bible with a focus on Elizabeth, mother of John the Baptist from Luke 1. Brent taught three points: 1. Aaron: Zachariah and Elizabeth were from the Levite clan. 2. Baron: Although righteous, Elizabeth was advanced in age, and felt shame and inadequacy in that culture. 3. Errand: Elizabeth served God by greeting Mary, acknowledging Mary’s pregnancy, spoke of God‘s blessings and shared blessings for Mary. Take home: 1. Assembly required for the Christian 2. Be a blessing to others 3. God is at work 4. No excuses Listen to Brent teach about Elizabeth’s difficult struggle with barrenness. Also listen to Holly Johnson speak about her personal experience with infertility and her faith journey. God sometimes works through impossible situations to accomplish His purposes.

Mark continued the series Lesser-Known Women of the Bible with a focus on Shiphrah and Puah, two of God’s unlikely heroes. The Crisis: Egypt enslaved the Israelites when their increasingly large population became a threat. Pharaoh ordered the midwives to kill all newborn male babies. The Courage: Midwives Shiphra and Puah faced the choice of living or killing the babies. They chose life and feared God. The Blessings: God gave the midwives families. Point for home: God often works through the smallest things to accomplish His purposes. Listen to Mark teach the new era of Egypt in which the Pharaoh did not know Joseph or care about the Israelites. Humanity tends to establish their own plans against God’s will. This results in deliberate rejection not just lack of knowledge. Shiphrah and Puah are the first historical instance of civil disobedience.

11-24-24 Biblical-Literacy Pastor David Fleming continued in the series of Lesser Known Women of the Bible with a focus on Vashti from Esther Chapter 1. Dr. Fleming’s roadmap for the lesson included: 1. Context: King Xerxses held a massive feast for seven days to show his wealth and power. Queen Vashti and ladies left, but other women joined the king and his guests. 2. Vashti’s story: The king ordered Vashti to attend on day seven in a degrading fashion. She refused and the king responded by removing her as queen. We don’t know if she was killed. She had dignity, self-respect, respect of others, and a place in history. 3. Points for Home / Application:  Identity core convictions  Find the courage to stand  Be confident in God’s plan Listen to Pastor David provide the background to the culture and insight to the deprivation of King Xerses, Vashti’s refusal, and why the book of Esther begins with Vashti. Pastor David challenges us to know who we are in Christ. It is not about us.

11-17-24 Biblical-Literacy Mark Continued in the Lesser-Known Women of the Bible series with a snapshot of the daughters of Zelophehad, five sisters from the tribe of Manasseh who changed the law. The story is from Numbers 26 and 27. 1. The story: Zelophehad had no sons, and his daughters ask Moses for their father’s land. The Lord agrees. 2. The context. A person’s name in the OT days was an identifier, character and actions, continuity of being or existence, community memory/placement, and spiritual: place in God’s covenant. Land: theological significance. God’s fulfillment of Abrahamic promise, a divine inheritance. The land ties the people to God. Economic reality. 3. The application. Points for home: 1) Reflect the name of Jesus. Our name is more than an identifier, It is our character and actions should reflect Jesus. 2) Our inheritance isn’t land but in the saints and riches in Christ. Listen to Mark teach the courage and boldness of the five daughters of Zelophehad, the significance of names, the meaning of land, and the archeological proof of the sisters’ existence and impact.

11-10-24 Biblical-Literacy Mark continued in the series Lesser-Known Women of the Bible. Today’s woman was a "wise woman” from 2 Samuel 20, who helped save her city by turning over Sheba to Joab and his army. The storyline: Sheba was a worthless man who encouraged the northern tribes of Israel to rebel against King David. Worthless in those days meant not living for God, did not know God, and didn’t use what he had to honor God. The woman termed wise was shrewd, crafty, and cunning. The contrast: Worthless leads to death, and wise leads to life. Points for home included these three passages: Prov 10:8 Prov 12:18 Prov 14:16 Listen to Mark teach on the culture and setting of this lesson’s time. The nation under King David was a loose confederation of twelve tribes, not united. Mark's explanation of worthless and wise show us a better understanding of the people then and how we should live today.

Pastor David Fleming taught Lesser Known Women of the Bible with focus on Lydia from Acts 16 during Paul’s second missionary trip. Pastor David share three areas of focus: 1. Story before the story: Paul was called from a dream to Macedonia. In Philippi, which had no synagogue, he and Silas gathered to pray outside the city gates by a body of water in prayer house. Paul found only women and met Lydia, who was a God worshipper. 2. Story of conversion: God opened Lydia’s heart to pay attention, and she became a believer. 3. Story still being written: Lydia was baptized along with her household. She invited Paul and Silas to stay with her. They encouraged Lydia and all the new followers before leaving. Points for home: Lydia’s story should challenge us. Lydia’s story should inspire us. Lydia’s story should encourage us. Listen to Pastor David provide insights into the culture and tradition of the time regarding women, and what it means for Lydia to be the first convert in Europe. Jesus radically transformed the role of women, and Paul followed in His footsteps. Women were vital in growing the first century church.

10-27-24-Biblical-Literacy Mark picked back up with the series: Lesser-known Bible Women with a focus on Judges 19. Mark shared some context for the storyline, what went wrong and some application points for home. Storyline: 1200 BC to 1040 BC. Israel is in the promised land. No earthly kings yet. A young woman of the Levite tribe is brutally murdered in the area of the Benjaminites. Her body is cut into twelve pieces and sent to the heads of the twelve tribes of Israel. Eleven tribes war against the tribe of Benjamin. All the women and children are killed with unrighteousness actions and results and blame God for the situation! What went wrong: God was supposed to be king, but not in the eyes of the Israelites. Points for home Is God your King? I hate sin! How are you treating those on the edges of society? Listen to Mark teach the challenges of culture and timing when understanding stories of the Bible.He shares the status and meaning of a pilegesh or what has been translated in English as concubine during the times of Judges. This story shows what happens when God is not King, and everyone does what they believe is right in their own eyes.

10/13/2024 Bib-lit Class Synopsis Dr. Esau McCauley Mark interviewed Dr. Esau McCauley, an incredibly focused and jovial Messenger of God’s word. Dr. McCauley is a Professor at Wheaton College. He discusses his child hood growing up in a God loving home and learning about the Bible from a “Cartoon Bible” which he read with great diligence. He was born in 1979 and he was raised in Huntsville Alabama. His mom taught him that he could be whatever he wanted to be and he chose a Christ filled life. He discussed, in detail, the impact the Bible has on living a Christian life and how he studied the various languages the Bible were written in such as Greek, Hebrew and Aramaic. He attended Gordon Conwell Theology Seminary in Massachusetts to achieve this study. Dr. McCauley discusses how he was separated from his wife Navy Capt. while she was deployed during the pandemic. He had to deal with the needs and education of 4 children 16,14,10 and 8 (two boys and two girls). He discusses writing children’s books which were influenced by his own children, writing a children’s book about each one. Other books he discusses are a Children’s Bible, and a book about interracial marriage. Dr. McCauley is a passionate follower of Christ and it is reflected in his writings and his day-to-day life. You don’t want to miss this interview. As a short but incredible interlude, a young man from Korea, born in Jamaica, joined Mark and Esau on stage and discussed a 700,000 member church in Korea that has 60-70,000 people attending a prayer meeting at 05:30 in the morning.

10-6-24 Biblical-Literacy Mark completed A Study of Revelation with a focus on The Great News in Revelation 22. This final lesson closed out the study of Apocalyptic Literature and recapped the 7 vignettes each covering a segment of the age of the church to the 2nd coming. Mark revisited the 7th vignette acknowledging varied interpretations of the millennium, the binding of Satan, and Jesus’ 2nd coming where He will judge all humanity on the Great White Throne and create a new heaven and a new earth. Points for Home: 1. Revelation speaks to us. 2. Live in Faith. 3. What a great ending. Listen to Mark read Revelation 22 with insight and wisdom concluding with “Surely I am coming soon.” Amen. Come, Lord Jesus! The grace of the Lord Jesus be with all. Amen

9-29-24 Biblical-Literacy Mark continued A Study of Revelation acknowledging controversial viewpoints about the tribulation with a focus on the seventh or final vignette from Revelation 20:1-6. The context deals with Satan and his symbolic “binding” for a thousand years. We hear about 3 views of the Millennium, premillennial, postmillennial, & amillennial which is described as Satan bound for church age, a coming tribulation, and a 2nd coming. Points for home: Regardless of our millennial view, we should 1) live like the redeemed, 2) spread the word and 3) be confident that Glory is assured. Listen to Mark review the history of apocalyptic literature written in cycles and symbolism for all time, the advent of Jesus in a dark world and why Satan can never destroy the church

9-22-24 Biblical-Literacy Dr. David Capes interviewed Dr. Amy Orr Ewing, writer, scholar, and evangelist who shared her life and passion for transforming lives for Jesus. Dr. Ewing relayed her family background and how she and her parents came to know Jesus. Amy holds a doctorate (DPhil) in Theology from the University of Oxford, and serves as Honorary Lecturer in Divinity at the University Aberdeen. She has influenced the Kingdom all over the world as evidenced with numerous accolades during her 25+ year career. Listen to Dr. Ewing offer scriptural insights from her years of study and application of apologetics and evangelism to believers and unbelievers all over the world.In

9-15-24 - Biblical-Literacy Mark returned to the Study of Revelation starting with a fast but important review of chapters 1-16 noting that we need to go back in time to fully understand the writings. Understanding the aspects of apocalyptic literature changes how we read & understand Revelation. Marks explains it as a series of vignettes that reflect the age of the church to the second coming. Mark then shifted attention to some highlights of the ending chapters asking the question: So how do we live? With open eyes With godliness Remember who wins See what awaits the family of God See what awaits the world Points for home See truth Live right Don’t lose heart Listen to Mark show how Revelation is written like Daniel and the vignette’s meanings. We can be confident that Jesus is coming back, and He wins.

Dr. David Fleming taught the 2nd class in Lesser Known Women of the Bible with a focus on Joanna from the Gospel of Luke. She was the wife of Chuza, Herod’s household manager. David’s discussion was divided into: Context: Joanna’s religious and social context as a wealthy woman. Jesus' respect and affirmation of Joanna and women. Content: Joanna had a personal encounter with Jesus. She became a follower, disciple, and financially supported Jesus. She was there for Him at His crucifixion. Contributions: Joanna was among those who were first to see Jesus at His resurrection. Points for Home What is, & am I, a disciple of Jesus? Am I living/working with and for Jesus? There’s no such thing as lesser known to God. Listen to dr. Fleming teach about Joanna, her unlikely conversion, and what it means to follow Jesus today. You cannot stay where you are and follow Jesus. Your name is known to God.

Dr. David Fleming taught the first lesson in the "Lessor Known Women of the Bible" series. The focus today was on Achash, Caleb’s daughter and subsequent wife of Othniel, from Judges 1. Our roadmap: Context—Caleb ensured the right man for his daughter, a man to provide for her, and to strengthen their family. Conduct—Achash respectfully trusted her father, not passive, encouraged her husband, and made a bold request from her father. Contribution—Achash's family got what they needed to thrive in the land. Points for home: A Lesson on trust and obedience A lesson on faith and obedience that leads to action. A lesson on who God uses. Listen to Dr. Fleming teach the value of trusting God and believing in His provision. God is good. God never fails. Choose God and live. Sometimes God will choose you for a very important job.

August 25,2024 Traits of God, The Holy Spirit Mark Lanier Mark asks three questions: 1. What is the Holy Spirit? 2. What does the Holy Spirit do? 3. How do we see the Scripture? Mark addressed these questions: 1. What is the Holy Spirit? Holy: 1. Connected with God or a particular Religion 2. Good in a moral and religious way Spirit: 1. The part of a person 2. The soul thought of as separate from the Body Ghost: Soul Mark explains in some detail from, verses in Scripture, the Difference between Spirit and spirit. 2. What does the holy spirit do? Ref: John 14-16, John 14-17 1.The Spirit will indwell in the believer 2.The Spirit will teach and remind 3.Bear witness to Jesus(w/apostles) 4.Convict of sin 5.Glorify Jesus 3. How do we see this in scripture: Ref: Acts 2:4, 5:32, 7:55, 10:38 and 1Cor 3:15 Homework: checkout OT and NT pre-Pentecost Take home: Affirm the Spirits work, Glorify Christ, and Pray for the Spirit’s work

8-18-24 Biblical-Literacy Brent Johnson provided insight into the Attributes of God with a focus on Jesus Incarnate reflected who God is and what God wants through His teachings, commands, actions, and parables. Brent has three focus areas: 1. Why does Jesus matter? He is the Word, God, and eternal life. 2. Ethics of Jesus as seen in the 4 Gospels and themes: Matthew: The kingdom of God - Organization Mark: Radical fellowship - Reliance on God Luke: Status & expectations Reversed - Servant leadership John: Love ethic - Beloved disciple 3. Jesus shows love Concerns and priorities Power over the world and people Power over the demonic Power over death Listen to Brent's review on the Traits of God and the attributes of Jesus as God as shown in the Gospels.

8-11-24 Biblical-Literacy Mark continued teaching on The Attributes of God asking the question: How do we understand God? Three areas of focus to understand God include: 1. Words—God’s name is more than a label but who He is and what He does. His majesty & power are reflected in I Am. LORD, Yahweh, and Jehovah. 2. Socially—Through relationships we see God is our Good King, Father, Husband, Mother, Shepherd, Judge, and Teacher. 3. Attributes—As presented in the Westminster Confession of Faith. Points for home •Find God •Honor God •Dwell with God Listen to Mark teach how we can better understand God by studying His name, social relationship and attributes. Be still and know He is God.

8-4-24 Biblical-Literacy Mark continued teaching The Attributes of God using this outline: 1. The importance of Knowing God and understanding God is Truth. Mark shows how Truth has shaped and reshaped over the years through views of faith, theology, science, history, and reason. 2. The Westminster Confession of faith was written before the enlightenment. This doctrine of faith shows how God reveals Himself in the Bible. 3. Points for home Let’s get strong Let’s go for the gold Let’s follow His path Listen to Mark explain the issues of knowing God today, the mystery of God’s emotions, and how thinking about God humbles and expands our knowledge of Him.

7-28-74 Biblical-Literacy Mark Lanier returned from vacation to teach a lesson from the summer series - The Attributes of God. Practical life experiences with insight helps us understand the God who never changes. Mark’s three points: 1. The Importance of knowing God Eternal life starts now Thinking of God humbles the mind 2. The Westminster Confession of Faith Background for the statement of faith at the time. Calvinistic with a Puritan spin 3. Points for home Let's get strong Let's go for the gold Let's follow his path Listen to Mark share the importance of considering when the Bible was written, the original audience’s life experiences, combined with cultural differences to more fully understand God’s message. What does God say in a life that’s painful and confusing? The unity of God. There is only one God. Who is faithful and true.

July 21, 2024 Dr. Capes discusses in detail “Favorite Attributes of God” as documented in Ephesians Chapter 1-6. He begins by citing the “anchor verse” of the lesson: Ephesians 1; Anchor Verse Blessed be the God and Father of our Lard Jesus Christ, who has blessed us in Christ Every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places, even as he chose us in Him before the foundation of the world, that we should be Holy and blameless before him. He continues by elaborating what spiritual blessings are, referencing Psalms 103 and 104. The lesson goes into great detail as to who God is, God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Ghost and what He expects from us as believers. DR. Capes further explains, in detail, what our relationship with God should be as a saved believer and what God’s relationship with us and the world will be as a result. The lesson goes into detail as to what our relationship should be with God and how God views us and how we can be a part of God’s Forever Family. We learn that God is creating a family, God’s Forever Family, and the family comes into being through Jesus the Messiah. Points for Home: 1. Decide to follow Jesus. Eph 1:13 2. Through worship cultivate a new identity. Eph 1:12 3. Recognize that we occupy two times and two places. Eph 1:3 4. Rejoice in the blessings that come through Christ. Eph 1:6 5. Celebrate: Eph 1:3-6. The gracious purpose of God the Father Eph 1: 7-12 Redemptive work of Christ the Son Eph 1:13-14 The promised inheritance through the Spirt

7-7-24 Biblical-Literacy Dr. David Fleming continued in summer series of The Attributes of God from the Bible using The Westminister Confession of Faith as a guide. This week David reflected on God as Incomparable, Incomprehensible & Indescribable and a focus of His Aseity. The lesson had three points: 1. Aseity of God - the belief that God doesn't not depend on any cause other than himself for his existence. Self-existent Self-sufficient Self-satisfied 2. What does that say to me? Comforted Encouraged Set free 3. Points for home. How do I take this? Not about me I am free Response of love and devotion Listen to Pastor David explain the “I Am” attribute of God. He is self-sufficient and all-sufficient. God doesn’t need us, but we need God.

6-30-24 Biblical-Literacy Brent Johnson taught a new summer series: Favorite Attributes of God -based on The Westminster Confession of Faith. Brent selected "Working all things according to the council of his immutable and righteous will, for his own glory.” Brent started by sharing some background on the confession which was drafted in Westminster Abbey and published in 1647 providing an overview of the Bible and ultimately influential in Protestant Christianity. .Brent proceeded by digging deeper into the meaning of the selected attribute including:: -Gods will and Sovereignty: God is at work in everything: both believers and pagans.. -Your trust in peace: The power of prayer for peace that we do not understand. Points for home •Resist Satan •Stand firm in your faith •God will restore Listen to Brent teach of God’s sovereignty by pointing out in Scripture who He is, His glory, His work, His attributes, and our resulting confidence.

6-23-24 Biblical-Literacy Mark continued A Study in Revelation with lesson 18 in this series. As an intro to the lesson, Mark shared a rendition of the “Battle Hymn of the Republic” whose lyrics, written by Julia Ward Howe, were partially based on passages from Revelation. Mark then continued the lesson with three parts emphasizing the fundamental and biblical truth that Jesus will come again! 1. Earlier Vignette’s - a recap from Revelation: 1-16 show the age of the church to the second coming. Themes include: The world is in darkness; The church is light; Jesus is ever present; live like it. The church is persecuted by the world, but God wins in the end. Warnings to the world of coming judgment to cause repentance. There’s a spiritual war ongoing. 2. The 7th Bowl - an angel poured out His bowl of wrath followed by Jesus’s return. 3. Points for home: Trust and obey Wait in hope God will finish His work Listen to Mark expound on Revelation 1-16, referring to apocalyptic writings from 4th Ezra and Biblical Scripture.

Mark continued in his Study of Revelation with lesson #18 with a refresher of material covered to-date. The setup: Review of the previous lessons, Revelation 1-14, from the age of the church to the second coming in parallel series of vignettes. The text: Chapters 15-16 mirror Exodus when Moses led the Israelites out of Egypt. God is full of righteousness and wrath. Points for home: God's works are great, amazing, awesome, and wonderful God judges as The King of nations Who are you listening to? Listen to Mark teach how Revelation 1-16 shows how the church age through the second coming parallels the book of Exodus with the Lamb of God as the victor.

6-9-24 Biblical-Literacy Mark continued with lesson 17 in his Study of Revelation starting with a reference to The Screwtape Letters by C. S. Lewis which shows how Satan instructs his demon with eight ways to shake and destroy our faith. Satan uses the church, ourselves, Christian life, prayer, focus, all to pull us away from God. Mark then expanded on this from Revelation 12 - 14. 1. The Reality of Satan’s Assaults - We learn: He is real and hides himself. Can be a frontal attack or more subtle. We are part of an ongoing war. The mark of the beast - 666, is the number of man. 2. Placed into Revelation’s Larger Context - We learn: All the visions and vignettes begin and end with Jesus. The blessedness of the redeemed. The warnings of humanity. The harvest of mankind. Listen to Mark teach how Satan (Dragon) has been trying to destroy Christ and His people since Christ entered the world and will continue until the second coming. Beware of false teachers and false teachings that are not from God. Anything that puts something other than God on the throne leads to death. Points for Home: God keeps all his people. We sing a new song.

Mark continued with Lesson 15 in A Study of Revelation. This week’s focus was on the dragon, the beast, and other things. The persecuting dragon in Revelation 12-14 shows a spiritual war.This occurs during the age of the church through the second coming. The dragon: Satan, the deceiver, accuser, devil.Two different beasts are sent to plague the world: sea and land. The beast from the sea represents earth's history, nations, and government. The best of the land represents the mind. Points for home:  We’ve been made more than conquerors  Be wary of the enemy’s wiles  Endure Listen to Mark continue with the theme from Revelation: The victory of Christ and His church over the dragon and his minions. The church is afflicted but not destroyed. Beware of wors hiping governments instead of God

05/26/2024 Biblical-literacy The lesion begins with Mark talking about where we are so far in the book of Revelations and then talks about the persecuting Dragon, which starts in Revelations Chapter 12. Where are we so far in Revelations? Revelations was the type of writing that was common 2000 to 2500 years ago that Scholars today call apocalyptic. The writing was rich in: Symbolism An age to come Peculiar use of numbers Visions and Dreams Coming Cataclysm Angels and demons Mark singles out one of these writings that is important to us today which is, Peculiar use of numbers, defining their different uses inside Bible verses and outside the Bible Example: The number 3: Daniel 6:10 – Daniel kneels and prays three (3) times a day. 1 Samuel 3, Numbers 6:24-26, Jeremiah 22:9, Isaiah 33:10 Outside the bible: Pathway of the sun was divided into divisions each associated with a separate deity. The number 4: Genesis 2:10 – The river from Eden was divided into four (4) to encompass the land. Isaiah 11:12, Acts 10:11, 11:5, Ezekiel 7:2 The Number 7: Proverbs 24:16 – The righteous fall seven times but get up again. Exodus 25ff, Matthew 18:21 Outside the Bible: The penitent offered the prayer, My God my sins are seven times seven, pardon my sins. Mark then explains the 7 parts of Revelations which are: Christ In the Lampstands (1-3) (w/7 letters) Heaven and the 7 Seals (4-7) The 7 Trumpets (8-11) The persecuting Dragon (12-14) The lesson continues with greater detail relative to the persecuting Dragon, referring to Revelations 4-7 and Revelations 8-11, Age of the Church – Vision Span - 2nd Coming The theme continues with the victory of Christ and his church over the Dragon and his minions. Revelations 12:1 is discussed in detail relating to “The women is the “Church”. The lesson continues with discussion of Revelations 12:4 and the conflict between the woman, about to give birth, and the Dragon. Revelations 12:6 sheds lite on the actions of the woman and the results of her actions. God’s power and rule in our hearts is vindicated! Luke 10:17-20 See Rev 12:17 and see the reaction of the Dragon. Bottom line, Satan’s wiles against the Church continues…… Points for Home: We are not helpless paupers! A woman clothed with the sun, with the moon under her feet, and on her head a crown of twelve stars The accuser is defeated! “ the accuser of our brothers has been thrown down” We’ve been more than conquerors! “they have conquered him by the blood of the Lamb"

5-19-24 Biblical-Literacy Mark continued in The Study of Revelation with the 7 visions that happen in parallel construction. The focus of today’s lesson is the interlude period: the sixth seal and the sixth trumpet prior to the second coming. This age of the church period is a call and a warning for people to repent before it's too late. Mark also taught about the “little" scroll that the angel of God shows to John and asks him to eat it. The scroll tastes like honey in his mouth but becomes bitter in the stomach, symbolizing that following Jesus is sweet but the world turns against the Christian. Points for home:  God is in control  Let us be witnesses  Be at peace Listen to Mark talk about how God’s justice is coming with a reminder there are things at play in the universe that we don’t understand. Mark shares the biblical meaning of symbols and what it meant to a church who faces persecution then and today. Be encouraged.

5-12-24 Biblical-Literacy Brent Johnson taught today’s lesson on the topic of what we should do while waiting on the 2nd Coming of the Lord. Brent’s primary passage was from 2 Peter 3:11-18. Peter wrote the letter around 64-67 AD. Brent opens by explaining the letter’s purpose: to remember truth, faith supplements, and be aware of false teachings because time is running out for the Lord’s return. I. Live Godly Lives 2. Live Gospel Lives 3. Live Growing Lives Points for home: Live right - godly and biblical Share Jesus with everyone Keep growing Listen to Brent teach on Peter’s urgency for Jesus’ followers to continue holy and godly lives.

5/5/24 Biblical-Literacy Mark continued in The Study of Revelation with a comparison of chapters 4:7 and 8:11 The lesson showed how John’s two visions compare and relate to the people at the time of writing and those living in the age of the church. Revelation 4-7: The 7 seals,what each signify and there effect on believers and unbelievers concluding with Jesus’s second coming. Revelation 8-11: The 7 trumpets parallel the 7 seals and occur at the same time. Trumpets refer to warnings and judgment throughout the Bible. Points for home: God is in control Jesus is both our savior and judge He is our peace Listen to Mark teach God is always at work and remains in control. There is nothing pretty about evil, but thankfully Satan’s powers have limits.

4-28-24 Biblical-Literacy Dr. David Capes taught a class in the Study of Revelation with a focus on the apocalyptic themes noted by the Apostle Paul. Dr. Capes reviewed more traits of apocalyptic themes including analysis of the academic definition, literature of the time, and how it encouraged faithfulness for the persecuted believers. In addition, Dr. Capes shared about Paul’s mindset and apocalyptic ideas in his writing: experienced visions, two ages of history (this evil age ruled by Satan and the age to come ruled by God), Jesus came to deliver us from this present age, and how we remain locked in battle with spiritual forces. Listen to Dr. Capes conclude in sharing a C.S. Lewis excerpt from Narnia and contrasting two kinds of people: living and dead. Where will you be? God wants to rescue you from this present age.

4-21-24 Biblical Literacy Mark continued in A Study in Revelation expanding the theme of visions. Revelation replicates the same visions in different ways. Today’s agenda focused on Revelation 8-11: the 7 angels and 7 trumpets, similar to the 7 seals in Revelation 4-7. We learn that: 1.The visions are happening at the same time. 2.Bible trumpets are the sound of the warning of God’s judgment. God is at work. 3.Many of the trumpets came out of the plagues of Egypt. Points for home: 1.God is in control 2.Jesus is our prayer partner 3.Heed the warning Listen to Mark teach God is continually at work in a beautiful but fallen world that is not what it should be.

Biblical Literacy 4/14/24 Pastor Jarrett Stephens taught the Biblical Literacy class lesson with a focus on “Remember" that God offers the believer hope. He asked us to focus on these times: 1. Remember your salvation 2. Remember your calling 3. Remember when the Lord first used you 4. Remember when you met your spouse and/or had your first child 5. Remember your toughest trial Rewards of remembering: 1. Thanksgiving 2. Fuels worship 3. Strengthens faith God instructs us to remember who He is and what He has done for us. Let’s never forget His incredible faithfulness.

4-7-24 Biblical-Literacy Mark continued in our class study of Revelation with a reminder that what God says is reality. Mark's lesson had three areas of focus: 1. Reading Revelation in time: The reader is encouraged to understand literature during the time of writing Revelation. 2. Deeper study of Revelation 4-7 and the seven seals: We see heaven's perspective of earth. We must remember that God is the center of the universe, all things. 3. Revelation 8-11 can be read as a parallel passage with seven horns. Mark will dig deeper into this study next week. Points for home: • Don’t be afraid; God is in control. • God sees our tears. • Prayer makes a difference. Listen to Mark reveal the meaning of the visions and seals in Revelation 4-7. A seal protects against tampering. It marks ownership. Certified genuineness. God has a plan for eternity as shown in Jesus’ first coming, the age of the church, and Jesus' second coming.

Mark continued the Study of Revelation, Part 10, with a focus of Revelation in Context. Mark begins with an overview of Apocalyptic literature and continues with three points. 1.Revelation in context: type of literature, time of literature, and intense persecution of Christians. Two themes in Revelation: comfort the church in its struggle of evil, and Christ wins over the dragon or satan. 2.Reading Revelation in time: some read the book chronologically. Mark recommends reading it as 7 vignettes or parallel reading, much the way Daniel is read. The Bible teaches us how to read the Bible. Daniel: repeated dreams and visions that show what God is about to do. In Revelation we find three terminal time periods: first coming, age of the church, and the 2nd coming or age to come. 3.Revelation 4-7: God’s plan in history. Points for home: 1. Do not fear 2. Satan is foiled by his own weapons 3. God will wipe away every tear Listen to Mark explain how the Bible teaches us to read the Bible by understanding the way God speaks to us through dreams & visions, in history and the future.

March 17, 2024 Pastor Dr.David Fleming Revelations Pastor Fleming opens the class by explaining the effect of how we approach the study of Revelations. Approaches to the study of Revelations include Views, Genres and Interpretation. He goes into detail on how we approach the text of Revelations can determine what we see when we get there. For example, we tend to see what we want to see in the scripture. He refers to this as Confirmation Bias and discusses the meaning of that in great detail. The Road map for the lesson: 1.John’s approach to Revelations a.Looking at Revelations from Rev. 1:1-1:3 and then to Rev 22: 18-21 b.Influences on our approach 1.Example: The Bible, Holy Spirt, Favorite Author, Pastor c.Various approaches that others are taking 1. How we read and interpret the text. a. Example: Linear, Circular Progression, Alternating Pattern b. How are you interpreting the text c. How do we organize the events referred to in Revelations d. Points for home a. Systematic Approaches are helpful b. Keep an open mind c. Jesus is coming again d. Live with that reality in mind

Mark continued teaching in the series on Revelation in three sections: 1. Two remaining letters to the churches - Philadelphia & Laodicea. The church of Philadelphia receives commendation. The church of Laodicea is warned about its lukewarm status. 2. Two different ways to read Revelation: Timeline reading: Chronological Vignette reading: Vision, story, ending, and repeat 3. Revelation worship scene as described in Chapters 4 & 5 Not all images are symbols Never lose focus of the message. All space all time and all there is has God in the center - Theocentric. Perfect divine praise in 3’s Points for Home:  Take comfort God reigns.  What are you worried about?  Pray. Listen to Mark teach how Revelation comforts the church in its struggles against the forces of evil then, and now.

Mark interviewed Dr. Alister McGrath from Oxford University in England. Dr. McGrath was born in Ireland. He became an atheist and Marxist as a way to deal with the struggle between Catholics and Protestants during the 60s in Belfast known as The Troubles. He became a Christian soon after starting his studies at Oxford. Dr. McGrath spoke about the power of story to connect the big picture of life with God. Stories are about people who have experienced change. Dr. McGrath spoke about his conversion and his respect and value of many writings, foremost those of C S Lewis. Listen to Mark and Dr. McGrath discuss the value and purpose of story in transforming lives and effecting change in people’s lives.

Mark continued in the Study of Revelation with Chapters 2 through 3:4. Today continued with the study of the letters to the 7 churches. Each church had specific instructions to strengthen them for their mission. 1. Letters: The letters are written to the 7 churches structured in 7 parts but for all churches for all time. 2. Examine the letters to: Pergamum, Thyatira, Sardis. 3. Point for home: Wake up and grow! Listen to Mark provide insight to the people, culture, political, and spiritual atmosphere of the churches during the time of the writing of each letter. We must grow past where we are today.

2-18-24 -Biblical-Literacy Mark continued in the series A Study of Revelation which was a comfort to the church in its struggle against the forces of evil. Christ wins over Satan. 1. Symbolism -a quality or an idea that showed the church how God desires a complete relationship with them. Not all images are symbols. Never lose focus of the message. 2. The Letters -content structured in similar way for each. The symbolism of the number 7, which means completion. Ephesus -You have abandoned your first love. Smyrna -No condemnation but a warning of what the devil will do. Be faithful. 3. Points for home •Christ is with us •Love is the key •Be always faithful Listen to Mark discuss the symbolism in Revelation and the meaning of the number 7 in the setting and letters to the 7 churches. Listen also to the accounting of Polycarp’s faith through arrest and execution. He was Bishop of the church in Smyrna.

2/11/24. Biblical - Literacy Mark continued in The Study of Revelation series with a study of the first chapter in Revelation. His lesson had three areas of focus: 1.The Exalted Christ is depicted as the Alpha and the Omega. We find that He is referenced throughout the Old and New Testaments. 2. The Setting of the Book of Revelation is more than a book John wrote on the island of Patmos, but it’s an accounting of God who was, who is, and who is to come. 3. Points for home: a.The Exalted Christ is in the center of life b.Fear is a liar c.It’s not over so live the promise Listen to Mark talk teach how the human mind cannot comprehend the depth of God’s truth, power, sovereignty, and characteristics. He highlights and expands on various passages throughout the Bible that link to the Book of Revelation.

02/4/24 Mark continues the study of Revelations by going into detail about how decisions were made about which scrolls and writings were to be put into the Bible Library as we know it. Mark discussed the meaning of Canon and Canonization of the bible. Was Canon to Jesus and the Apostles? Mathew 15:3 Was Canon to the Church? Mathew 15:6 The Church’s recognition of the Canon. Acts 15 Mark then discusses the history of the Canon in some detail Mark reviews in detail: Symbolism Use of numbers 3 and 4 and 7 and 12 Angels and Demons Mark reviews Rev: 1-1-2 Points for Home: We can rely on Scripture for life God reaches all of you Rev 1:8 Let's serve our King Rev 1:6

1/28/24 Biblical Literacy Mark continued with Lesson 3 in the Study in Revelation series setting the stage to dig deeper in study. He divided the lesson into three sections then share some Points for home: 1. Review of past two lessons: the Bible as a library, the apocalyptic genre, and apocalyptic traits. 2. Approach to studying Revelation: how to understand symbols and how the book flows. 3. Study of first 3 verses of Revelation 1:1-3: an uncovering or revealing of Jesus Christ by Jesus. Points for home  God is bigger than I realize God cares Let’s enjoy the blessings Listen to Mark review the foundation of studying Revelation by introducing a literal and symbolic approach.

Listen to Mark explore the Old Testament and other writings that show the ancient peoples' understanding of apocalyptic writing. Mark continued with a Study in Revelation sharing a brief review of the foundation class from two weeks ago. He encouraged the class to not be afraid of Revelation; we have this. The book of Revelation is apocalyptic, which means it uses dreams, visions, and symbols. Mark expanded on typical features of apocalyptic writings both Biblical and non - biblical writings including those contemporary with the time of Jesus. Points for home: - Christ is the center of life - Understanding this book co mes with a blessing - We rightly praise Jesus as we read and understand this book Listen to Mark explore the Old Testament and other writings that show the ancient peoples' understanding of apocalyptic writing

1-14-24 Biblical-Literacy In today’s class, Mark had Pastor Jarrett Stephens interviewed the highly respected Fred Gray, the civil rights attorney who represented Rosa Parks and Martin Luther King Jr. and is a young ninety-three years old. Mark began the interview with a statement about MLK weekend and the reconciliation of races noting: Regardless of the color of skin, all humans are created in the image of God. Mr. Gray’s mother told him he could be anything he wanted as long as he did three things: 1. Kept Christ first. 2. Remain in school. 3. Stay out of trouble and avoid the criminal justice system that isn’t always fair. Listen to Mr. Gray, also a preacher since the age of twelve, talk about God’s continuous provision throughout his education and career and how he will never stop working against racial discrimination

Mark began the New Year with a new series on The Study of Revelation, a focused study. The book has varying points of view, but Mark will teach from his perspective after life long study. Revelation is a part of the apocalyptic genre, a type of writing, that involves discerning divine secrets by dreams, visions, and/or angelic explanation. Mark had three points in today’s lesson. 1. Apocalyptic overview: deals with the past, present, and future, and features symbolism, numerology, warring angels and demons, end times, and new age. 2. Apocalyptic books: Biblical and pseudepigraphal. 3. Points for home: a.There are treasures in God’s Word b.We seek knowledge and understanding c.God loves you Listen to Mark begin to explore the apocalyptic genre, what it means, and what we can look forward to in future lessons.

Dr David Capes 12/17/2023 Dr. Capes wraps up the study on Genesis by taking us to Matthew 1:1, the Book that that takes us back to the genealogy of Jesus Christ DR Capes reviewed, in detail, how various versions of the Bible address the genealogy of Christ identified in Genesis, for example, KJV: The Book of the generation of Jesus Christ, the son of David, the son of Abraham NLT: This is the record of the ancestors of Jesus, the Messiah, a descendant of David and Abraham Other version: RSV,NASV,NIV In a search for the most understandable translation of the Greek writings of the “beginning” in Genesis, Dr. Capes discussed, in detail, the meaning and understanding of the “Act of Generation”, the “Act of the Beginning.” The six days of creating and the day of rest in Genesis Chapter 5 were discussed in detail with focus on Man (male and female) being made in the Image of God and addressing the beginning of Humanity. A detailed discussion followed about the Book of Matthew Matthew 1:1- The Book of the genealogy of Jesus Christ, the son of David, the son of Abraham. Dr. Capes addressed the various interpretations of the original Greek translations with respect to how they convey the meaning and implications of terms like genealogy, man, women. Wrap up: At Christmas 1.Celebrate new creation. 2.Extended family a.Remember ancestors. b.Remember those that have passed on c.What the future holds

Mark shared nuggets from each of his published daily devotional books including a preview of one that will be published in 2024. His newest devotional, Minor Prophets for Living, is number four in a series of five daily devotional books published in partnership with 1845 Books, an imprint from Baylor University Press. Mark read excerpts from each book with Scripture, content, and prayer. Psalms for Living, Torah For Living, Jesus For Living, Minor Prophets For Living, Epistles For Living-2024 Publication Listen to Mark talk about the focus and theme of each devotional book as he shares his heart and love for God.

Mark continued his teachings in the Genesis series sharing the highs and lows after the flood. We learn: 1. Blessings: Noah and his sons were blessed 2. A sad and disturbing story: Sin resulted in Canaan’s curse. 3. The Tower of Babel: man attempted to build a tower for God to visit, and God chose instead to confuse their language and divide the people. Points for home: 1. Honor your father and your mother 2. God is not a genie 3. Pride is not your friend Listen to Mark offer insight into the world after the flood and how it relates to our world today.

11-26-23 Biblical-Literacy Mark continued with the study of Genesis-The Prequel. This week focused on Noah Part 2 and was divided into 3 Sections: 1. Background stories to the Flood. Other ancient stories that contrast and provide information. 2. The flood storyline. Noah walked with God. Do we walk with God or hide from Him? 3. Lessons and implications. Points for home: Adam hid from God; Noah walked with God The Creator is also the judge Mercy triumphs over judgement Water is a biblical sign used throughout the Bible. Listen to Mark teach how the Genesis story of creation is unlike any other story. The world destroyed itself, so God chose to keep those who were obedient.