Biblical Literacy Podcast

Biblical Literacy Class 11/19/23 Noah and The Flood Genesis Biblical Literacy Class 11/19/23 Noah and The Flood Genesis Mark breaks down this lesson into three parts: 1. Genealogies/ Linage This is a look at the linage of Adam and Eve and what happens to the family. 2. Genealogies /Ages Then look at the genealogies because it is shocking that these people lived to be 900 and some odd years old. 3. Lessons Learned What can we take home from these interim chapters between the fall of Adam and Eve and the Flood of Noah The story Cain and Abel, sons of Adam and Eve, who were conceived after expulsion of Adam and Eve from the garden of Eden. Mark discusses in detail the story of Cain, Abel and Seth and the impact it has on their lives and the lesson it should teach us. Which is why Care must be taken to use life for Good not evil.

Biblical-Literacy 11-12-23 Mark diverted teaching from Genesis to interview Dr. Ed Stetzer,an evangelical scholar, author, missiologist, and Dean of Talbot School of Theology at Biola University in La Mirada, California. Dr. Stetzer also hosts a radio show and weekly podcast.Mark posed various questions that began with the highlights of Dr. Stetzer’s life. Through God’s leading, Dr. Stetzer shared his personal life and his prayerful following of God through various means of planting churches and training others how to do the same.Listen to Mark and Dr. Stetzer discuss how to engage the world around us positively for Christ, build bridges within our culture while staying on mission for God’s glory.

11-5-23 Biblical-Literacy Pastor David Fleming taught the next lesson in the Genesis series, with an emphasis on Genesis 3: The Garden of Eden and the fall. Pastor Fleming cited three points in today’s lesson: 1. The ancient context: Moses responded to the Hebrew people’s questions according to the historical language, vocabulary, understanding, and culture. While Adam and Eve lived in paradise with God, they daily chose to follow Him in obedience. 2. The Genesis Story: Adam and Eve disobeyed and were separated from God because of their sin. God’s command wasn’t about the forbidden tree; it was about who to trust. 3. A look ahead: God gave Moses the plans for the tabernacle, the law, the sacrificial system, and the promise of a Messiah fulfilled in the New Testament Listen to Dr. Fleming explain the conversation the serpent had with Eve. God is good, and we can trust Him. He is always pursuing, promising, and providing for His people.

10-29-23 Biblical-Literacy Mark continued with the study of Genesis and focused on the Garden of Eden as written in Genesis 2. Three points highlighted his discussion: Story basics: Information and meaning. Genesis was written for us but to ancient Israel. Mark gave a review of the pagan culture of the world during Moses’ time. We don’t know the exact location of the Garden of Eden. Discover the sequential and synoptic views of creation. Realize that God doesn’t need us. We are the culmination of His handiwork. Deeper textured: Contextual reading identifying the vision, purpose and mission: we aren’t gods; we aren’t animals; we are the temple of God. New Testament Textures: Focuses on a personal relationship with God. Points for home included: Human dignity, Equality, Work

10-22-23 Biblical-Literacy Mark interviewed Dr. John Lennox, who not only shared about his loving wife and family but also the spiritual and encouraging influence of his Irish parents. Dr. Lennox, Professor of Mathematics at Oxford University, internationally renowned speaker and author of several books on the interface of science, philosophy and religion, shared how his life experiences: education, teaching and speaking opportunities, and his personal faith have shaped his growing relationship with God. Listen to Mark’s interview with Dr. Lennox expound on the relationship between science and faith in God: they don’t compete.

October 15, 2023 Genesis Session 5 In this session Mark discusses Moses on Mount Sinai +1240 BC A close look at "Enuma Elish and "Atrahasis" The Lesson is broken down into: Bizarre Story: The implications and teaching of what and how Moses communicated his message and how we as human beings should interpret the scriptures related thereto. What Moses and the people heard was massively different and very revealing, Moses goes to the top of mount Sinai to deliver his message and communicated a message, how is unknown, which was written to Ancient Israel, in Ancient Hebrew, Ancient Vocabulary and Ancient Understanding. Mark discussed the impact on the neighboring cultures based on a current map of the area. Moses, through the power of God wrote the ten commands in stone and gave them to Israel. Text in Context: Mark discussed the surrounding neighbors of Israel such as Ugarit – gods are supersized humans The Ba ‘lu Myth Dawn and Dusk Akkadian- The Enuma Elish, also known as “The seven tablets of creation” Atrahasis- gods create lesser gods, lesser gods rebel Points for Home: Don’t miss the forest for the trees. The unique awesomeness of God in his revelation and creation, Unlike any human or god. Psalms 8, Deuteronomy 10:17

10-8-23 Biblical-Literacy Mark continued in the Genesis series with a focus on Part 2 of Creation and asking the question: Are faith and science at war? Mark organized his teaching to cover: 1. Basics -The fundamental principles of creation. The ancients had different teachings for the creation. God is above creation, not captive to nature. God made space and time. 2.Theology -Important theological teachings. God gives us science to combat the results of a fallen world. 3.Options -How do we read Genesis? Ethical issues demand faith dialogue with science. Points for home:-God is unlike others-You are special-God is interested to you

Mark continued in the series on Genesis with a focus on addressing context in the creation story. 1. Translation and context: Written for us but to ancient Israel in ancient Hebrew vocabulary, culture, and understanding. The ancients used their common sense to explain the creation. 2. Cosmos and Moses: Moses grew up in Pharaoh’s house and was instructed in Egyptian and Mesopotamian culture. Moses learned gods had various functions in creation. Babylon had other gods to explain creation. 3. Fresh look of Genesis 1 in context: The earth was without form and was void. God speaks and forms, then fills it. Without God forming and filling our lives, we are without form and living in empty chaos. God first formed the earth in the first 3 days then subsequently filled it the following 3 days. Homework. Read Genesis 1:1 thru 2:3 Points for home --God is speaking -God will form and fill your days -God will form and fill your days Don’t go In reverse Listen to Mark point out how the Bible needs to be taken in context from the original language for proper understanding.

Mark interviewed the Revd. Dr. Michael Lloyd - Principal of Wycliffe Hall at Oxford University in England. He’s released a new book in the U.K. titled Image Bearers - Restoring our Identity and Living our Calling. It should release in the U.S. January 2024. The topic of the interview focused on Genesis 1:26-27. Michael Lloyd discussed seven points that show how we are made in the image of God 1. Role of dominion 2. Gives us value 3. Equality of people 4. Creativity 5. Relationally 6. Sexuality 7. Uniqueness After the fall, those points are distorted or skewed. “We are self-portraits of God but from a different angle.” Michael Lloyd. Listen to Mark and Dr. Lloyd discuss how we are made in the image of God, and although we’ve been damaged by sin, God will restore us into a perfect masterpiece, unique and diverse.

Mark started a new class series on Genesis. This book is the prequel to the Torah or Pentateuch. It also sets up an understanding of the book of Moses, the Old Testament, and an introduction to the rest of the Bible. Mark divided the discussion of Genesis into three sections: Set Up - for cosmic approach, sin and its consequences, prophecy and blessing, and God and Revelation. Authorship - a variety of beliefs. Not sure who wrote Genesis, but either by or about Moses. Difficulties/opportunities - with layers of understanding Scripture for e modern reader. Genesis contains various types of literature, language and cultural, and style and structure. Points for Home 1. God is speaking 2. Genesis is life changing 3. We are to let God transform who we are. Listen to Mark give us an introduction to a fresh approach to the book of Genesis. Homework: Read Genesis 1 through 2:3.

In today’s class Mark interviewed guest Dr. Darrell Bock, the Executive Director of Cultural Engagement and Senior Research Professor of New Testament Studies at Dallas Theological Seminary. Mark posed a variety of questions to Dr. Bock, who expertly wowed us with his wisdom, humor, and relational biblical instructions for living in today’s culture. The interview covered: Personal info. Married 48 years to Sally. 3 children and 5 grands. Grew up in Houston. Jewish on both sides of his family. Came to faith in Jesus in college. Seminary in Dallas. Doctorate in Aberdeen, Scotland. Interests in fields of academia: spent 90 minutes to 2 hours everyday for 14 years writing 2 extensive volumes on the Gospel of Luke. Words of encouragement: time with God. Never turn off the opportunity to hear from the Word of God. Message: We live in a country that is a democracy. We have free speech. Add technology, and we have fostered an atmosphere that can be counterproductive to the aroma of Christ. Jesus says if we follow Him, the world will persecute us. Do not be surprised. Do not fear. God has us in His hands. Listen to Dr. Bock and Mark share how to reach others through the power of love. People are not the enemy but the goal. Give like God gave.

Mark taught a standalone lesson on Judah and Assyria using a time travel theme all the way back to September 3, 701 BC. Mark, as tour guide shared: A tour of Nineveh: an expensive capital city built through Assyria's war machine.Nineveh was a large city in its day covering over 3 square miles. A tour of Jerusalem: 50 times smaller than Nineveh. King Hezekiah refused to pay tribute and chose to trust God and reinforce the city. A conflict between King Sennacherib and King Hezekiah was inevitable. Despite the odds, God saves Jerusalem Points for home In your crisis, trust God. In your crisis, obey God. In your crisis, watch God come through. Listen to Mark teach the remarkable differences of how Judah and Assyria handled the great challenges of life, and how trusting God is still applicable today.

8-27-23 Bib-Lit Brent Johnson taught BBS - Better Bible Study - on the topic of Communication. Communication with God is prayer. Proper communication means the sender sends a message through a channel to the recipient. That channel is either verbal or nonverbal. The process takes time. Brent offers three points in our communication with God. 1. God speaks: When God speaks, things happen because God created everything out of nothing. The written word is the Bible, and God called Jesus the Word. Christ is our hope and glory. 2. Man speaks: This can mean trouble ahead when man attempts to dictate to God what to do. We speak to God in prayer and ask God what He wants us to do. Communication is seeking God’s will and encourage others. 3. Who is listening? God is speaking. We are listening. Points for home 1. God speaks: trust and obey 2. May my words be acceptable to God - Psalm 19:14. 3. Man speaks: speak in response to God’s will. 4. Who’s listening: Man is to respond with more listening than speaking.

8-21-23 Biblical-Literacy Mark taught another class in the Better Bible Study, BBS, series with a focus on the Bible theme - Time. 1. God and time: God created time, people are under time and God is over time, and God doesn’t change. 2. People And time: people exist in time, does wisdom come with time? time is fleeting, time should affect how we live, and we have a longing in our heart for eternity. 3. History and time: the age of Eden, the age of death, and the age to come. Listen to Mark expound on how time with God shows us how to live.

8-13-23 Biblical-Literacy Dr. David Capes continued in the Better Bible Study, BBS, by highlighting principles of exegesis. Exegesis - a “close reading” of a text. Dr. Capes began with a review of the BBS lessons to-date, then turned his attention to the topic of Exegisis. Lesson points: What do you bring to the tasks of studying the Bible? History, disposition, culture, values, griefs, and hopes BBS begins with reading entire books not isolated verses. Reading the Bible closely. Reviewing the culture of the time of writing including geography. Points for home: Read text slowly against their linguistic, historical, and cultural contexts. Consider a cultural background study Bible Consult experts Ask - What did this text mean to the first people who heard it before asking what does it mean to me. BBS is not a solo act. It is a communal act. Listen to Dr. Capes explain how exegesis helps us dive deeper into Bible Study.

8-6-23 Biblical-Literacy Pastor Jarrett Stephens shared his approach to Better Bible Study, BBS, during this week’s class. He encouraged us to create our own method for our time with the Lord. Start small and grow in time spent building your relationship with God. Hour of power - a spiritual workout. 1. Prioritize your time 2. Use a Study Bible and journal your thoughts, prayers, and what God is telling you. 3. Get a plan - As you engage with God’s word, ask yourself 1) What does this text say about God? 2) What does this text say about/to me? 4. Read a nonfiction book 5. End with Prayer and note the resulting actions to take as He speaks. Your relationship with the Lord is only as good as your time with the Lord. Listen to Pastor Jarrett show us how Bible Study is our most important time of the day to grow our relationship with God and grow in Christ.

Dr. David Capes taught the next lesson in the Better Bible Study, BBS, series focused on Immanuel in the Gospel of Matthew. Matthew’s Gospel was placed first by the early church leaders. It’s a user-friendly handbook to the church. Dr Capes had three points. 1. Background of Immanuel in Matthew Fulfillment of Scripture Prophets both spoke and acted out their messages 2. Bookends Matthew begins when Jesus is born as Immanuel - God with us. It ends with the great commission and Jesus is with us always. Points for Home 1. BBS begins by reading entire books not just isolated verses. 2. Many times we can discover that unclear passages can be explained by clear ones so reading more and in context is key. Listen to Dr. Capes show how Jesus, as Immanuel, is God with us and evident throughout Matthew. He asked of the apostles - Who do you say that I am?

Mark continued the Better Bible Study - BBS with a focus on the theme of exile—the state or period of forced absence from one’s home or country. 1. The “exile” began with the exile from the garden to restoration with God woven throughout the Bible. Sin resulted in exile. God had to clean us up. 2. Mark reviewed additional passages that deal with exile including echoes of creation and re-creation. 3. Points for home: Give purpose and meaning in life’s storms. His presence is in the exile. Help value our past and future. God will end all exiles. Listen to Mark show through Scripture how God chose before Genesis how He’d restore His people to Him for eternity. Exile or stories of banishment and exile are woven throughout Scripture. We are all exiled from God until we accept Jesus’ sacrifice and follow Him. Join us Sundays at 9:30am CST! Links below: YouTube: youtube.com/channel/UCfocCxLc8BFCta-NO4JkTcA?view_as=subscriber CFBC Website: championforest.org/worship/watch/biblit.php

7-16-23 Biblical-Literacy Mark continued in the Better Bible Study, BBS, series with the theme of Messiah throughout the Bible. Messiah is one who is anointed or consecrated to God’s purpose. The Bible speaks of 3 types of individuals who were Messiah'd: priests, kings, and prophets. Jesus fulfills all three as the ultimate Messiah. Mark divided his teaching between the roles & titles of Messiah then concluded with Points for Home. Listen to Mark show how Jesus Christ is the Messiah from Genesis through Revelation. We get to dwell with God forever through Jesus the Messiah.

Mark continued BBS Better Better Study focused on the theme of sacrifice. The Bible was built over time, and associations are built into it. Mark defined sacrifice as the destruction or surrender for the sake of something else. Marks presents this lesson with two points: 1. Lessons on sacrifices from more obvious passages like with how Moses explained how sacrifice association are built into the Passover regarding unintentional sin. 2. Lessons on sacrifices from less obvious places noting that defiant nor intentional sins were covered by sacrifices. Points for home: Jesus was always Plan A. Let’s live like we were Plan A Let’s worship like we were always Plan A Homework. What do you find as biblical themes of the Messiah? Listen to Mark teach the biblical theme of association with sacrifice and how Jesus fulfilled all the criteria for sin with His ultimate sacrifice for all time, past, present, and future. The blood of Jesus takes the abnormal and makes it normal. Join us Sundays at 9:30am CST! Links below: YouTube: youtube.com/channel/UCfocCxLc8BFCta-NO4JkTcA?view_as=subscriber CFBC Website: championforest.org/worship/watch/biblit.php

7-2-23 Biblical-Literacy Mark continued BBB - Better Bible Study - with two themes: the Bible as a love story and giving. 1. Love story narrative First, what is love? Mark shares the Greek words for love and the Hebrew word. God centers His love for us throughout the Bible: starting in Genesis, we are created in His image and His love continues through the wedding feast as depicted in Revelation. 2. God as a giver From Genesis to Revelation, all we need is God. Mark points out how God fills every human essential through His giving nature. As images of God we too should be givers. Points for home: Find yourself pursued in love, See your value and be a giver Homework: Research the biblical themes of sacrifice and time. Listen to Mark expound on God’s love throughout the Bible and how He is the ultimate giver.

6-25-23 Biblical-Literacy Mark continued BBB- Better Bible Study - with Lesson 4 using a hermeneutical approach. This week’s focus was on the Biblical theme of the temple. 1. What was the temple? Earthly home of a heavenly God, the presence of God among people, His dwelling and resting place.The tabernacle was a portable temple. 2. The temple theme throughout the Bible begins in the creation, shows Jesus dwelt with man, and moves on to Jesus’ second coming in Revelation. 3. Points for home: - See your value in God’s perspective. - See your need of a Savior. - See your destiny with the purity of Jesus. Listen to Mark teach on the temple theme.We are all God’s temple: holy, righteousness, and the image of God. Homework: look for biblical themes of a love story, sacrifice, and giving.

Mark taught Lesson 3 in the summer’s Better Bible Study series expanding on three themes. 1. The surviving and thriving remnant. A remnant is a small piece or amount that is left from a larger original or amount. Mark detailed how God referred to the remnant of his people throughout scripture. 2. Spiritual warfare. This aspect begins in Genesis with Adam and Eve’s encounter with Satan and fall, and carries through to Revelation. 3. A love story between God and his creation. The love theme is part of the week’s homework. as well as the temple, and sacrifice themes. Points for home God can build a car out of spare parts. We are remnant people. Be alert to the fight around you. Be alert to the fight around you and pray.

Mark taught Lesson 2 in the summer’s Better Bible Study series with a hermeneutical approach, the study of the methods of reading and understanding Bible passages. Mark covered three themes: 1. The kingdom of God come among His people. God will bring His kingdom to the redeemed. 2. God as a just God. Humanity has a problem: pride. 3. God’s provision of land for His people.The redemption story is about land. Points for home included: Live as children of the King. Live the righteousness of God. Trust in the providing God. Homework assignment was to discover/review the biblical themes of 1) the remnant, 2) spiritual warfare, and 3) a love story

Mark started a new summer series on Better Bible Study, BBS. The goal of this series is to learn how to study the Bible with each lesson building on the previous. Today’s overview reviewed the why, what & how of bible study. Why? Timothy 3:12-17. The Bible is God-breathed, used for reproof, correction, train, inspired by God, and equips the believer for every good work. What? The Protestant Bible has 66 books. God’s holy and sacred words. In contrast, the Catholic Bible contains 14 additional books called the Apocrypha. How? Attitude, Read the Bible, Use pen and notes, and listen to the Holy Spirit. The Bible is God communicating through language. Listen to Mark show the value of Bible Study.

05/28/2023 Chapter 27, The Old Testament Minor Prophets; Concludes with Malachi.In this last Book of the Minor Prophets , Mark addresses the book of Malachi with respect to, 1.Background 2.Book 3.Points for home The Background is an extensive review of the history of the middle east as seen today and what it looked like from the days of Abraham, as he walks us through the Exodus, the 12 tribes and their linage, David and Solomon, the Divided Kingdom, the Assyrian Conquest of Israel and the Babylonian Conquest of Judah. He addressed the return from exile. He then addressed the people and their work in Judah, to rebuild the Temple. One would wonder what the population of Judah was that could rebuild such a massive structure. Mark addresses that. Mark then discusses Malachi’s “Place in the Bible”. We know it is the last book in the Old Testament, King James version of the Bible, but where is it in the Hebrew version and why. The Book Addresses several verses in Malachi and Mark details the expectation of the Lord, with respect to what the Lord has given them and what he expects in return. Some of the specifics are how believers should Honor their father, offering of polluted food, how you should behave when no one is watching, and describes the full meaning of tithe and more. Malachi definitely reveals what God, the Lord, would do if the people did not follow his teachings and expectations. Point for Home. Zephaniah 3:17-19 Hear the God of Love Be authentic, have faith.

5-21-23 - Biblical-Literacy Dr. David Capes interviewed Dr. Daniel Wallace, Executive Director of The Center for the Study of New Testament Manuscripts, CSNTM, & Senior Research Professor of New Testament Studies at Dallas Theological Seminary and Dr. Tommy Wasserman, Professor of New Testament at Orebro School of Theology in Sweden. Dr. Wallace and Dr. Wasserman discussed the accuracy of the New Testament Greek manuscripts of which there are nearly 6000 even after 1400 years of scribes handwriting the documents. Listen to Dr. Wallace and Wasserman passionately share details from the ancient New Testament manuscripts and fragments of New Testament manuscripts.

5-14-23 Biblical-Literacy Mark completed the book of Zechariah in the Study of the Minor Prophets. He offered a three-step approach to looking at Zechariah: read the passage, understand it, and apply it to our lives. Mark discussed dark passages which are there for a reason and not to be scanned over. He shared evil has no place among God’s people. Jesus is Lord of all, and He came to dwell with His people. Listen to Mark teach how we are not to live in darkness but in the presence of the Lord. Trust the Father to take care of us with light and life.

Biblical - Literacy May 7, 2023 Mark continued with Zechariah in The Minor Prophets series. Scripture is for all people for all times, pointing to Jesus as the Bread of life. Mark focused on various passages in Zechariah : to read them, understanding them, and apply them to our lives. God is at work in us and for us, which means we need get to work with God. Listen to Mark show us that we are the apple of God’s eye. He is the ultimate cleaner of our souls. Let us sing and rejoice.

Biblical-Literacy 4-30-23 Dr. David Capes taught from the book of Zechariah as part of the Study of the Minor Prophets series. We were reminded that the prophet’s name Zechariah means "God remembers”. David divided the lesson: Define Messiah: The one who is anointed; Christ—the one who is anointed; the anointed one; Liberating Jesus. God would return to be king. Matthew’s use of Zechariah: The New Testament quotes Zechariah 66 times. Dr. Capes showed four of the passages in Matthew. “On that day” Chapters 12-14 prophecies of the end times: The Lord will be King. Jerusalem will be victorious. The Lord will shield the inhabitants of Israel. All nations seek to destroy Israel will be destroyed. Jerusalem will be forgiven. Points for home: The work of the Messiah is also the work of the Messiah’s people. Who is Jesus - a most unusual King. We are to follow His example. Listen to Dr. Capes explain how Zechariah revealed the origin of the Messiah -and- Christology.

4-23-23 Biblical-Literacy Mark continued the study of the Minor Prophets with the book of Zechariah. Today he provided an overview of the book written around 518 BC sharing: Historical context: God relates to amazing people to reflect His image. When humanity fell from God, He promised a male redeemer from the offspring of Eve. Throughout the Old Testament, God promises a Messiah. He is faithful despite our unfaithfulness. Key passages: Zechariah 1:1-17 reveals the prophet’s name means "God remembers and will take action." God says return to me, and I will return to you. Points for home: We need God to be the God of our past, present, and future. Listen to Mark teach that our God longs to be our God of yesterday, today, and tomorrow to grow us into what He wants to be.

Biblical Literacy -4-16-23 Dr. David Fleming taught the book of Haggai as part of the Study of Minor Prophets. A book only 2 chapters in length not of Haggai’s opinion but God’s word to his people thru the prophet.The context of Haggai was during the reign of King Darius who allowed the Jews in Babylon to return to Jerusalem from exile, but they are dissatisfied. Themes included: God speaks -a time to line up our ways with Him Consider your ways -misplaced priorities. Jesus? Go and Do -Put God first and step out of your comfort zone. He is with you God is faithful Points for Home in today’s context: What did God say to you? Go and do it. The Lord will be with you. Listen to Dr. Fleming share how God’s words to the Israelites apply to us today. Through God’s love, mercy, forgiveness, persistent faithfulness, and sovereignty, He has the ability to get us to the finish line.

Apr 6, 2023 Mark continued the study of the Minor Prophets with the book of Habakkuk. Mark started his review of Habakkuk with some context. Neither the writer nor the date of Habakkuk is known, leaving the reader to also question why, how, and where. Jesus and other New Testament writers quoted from Habakkuk. He continued analyzing the dialogue. We learn that Habakkuk protests against God. We read a cry for help, protest against violence, and why is the evil happening. It is acceptable to bring a sincere heart to the Lord. Jesus cries out God in the garden of Gethsemane. He questions God - Why are You allowing this evil to happen? God was getting Easter ready. Victory is at the end. The righteous will live by faith. Points for home: God knows what is going on in our lives. He cares, listens, and loves. I will rejoice in the Lord and take joy in my salvation. God is my strength. He makes me tread in high places. Trust with patience for God’s timing.

Mark discusses passages in the book of Zephaniah. Lesson objectives include: 1. Looking at the passages in a different way 2. Apply the passages to me and you 3. Wash, Rinse and repeat Zephaniah 1:1 Mark breaks down the meaning of each name and why the name Zephaniah is followed by his family linage and how the Name of God is incorporated in the name. Key point is, make a name for yourself by how you live. Bring Glory to God by how you live. Zephaniah 1:2-3 God wants to “Clean you up” in ways you never dreamed. How will you know when he is finished? Zephaniah 1:4-6 Mark discusses, if you were going through four doors which door would you choose. Flu. Covid. Cancer. Good Health Mark discusses how this passage identifies what is behind the doors of life and which door God expects us to open and live a Godly life. Zephaniah !:7 Mark explains what the meaning of this passage with reference to being silent. It is not what you might think. Points for home: Zephaniah 3:1-2 Instruction about people Homework. 1. No rebellion 2. Listen to God 3. Accept Correction 4. Trust God! 5. Draw nearer to Him

Dr. David Capes delivered an overview of Zephaniah in the Study of The Minor Prophets. Zepaniah's name means God has hidden. Names that contain the name of God, those ending in iah or el, are theophoric. Zephaniah prophesied during the reign of King Josiah in 640-630 BC. Dr. Capes focused on three areas: Oracles against nations - who have sinned against God. Utter destruction of creation. Oracles against Judah - I will destroy all idolatry and the people who have turned against God. Vision of hope - Restoration and hope for Jerusalem. Points for home: 1. Obedience to God brings blessings and disobedience brings hardship. 2. The God of the Old Testament and the God of the New Testament is the same. 3. God hates idolatry and will punish those who practice it. 4. Every empire and superpower is one generation from collapse and become the dust of history. 5. Seek the Lord while He may be found. Humble yourself. 6. In days to come, there is a new world coming. Listen to David offer hope to those who seek, trust, and hold fast to God.

Note: Last week's lesson from Feb 26 was not published due to technical difficulties. It was addressed in this week's lesson. Summary: Mark Lanier continued the study of the Minor Prophets with Nahum. An oracle to Nineveh in the Assyrian Empire. Mark reviewed: What in the world was going on? The reign of Ashurbanipal - 668-627 BC called himself the King of the World, the King of the Underworld. He had military might, great cities, postal system, and Eunuch’s as governors. God prophesied thru Nahum his kingdom would be destroyed. How did Nahum plug in? He prophesied the destruction of Nineveh. God considered Ashurbanipal vile, contemptible, and a lightweight. Nahum quotes Isaiah in 1:15 Points for home - History is developed one day at a time. Keep the faith. - God doesn’t tolerate evil. Let’s seek God’s will on earth as it is in heaven. Listen to Mark teach us how to keep the faith, trust and obey, and be authentic followers of God.

Mark hosted a special guest during today’s class - Dr. Havila Dharamraj from India. Dr. Dharamraj is from Bengaluru, India, and a third-generation Christian. She is currently Head of the Department of Biblical Studies at South Asia Institute of Advanced Christian Studies in Bangalore, India. Her country has four basic religions: Hindu, Muslim, Buddhist, and Christianity. Christianity dates back to the first century in India. Havila became a Christian at age twelve and was baptized at age eighteen. She received her Master’s in biochemistry and a Ph.D. in Old Testament. In partnership with Langham, Dr. Dharamraj speaks and teaches all over the world, sharing her expertise in Old Testament translations to grow the global church in their faith. She encouraged the class to listen to the Holy Spirit and pray for discernment. Listen to Mark and Dr. Dharamraj discuss the insight and wisdom of the Scriptures.

Mark continued the Study of the Minor Prophets with the book of Micah. He characterized Micah as a concept book focusing on three aspects: 1. Authenticity: Good and evil lead to different places. Micah is authentic to this reality. 2. Justice: Justice is more than a courtroom. Justice is part of God’s character. Micah understood good and evil and how it applied to life. Consistency is key. 3. Promise: God is on the other side of every door. Jesus is the promised one. Listen to Mark explain that we have nothing to fear with God on our side. God will bring purity and peace. His resume is perfect. We are people of the book and should understand authenticity and truth and how it applies to our lives today. Do justice, love kindness, and walk humbly with your God.

2-12-23 Biblical-Lit Mark moved forward in the Study of Minor Prophets with the second lesson in Micah. Todays lesson had 3 points 1. A story of bookends Who is like Yahweh? Nobody is like the Lord 2. The meat of the sandwich God is the witness Israel was warned, and God was not amused. 3. Points for home Expect the unexpected. Is 55:8 Remember the bookends. God pardons iniquity Listen to Mark teach how God pays attention to what we do, warns, disciplines, and restores His people.

2-5-23 Biblical LiteracyDr. David Capes continued in the Minor Prophets series by introducing Micah. Dr. Capes gave us the 30,000 foot view of Micah, including the history and setting. He continued with various oracles forSamaria showing judgment and the hope and promise of restoration in a world that recognizes God as God. Dr. Capes show how Micah warned the people of how God would destroy the people for their disobedience and violence.In the points for home, Dr. Capes emphasized that disobedience to God brings hardship, and obedience brings blessing. Divine judgment is not just a problem in the Old Testament, nor is divine restoration only in the New Testament. Thankfully we have the hope of a new world coming.

Mark completed the study of Hosea in the Study of the Minor Prophets series with a focus of God going to trial with the Israelites. Trials in Israel at the time needed two to three witnesses for a capital offense - ones punishable by death. In Hosea, God takes Israel to court because Israel has broken covenant with God and committed adultery. Points for home: Time out. God wants best for you. God isn’t blind to what we do. Don’t miss the interweaving of law and grace.

Mark interviewed Dr. Ingrid Faro, professor at Northern Seminary and the author of Encountering Evil. We learn that Dr. Faro wasn’t born in a Christian home. She found Jesus through Young Life and a Billy Graham Crusade. Through life experiences and multiple trials and sufferings, she learned God is good. Dr. Faro defines evil as the corruption of creational and relational goodness. She defines good as that which produces life and blessings, shalom, and peace. Good is life. Good used for selfish reasons is evil. Evil gets its power from diverted good. Listen to Dr. Faro and Mark discuss the reality of good and evil. Choose God. Good always wins. Join us Sundays at 9:30am CST! Links below: YouTube: youtube.com/channel/UCfocCxLc8BFCta-NO4JkTcA?view_as=subscriber CFBC Website: championforest.org/worship/watch/biblit.php

1-15-23 Biblical-Literacy Mark continued in the Minor Prophets Series with Part II of Hosea on metaphors. God uses all forms of communication, and metaphors link one idea to another. Use of agricultural related metaphors in Hosea show we reap what we sow. Some household metaphors reflect the tenderness of God. Points for home: What is sowing in your garden? Be touched by His tender love. How intense is your faith in God? Listen to Mark teach how God used the culture of the people in1-15-23 Biblical-Literacy Mark continued in the Minor Prophets Series with Part II of Hosea on metaphors. God uses all forms of communication, and metaphors link one idea to another. Use of agricultural related metaphors in Hosea show we reap what we sow. Some household metaphors reflect the tenderness of God. Points for home: What is sowing in your garden? Be touched by His tender love. How intense is your faith in God? Listen to Mark teach how God used the culture of the people in in Hosea to communicate His Word thru the prophet.

Mark continued The Minor Prophets series with an initial look at the book of Hosea. The Bible and Prophets are about God using people and language to communicate to humanity. Today's focus was with metaphors. Metaphors make us think. - Metaphors in Hosea applied to the people then with their culture and language. - Choices matter - Points for home 1. Wherever you are in life, make God the center. 2. There's either the easy way or the hard way. 3. You reap what you sow. Listen to Mark teach the value of metaphors in Hosea. People infused with the Holy Spirit can better understand the will of God. Join us Sundays at 9:30am CST! Links below: YouTube: youtube.com/channel/UCfocCxLc8BFCta-NO4JkTcA?view_as=subscriber CFBC Website: championforest.org/worship/watch/biblit.php

Today Mark taught the final class for 2022 with a tour of Christmas Around the World. He shared results of his research of how different countries celebrate Christmas today and how historical traditions play a part. Mark selected a couple of better known countries: Germany and China and compared them with a couple of lessor know countries: Philippines and Uganda. He wrapped up by sharing some points for home from a new devotional: Jesus for Living: The daily prayers, wisdom, and guidance follow the church calendar. God has prepared all people to help them see the Gospel. Listen to Mark teach how Christmas is celebrated around the world and listen to a few carols from different countries sung in their heart language.

In today’s lesson, Mark took a journey of Christmas through the Ages. He grouped how Christmas was celebrated, or not, during three periods of time following Jesus’ birth. 1. Roman. There’s no record the first church celebrated the birth of Christ. But does that make it wrong? Consider Jewish feasts not in the Old Testament writings. Yet Jesus celebrated them. 2. Medieval. Began mid to late 300s. Christmas first established on December 25th as a day of repentance. Powerful influence for good. Christmas plays began. Pagan celebrations translated into a part Christmas celebrations. 3. Modern. Advent. Arrival of Jesus with three focuses: Jesus’ arrival in Bethlehem; Jesus' arrival in your life, and Jesus will arrive again. Mark concludes that Jesus takes the dark days in life and fills us with joy, so we have reason to celebrate all year long.

Mark was interviewed by Brent Johnson. Mark identified several folks in the audience that would be more interesting to interview than him, but the focus was on Mark this day. Brent began by asking Mark: Some fun questions like; Wild Socks, Where and Why, Quarks, What and Why and Tennis matches planned soon. You will enjoy the answers to these questions as they show a very diverse and at the same time a focused Mark. Mark then discussed why books have such a significant meaning and what he was reading. Mark’s reading list contains a myriad of many different documents, books, legal documents and even Construction documents. What a typical day was like. Mark walked us through his day from wake up, quiet time, work day and finally home. Mark discussed the various projects he was involved in here at home and in England. Project Use Stone Chapel –- Funerals and Lectures New Building –-Learning Center Yarnton Manor--British LTL Session closed with an appreciation for the focus that Mark has on using his knowledge, skills, resources and love of GOD and spreading that love to others here and abroad.

Pastor David Fleming continued the study in the Minor Prophets with Amos 5 & 6. His lesson contained three points: 1. What time is it? A time of peace and prosperity for Israel, but lamentations are coming. Time for God to stop the party. God is continually working out His plan and purpose. 2. What do we do? The faithful seek God and live. He is not the one lost or hiding. 3. What if we don’t? God will take away His blessings. Our pride is our undoing. Listen to Pastor Fleming share that now is the time to seek God with an open heart and live. How we treat others is a direct reflection of how we feel about God. Seek God and seek good.

11-20-22 Biblical-Literacy Mark continued the study of Amos in the Minor Prophets Series.today’s lesson focused on important passages in Amos.The Hebrew biblical language has only 6,000 to 7,000 words.Compare that with the average English speaking person who knows 20,000 to 30,000 words.The realm of meaning for a Hebrew word contains many similes and metaphors according to what the writer intended.Improperly translating the Hebrew can lead to Scripture taken out of context and the original meaning lost. In reading Amos, and all Scripture, we should understand the context and lifestyle. It can often result in surprising results.

Mark continued in the study of the Minor Prophets with the final lesson on Amos. Mark focused on passages in Amos that reflected when they were written and what we can learn from those passages today. God’s word is inerrant, meaning no error. His Word is written exactly as He intended. Mark explained that we all look for Confrontation bias— confirmation that supports what we already believe. Listen to Mark expound on Scripture passages that shows us how to honor life. We are good at seeing sin in others but not in ourselves. God opposes the proud and haughty but helps the humble. We are on our own road to Jericho.