Step Into Scripture
Season 6
Episodes
Tuesday Sep 24, 2024
Tuesday Sep 24, 2024
In this episode of the 'Step Into Scripture' podcast, hosts Matt and Tina Wilson guide listeners through the end of the Old Testament. They discuss the importance of public scripture reading, focusing on how it evokes confession and praise, and recount historical events from Nehemiah's time to the exile of the Jews. They highlight the transformative power of scripture and share personal experiences, encouraging listeners to make public scripture reading a part of their spiritual practice. The episode ends with a look at the anticipation for the New Testament, setting the stage for the next season of the podcast.
00:00 Welcome to Step into Scripture00:42 Final Week of Old Testament Reading02:04 The Importance of Public Reading of Scripture04:50 Confession and Praise in Nehemiah06:53 Lessons from Israel's History10:27 The Consequences of Sin and Accountability18:52 Malachi's Charges and Cultural Reflections27:18 The 400 Years of Silence29:20 The Arrival of Jesus and the New Testament30:36 Discussion Questions and Closing
Don't forget to pick up Tina's book, 'Step into Scripture,' and follow along with the reading plan. Get the Book: https://a.co/d/iK7ZERp
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Monday Sep 16, 2024
Monday Sep 16, 2024
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Join Matt and Tina Wilson in this episode of the Step into Scripture Podcast as they guide you through Days 259 to 265 of the chronological Bible reading plan. This week's readings cover the cryptic final chapters of Daniel, the return of the exiles in the books of Ezra, Haggai, and Zechariah, and the poignant Psalm 137. Matt and Tina dive into the prophetic declarations of Zechariah, contrasting the disappointing rebuilding efforts in Ezra with the hopeful vision of a future inclusive and global kingdom. Highlights include lessons in perseverance, the pitfalls of intermarriage with pagans, and the unfulfilled glory of the new temple. Equip yourself with insights on how to stay faithful in the face of opposition and take encouragement from the prophecy that Jerusalem will one day be a city without walls, with God as its wall of fire. Don't forget to pick up Tina's book, 'Step into Scripture,' and follow along with the reading plan.
Key Takeaways00:00 Introduction to the Step into Scripture Podcast00:20 Overview of the Chronological Bible Reading Plan00:50 This Week's Reading: Daniel, Ezra, Haggai, and Zechariah01:57 The Return of the Exiles and Rebuilding the Temple03:32 Opposition to Rebuilding the Temple03:49 Identifying the Enemies and Their Intentions06:00 The Response to Opposition and Its Implications07:44 Lessons from the Book of Ezra10:09 Ezra's Reaction and the Call for Repentance25:00 The Prophecy of Zechariah33:27 Conclusion and Reflection Questions
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Monday Sep 09, 2024
Monday Sep 09, 2024
Join Matt and Tina Wilson as they guide you through a chronological journey of the Bible in 2024 using the Blue Letter Chronological Bible Reading Plan. In this episode, they go into the cryptic and often-overlooked chapters of Daniel 7, 8, and 9, unpacking powerful visions of four kingdoms and apocalyptic prophecy. They also shed light on Daniel's prayer and the sovereignty of God amidst turmoil. With historical context and interpretative insights, this episode aims to help you understand these challenging scriptures while encouraging you to stay faithful in your spiritual journey. Don't forget to have your Bible open and read along!
Get the Book: https://a.co/d/iK7ZERp
Key Takeaways00:00 Introduction to Step into Scripture00:14 Overview of the Reading Plan00:37 Exploring the Book of Daniel04:37 Interpreting Daniel's Visions07:24 The Four Beasts and Historical Context09:08 The Rise and Fall of Empires11:02 The Roman Empire and the Fourth Beast14:19 The Vision of the Ancient of Days18:09 Understanding Apocalyptic Timelines22:59 Gabriel's Interpretation of the Vision28:46 The Clash of Empires: North vs. South30:23 The Rise of Antiochus IV Epiphanes33:40 The Maccabean Revolt and Hanukkah35:11 Daniel's Prayer and Gabriel's Message41:25 The Vision of the Seventy Sevens46:48 The Destruction of Jerusalem and the End of Sacrifices52:24 The Fall of the Roman Empire and the Eternal Kingdom53:16 Reflecting on Daniel's Visions and God's Sovereignty
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Monday Sep 02, 2024
Monday Sep 02, 2024
Exploring Ezekiel: Prophecies, Symbolism, and the Future of Gog and Magog
Join Matt and Tina Wilson as they dive into the prophetic words of Ezekiel, covering chapters 21 to 39 in this week’s episode. Using the Blue Letter Chronological Bible Reading Plan, they explore Ezekiel's vivid visions, his personal trials, and the profound symbolism of judgment against various nations, including an in-depth look at the prophecies against Gog and Magog. They discuss the significance of these prophecies in both historical and modern contexts, uncovering God's intentions for His glory, judgment, and restoration. With insights into how these ancient texts apply today, they provide thoughtful reflections and crucial takeaways for living at peace with God and resisting evil influences.
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00:00 Introduction to the Podcast00:41 Overview of Ezekiel's Prophecies02:48 Ezekiel's Personal Struggles and Symbolic Actions04:09 Prophecies Against Gentile Nations05:48 Significance of Prophecies and Their Modern Relevance06:23 Gog and Magog: An In-Depth Analysis10:58 Theological Implications and Future Prophecies27:42 Gog and Magog in Revelation36:42 Final Judgment and Restoration42:56 Conclusion and Reflection Questions
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Monday Aug 26, 2024
Monday Aug 26, 2024
Exploring Ezekiel's Vision: Understanding the Glory of God
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Today’s episode will help us explore the profound symbolism in Ezekiel’s vision, deepening our understanding of God’s majesty, omnipresence, and how these insights inspire humility and dedicated worship.
Join Tina and Matt Wilson in the 'Step into Scripture' podcast as they navigate the chronological reading of the Bible in 2024. This episode goes into Ezekiel's profound vision of God's glory, comparing it with other prophetic revelations. They discuss the significance of Ezekiel's vision, its symbols, and the nature of God's omnipresence and omniscience. The discussion also highlights themes of humility and lifelong service in response to encountering the divine. Tune in for a detailed exploration of Ezekiel 1:4-28 and its implications for believers today.
Key Takeaways 00:00 Introduction to the Podcast00:30 Overview of the Week's Reading00:56 Jeremiah's Lamentations02:50 Introduction to Ezekiel04:44 Ezekiel's Theophany07:31 Symbolism in Ezekiel's Vision13:55 God's Sovereignty and Presence21:27 Ezekiel's Vision of the Throne30:20 Reflection and Application
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In this "Step into Scripture" episode, hosts Tina and Matt Wilson dive into the readings from their year-long chronological Bible plan, focusing on Lamentations and Ezekiel. They start by introducing the Blue Letter Chronological Bible Reading Plan, available on YouVersion, and encourage listeners to enhance their study with the "Step into Scripture" book on Amazon.
This week’s readings cover Lamentations 3-5 and Ezekiel 1-20. Tina and Matt discuss Jeremiah’s profound grief over Jerusalem’s destruction, an event still commemorated by Jews on Tisha B'Av. They then transition to Ezekiel, noting his similarities to Jeremiah—both were priests during Judah's final kings and shared messages of judgment and hope.
A key part of the episode is Ezekiel’s extraordinary vision. The hosts unpack its symbolism, explaining how the four creatures, each with four faces—human, lion, ox, and eagle—represent God’s dominion over all life. The wheels within wheels, full of eyes, signify God’s omnipresence and all-seeing nature. They also discuss the significance of the wings in the vision, tying them to biblical themes of God’s unchanging nature and His presence.
Matt and Tina reflect on the radiant, indescribable majesty of God in Ezekiel’s vision, emphasizing the humility it inspired in the prophet. They explore how these glimpses of God’s glory deepen our understanding of His covenant faithfulness and inspire us to live in humility and worship.
The episode concludes with questions for listeners to ponder, such as the meaning behind the wheels in Ezekiel’s vision and how this encounter with divine majesty can inspire a life of service and reverence.
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Monday Aug 19, 2024
Monday Aug 19, 2024
The Great Reversal: Understanding the Reverse Exodus | Step into Scripture Podcast
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Today’s episode will help us explore the profound themes of the "Reverse Exodus," understanding how biblical history, from Israel's disobedience to Jesus's transformative journey, offers insights into our spiritual identity and freedom in Christ.
In this episode of the Step into Scripture podcast, hosts Tina and Matt Wilson go into the concept of the 'reverse Exodus,' exploring the chronological journey through the Bible leading up to this pivotal event. They discuss readings from the Blue Letter chronological Bible plan including passages from 2 Kings, 2 Chronicles, Habakkuk, Jeremiah, and Lamentations. The episode examines Israel’s rebellion against God post-Exodus, their return to Egypt in defiance, and the significant implications of this act. Additionally, they explore the second reversal of the Exodus when Joseph and Mary flee to Egypt with baby Jesus, contrasting Israel’s disobedience with God's overarching salvation plan. The conversation highlights the transformation from physical to spiritual Israel through faith in Christ, as explained by Apostle Paul in Romans.
Key Takeaways 00:00 Introduction to the Step into Scripture Podcast00:17 Overview of the Bible Reading Plan01:01 Focus on the Book of Jeremiah01:56 Recap of the Exodus Story05:18 Warnings and Missteps of Israel12:36 Jeremiah's Plea and Israel's Rebellion17:57 The Reverse Exodus and Its Consequences22:47 Historical Context and the Birth of Jesus32:36 The Spiritual Significance of the Exodus35:17 Discussion Questions and Conclusion
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See below for a longer description:
The heart of this episode focuses on a detailed exploration of Jeremiah, highlighting the theme of the "Reverse Exodus." Tina and Matt discuss how this concept reflects the recurring cycle in Israel's history: from disobedience leading to destruction, to redemption through God's grace.
They trace the biblical narrative from God's covenant with Abraham through key figures like Isaac, Jacob, and Joseph, who moved to Egypt during a famine, only to be later enslaved. The pivotal Exodus, led by Moses, symbolizes liberation from Egypt's bondage, emphasizing God's commands against returning to sinfulness.
The discussion then shifts to biblical leaders like Solomon, who disregarded these warnings by re-establishing ties with Egypt, symbolizing spiritual regression. This disobedience led to dire consequences, echoed in Jeremiah's prophetic warnings against Judah's alliance with Egypt during Babylonian rule.
A highlight of the episode is the comparison of the "second reversal" of the Exodus with Jesus's birth. They explore how Jesus's family fled to Egypt to evade King Herod, fulfilling ancient prophecies. This event underscores Egypt as a place of both danger and refuge throughout biblical history.
They draw parallels between Joseph in the Old Testament and Joseph, Jesus's earthly father, both guided by divine dreams to Egypt for safety. This journey, framed by Matthew's Gospel, fulfills prophecy, marking Jesus's life, death, and resurrection as a transformative reversal from bondage to spiritual freedom.
The episode concludes with reflections on Paul's writings in Romans, emphasizing a "spiritual Israel" united in faith beyond cultural and national boundaries. Listeners are invited to ponder the significance of Egypt as a metaphor for sin, the transformative power of Jesus's life, and their identity as part of a spiritual Israel through faith in Christ.
Tina and Matt blend historical context, spiritual insights, and theological reflection to offer a profound exploration of biblical themes relevant to modern Christian life.
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Monday Aug 12, 2024
Monday Aug 12, 2024
You're Going to Serve Somebody: Lessons from Jeremiah
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Join Matt and Tina Wilson, hosts of the Step into Scripture podcast, as they take you on a journey through the Bible. In this episode, they go into the Book of Jeremiah, focusing on the readings from days 224 through 230 of the Blue Letter Chronological Reading Plan. They discuss key themes such as God's sovereignty, Judah's impending judgment by Babylon, and the lessons we can learn from the people's refusal to listen to prophetic warnings. The episode also touches on the theological concept that everyone ultimately serves someone—either God or worldly idols—and challenges listeners to consider their own choices. Additionally, the episode provides a historical overview of the last kings of Judah and how even pagan rulers like Nebuchadnezzar ultimately serve God's purposes. Reflection questions are included to help listeners apply these lessons to their own lives.
Key Takeaways
00:00 Introduction to the Podcast00:43 This Week's Reading Overview00:56 Jeremiah's Message and the Potter's House02:17 Context of Jeremiah's Prophecies03:51 The Siege and Exile of Judah06:09 False Prophets and True Messages08:39 God's Instructions to the Exiles27:44 The New Covenant and Final Kings of Judah38:44 Conclusion and Reflection
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See below for a longer descrription:
In this episode of the "Step into Scripture" podcast, Tina and Matt Wilson go into key biblical messages, focusing on readings from the Blue Letter Chronological Reading Plan, specifically covering days 224 through 230. These passages include Jeremiah chapters 18 through 40 and Psalms 74 and 79, with the episode exploring themes such as God’s sovereignty, faithfulness, and the consequences of rebelling against His commands.
Tina begins the episode by discussing their journey through the Bible in chronological order, noting that they are currently in week 32 of the reading plan. She encourages new listeners to join in using the Bible app or her book, "Step into Scripture." The discussion then turns to Jeremiah 18, where Jeremiah visits a potter’s house and receives a profound message from God. This metaphor of God as the potter, who can reshape Israel just as a potter reshapes clay, underscores His control over nations and individuals, with a clear call for repentance and a return to God.
The episode also provides historical context for Jeremiah’s prophecies, emphasizing his consistent message of impending judgment due to Judah’s unrepentant sin. The hosts explain the Assyrian and Babylonian influences and clarify the interchangeable terms for Babylonians and Chaldeans to help listeners avoid confusion. They draw parallels between Israel's fall to the Assyrians and Judah’s forthcoming downfall to the Babylonians, highlighting Judah’s refusal to learn from Israel’s mistakes, which ultimately led to their own judgment.
Tina and Matt then discuss the story of the false prophet Hananiah, who falsely promised peace within two years, and Jeremiah’s countermessage that God’s true plan involved settling in Babylon and thriving there, as outlined in Jeremiah 29:4-7. This section of the episode emphasizes God’s long-term plan and the importance of understanding His messages correctly. The hosts also explore the nature of God’s judgment, clarifying that His ultimate goal is peace and that He seeks repentance, offering grace rather than immediate wrath.
The examples of Jeremiah and Paul are used to illustrate the outcomes of faithful service to God, even in the face of imprisonment and hardship. The episode also reviews the kings who ruled during Jeremiah’s time, from Josiah, a good king, to those who turned away from God, leading to disastrous outcomes. Finally, the hosts draw connections between the ancient prophecies and modern life, emphasizing the importance of serving God today to avoid the consequences of turning away, as Judah did. The episode concludes with the central message: "You're going to serve somebody," urging listeners to choose God over worldly idols, as everyone ultimately serves a higher power.
Monday Aug 05, 2024
Monday Aug 05, 2024
Comfort in Chaos: Exploring Jeremiah's Unwavering Faith
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Today’s episode will help us find solace in God's Word during chaotic times, emphasizing genuine repentance, communal worship, and spiritual integrity.
Join Matt and Tina Wilson on the 'Step into Scripture' podcast as they delve into the book of Jeremiah, the longest book in the Bible by word count. Following the Blue Letter Chronological Bible reading plan, they explore how the prophet Jeremiah navigated a tumultuous time in Judah's history, warning of impending destruction due to the nation's disobedience. Discover how Jeremiah's unique emotional transparency offers comfort and guidance amidst chaos, and reflect on your own faith journey through thoughtful discussion questions.
Key Takeaways 00:00 Introduction and Welcome00:19 Overview of the Book of Jeremiah01:34 Jeremiah's Historical Context and Skepticism02:51 Jeremiah's Warnings and Structure05:48 Jeremiah's Emotional Struggle and Unique Perspective10:16 Jeremiah's Sermon at the Temple12:09 The Importance of Genuine Worship12:55 The Role of Church and Leadership28:19 Jeremiah's Personal Reflections and Comfort in Chaos35:24 Conclusion and Reflection Questions
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See below for a longer description:
In this episode of the "Step into Scripture" podcast, titled "Comfort in Chaos," hosts Tina Wilson and her husband Matt explore the book of Jeremiah. They're currently diving into week 31 of their Blue Letter Chronological Bible Reading Plan, covering Jeremiah 1-17, along with sections from 2 Kings, 2 Chronicles, and Zephaniah.
Tina kicks off by sharing her excitement about Jeremiah, noting it's the Bible's longest book by word count. They discuss Jeremiah's role as a prophet during the downfall of Judah to Babylon, emphasizing the historical accuracy and archaeological evidence supporting his story.
They delve into Jeremiah’s challenging position amidst widespread idolatry and hypocrisy, highlighting how he reveals personal struggles unlike other prophets. They explore Jeremiah Chapter 7, focusing on genuine repentance over religious rituals, and draw parallels to today's church life, stressing communal worship and accountability.
The discussion moves to leadership responsibility in handling God’s Word faithfully, without compromise. They reflect on Jeremiah's emotional journey and his reliance on God’s Word amidst adversity, emphasizing the theme of "comfort in chaos."
To wrap up, Tina and Matt leave listeners with reflective questions:
Can you relate to Jeremiah’s emotional struggles over sin?Do your worship habits reflect genuine repentance and obedience?How do you respond to confronting your sin, and how can you deal with it graciously?
What role does God’s Word play in turbulent times for you?They encourage listeners to embrace God's Word as a source of enduring comfort and truth in their lives, much like Jeremiah did, fostering a deeper commitment to spiritual integrity.
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Monday Jul 29, 2024
Monday Jul 29, 2024
The Covenant of Peace – Step into Scripture Podcast
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Today’s episode will help us understand the significance of the "Covenant of Peace" in Isaiah and its relevance to New Testament believers, emphasizing the importance of contextual scripture reading and the spiritual reality of Christ’s reign.
In this episode of the Step into Scripture podcast, hosts Tina and Matt Wilson divve into week six of their chronological Bible reading, focusing on the 'Sounds' section which includes major and minor prophets of the Old Testament. They discuss Isaiah 49-66, 2 Kings 20-21, 2 Chronicles 32-33, and Nahum 1-3. The conversation highlights the often-overlooked passages, emphasizing the transition from judgment to hope and restoration found in Isaiah. Key themes include the covenant of peace established by Jesus, the impact of sin and covenant rejection, and understanding spiritual realities depicted through physical imagery. Listeners are encouraged to reflect on how these insights apply to their daily lives and relationships.
Key Takeaways 00:00 Welcome to Step into Scripture
00:37 Introduction to the Covenant of Peace
01:31 Understanding Isaiah's Prophecies
03:18 The Shift from Judgment to Comfort
08:02 The Role of Covenants in the Bible
12:06 The Mosaic Covenant and Its Implications
13:43 David's Covenant and the Promise of a King
16:41 The New Covenant of Peace through Christ
21:42 Spiritual Realities of the Covenant of Peace
24:38 Living in the Covenant of Peace Today
37:29 Conclusion and Reflection Questions
In this episode of the "Step into Scripture" podcast, Tina and Matt Wilson explore the theme "Covenant of Peace" from Isaiah in the Old Testament. They begin with an introduction about themselves, the podcast's purpose, and the value of going deeply into lesser-read Bible passages. Currently, they're in week six of their reading plan, covering Isaiah 49-66, 2 Kings 20-21, 2 Chronicles 32-33, and Nahum 1-3.
The episode highlights the often-overlooked book of Isaiah, stressing its significance for New Covenant believers. Though Isaiah's narratives are filled with judgment, vivid imagery, and cryptic messages, they offer essential lessons for today. Tina and Matt discuss themes of accountability and God's judgment on Israel, Judah, and other nations due to their sins, using Isaiah's imagery to illustrate the consequences of nations clashing, societies collapsing, and people being exiled.
The hosts then transition to the comforting aspect of Isaiah, recalling Isaiah 40's shift from judgment to comfort and restoration, linking it to the coming of the Messiah and the New Testament, particularly Mark 1:1-4. They note that many miss the deeper understanding of these texts without reading them in context.
A significant part of this episode reviews biblical covenants, focusing on God's unbroken promises despite human failures. They discuss covenants with Abraham, Moses, and David, explaining how each represents God’s intent to dwell among His people and establish a divine relationship despite their recurrent disobedience.
Addressing common misinterpretations of Isaiah's prophecies, they argue that many believers mistakenly view these promises as only for a future heavenly realm when they actually apply to Christians now. They clarify that metaphors like lions eating straw and wolves lying with lambs symbolize spiritual peace rather than literal events.
The episode also emphasizes understanding Jesus' government, as presented in Isaiah 9:6-7, where He is called the Prince of Peace. This government is spiritual, encompassing eternal truths and moral laws found in Jesus' teachings, especially the Sermon on the Mount.
Matt and Tina draw parallels between the Old Testament covenants and Jesus' new covenant, explaining that peace with God is achieved through Christ’s sacrifice. They highlight that true peace is an internal state from a relationship with God, not the absence of external conflict.
The episode concludes with reflective questions, encouraging listeners to contemplate Isaiah's shift from judgment to hope, the impact of Jesus' covenant of peace in their lives, and the use of physical imagery to convey spiritual truths. They also prompt listeners to consider personal experiences of recognizing Jesus as the Prince of Peace.
In summary, this episode offers a thorough examination of Isaiah, interpreting its prophecies and covenants in the context of the New Testament and Jesus' teachings. It encourages deeper, contextual engagement with scripture, illustrating the enduring relevance of biblical texts in modern spiritual life.
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Monday Jul 22, 2024
Monday Jul 22, 2024
Today’s episode will help us understand Isaiah's prophecies, recognize the importance of trusting God over worldly security, and find comfort in God's sovereignty and provision.
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Join hosts Tina and Matt Wilson on the 'Step into Scripture' podcast as they explore Isaiah 31-48, along with Psalms and 2 Kings, focusing on the succession of empires, God's judgment, and preparing for the Messiah. They emphasize trusting God over worldly sources, backed by prophetic accuracy and archaeological evidence. Tina and Matt offer practical applications and encourage prioritizing prayer and faith through examples from scripture and personal experiences.
Key Takeaways00:00 Welcome to Step into Scripture00:21 Chronological Bible Reading Plan01:09 Prophecies and Historical Context02:52 Archaeological Evidence and Biblical Accuracy04:54 Practical Applications of Isaiah's Prophecies05:25 Warnings Against Turning to Egypt08:56 Trusting God Over Worldly Security14:04 God's Sovereignty and Omnipotence31:35 Comfort in God's Provision36:02 Reflection and Questions
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See Below for a Longer Description:
Welcome to "Step into Scripture" with Tina Wilson and her husband Matt, the lead pastor at Ekklesia Christian Church. They explore the Bible using the Blue Letter Chronological Bible Reading Plan, focusing this week on Isaiah 28-48, Psalms 76, 46, 80, 135, and 2 Kings 19.
They review Isaiah's prophecies about the rise and fall of empires—highlighting Assyria, Babylon, Persia, Greece, and Rome—to illustrate God's judgment and the preparation for the Messiah. The fall of Israel to Assyria in 722 BC and Judah to Babylon in 586 BC are emphasized, validating the Bible's accuracy through historical events.
The episode stresses understanding biblical context before application, examining Isaiah 31:1-3’s warning against relying on Egypt rather than God. They discuss how worldly sources of security, like Egypt, cannot replace true reliance on God. Prayer as a first response to struggles is highlighted, using Asa's failure in 2 Chronicles 16:12 as an example.
Isaiah 40 is analyzed to underscore God's omniscience, omnipresence, and omnipotence. Matt and Tina encourage personal reflection on God's sovereignty and the comfort He provides, particularly through the prophecy in Isaiah 42 about Jesus.
They conclude with reflection questions on relying on worldly sources versus God and how prayer can demonstrate trust in God, offering hope through God's love described in Isaiah 42.
Join Tina and Matt next week as they continue their biblical exploration.
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Friday Jul 19, 2024
Friday Jul 19, 2024
Today’s episode will help us understand the historical and prophetic significance of the rise and fall of ancient empires in establishing Jesus' spiritual kingdom and the spread of Christianity.
In this episode of the 'Step into Scripture' podcast, Tina and Matt Wilson go into week 28's readings from the Blue Letter Chronological Bible Reading Plan, covering 2 Chronicles, 2 Kings, Isaiah, Psalms, and Hosea. They discuss the fall and exile of Israel by the Assyrians, the looming judgment of Judah by Babylon, and the succession of world empires leading up to Christ’s arrival. They highlight how prophecies from Isaiah and historical events establish a spiritual kingdom through Jesus, fulfilling New Testament prophecy and spreading Christianity. Key reflection questions are also included.
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Key Takeaways:
00:00 Welcome and Introduction05:12 Prophecies and Historical Fulfillment06:05 The Importance of World History in Biblical Context07:46 Spiritual Implications of Historical Events11:28 Jesus' Role in Human History12:15 Isaiah's Prophecies and Their Fulfillment23:15 The Spiritual Kingdom of God27:48 Equal Judgment and Universal Salvation33:08 Final Reflections and QuestionsDetailed Episode Description:
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Tina Wilson, host of "Step into Scripture," and co-host Matt Wilson guide listeners through their chronological journey of the Bible, using Tina's book as a companion. In this episode, titled "The Conquering Kingdom," they review passages from the past week, focusing on the fall of Israel by the Assyrians, Babylon’s conquest of Judah, and the succession of empires leading up to the Roman era.
They emphasize Israel’s downfall due to sin, recounting Assyria's conquest of Israel, Babylon's rise over Assyria, Persia's defeat of Babylon, Greece's victory over Persia, and Rome's ultimate dominance. The discussion highlights the significance of these geopolitical shifts, integrating Biblical prophecies with historical events, particularly during the intertestamental period. They discuss how Alexander the Great's conquests and the rise of Rome align with Daniel’s prophecies, setting the stage for Jesus’ arrival and the New Testament era.
The podcast underscores the credibility of the Bible through these fulfilled prophecies, noting how the rise and fall of empires facilitated the spread of Christianity, especially with the common language of Koine Greek and the Roman road system. Tina and Matt explore Isaiah’s prophecies, asserting their fulfillment through Jesus’ spiritual kingdom, transcending geopolitical nations and uniting Jews and Gentiles in the Church.
They conclude by discussing the Church’s role as the spiritual embodiment of Christ’s kingdom, emphasizing that Jesus' reign is a present reality to be expanded actively by believers.
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Monday Jul 08, 2024
Monday Jul 08, 2024
The Crushing Consequences of Sin | Step into Scripture Podcast
This episode will equip you to dive deeper into the word of God to Understand Sin by answering some of the following questions:
1). What are some of the consequences of sin?
2). Why is true repentance necessary for genuine worship?
3). What were some of the prevalent sins during the time of Judah and Israel?
4). Can you identify any of these sins in your life or in our society today? And how can we work toward addressing those?
5). What is the significance of the day of the Lord and how do you feel about the day of the Lord?
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Join Matt and Tina Wilson in this episode of the 'Step into Scripture' podcast as they walk through the Bible chronologically using the Blue Letter Chronological Bible Reading Plan and Tina's book 'Step into Scripture'. This week's readings span 2 Kings 15, 2 Chronicles 26-27, Isaiah 1-12, Amos, and Micah, focusing on the harsh judgments decreed for Judah and Israel due to their long-standing rebellion against God. The episode explores recurring sins like greed, self-indulgence, spiritual indifference, and pride, and underscores the importance of true repentance and righteousness. Learn how to recognize and address these sins in modern life and understand the looming 'Day of the Lord'.
Watch the Video:
00:00 Introduction to the Step into Scripture Podcast00:40 Overview of the Weekly Bible Readings02:02 God's Patience and Final Call for Repentance03:17 The Prophecies of Isaiah05:49 The Crushing Consequences of Sin06:53 Amos and the Unpopular Truth13:19 The Six Woes in Isaiah19:38 God's Patience and Human Sin20:01 Misusing God's Word20:47 Cultural Contradictions21:47 The Sin of Pride23:05 Injustice and Social Status26:27 The Consequences of Sin28:07 False Security and Judgment35:53 Hope and Restoration37:01 Living Justly and Humbly38:44 Reflective Questions
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See below for a longer description:
This episode of the "Step into Scripture" podcast, titled "The Crushing Consequences of Sin", hosted by Matt and Tina Wilson, goes deeply into the biblical prophecies and judgments found in the Old Testament. It explores the serious repercussions of sin, going through a chronological Bible reading plan, and emphasizes the importance of living righteously in the eyes of God.
The episode begins with an introduction by Tina, detailing their reading plan utilizing the Blue Letter Chronological Bible alongside Tina's book, "Step into Scripture". They contextualize their reading within the framework of the Bible, referencing various biblical passages from Deuteronomy, Kings, Chronicles, Isaiah, Amos, and Micah. They talk about harsh judgments delivered to Judah, Israel, and surrounding nations, which follow prophetic warnings stemming from the time of Moses.
Matt and Tina underscore the patience of God, noting his longing for repentance over punishment. However, history shows that neither Israel nor Judah heed God’s warnings, leading to their eventual conquest by Assyria and Babylon. Matt notes that this divine judgement was actively allowed and orchestrated by God as a consequence of the nations' rebellion and sin, illustrating it with analogies to modern understanding.
A substantial portion of the episode is devoted to discussing the six woes detailed in Isaiah 5, breaking down the sins for which Judah and Israel were being judged. These sins include greed, self-indulgence, spiritual indifference, ethical relativism (calling evil good and good evil), pride, and societal injustice. Each of these points is expounded upon with biblical references, modern parallels, and personal anecdotes, thereby making the ancient text relatable to contemporary listeners.
Matt and Tina also critique religious hypocrisy, noting that true repentance requires more than just outward displays of worship; it necessitates a sincere heart aligned with divine justice and righteousness. They stress that sin causes separation from God and others, highlighting the fracturing impact of sin on personal relationships and community cohesion.
In discussing societal injustice, Matt draws parallels to modern times, emphasizing how communities can crumble due to the favoritism and inequity that was also prevalent in biblical times. Their interpretation makes a compelling case that the warnings and judgments of the Old Testament are still relevant and deserve attention today.
Tina concludes with a hopeful note from the book of Micah, asserting that despite impending judgments, God's ultimate desire is to pardon and restore. The core message of the episode rings out in Micah 6:8, urging listeners to act justly, love mercy, and walk humbly with God. This threefold exhortation serves as an antidote to the six woes previously identified.
The hosts also provide reflective questions for listeners to ponder over: consequences of sin, the necessity of repentance for genuine worship, recognizing prevalent sins today, and the significance of the Day of the Lord. They emphasize a personal and communal examination of conscience in light of biblical teachings.
Overall, this episode is a thorough and contemplative exploration of the devastating impact of sin and the enduring hope of redemption through repentance and righteous living. Matt and Tina’s delivery effectively bridges biblical events and teachings with modern-day applications, encouraging listeners to introspect and realign their lives according to divine principles.
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Friday Jul 05, 2024
Friday Jul 05, 2024
Stepping into Scripture: Understanding God's Prophets and Jonah's Journey
Join Matt and Tina in Season Six of Step into Scripture as they explore the minor and major prophets of the Old Testament. In this episode, they delve into the Book of Jonah, discussing its themes of repentance, God's love for all nations, and the purpose of prophetic announcements. They also touch upon various accounts of God's miracles and the overarching message of redemption and restoration. With a blend of historical context and personal reflections, this episode offers a deep look into how the prophetic messages aim to bring people closer to God.
Watch the Video:
Key Takeaways 00:00 Welcome to Step into Scripture
01:35 The Book of Jonah: A Call to Repentance
02:23 God's Love for All Nations
05:26 Jonah's Mission to Nineveh
09:32 Israel's Long History of Rebellion
15:04 God's Judgment and Redemption
16:49 Examples of God's Restoration
18:52 Personal Anecdote: A Modern-Day Miracle
19:51 The Floating Ax Head: Another Miracle
20:41 The Healing of Naaman's Leprosy
25:20 Lessons from Gehazi and Jonah
27:48 The Parable of the Prodigal Son
33:09 Key Takeaways and Reflection Questions
See below for a longer description:
In this engaging and insightful episode of "Step into Scripture," hosts Matt and Tina dive deep into the prophetic writings of the Old Testament. They examine complex themes and characters from the Bible, offering listeners a thorough understanding of the historical and theological context. This episode, part of their ongoing sixth season titled "Sounds," focuses on the prophets and their messages that point towards Jesus.
Matt and Tina start by introducing themselves and setting the stage for the theme of the season. They express their excitement and challenge in navigating the intricate writings of the prophets. They recap the prior episode, emphasizing the principle that correct interpretation (exegesis) must precede application (hermeneutics) of biblical texts.
This week’s episode focuses on readings from the Blue Letter Chronological Bible Reading Plan, covering the book of Obadiah, Psalms 82 and 83, Second Kings chapters 1-14, Second Chronicles chapters 24 and 25, and the book of Jonah. The hosts hone in on the book of Jonah, drawing parallels between Jonah’s mission to Nineveh and modern scenarios of unexpected forgiveness and grace toward adversaries.
Throughout the episode, Matt and Tina highlight God’s justice and mercy, emphasizing that prophetic announcements serve to call sinners to repentance rather than just declare judgment. They explain how God’s intent is always rooted in love and the opportunity for redemption, even for those considered enemies.
The episode also delves into historical aspects, presenting how Jonah’s mission to Nineveh—a brutal enemy nation—illustrates God’s overarching plan for universal redemption. The conversation transitions into discussing various biblical accounts from Second Kings, showing God’s authority and ability to reverse curses and bring restoration. They explore examples such as Elisha purifying water in Jericho, providing for an impoverished widow, and resurrecting a Shunammite woman’s son.
Additionally, Matt and Tina analyze the poignant parallels between Old Testament stories and Jesus’ teachings in the New Testament, including the parable of the prodigal son. They emphasize the consistent theme of repentance and God’s boundless grace and justice throughout the Bible.
Matt and Tina also critically examine the reactions of Jonah and Elisha's servant, Gehazi, to God's mercy. The attitudes of these biblical figures are likened to the grumbling of the older brother in Jesus' parable of the prodigal son, highlighting the challenge of accepting God’s grace toward repentant sinners.
The episode concludes with key takeaways: God's offers of repentance and restoration are universal; God reverses curses through Jesus’ sacrifice; salvation is a gift of grace, not something earned; and believers should seek and celebrate the repentance and restoration of all people. The hosts encourage listeners to reflect on personal experiences of forgiveness and grace, urging them to consider the transformative impact of God’s love.
Join Matt and Tina next week as they continue to delve into the rich and multifaceted prophetic writings of the Old Testament, drawing lessons that resonate with contemporary life and faith.
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Monday Jul 01, 2024
Monday Jul 01, 2024
Step into Scripture: Season 6 Introduction -- Sounds
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This episode kicks off a brand new season on the Step Into Scripture Podcast. In Season 6, titled 'Sounds', Matt and Tina Wilson introduce the focus on the sounds of the prophets, covering minor and major prophets of the Old Testament. This introductory episode prepares listeners for the 14-week journey through various books using the Blue Letter Chronological Bible reading plan. It emphasizes understanding the meta-narrative of the Bible, the overarching story of God's plan and introduces the importance of context in reading and interpreting Scripture.
Watch the Video
Key Takeaways 00:00 Welcome to Step into Scripture
00:28 Introducing Season Six: Sounds of the Prophets
00:55 Books to Read This Season
01:58 Understanding the Metanarrative
03:56 Recap of the Bible's Story So Far
09:51 From Judges to Kings
15:10 The Divided Kingdom
18:10 Prophets and Their Warnings
18:46 Trust the Process
21:20 Reading Scripture with the Right Lens
27:29 Exegesis and Hermeneutics
29:40 Conclusion and Discussion Questions
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Please comment like and subscribe to the channel! For more information about RENEW visit Renew.org.