The Family Bible Journey Podcast

Doing Good For Goodness Sake, II Chronicles 30-31, OT S1:245

Hezekiah invited everyone, even the lapsed tribes of the northern kingdom to join in celebrating the Passover. Thousands came and were blessed. They were so thankful and generous in their renewed faith that Hezekiah, the priests and Levites were in awe. Here, we are encouraged to never give-up on those who've lapsed in the faith, and persist in giving to the Lord and His purposes, knowing that He is able to bless us more than we can imagine.

Washing Feet, John 13:1-20, NT S1:E126

Jesus washed the feet of the disciples for three reasons. He prepared their "beautiful feet" to carry the good news of the gospel. He washed them clean so that they may walk with Him in heaven. And, He gave them an example to follow, that they may wash the feet of others.

When Evil is Undone, II Chronicles 29, OT S1:E244

Hezekiah was the answer and reaction to his faithless father. Fully devoted to the Lord, his first order of business was to restore the worship of God in the Temple. In him, we see a mighty example of how the Lord can warm cold hearts quickly, and be encouraged in our own Christian witness.

Evil Begets More Evil, II Chronicles 28, OT S1:E243

King Ahaz was raised by a father and grandfather who kept God at a distance. So we are not surprised that Ahaz is devoted to every other god under heaven. This chapter describes the decline of Judah, which began as a spiritual decline. We learn the importance of raising children in the faith, and trusting in the Lord, instead of earthly princes and authorities.

Lifted Up, John 12:27-50, NT S1:E125

Jesus was lifted up on the cross because He loves us. In this episode, we see that the pain and punishment He would face was real and frightful. When confronted with God's wrath, we can also be terrified. Thanks be to God that Jesus came to save, not condemn.

Unholy Fear of God, II Chronicles 26-27, OT S1:E242

Uzziah and Jotham were two kings of Judah who kept God at arm's length. The father, Uzziah, was struck with leprosy when he tried to play the part of a priest in the temple. The lesson he and his son Jotham learned was to stay away from the Temple. Instead of repenting, they kept their distance from God and moved the nation further from Him.

Half-Hearted Leadership, II Chronicles 25, OT S1:E241

Amaziah is another King of Judah whose reign looks promising at the begining, but cools off towards the end. He leans heavily on the Lord at the outset, but as he experiences victory and grows wealthy and powerful, he turns away from the Lord. Here we learn the dangers of losing focus and putting our trust in anyone or anything other than the Lord.

The Hour Has Come! John 12:1-26, NT S1:E124

Jesus tells His disciples that His "hour" has come. As He approaches the cross, He prepares His disciples for His imminent departure by rooting them deeply in His love.

When the Assassin Yells, "Treason!" II Chronicles 23-24, OT S1:E240

Wicked Queen Mother Athaliah murdered all of the young royals in-line for the throne as she could get her hands on. But when a surprise heir is put on the throne, she yells, "Treason!" In this sorid chapter of Chronicles, the nation is being held together by faithful priests, while the monarchs run amuck.

Unholy Alliances, II Chronicles 21-22, OT S1:E239

When the monarchs of Judah adopt the treachery and faithless behaviors of the kings of Israel, watch out! Jehoram begins his reign by killing his brothers, men who were, "more righteous than he." Ahaziah, his son, reigns only a year before the wicked Queen Mother Athaliah ascends to the throne. So much evil, so little hope.