The Family Bible Journey Podcast

Parables of the Lost, Luke 15, NT S1:E92

The "lost" parables show us the depth of God's love. The Shepherd risks his life for a lost sheep. A woman celebrates the recovery of a lost coin. A generous father receives his lost son. In each of these, we see a measure of God's love for us!

God's Promise to David's House, II Samuel 7, OT S1:E176

David tells Nathan the prophet that he wants to build a house for the ark of the covenant. God would not allow David to build this house. Instead, the Lord promises to build a forever house for David, by allowing one of his sons to reign forever! Receiving such an unimaginable promise from the Lord, David praises and thanks God for His untold goodness and love.

Consolidating the Kingdom, II Samuel 5-6, OT S1:E175

David moves his headquarters to Jerusalem. This strategic stronghold, where Judah meets Israel, becomes the military, governing and economic center of God's holy nation. In chapter six, David moves the Ark of the Convenant here, making this the spiritual capital of Israel. Largely because of David's moving the Ark to Jerusalem, it is revered as a holy city by Christians, Jews and Muslims still today.

True Cost of Service, Luke 14, NT S1:E91

The true test of discipleship is the quality of our service to others. So long as we are serving ourselves, as individuals or congregations, we are less than we are called to be. Instead, we who have been perfectly served by Jesus in every way, are called, like Jesus, to empty ourselves in service to others.

Scoundrels and Saints, II Samuel 3-4, OT S1:E174

Abner, offended by Ishbosheth, swears an oath to bring Israel under David's rule. This leader of a military coup makes covenant with David, who welcomes him gladly. Sadly, or gladly, both Abner and Ishbosheth meet a bloody end, as scoundrels end their lives. Here we see God use human treachery to solidify David's reign.

David, King of Judah, II Samuel 1-2, OT S1:E173

David is annointed King of Judah, but not of Israel. Saul's son Ishbosheth is made king of Israel by Abner, Saul's general. A short civil war breaks-out, but the house of Saul is too powerful for the house of David. Nonetheless, God is working out his plan, slow as it may be, to give the kingdom to David.

Pile On The Poo! Luke 13, NT S1:E90

Jesus teaches his disciples to wait patiently on him, even when life stinks! We hear of God's patience and power in three parables. These parables are taught around the story of a woman who had a disabling spirit for 18 years. May we, like her, find hope and confidence in Christ, even when life stinks.

Saul's Last Stand, I Samuel 29-30, OT S1:E172

Saul's last act of desperate defiance is suicide. His boys killed in battle, himself mortally wounded, he ends his own life. A tragic end to a story that began with so much hope and promise, all because he refused to listen to the Lord.

Samuel Speaks From the Grave, I Samuel 27-28, OT S1:E171

With the Lord no longer answering his prayers, Saul consults with a medium to conjure old Samuel up from the grave. From beyond the grave, Samuel predicts the fall of Saul and his family. This story of the medium of En Dor allows us to reflect on the reality of dark spiritual forces in the world.

The Serving Master, Luke 13:35-59, NT S1:E89

This all-time favorite parable turns the world upside-down as the master serves his servants. Too often, people in positions of power or authority serve themselves, neglecting the common good. As God's children, God's character is seen in us when we serve others, as He has served us.