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Commuter BibleMalachi 1-4, Isaiah 61-62Not much is known about the prophet Malachi, (whose name means “my messenger”), but contextual clues suggest that this was written after the exile had ended. Enthusiasm for right worship of God had waned, and Malachi exhorts the priests to honor the Lord. Uniquely, Malachi presents his prophesy using a conversational pattern between the priests and the Lord God, wherein God makes a claim, the priests respond by asking questions, and subsequently the Lord answers. This book is a mixture of indictment and hope, pointing those who are indifferent to God’s ordinances to worship rightly while encouraging the faithf...
2025-12-1522 minCommuter BibleZechariah 12-14, Isaiah 59-60In our final episode in the book of Zechariah, the prophet proclaims that Jerusalem will be secure from warring nations. They will be blessed further through spiritual reconciliation with God. He will pour out a spirit of grace and prayer on the house of David and on Jerusalem, and they will mourn for the one they pierced. On that day a fountain will be opened to wash away their sin and impurity. Living water from Jerusalem will flow in abundance, Like the prophet Isaiah, Zechariah predicts that the nations will come from all around to worship the God of...
2025-12-1224 minCommuter BibleZechariah 9-11, Isaiah 57-58Zechariah prophesies that judgment is coming for Zion’s enemies, but in a surprising reversal after their punishment, God will call them to be a part of his people as a remnant. Later, Zion is called to rejoice, for their king is coming. He is described as being victorious, righteous and humble all at once, even riding a donkey instead of a mule as was customary for kings. The Lord promises to restore his people and defend them from their enemies. Finally, Zechariah takes on the role of a shepherd of those sheep who were raised for purpose of be...
2025-12-1123 minCommuter BibleZechariah 1-4, Isaiah 54-55The prophet Zechariah was a contemporary of the prophet Haggai; both prophesy to those exiles returning to Jerusalem, but while Haggai focuses mainly on rebuilding the temple, Zechariah sees visions of a future king. As such is the case, the Gospels of Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John incorporate more passages from Zechariah than from any other prophet. In today’s reading, Zechariah prophesies through night visions; we’ll cover 5 out of 8 of them in this episode. One is of horsemen who patrol the world, another of horns and craftsmen, another of a man who surveys and measures Jerusalem, a four...
2025-12-0922 minCommuter Bible2 Peter, Isaiah 52-53In Peter’s second letter, the apostle writes to encourage the church to confirm their calling and election by exercising the divine power given to them for life and godliness. Peter warns them against false teachers who claim Christ but in reality are self-glorifying and treacherous, exploiting the church in their greed with made-up stories. Finally, Peter encourages the church to patiently await Christ’s second coming, for the judgment of the wicked is sure. Since this is a short epistle we’ll have a double dose of Isaiah, reading chapters 52-53, wherein the suffering servant is pierced because of our...
2025-12-0821 minCommuter BibleMicah 5-7, Isaiah 50-51As we finish out the second half of the book of Micah, we’ll immediately see another crystal clear prophecy; this one predicts that the coming Messiah will be born in Bethlehem, a small town that was unlikely to have anything significant take place within it. God promises that one day he will remove those earthly and idolatrous occupations which keep his people from worshipping him rightly, asserting that nations who have not obeyed him will receive his anger and wrath. Finally, Micah looks past the coming destruction of Israel to declare the future hope of redemption for those wh...
2025-12-0323 minCommuter BibleMicah 1-4, Isaiah 48-49Given the time frame established by the prophet himself, Micah’s prophecies are astoundingly clear and accurate, as he clearly pronounces the fall of Samaria, the destruction of Jerusalem, and the coming captivity in Babylon. The people had grown comfortable in religious activity but they were excusing sin and denying the possibility of judgment. He urges God’s people to consider the nature and character of God Himself, and in so doing, they ought to repent in light of his justice and holiness.Micah 1 - 1:13 . Micah 2 - 4:40 . Micah 3 - 8:44 . Micah 4 - 11:34 . Isa...
2025-12-0227 min
Commuter Bible OTIsaiah 64-66, Proverbs 2We have reached the final chapters of the book of Isaiah, in which Isaiah continues to prophesy about things yet to come. You’ll recall that in our chronological reading of the Old Testament, so far the nation of Israel has fallen to the Babylonians, but Jerusalem and the nation of Judah have not yet been conquered. Even so, Isaiah prophesies in the past tense as he speaks of the desolation of Jerusalem in the future, for any many ways the focus is not on the future desolation as much as it is on the future restoration of God’s pe...
2025-09-1620 minCommuter Bible OTIsaiah 59-63The Lord calls his people to fast, but to fast while doing as one pleases, oppressing others, or causing strife and violence, is not true fasting. True fasting involves humility and submission to God, freeing those who are unjustly bound and oppressed, feeding those who are hungry, and caring for those who are in need. The sins of God’s people separate them from a holy God, and He hides His face from them. As representatives of God’s holiness, Israel had failed to act justly. Even so, the Redeemer will come to Zion and to those in Jacob who...
2025-09-1521 minCommuter Bible OTIsaiah 55-58, Proverbs 1The Lord invites Israel into his presence, and in our opening verses, this is depicted symbolically with a lavish feast, provided free of charge by God Almighty himself. This happens when the wicked one abandons his way and the sinful one his thoughts, returning to the Lord who has compassion. Even foreigners who are not from the nation of Israel will be blessed by the Lord who brings them into his house which will be called a house of prayer for all nations. By contrast, Israel’s evil and lazy watchmen will be judged. Idols will not be able to...
2025-09-1221 minCommuter Bible OTIsaiah 50-54Throughout the book of Isaiah, we’ll hear references to one called the Servant. Though there is immediate application to be found by naming Israel as this Servant, the New Testament authors, who were filled with God’s Holy Spirit like Isaiah, saw another connection. You’ll probably see it, too. The ultimate Servant, the ultimate son of David, is the promised Messiah, the Lord Jesus Christ. Isaiah 53 in particular, which is covered in today’s reading, is such a clear prediction of Christ’s work on the cross. He is the one who was pierced because of our rebellion...
2025-09-1121 minCommuter Bible OTIsaiah 46-49As Isaiah continues to prophesy about future events, remember that Babylon has not yet come to power and has not yet brought Israel into captivity. You’ll hear statements like, “I will announce new things to you, hidden things that you have not yet known.” Our reading opens with a call to remember that no god or idol can compare with the living God. This is followed by a prediction of assurance that Babylon will one day fall, which would have been a great comfort to God’s people as they waited in captivity to be released. Though Israel is a reb...
2025-09-1019 minCommuter Bible OTIsaiah 43-45, Psalm 150God’s people are precious in his sight, so much so that has given up other nations in order to ransom them from destruction. Though a time of judgment is coming upon them, the Lord assures them that he will protect his faithful ones in their time of distress. Time and again, God’s people have forsaken him for other gods, but there is no Savior besides him, and no other god has proven his power, might, and foreknowledge like the God of Israel. Idols and those who fashion them are put to shame, for the one whom makes them...
2025-09-0922 minCommuter Bible OTIsaiah 40-42, Psalm 149You’ll recall in our last episode that Hezekiah flaunted his wealth to Babylonian messengers, and although the exile will not take place for another 80-100 years, it is at this point in time that Isaiah begins predicting the future exile of Israel with great clarity. Even so, today’s reading begins with a proclamation of comfort for those who trust in the Lord, He who sits enthroned above the circle of the earth. There is no other god from any other nation who compares with the God of Israel. He not only has strength and power to do as h...
2025-09-0822 minCommuter Bible OTIsaiah 38-39, 2 Kings 20, 2 Chronicles 32:20-33, Psalm 148In our last episode, the Lord God turned away the messengers of King Sennacherib of Assyria and his armies, sending his angel to strike down 185,000 in their camp. Sometime during those days of the Assyrian threat, Hezekiah became terminally ill. After Isaiah prophesies that his illness will end in death, Hezekiah prays to the Lord and the Lord hears, granting him another 15 years of life. It’s not long, however, before Hezekiah gets cocky and shows off his sweet digs to his neighbors, the Babylonians. Of course, we know that won’t end well. Isaiah tells Hezekiah that some of h...
2025-09-0520 minCommuter Bible OTIsaiah 37, 2 Kings 19, Psalm 147The readings from today’s chapters are near perfect parallels, with only minor differentiations between them. After hearing the report about the royal messenger who insulted the Lord God and the people of Judah, Hezekiah immediately expresses a sense of mourning and loss by covering himself in sackcloth and ashes. He sends directly for Isaiah, who reports that the Lord will soon turn them around. After a second threat spoken from the Assyrian spokesman, Hezekiah heads to the temple and prays to God. Isaiah, who apparently is elsewhere, sends a message of hope from the Lord to Hezekiah, promising th...
2025-09-0422 minCommuter Bible OT2 Chronicles 32:1-19, 2 Kings 18, Isaiah 36Over the next few days we’ll be reading regularly from three books, 2 Chronicles, 2 Kings, and Isaiah, as we continue pursuing a fairly linear chronological reading of the Old Testament. At the point in the history of God’s people, Hezekiah is on the throne in Jerusalem and Isaiah is simultaneously prophesying in Judah. The kings of Assyria are knocking on the front door, taunting those in power. This not only includes the king and his officials, but God himself, whom they mock and equate to the gods of other nations. Today, you’ll hear the account of Sennacherib’s royal...
2025-09-0320 minCommuter Bible OTIsaiah 31-35, Psalms 144-145Israel has sought out the men of Egypt for help against their foes, but they have not sought the Lord their God. When God’s people turn back to him, Assyria will fall by the sword of the Lord. A righteous kingdom is announced where rulers will rule justly, the fool will no longer be called a noble, and the Spirit will be poured out on the people. Next, woe is pronounced on the destroyer who is never destroyed, which is likely a reference to Sennacherib. In an upcoming episode we’ll hear the account of his messengers mocking the...
2025-08-2924 minCommuter Bible OTIsaiah 28-30After a brief excursion in the book of the prophet Hosea, we are back in the book of Isaiah. This episode begins with a proclamation of woe against Samaria, called Ephraim in this prophecy. Specifically, they are chastised for being drunk all the time, having no vision, clarity, or wisdom to give to others on behalf of the Lord. Shifting away from the northern kingdom of Israel, he then chastises Judah for making deals with Assyria, or “Death” as they are called poetically here. Jerusalem, referred to as “Ariel”, will be burned and destroyed, for they have refused to open the...
2025-08-2822 minCommuter Bible OTIsaiah 23-27, Psalm 140We begin with a pronouncement against Tyre, an island city that served as profitable port which traded in luxurious goods. Tyre established a trading colony called Tarshish (thought to be in modern-day Spain) which boasted impressive ships. Assyria attempted to take Tyre a number of times, but it was Nebuchadnezzar who first infiltrated the island city, followed by Alexander the Great who destroyed it. The following chapters in this episode concern God’s judgment of the whole earth, a judgment brought about by the sin of mankind. Though celebration will come to an end for a time, God will ev...
2025-08-2221 minCommuter Bible OTIsaiah 18-22, Psalm 139Today’s reading includes pronouncements against the nations of Cush (which we now call Ethiopia) and Egypt. The Cushites will be judged by the Lord and left for dead, but after this judgment they will bring tribute to the Lord of Armies at Mount Zion. Egypt will be judged by God through a civil war, and neither idols, nor spiritists, nor wise men will save them from the Lord’s hand. One day in the future, however, some Egyptians would worship the God of Israel, a dramatic turn of events given that Egypt had always been superior in military migh...
2025-08-2122 minCommuter Bible OT2 Chronicles 27, Isaiah 9-12, Psalm 133We begin today’s reading with a brief historical account from the book of 2 Chronicles covering the reign of Uzziah’s son, King Jotham of Judah, before jumping back into Isaiah. Isaiah chapter 9 begins a prophecy about the birth of the Prince of Peace, a passage that many of us read in our church services during Advent or Christmas. In stark contrast, Isaiah moves on to consider the coming of Assyria, the instrument of God’s wrath against his people. Remember that earlier in our reading plan, God’s covenant at Mount Sinai with the people of Israel came with abu...
2025-08-1421 minCommuter Bible OTIsaiah 6-8, Psalms 128-129The signs, visions, and prophecies included into today’s reading span from the death of King Uzziah into the beginning of Ahaz’s reign, who continues the lineage of Davidic kings. In chapter 6 we get an awe-inspiring sneak peek into the throne room of God. Isaiah senses that he is unfit to be in God’s presence, but an angel approaches to cleanse him in a unique way. After this, the Lord God commissions Isaiah to be his messenger. In chapter 7, Isaiah prophesies to King Ahaz of a virgin who conceive and give birth to a son and name him Im...
2025-08-1116 minCommuter Bible2 Chronicles 9-12, Isaiah 3-4Worship at the new temple has been established and the people of Israel begin to worship the Lord with renewed vigor and zeal. The Lord honors their worship and continues to love His people by providing for them and protecting them. King Solomon’s wisdom and wealth become known across the ancient world, and royalty from nearby nations come to seek his counsel and insight. Ironically, Solomon’s wisdom is not passed on to his son, Rehoboam, as one of his first decrees runs in direct contradiction to the council of elders. By trusting his friends more than the advi...
2025-08-0826 minCommuter Bible OTIsaiah 3-5, Psalms 126-127Judah has made the mistake of trusting in the armies of men, rather than trusting in God. As such is the case, the Lord God of armies will be removing every kind of security from Judah, which includes some securities which would be considered blessings from God, and some securities which would have been sinful and earthly. The righteous will eat the fruit of their labor, but the wick will only harvest judgment. Even in this bleak forecast, the Lord proclaims that those who survive will see the beautiful and glorious Branch of the Lord. Later, Isaiah writes a...
2025-08-0816 minCommuter Bible OT2 Chronicles 26, Isaiah 1-2, Psalms 124-125So far in our chronological reading we’ve read two of the minor prophets, those being Obadiah and Jonah, and in today’s episode we’ll begin to read from our first major prophet, the prophet Isaiah. If you’re familiar with the overall arch of Israel, Judah, and the prophets, you know that there were prophets before, during, and after the exile to Babylon. Starting with this episode, the majority of our reading for the rest of the year will be from the major and minor prophets with sections from history books interspersed as history moves along. Today we’ll le...
2025-08-0722 minCommuter Bible2 Chronicles 1-5, Isaiah 1We’re back in the Old Testament with 2 Chronicles which is the second book of a four book series which includes 1 & 2 Chronicles along with Ezra and Nehemiah. Combined, they make up a historical account of God’s people starting with Adam and ending with the return to Jerusalem from their exile in Babylon. It’s likely that Ezra is the author of all four and the one responsible for compiling the material, but we don’t know for sure. Here in the second book of Chronicles we begin with the rule of Solomon, son of King David, who has been giv...
2025-08-0627 min
Commuter Bible QIsaiah 61-66Isaiah 61 – 0:10.Isaiah 62 – 2:50 . Isaiah 63 – 5:32 . Isaiah 64 – 9:38 . Isaiah 65 – 12:09 . Isaiah 66 – 18:13 . Conclusion – 24:46 .
Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org
2025-07-2824 minCommuter Bible QIsaiah 57-60Isaiah 57 – 0.10Isaiah 58 – 4:45 . Isaiah 59 – 8:24 . Isaiah 60 – 12:44 . Conclusion – 17:23 .
Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org
2025-07-2517 minCommuter Bible QIsaiah 50-56Isaiah 50 – 0:10 . Isaiah 51 – 2:49 . Isaiah 52 – 8:24 . Isaiah 53 – 11:35 . Isaiah 54 – 14:26 . Isaiah 55 – 17:56 . Isaiah 56 – 20:46 . Conclusion – 23:35 .
Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org
2025-07-2423 minCommuter Bible QIsaiah 44-49Isaiah 44 – 0:10 . Isaiah 45 – 6:56 . Isaiah 46 – 12:54 . Isaiah 47 – 15:24 . Isaiah 48 – 18:42 . Isaiah 49 – 23:15 . Conclusion – 29:24 .
Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org
2025-07-2329 minCommuter Bible QIsaiah 38-43Isaiah 38 – 0:10 . Isaiah 39 – 4:40 . Isaiah 40 – 6:51 . Isaiah 41 –12:58 . Isaiah 42 – 19:03 . Isaiah 43 – 24:13 . Conclusion – 29:43 .
Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org
2025-07-2229 minCommuter Bible QIsaiah 32-37Isaiah 32 – 0:10 . Isaiah 33 – 3:45 . Isaiah 34 – 8:44 . Isaiah 35 – 12:28 . Isaiah 36 – 14:32 . Isaiah 37 – 19:39 . Conclusion – 28:16 .
Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org
2025-07-2128 minCommuter Bible QIsaiah 26-31Isaiah 26 – 0:10 . Isaiah 27 – 4:12 . Isaiah 28 – 7:07 . Isaiah 29 – 13:31 . Isaiah 30 – 18:47 . Isaiah 31 – 26:52 . Conclusion – 29:15 .
Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org
2025-07-1829 minCommuter Bible QIsaiah 19-25Isaiah 19 – 0:10 . Isaiah 20 – 5:06 . Isaiah 21 – 6:29 . Isaiah 22 – 9:43 . Isaiah 23 – 14:32 . Isaiah 24 – 17:59 . Isaiah 25 – 21:54 . Conclusion – 24:35 .
Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org
2025-07-1724 minCommuter Bible QIsaiah 12-18Isaiah 12 – 0:10 . Isaiah 13 – 1:18 . Isaiah 14 – 5:47 . Isaiah 15 – 12:40 . Isaiah 16 – 14:38 . Isaiah 17 – 17:46 . Isaiah 18 – 20:50 . Conclusion – 22:40 .
Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org
2025-07-1622 minCommuter Bible QIsaiah 7-11Isaiah 7 – 0:10 . Isaiah 8 – 4:49 . Isaiah 9 – 9:01 . Isaiah 10 – 12:56 .Isaiah 11 – 20:38 . Conclusion – 24:13 .
Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org
2025-07-1524 minCommuter Bible QIsaiah 1-6Isaiah 1 – 0:10 . Isaiah 2 – 6:29 . Isaiah 3 – 10:35 . Isaiah 4 – 14:45 . Isaiah 5 – 16:04 . Isaiah 6 – 22:32 .Conclusion – 25:42 .
Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org
2025-07-1425 minCommuter BibleMalachi 1-4, Isaiah 61-62Not much is known about the prophet Malachi, (whose name means “my messenger”), but contextual clues suggest that this was written after the exile had ended. Enthusiasm for right worship of God had waned, and Malachi exhorts the priests to honor the Lord. Uniquely, Malachi presents his prophesy using a conversational pattern between the priests and the Lord God, wherein God makes a claim, the priests respond by asking questions, and subsequently the Lord answers. This book is a mixture of indictment and hope, pointing those who are indifferent to God’s ordinances to worship rightly while encouraging the faithf...
2024-12-1622 minCommuter BibleZechariah 12-14, Isaiah 57-58In our final episode in the book of Zechariah, the prophet proclaims that Jerusalem will be secure from warring nations. They will be blessed further through spiritual reconciliation with God. He will pour out a spirit of grace and prayer on the house of David and on Jerusalem, and they will mourn for the one they pierced. On that day a fountain will be opened to wash away their sin and impurity. Living water from Jerusalem will flow in abundance, Like the prophet Isaiah, Zechariah predicts that the nations will come from all around to worship the God of...
2024-12-1324 minCommuter BibleZechariah 9-11, Isaiah 57-58Zechariah prophesies that judgment is coming for Zion’s enemies, but in a surprising reversal after their punishment, God will call them to be a part of his people as a remnant. Later, Zion is called to rejoice, for their king is coming. He is described as being victorious, righteous and humble all at once, even riding a donkey instead of a mule as was customary for kings. The Lord promises to restore his people and defend them from their enemies. Finally, Zechariah takes on the role of a shepherd of those sheep who were raised for purpose of be...
2024-12-1223 minCommuter BibleZechariah 1-4, Isaiah 54-55The prophet Zechariah was a contemporary of the prophet Haggai; both prophesy to those exiles returning to Jerusalem, but while Haggai focuses mainly on rebuilding the temple, Zechariah sees visions of a future king. As such is the case, the Gospels of Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John incorporate more passages from Zechariah than from any other prophet. In today’s reading, Zechariah prophesies through night visions; we’ll cover 5 out of 8 of them in this episode. One is of horsemen who patrol the world, another of horns and craftsmen, another of a man who surveys and measures Jerusalem, a four...
2024-12-1022 minCommuter Bible2 Peter 1-3, Isaiah 52-53In Peter’s second letter, the apostle writes to encourage the church to confirm their calling and election by exercising the divine power given to them for life and godliness. Peter warns them against false teachers who claim Christ but in reality are self-glorifying and treacherous, exploiting the church in their greed with made-up stories. Finally, Peter encourages the church to patiently await Christ’s second coming, for the judgment of the wicked is sure. Since this is a short epistle we’ll have a double dose of Isaiah, reading chapters 52-53, wherein the suffering servant is pierced because of our...
2024-12-0921 minCommuter BibleMicah 5-7, Isaiah 50-51As we finish out the second half of the book of Micah, we’ll immediately see another crystal clear prophecy; this one predicts that the coming Messiah will be born in Bethlehem, a small town that was unlikely to have anything significant take place within it. God promises that one day he will remove those earthly and idolatrous occupations which keep his people from worshipping him rightly, asserting that nations who have not obeyed him will receive his anger and wrath. Finally, Micah looks past the coming destruction of Israel to declare the future hope of redemption for those wh...
2024-12-0423 minCommuter BibleMicah 1-4, Isaiah 48-49Given the time frame established by the prophet himself, Micah’s prophecies are astoundingly clear and accurate, as he clearly pronounces the fall of Samaria, the destruction of Jerusalem, and the coming captivity in Babylon. The people had grown comfortable in religious activity but they were excusing sin and denying the possibility of judgment. He urges God’s people to consider the nature and character of God Himself, and in so doing, they ought to repent in light of his justice and holiness. Micah 1 - 1:13 . Micah 2 - 4:40 . Micah 3 - 8:44 . Micah 4 - 11:34 . Isai...
2024-12-0327 minCommuter Bible OTIsaiah 64-66, Proverbs 2We have reached the final chapters of the book of Isaiah, in which Isaiah continues to prophesy about things yet to come. You’ll recall that in our chronological reading of the Old Testament, so far the nation of Israel has fallen to the Babylonians, but Jerusalem and the nation of Judah have not yet been conquered. Even so, Isaiah prophesies in the past tense as he speaks of the desolation of Jerusalem in the future, for any many ways the focus is not on the future desolation as much as it is on the future restoration of God’s pe...
2024-09-1820 minCommuter Bible OTIsaiah 59-63The Lord calls his people to fast, but to fast while doing as one pleases, oppressing others, or causing strife and violence, is not true fasting. True fasting involves humility and submission to God, freeing those who are unjustly bound and oppressed, feeding those who are hungry, and caring for those who are in need. The sins of God’s people separate them from a holy God, and He hides His face from them. As representatives of God’s holiness, Israel had failed to act justly. Even so, the Redeemer will come to Zion and to those in Jacob who...
2024-09-1721 minCommuter Bible OTIsaiah 55-58, Proverbs 1The Lord invites Israel into his presence, and in our opening verses, this is depicted symbolically with a lavish feast, provided free of charge by God Almighty himself. This happens when the wicked one abandons his way and the sinful one his thoughts, returning to the Lord who has compassion. Even foreigners who are not from the nation of Israel will be blessed by the Lord who brings them into his house which will be called a house of prayer for all nations. By contrast, Israel’s evil and lazy watchmen will be judged. Idols will not be able to...
2024-09-1621 minCommuter Bible OTIsaiah 50-54Throughout the book of Isaiah, we’ll hear references to one called the Servant. Though there is immediate application to be found by naming Israel as this Servant, the New Testament authors, who were filled with God’s Holy Spirit like Isaiah, saw another connection. You’ll probably see it, too. The ultimate Servant, the ultimate son of David, is the promised Messiah, the Lord Jesus Christ. Isaiah 53 in particular, which is covered in today’s reading, is such a clear prediction of Christ’s work on the cross. He is the one who was pierced because of our rebellion...
2024-09-1321 minCommuter Bible OTIsaiah 46-49As Isaiah continues to prophesy about future events, remember that Babylon has not yet come to power and has not yet brought Israel into captivity. You’ll hear statements like, “I will announce new things to you, hidden things that you have not yet known.” Our reading opens with a call to remember that no god or idol can compare with the living God. This is followed by a prediction of assurance that Babylon will one day fall, which would have been a great comfort to God’s people as they waited in captivity to be released. Though Israel is a reb...
2024-09-1219 minCommuter Bible OTIsaiah 43-45, Psalm 150God’s people are precious in his sight, so much so that has given up other nations in order to ransom them from destruction. Though a time of judgment is coming upon them, the Lord assures them that he will protect his faithful ones in their time of distress. Time and again, God’s people have forsaken him for other gods, but there is no Savior besides him, and no other god has proven his power, might, and foreknowledge like the God of Israel. Idols and those who fashion them are put to shame, for the one whom makes them...
2024-09-1122 minCommuter Bible OTIsaiah 40-42, Psalm 149You’ll recall in our last episode that Hezekiah flaunted his wealth to Babylonian messengers, and although the exile will not take place for another 80-100 years, it is at this point in time that Isaiah begins predicting the future exile of Israel with great clarity. Even so, today’s reading begins with a proclamation of comfort for those who trust in the Lord, He who sits enthroned above the circle of the earth. There is no other god from any other nation who compares with the God of Israel. He not only has strength and power to do as h...
2024-09-1022 minCommuter Bible OTIsaiah 38-39, 2 Kings 20, 2 Chronicles 32:20-33, Psalm 148In our last episode, the Lord God turned away the messengers of King Sennacherib of Assyria and his armies, sending his angel to strike down 185,000 in their camp. Sometime during those days of the Assyrian threat, Hezekiah became terminally ill. After Isaiah prophesies that his illness will end in death, Hezekiah prays to the Lord and the Lord hears, granting him another 15 years of life. It’s not long, however, before Hezekiah gets cocky and shows off his sweet digs to his neighbors, the Babylonians. Of course, we know that won’t end well. Isaiah tells Hezekiah that some of h...
2024-09-0920 minCommuter Bible OTIsaiah 37, 2 Kings 19, Psalm 147The readings from today’s chapters are near perfect parallels, with only minor differentiations between them. After hearing the report about the royal messenger who insulted the Lord God and the people of Judah, Hezekiah immediately expresses a sense of mourning and loss by covering himself in sackcloth and ashes. He sends directly for Isaiah, who reports that the Lord will soon turn them around. After a second threat spoken from the Assyrian spokesman, Hezekiah heads to the temple and prays to God. Isaiah, who apparently is elsewhere, sends a message of hope from the Lord to Hezekiah, promising th...
2024-09-0622 minCommuter Bible OT2 Chronicles 32:1-19, 2 Kings 18, Isaiah 36Over the next few days we’ll be reading regularly from three books, 2 Chronicles, 2 Kings, and Isaiah, as we continue pursuing a fairly linear chronological reading of the Old Testament. At the point in the history of God’s people, Hezekiah is on the throne in Jerusalem and Isaiah is simultaneously prophesying in Judah. The kings of Assyria are knocking on the front door, taunting those in power. This not only includes the king and his officials, but God himself, whom they mock and equate to the gods of other nations. Today, you’ll hear the account of Sennacherib’s royal...
2024-09-0520 minCommuter Bible OTIsaiah 31-35, Psalms 144-145Israel has sought out the men of Egypt for help against their foes, but they have not sought the Lord their God. When God’s people turn back to him, Assyria will fall by the sword of the Lord. A righteous kingdom is announced where rulers will rule justly, the fool will no longer be called a noble, and the Spirit will be poured out on the people. Next, woe is pronounced on the destroyer who is never destroyed, which is likely a reference to Sennacherib. In an upcoming episode we’ll hear the account of his messengers mocking the...
2024-09-0324 minCommuter Bible OTIsaiah 28-30After a brief excursion in the book of the prophet Hosea, we are back in the book of Isaiah. This episode begins with a proclamation of woe against Samaria, called Ephraim in this prophecy. Specifically, they are chastised for being drunk all the time, having no vision, clarity, or wisdom to give to others on behalf of the Lord. Shifting away from the northern kingdom of Israel, he then chastises Judah for making deals with Assyria, or “Death” as they are called poetically here. Jerusalem, referred to as “Ariel”, will be burned and destroyed, for they have refused to open the...
2024-08-3022 minCommuter Bible OTIsaiah 23-27, Psalm 140We begin with a pronouncement against Tyre, an island city that served as profitable port which traded in luxurious goods. Tyre established a trading colony called Tarshish (thought to be in modern-day Spain) which boasted impressive ships. Assyria attempted to take Tyre a number of times, but it was Nebuchadnezzar who first infiltrated the island city, followed by Alexander the Great who destroyed it. The following chapters in this episode concern God’s judgment of the whole earth, a judgment brought about by the sin of mankind. Though celebration will come to an end for a time, God will ev...
2024-08-2621 minCommuter Bible OTIsaiah 18-22, Psalm 139Today’s reading includes pronouncements against the nations of Cush (which we now call Ethiopia) and Egypt. The Cushites will be judged by the Lord and left for dead, but after this judgment they will bring tribute to the Lord of Armies at Mount Zion. Egypt will be judged by God through a civil war, and neither idols, nor spiritists, nor wise men will save them from the Lord’s hand. One day in the future, however, some Egyptians would worship the God of Israel, a dramatic turn of events given that Egypt had always been superior in military migh...
2024-08-2322 minCommuter Bible OTIsaiah 13-17, Psalm 138We are back in the book of Isaiah, and as you’ll hear the prophet himself mention, we are in the time period surrounding the death of Ahaz, that wicked king of Judah who not only created an idolatrous altar and set it up adjacent to the altar of God, but who sacrificed his own children to the gods of foreign nations. We begin with a pronouncement against Babylon, which contains assertions that they are God’s chosen weapon of wrath against his disobedient people, AND that they will become desolate for their actions. Israel will return to the land...
2024-08-2223 minCommuter Bible OT2 Chronicles 27, Isaiah 9-12, Psalm 133We begin today’s reading with a brief historical account from the book of 2 Chronicles covering the reign of Uzziah’s son, King Jotham of Judah, before jumping back into Isaiah. Isaiah chapter 9 begins a prophecy about the birth of the Prince of Peace, a passage that many of us read in our church services during Advent or Christmas. In stark contrast, Isaiah moves on to consider the coming of Assyria, the instrument of God’s wrath against his people. Remember that earlier in our reading plan, God’s covenant at Mount Sinai with the people of Israel came with abu...
2024-08-1621 minCommuter Bible OTIsaiah 6-8, Psalms 128-129The signs, visions, and prophecies included into today’s reading span from the death of King Uzziah into the beginning of Ahaz’s reign, who continues the lineage of Davidic kings. In chapter 6 we get an awe-inspiring sneak peek into the throne room of God. Isaiah senses that he is unfit to be in God’s presence, but an angel approaches to cleanse him in a unique way. After this, the Lord God commissions Isaiah to be his messenger. In chapter 7, Isaiah prophesies to King Ahaz of a virgin who conceive and give birth to a son and name him Im...
2024-08-1316 minCommuter Bible2 Chronicles 9-12, Isaiah 3-4Worship at the new temple has been established and the people of Israel begin to worship the Lord with renewed vigor and zeal. The Lord honors their worship and continues to love His people by providing for them and protecting them. King Solomon’s wisdom and wealth become known across the ancient world, and royalty from nearby nations come to seek his counsel and insight. Ironically, Solomon’s wisdom is not passed on to his son, Rehoboam, as one of his first decrees runs in direct contradiction to the council of elders. By trusting his friends more than the advi...
2024-08-1226 minCommuter Bible OTIsaiah 3-5, Psalms 126-127Judah has made the mistake of trusting in the armies of men, rather than trusting in God. As such is the case, the Lord God of armies will be removing every kind of security from Judah, which includes some securities which would be considered blessings from God, and some securities which would have been sinful and earthly. The righteous will eat the fruit of their labor, but the wick will only harvest judgment. Even in this bleak forecast, the Lord proclaims that those who survive will see the beautiful and glorious Branch of the Lord. Later, Isaiah writes a...
2024-08-1216 minCommuter Bible OT2 Chronicles 26, Isaiah 1-2, Psalms 124-125So far in our chronological reading we’ve read two of the minor prophets, those being Obadiah and Jonah, and in today’s episode we’ll begin to read from our first major prophet, the prophet Isaiah. If you’re familiar with the overall arch of Israel, Judah, and the prophets, you know that there were prophets before, during, and after the exile to Babylon. Starting with this episode, the majority of our reading for the rest of the year will be from the major and minor prophets with sections from history books interspersed as history moves along. Today we’ll le...
2024-08-0922 minCommuter Bible2 Chronicles 1-5, Isaiah 1We’re back in the Old Testament with 2 Chronicles which is the second book of a four book series which includes 1 & 2 Chronicles along with Ezra and Nehemiah. Combined, they make up a historical account of God’s people starting with Adam and ending with the return to Jerusalem from their exile in Babylon. It’s likely that Ezra is the author of all four and the one responsible for compiling the material, but we don’t know for sure. Here in the second book of Chronicles we begin with the rule of Solomon, son of King David, who has been giv...
2024-08-0827 minCommuter Bible QIsaiah 60-66Isaiah 60 – 0:10 . Isaiah 61 – 4:49 . Isaiah 62 – 7:28 . Isaiah 63 – 10:10 . Isaiah 64 – 14:17 . Isaiah 65 – 16:48 . Isaiah 66 – 22:58 . Conclusion – 29:25 .
Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org
2024-08-0129 minCommuter Bible QIsaiah 52-59Isaiah 52 – 0:10 . Isaiah 53 – 3:22 . Isaiah 54 – 6:13 . Isaiah 55 – 9:43 . Isaiah 56 – 12:34 . Isaiah 57 – 15:22 . Isaiah 58 – 19:56 . Isaiah 59 – 23:36 . Conclusion – 27:55 .
Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org
2024-07-3128 minCommuter Bible QIsaiah 46-51Isaiah 46 – 0:10 . Isaiah 47 – 2:41 . Isaiah 48 – 5:59 . Isaiah 49 – 10:32 . Isaiah 50 – 16:42 . Isaiah 51 – 19:20 . Conclusion – 24:54 .
Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org
2024-07-3025 minCommuter Bible QIsaiah 41-45Isaiah 41 – 0:10 . Isaiah 42 – 6:15 . Isaiah 43 – 11:25 . Isaiah 44 – 17:02 . Isaiah 45 – 23:47 . Conclusion – 29:44 .
Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org
2024-07-2929 minCommuter Bible QIsaiah 36-40Isaiah 36 – 0:10 . Isaiah 37 – 5:17 . Isaiah 38 – 13:54 . Isaiah 39 – 18:24 . Isaiah 40 – 20:36 . Conclusion – 26:41 .
Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org
2024-07-2626 minCommuter Bible QIsaiah 30-35Isaiah 30 – 5:26 . Isaiah 31 – 8:16 . Isaiah 32 – 10:41 . Isaiah 33 – 14:15 . Isaiah 34 – 19:14 . Isaiah 35 – 22:58 . Conclusion – 25:02 .
Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org
2024-07-2525 minCommuter Bible QIsaiah 24-29Isaiah 24 – 0:10 . Isaiah 25 – 4:05 . Isaiah 26 – 6:47 . Isaiah 27 – 10:49 . Isaiah 28 – 13:44 . Isaiah 29 – 20:08Conclusion – 25:23 .
Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org
2024-07-2425 minCommuter Bible QIsaiah 17-23Isaiah 17 – 0:10 . Isaiah 18 – 3:16 . Isaiah 19 – 5:06 . Isaiah 20 – 10:02 . Isaiah 21 – 11:25 . Isaiah 22 – 14:39 . Isaiah 23 – 19:27 . Conclusion – 22:53 .
Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org
2024-07-2323 minCommuter Bible QIsaiah 11-16Isaiah 11 – 0:10 . Isaiah 12 – 3:45 . Isaiah 13 – 4:53 . Isaiah 14 – 9:22 . Isaiah 15 – 16:15 . Isaiah 16 – 18:13 . Conclusion – 21:19 .
Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org
2024-07-2221 minCommuter Bible QIsaiah 6-10Isaiah 6 – 0:10 . Isaiah 7 – 3:20 . Isaiah 8 – 7:59 . Isaiah 9 – 12:11 . Isaiah 10 – 17:08 . Conclusion – 23:47 .
Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org
2024-07-1923 minCommuter Bible QIsaiah 1-5Isaiah 1 – 0:10 . Isaiah 2 – 6:29 . Isaiah 3 – 10:35 . Isaiah 4 – 14:45 . Isaiah 5 – 16:04 . Conclusion – 22:32 .
Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org
2024-07-1822 minCommuter BibleMalachi 1-4, Isaiah 61-62Malachi 1 - 1:12 . Malachi 2 - 5:05 . Malachi 3 - 10:16 . Malachi 4 - 14:36 . Isaiah 61 - 16:12 . Isaiah 62 - 19:00 . Not much is known about the prophet Malachi, (whose name means “my messenger”), but contextual clues suggest that this was written after the exile had ended. Enthusiasm for right worship of God had waned, and Malachi exhorts the priests to honor the Lord. Uniquely, Malachi presents his prophesy using a conversational pattern between the priests and the Lord God, wherein God makes a claim, the priests respond by asking questions, and subsequently the Lord answers. This book...
2023-12-1522 minCommuter BibleZechariah 12-14, Isaiah 59-60Zechariah 12 - 1:15 . Zechariah 13 - 4:33 . Zechariah 14 - 7:39 . Isaiah 59 - 12:55 . Isaiah 60 - 17:50 . In our final episode in the book of Zechariah, the prophet proclaims that Jerusalem will be secure from warring nations. They will be blessed further through spiritual reconciliation with God. He will pour out a spirit of grace and prayer on the house of David and on Jerusalem, and they will mourn for the one they pierced. On that day a fountain will be opened to wash away their sin and impurity. Living water from Jerusalem will flow in abund...
2023-12-1424 minCommuter BibleZechariah 9-11, Isaiah 57-58Zechariah 9 - 1:09 . Zechariah 10 - 5:25 . Zechariah 11 - 9:07 . Isaiah 57 - 13:19 . Isaiah 58 - 18:09 . Zechariah prophesies that judgment is coming for Zion’s enemies, but in a surprising reversal after their punishment, God will call them to be a part of his people as a remnant. Later, Zion is called to rejoice, for their king is coming. He is described as being victorious, righteous and humble all at once, even riding a donkey instead of a mule as was customary for kings. The Lord promises to restore his people and defend them from their e...
2023-12-1323 minCommuter BibleZechariah 1-4, Isaiah 54-55Zechariah 1 - 1:13 . Zechariah 2 - 5:39 . Zechariah 3 - 8:53 . Zechariah 4 - 11:12 . Isaiah 54 - 13:58 . Isaiah 55 - 18:04 . The prophet Zechariah was a contemporary of the prophet Haggai; both prophesy to those exiles returning to Jerusalem, but while Haggai focuses mainly on rebuilding the temple, Zechariah sees visions of a future king. As such is the case, the Gospels of Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John incorporate more passages from Zechariah than from any other prophet. In today’s reading, Zechariah prophesies through night visions; we’ll cover 5 out of 8 of them in this episode. O...
2023-12-1122 minCommuter Bible2 Peter 1-3, Isaiah 52-532 Peter 1 - 1:13 . 2 Peter 2 - 4:59 . 2 Peter 3 - 9:42 . Isaiah 52 - 13:44 . Isaiah 53 - 17:09 . In Peter’s second letter, the apostle writes to encourage the church to confirm their calling and election by exercising the divine power given to them for life and godliness. Peter warns them against false teachers who claim Christ but in reality are self-glorifying and treacherous, exploiting the church in their greed with made-up stories. Finally, Peter encourages the church to patiently await Christ’s second coming, for the judgment of the wicked is sure. Since this is a short epi...
2023-12-0821 minCommuter BibleMicah 5-7, Isaiah 50-51Micah 5 - 1:08 . Micah 6 - 4:07 . Micah 7 - 8:38 . Isaiah 50 - 13:36 . Isaiah 51 - 16:30 . As we finish out the second half of the book of Micah, we’ll immediately see another crystal clear prophecy; this one predicts that the coming Messiah will be born in Bethlehem, a small town that was unlikely to have anything significant take place within it. God promises that one day he will remove those earthly and idolatrous occupations which keep his people from worshipping him rightly, asserting that nations who have not obeyed him will receive his anger and wra...
2023-12-0523 minCommuter BibleMicah 1-4, Isaiah 48-49Micah 1 - 1:13 . Micah 2 - 4:40 . Micah 3 - 8:44 . Micah 4 - 11:34 . Isaiah 48 - 15:17 . Isaiah 49 - 20:06 . Given the time frame established by the prophet himself, Micah’s prophecies are astoundingly clear and accurate, as he clearly pronounces the fall of Samaria, the destruction of Jerusalem, and the coming captivity in Babylon. The people had grown comfortable in religious activity but they were excusing sin and denying the possibility of judgment. He urges God’s people to consider the nature and character of God Himself, and in so doing, they ought to repent in...
2023-12-0427 minCommuter BibleJoel 1-3, Isaiah 47Joel 1 – 1:11 . Joel 2 – 4:45 . Joel 3 – 12:35 . Isaiah 47 – 16:49 .Joel is one of the shortest books of the Old Testament and is divided in two parts. The first half describes a plague of locusts that invade the land and destroy the land’s produce, threatening the survival of animals, people, and even grain offerings before the Lord. That section ends with a plea for God’s people to confess their sins, transitioning to the second half of the book, which contains promises of the Lord to restore and rebuild his people and the land. Interpreters debate about the relat...
2023-12-0121 minCommuter Bible1 Thessalonians 1-5, Isaiah 461 Thessalonians 1 - 1:09 . 1 Thessalonians 2 - 2:58 . 1 Thessalonians 3 - 7:43 . 1 Thessalonians 4 - 9:51 . 1 Thessalonians 5 - 12:56 . Isaiah 46 - 16:49 . On his second missionary journey recorded in Acts, Paul stopped in the port city of Thessalonica, preached in the synagogue, and a church formed in the city. In just a few short weeks, a riot began, and Paul was forced to leave the fledgling church body. Here in today’s passage, Paul attempts to answer some unresolved questions that they have covering an array of topics. Though they had some misunderstandings, overall, they appear to be a fai...
2023-11-3020 minCommuter BibleDaniel 10-12, Isaiah 45Daniel 10 - 1:12 . Daniel 11 - 5:12 . Daniel 12 – 15:11 . Isaiah 45 - 18:18 . Contrary to Victorian era illustrations and Michelangelo’s chubby cherubs in the Sistine Chapel, angels are always described as glorious and fear-inducing. Whenever someone sees a vision of an angel in Scripture, the person who sees them is dumbfounded and crippled by fear. In most instances, the angel has to tell the person not to fear and followed by supernatural help to recuperate. Such is the case with Daniel, who receives an interpretation of his vision from an angel. There’s far too much to talk abo...
2023-11-2924 minCommuter BibleDaniel 7-9, Isaiah 44Daniel 7 - 1:09 . Daniel 8 - 8:12 . Daniel 9 - 14:39 . Isaiah 44 - 21:51 . We are now in the second half of Daniel which focuses on the dreams and visions that Daniel himself received. These visions include imagery of beasts, animals, and horns, representing kingdoms and the kings who come from them. Some of what Daniel sees is explained within the text itself while some remains the topic of debate and speculation to this day. Some, however, has clearly been fulfilled, like the goat which tramples the ram. The goat is the Greek Empire and it’s conspi...
2023-11-2829 minCommuter Bible OTIsaiah 64-66, Proverbs 2Isaiah 64 - 1:05 . Isaiah 65 - 3:37 . Isaiah 66 - 10:31 . Proverbs 2 - 17:18 . We have reached the final chapters of the book of Isaiah, in which Isaiah continues to prophesy about things yet to come. You’ll recall that in our chronological reading of the Old Testament, so far the nation of Israel has fallen to the Babylonians, but Jerusalem and the nation of Judah have not yet been conquered. Even so, Isaiah prophesies in the past tense as he speaks of the desolation of Jerusalem in the future, for any many ways the focus is not on...
2023-09-1920 minCommuter Bible OTIsaiah 59-63Isaiah 59 - 1:02 . Isaiah 60 - 6:11 . Isaiah 61 - 10:50 . Isaiah 62 - 14:17 . Isaiah 63 - 16:59 . The Lord calls his people to fast, but to fast while doing as one pleases, oppressing others, or causing strife and violence, is not true fasting. True fasting involves humility and submission to God, freeing those who are unjustly bound and oppressed, feeding those who are hungry, and caring for those who are in need. The sins of God’s people separate them from a holy God, and He hides His face from them. As representatives of God’s holiness...
2023-09-1821 minCommuter Bible OTIsaiah 55-58, Proverbs 1Isaiah 55 - 1:04 . Isaiah 56 - 3:55 . Isaiah 57 - 7:35 . Isaiah 58 - 12:09 . Proverbs 1 - 16:01 . The Lord invites Israel into his presence, and in our opening verses, this is depicted symbolically with a lavish feast, provided free of charge by God Almighty himself. This happens when the wicked one abandons his way and the sinful one his thoughts, returning to the Lord who has compassion. Even foreigners who are not from the nation of Israel will be blessed by the Lord who brings them into his house which will be called a house of praye...
2023-09-1521 minCommuter Bible OTIsaiah 50-54Isaiah 50 - 1:02 . Isaiah 51 - 3:40 . Isaiah 52 - 10:06 . Isaiah 53 - 13:17 . Isaiah 54 - 16:52 . Throughout the book of Isaiah, we’ll hear references to one called the Servant. Though there is immediate application to be found by naming Israel as this Servant, the New Testament authors, who were filled with God’s Holy Spirit like Isaiah, saw another connection. You’ll probably see it, too. The ultimate Servant, the ultimate son of David, is the promised Messiah, the Lord Jesus Christ. Isaiah 53 in particular, which is covered in today’s reading, is such a clear predi...
2023-09-1421 minCommuter Bible OTIsaiah 46-49Isaiah 46 - 1:02 . Isaiah 47 - 3:33 . Isaiah 48 - 7:33 . Isaiah 49 - 12:55 . As Isaiah continues to prophesy about future events, remember that Babylon has not yet come to power and has not yet brought Israel into captivity. You’ll hear statements like, “I will announce new things to you, hidden things that you have not yet known.” Our reading opens with a call to remember that no god or idol can compare with the living God. This is followed by a prediction of assurance that Babylon will one day fall, which would have been a great comf...
2023-09-1319 minCommuter Bible OTIsaiah 43-45, Psalm 150Isaiah 43 - 1:07 . Isaiah 44 - 7:23 . Isaiah 45 - 14:56 . Psalm 150 - 21:07 . God’s people are precious in his sight, so much so that has given up other nations in order to ransom them from destruction. Though a time of judgment is coming upon them, the Lord assures them that he will protect his faithful ones in their time of distress. Time and again, God’s people have forsaken him for other gods, but there is no Savior besides him, and no other god has proven his power, might, and foreknowledge like the God of Israel...
2023-09-1222 minCommuter Bible OTIsaiah 40-42, Psalm 149Isaiah 40 - 1:07 . Isaiah 41 - 8:04 . Isaiah 42 - 14:54 . Psalm 149 - 20:16 . You’ll recall in our last episode that Hezekiah flaunted his wealth to Babylonian messengers, and although the exile will not take place for another 80-100 years, it is at this point in time that Isaiah begins predicting the future exile of Israel with great clarity. Even so, today’s reading begins with a proclamation of comfort for those who trust in the Lord, He who sits enthroned above the circle of the earth. There is no other god from any other nation who comp...
2023-09-1122 minCommuter Bible OTIsaiah 38-39, 2 Kings 20, 2 Chronicles 32:20-33, Psalm 148Isaiah 38 - 1:10 . Isaiah 39 - 6:29 . 2 Kings 20 - 8:52 . 2 Chronicles 32:20 - 13:59 . Psalm 148 - 17:24 . In our last episode, the Lord God turned away the messengers of King Sennacherib of Assyria and his armies, sending his angel to strike down 185,000 in their camp. Sometime during those days of the Assyrian threat, Hezekiah became terminally ill. After Isaiah prophesies that his illness will end in death, Hezekiah prays to the Lord and the Lord hears, granting him another 15 years of life. It’s not long, however, before Hezekiah gets cocky and shows off his sweet digs to...
2023-09-0820 minCommuter Bible OTIsaiah 37, 2 Kings 19, Psalm 147Isaiah 37 - 1:07 . 2 Kings 19 - 10:44 . Psalm 147 - 19:27 . The readings from today’s chapters are near perfect parallels, with only minor differentiations between them. After hearing the report about the royal messenger who insulted the Lord God and the people of Judah, Hezekiah immediately expresses a sense of mourning and loss by covering himself in sackcloth and ashes. He sends directly for Isaiah, who reports that the Lord will soon turn them around. After a second threat spoken from the Assyrian spokesman, Hezekiah heads to the temple and prays to God. Isaiah, who apparently is elsew...
2023-09-0722 minCommuter Bible OT2 Chronicles 32:1-19, 2 Kings 18, Isaiah 362 Chronicles 32:1-19 - 1:09 . 2 Kings 18 - 5:29 . Isaiah 36 - 14:50 . Over the next few days we’ll be reading regularly from three books, 2 Chronicles, 2 Kings, and Isaiah, as we continue pursuing a fairly linear chronological reading of the Old Testament. At the point in the history of God’s people, Hezekiah is on the throne in Jerusalem and Isaiah is simultaneously prophesying in Judah. The kings of Assyria are knocking on the front door, taunting those in power. This not only includes the king and his officials, but God himself, whom they mock and equate to the god...
2023-09-0620 min
Armchair TheologyEpisode 090: Isaiah 56-66For those who hold Christian theology or study the New Testament, this may be one of our most important episodes today. Isaiah ends with so much great literature from which the New Testament writers drew inspiration and in some cases preached from or even plagiarized whole sections.Join Ross and Clay as they put a bow on the prophet Isaiah.
2022-06-2552 min
Armchair TheologyEpisode 089: Isaiah 49-55The Suffering Servant Songs in Isaiah paint a picture of willful humility to the point of death. No surprise, Christians saw (and still see) a lot of parallels with Jesus of Nazareth. Join Ross and Clay as they break down some of the most iconic passages of Isaiah.
2022-06-1548 min