The Caldwell Commentaries Podcast

Samaritana - Life-Changing Encounter with Man 7 NEW STUDY! {Fourth Significant ”Well Meeting” of Scripture}

From this well-known account of Christ's "Divine appointment" with the Samaritan woman at Jacob's well (John 4), learn some very interesting information about the importance of certain numbers in this story (i.e., especially "6" and "7"). Learn from the Lord how to wisely and smoothly witness to someone by going from the physical realm to the spiritual. See how "Samaritana" progressively advanced in her perception of the 7th Man in her life and how He (the God-Man) broke down four cultural barriers in just a matter of minutes!

There is a fascinating look at the three famous Old Testament "well encounters" (Eliezer, on behalf of Isaac, and Rebekah; Jacob and Rachel; Moses and Zipporah) and how they were picture-types of Christ's "well encounter" with Samaritana - which, in turn, is a beautiful picture-type of Him and His Bride, the Church!

Did you know this is the longest recorded conversation between Jesus and someone in Scripture? Did you know that Jesus HIMSELF

first revealed His identity to this woman (half-Jewish/half-Gentile) as both Messiah and the great "I AM"?  Did you know that she was the first "non-Jewish" convert of His earthly ministry? Did you know that she was the first witness/evangelist to "non-Jews" regarding the arrival of the long awaited Messiah? Did you know that Samaritans were the first people to proclaim Jesus as "the Saviour OF THE WORLD"?  There is all this and much more in this "must" hear-to-get-it-all lesson on the changed life of a lonely, immoral, confused woman who finally met the "perfect" seventh Man in her life - the God/Man, Jesus Christ, Who truly came to seek and to save the lost!

Anna; Prophetess , Witness, and Evangelist - NEW STUDY

Anna is the only named "prophetess" in the New Testament. She was also one of God's two "mighty witnesses" to His Son's Identity as the long-awaited Messiah (on His first "visit" to the Temple at only 40 days of age). She and Simeon (both in their 100's) pictured the transition of the Old Testament to the New Testament (fascinating to realize). She is an amazing example, in many ways, of how to turn tragedy to triumph; how to be "happy" in spite of "sad" circumstances; to be faithful and consistent and patient and to trust in God's absolute Sovereignty over all things. Her name is significant; her father's name is significant; her tribal lineage is significant - in fact, everything about her is significant.  And then there is this: she was the first evangelist to the good news of Christ's arrival in the Holy City of Jerusalem!

Genesis Lesson 28: A New World Order

The world Noah and his family saw on their disembARKment was drastically different from the world they knew before the Flood.  The world, as Noah had known it, had "perished" (II Peter 3:6).  It was God's grace that provided the human race a new opportunity for a new beginning in an essentially new world.  

In this lesson on Genesis 8:20-9:7, we will look at a significant altar Noah built to rightly worship God through an extremely generous burnt offering!  We also discuss three promises made by God to Noah and four new conditions presented to Noah for "the new world order" of the post-Flood world.  Those conditions had to do with (1) protection regarding animals, (2) permission regarding meat, (3) prohibition regarding blood, and (4) punishment regarding murder (capital punishment).

Genesis Lesson 27: The Ark on Ararat {The Date it Rested is FASCINATING!)

In this lesson on Genesis 8:1-19, "The Ark on Ararat," we learn again of the incredible faith of Noah, as evidenced by his great patience in waiting to hear from God for the proper time to exit the ark.  We also learn of the faithfulness of God in keeping His Word by "remembering" those who belong to Him.  We discuss (1) the remembrance of God, (2) the recession of the flood waters, (3) the rest of the ark (on Ararat), (4) the restraint of Noah, and (5) the replenishment of the earth.

Did you know that the ark of Noah came to its rest on Mount Ararat on the very same day Christ, after going down into the deep "waters of judgment" for us (His death), resurrected from the dead! [For a deeper study on the Ark as a type of Christ, see lesson #6 from our study on "Christ in Genesis" on this podcast.]

We discuss the significance of the raven and the dove sent by Noah out of the ark, as well as the importance of the word "ruach" (Hebrew) for "wind" in Genesis 8:1.  These facts, plus a whole lot more in this study!

Genesis Lesson 26: The Noahic Flood {Three Sources of Evidence the Flood was Global}

Genesis 7:1-24

"Mabbul" is the Hebrew word for the Noahic Flood.  Many teach that it was merely localized.  Not so!  The Flood was global, and presented in this study is lots of evidence to support that claim! 

Did you know God predicted the beginning of the Flood through the name "Methuselah"?  Fascinating!  Do you know when Methuselah died and what occurred right after his death (fulfilled prophecy).  Why do you think Methuselah lived longer than any person "on record"?  What attribute of God does his longevity demonstrate?  

We discuss the geological, Biblical, and the "tradition-legend" worldwide evidences that support a global Flood.

Think how today's world is similar to the pre-Flood days of Noah's time, and and you will realize how close we are to another out-pouring of God's wrath on the entire globe!  Not another Flood (per God's promise), but definitely a time of global, unprecedented Tribulation!

Genesis Lesson 25: Noah and the Ark {How to Handle Life’s Storms, Including Persecution}

Genesis 6:9-22

In this lesson, we first have the joy of studying all about God's man, Noah.   There is a lot we can learn from Noah living in our quickly degenerating world today!  Against a hostile, godless, mocking world, Noah persevered for 12 decades!  He did not bail out on his service to or his faith in God.  He did not grow weary in well doing.  He did not grow faith when, year after year, he was labeled a "fanatic" and a "lunatic".  He only cared what God thought of him, not the opinions of evil men.  We also learn from Noah HOW TO HANDLE LIFE'S STORMS!!

After discussing "God's Man," we look at "God's Plan" (6:11-13) by discussing seven sub-divisions: (1) the Corruption of that day, (2) the Craft Noah was instructed to build - learn the interesting detail of the Ark, (3) the Cataclysm that God was going to bring upon the earth, which he shared with Noah in verse 17, (4) the Covenant God made with Noah to protect him and his family (in the ark) from the coming "flood of waters," (5) the Christ, as He was prophetically portrayed by the ark (more ways than you can imagine!), (6) the Cargo (how could all those creatures fit in the ark?  Find out.  The fact is, they could fit with plenty of extra space!  (7) the Concurrence; Noah did according to all that God commanded him (6:22)!

Genesis Lesson 24: Antediluvian Degeneracy {Fallen Angels’ Impact on Pre-Flood World}

 

THIS IS A VERY INTERESTING LESSON!!!  YOU WILL WANT TO LISTEN!  We discuss FALLEN ANGELS and their impact on the world of the pre-Flood days.

Sin grew rapidly more widespread and wicked as a proud and godless society developed from Cain's descendants.  In time, the degeneracy of Cain's descendants spread to the descendants of Adam and Eve's other children.  Finally, even Seth's lineage (with the exceptions in the Messianic lineage) allowed the great vileness of their inherited sin natures to rule their lives.

We discuss the very perplexing passage in the opening verses of Genesis chapter 6 about "the sons of God" seeing the fair "daughters of men" and "taking them wives of all which they chose" and how the result of that "union" was "mighty men which were of old, men of renown" and there is even the mention of "giants in the earth in those days".  What is this all about?  We discuss the three primary interpretations of the passage - and, believe me, it is fascinating!  

 

Genesis Lesson 23: Descendants of Seth {The 10 Pre-Flood Patriarch’s Names Point to Christ!}

Genesis 4:25-5:32

We discuss what Scripture says about Seth (son of Adam and Eve) and his godly line of descendants (up to the time of the Flood).  When Seth was born, Eve understood he was the son (in replacement of Abel) from whom the Promised Seed of the woman (the Saviour/Messiah) would come.  With Seth's son, Enos, we read of the first spiritual "revival"; Genesis 4:26 says men began to call on the name of the Lord, recognizing their dependence on Him (quite the opposite of Cain's descendent Lamech, who boasted of his self-sufficiency).  

We discuss the antediluvian (pre-Flood) patriarchs: Adam, Seth, Enos, Cainan, Mahalaleel, Jared, Enoch, Methuselah, Lamech (not the same Lamech of Cain's descendants), and Noah.  When we look at the Hebrew meaning for the names of these 10 men, we AMAZINGLY FIND A DESCRIPTION OF JESUS CHRIST!  We also learn about four antediluvian prophets (amazing men): Enoch, Methuselah, Lamech, and Noah.

Genesis Lesson 22: Descendants of Cain {Who did Cain marry? Also, forget the ”Cavemen” Lies!}

Genesis 4:17-24. 

In chapters 4 and 5 of "the book of beginnings," we learn of the two ancestral lines of Cain and Seth.  Cain, of his own choice, was the firstborn spiritual seed of the serpent (see Genesis 3:15).  We learn about Cain after he murdered his brother Abel and was cursed by God to be a fugitive and vagabond all his life.  We discuss a topic that has provoked the curiosity and criticism of more people than on almost any other Bible-related subject: who did Cain marry?

We also discuss some of the primary descendants of Cain mentioned in Scripture, divinely selected to give insight into the Cainitic society that developed from Cain to the time when the Lord's toleration of ungodliness came to a head, and He sent the Flood.  We learn a great deal about the antediluvian period of history (pre-Flood) from the information provided in Scripture about Cain's descendants (and Seth's descendants discussed in Genesis 5).  We find a culture far removed from the brutish cave-men invented by the imaginations of modern evolutionists.  That culture, however, was piled high with sin.  Seven generations from Cain, we are given the first prophetic type of the coming Antichrist in a powerful, lawless, boastful, lustful, proud man named Lamech (also the first to break God's ordained principle of monogamy).

Genesis Lesson 21: Cain and Abel {Abel, a Type of Christ; Cain and the First False Religion}

Genesis 4:1-16

In this study of "Cain and Abel," we discuss why Eve selected those names for her first two sons, why God accepted Abel and his offering, but did not accept Cain and his offering, why Abel is referred to as a prophet (Luke 11:49-51), when Scripture does not record a single word he ever spoke, how Abel is a type of Christ, and how Cain (though he believed in the true God) established the first false religion - "the way of Cain" (Jude 11).

It is critical to understand why Abel's sacrifice is referred to in Hebrews 11:4 as the "more excellent sacrifice"; it is important to understand God's three divine rules of acceptable atonement for sin, and how Jesus Christ alone met the criteria for the "once-for-all" acceptable sin-Substitute to permanently atone for the sins of the whole world (cleanse them completely, not just cover them temporarily - as the animal sacrifices of Judaism did in anticipation of the coming Saviour).  Of course, one must repent and believe in His finished work on the cross (His burial and third-day resurrection) to receive His cleansing and forgiveness!  

Genesis Lesson 20: The Deliverance of Man {Banishment from Eden - a Merciful Blessing}

Genesis 3:20-24

Did you ever realize the first time the Gospel was given (Genesis 3:15), it was by the Lord directly to Satan?  But it was not for Satan's benefit (he is unredeemable); it was for man to hear before the Lord pronounced  judgment on his sin (3:16-19).  It is always easier to take "bad news" when we first have "Good News"!  The "Good News" (salvation freely available by faith in the Promised "Seed" of the woman, the Saviour, Jesus Christ) tells us that no matter what may happen to us, everything will be all right in the end!

In this lesson, "The Deliverance of Man," we discuss: (1) A New Name (Eve's name reveals Adam's faith in the Promised Saviour), (2) New Clothing (the clothing God provided to cover the naked sin of Adam and Eve revealed the method by which the Promised Seed of the woman would redeem man?), and (3) New Home (God's banishment of Adam and Eve from Eden was actually a tremendous act of mercy?).  A lot of great information in this study!  Join us!

Genesis Lesson 19: The Great HOPE of Man {Most Important Prophecy in Bible! Plus a Jet-Tour History from the Fall to the Resurrection}

Genesis 3:15

THE MOST IMPORTANT PROPHECY IN SCRIPTURE is something for which all mankind should TRULY BE THANKFUL!!

This entire lesson is on one verse, called "The Proto-evangelium" (meaning "The First Gospel").  It is God's promise to mankind after the Fall of the ultimate coming and victory of a Redeemer, born of a virgin (a woman's "Seed").  This single verse contains the beginning and the germ of all Biblical prophecy!  It is critical to an understanding of the "conflict of the ages" fought both in the heavens and on earth.  It is this conflict that provides the key to unlocking the mystery of the ultimate purpose of history.

Look with us in this study of Genesis 3:15 at (1) Two Enemies, (2) To Seeds, and (3) Two Bruisings.  Also included is a "jet tour" history lesson from the Fall to the Resurrection!!

Genesis Lesson 18: The Judgment of Man {Adam Plays Hide-and-Seek and the Blame Game}

Genesis 3:9-19

We look at the attributes of grace, mercy, and unconditional love manifested by the Lord God as He began His redemptive work of seeking and saving that which is lost!  We begin our discussion of what is commonly referred to as "The Curse" - God's judgment for the sin of Adam and the impact of his sin on the animal kingdom, on all his human descendants, and on nature itself. 

Note:  God's curse on Satan is discussed in Lesson #19.

Learn about "the hide-and-seek" and "blame" games played by our first parents!  Learn the specifics of God's "curse" on the woman, the man,  the serpent (not Satan), and nature.  Learn also about "The Regeneration" (aka "The Times of Restitution of all Things") and when it will occur.  

 

Genesis Lesson 17: The Fall of Man {Adam was NOT Deceived, so WHY did he sin?}

In complete contrast to the theory of evolution (that man is slowly evolving upward from the insignificant, microscopic piece of protoplasm from which he supposedly began), the Bible teaches that man has devolved from initial perfection.  In fact, the Biblical principle concerning man's devolvement is that evil men wax worse and worse (II Tim. 3:13).

In Lesson #16, we discussed the fall of Satan to earth; in this lesson, we discuss the Fall of man on earth.  In Lesson #16, we talked about the temptation of Eve; now we consider the tragedy of Adam, for it was his fall that resulted in the curse of sin and death that has affected the entire world and mankind.

From the Christological perspective, it is fascinating to see why Adam deliberately sinned against God, for he WAS NOT deceived, as Eve had been (see I Timothy 2:14).   

Genesis Lesson 16: The Temptation of Man {Why did God create Satan? Why did He allow Satan into Eden?}

No one can understand human nature without taking into consideration the most basic law of humanity, "The Law of Sin".  Genesis chapter 3 contains the record of man's Fall.  It is the only reasonable explanation for the depraved human nature and life in a sin-cursed world full of evil, decay, and death.  Genesis 3 presents the only adequate explanation for the universal presence of sin.

This is A MUST lesson for every serious Bible student.  Why did God permit Satan's entrance into the Garden?  Who is Satan?  Why would a wise, good, loving God create the Devil?  Why doesn't He simply destroy him?  [Answers to those last two questions, "He didn't, but He will".]

In this lesson, we discuss "The Devil in Eden" (His descent to Earth and His disguise in Eden) and "The Dialogue with Evil" (Eve's spiral downward as she doubted and distorted God's Word and listened to Satan's flat-out denial of God's Word and his false depiction of God's character).

Genesis Lesson 15: A Birth Day Gift for Adam {Woe! Man!} Christological Significance of Adam’s Deep Sleep and Rib

"Woe! Man!" was (in effect) Adam's response to the Lord's amazing birth day gift to him!

The Lord God did not declare everything He created to be "very good" until He created woman (examine the text if you don't believe me).  Man was only half His plan for the human race; Eve was in the mind of God long before she was in the arms of Adam!

There is no way on earth to compromise the theory of evolution with the Biblical creation account of woman, so those who try to push their ideas of what they call "Progressive Creationism" or "Theistic Evolutionism" need to absolutely rethink their position.

We discuss the Christology of Adam's deep sleep and the Hebrew meaning of the word "rib" - out of and from which came his "bride" - and the institution of marriage (think of Christ and His Church)!  This is a fascinating lesson with a lot of truths you may never have thought about previously.

Genesis Lesson 14: Creation vs. Evolution {Garden of Eden} A Paradise, A Project, A Prohibition

Genesis 2:8-17 

A Special Paradise (with one special Garden, two special trees, and four special rivers), a Specific Project, and a Single Prohibition!  

The name "Eden" comes from "edhen," a Hebrew word that means "delight".  A "garden" is a place enclosed, protected, and sheltered.  Eden was the place in which the garden was planted.  It had a special delight for man, not so much because it was more perfect than the rest of Earth (which was all perfect at that time), but because God specifically made it for man's delight.   Matthew Henry said, "God did not put man in a palace made of silver and gold, nor in a house made of ivory, but in the most beautiful and artful place of all: nature - a Garden furnished and adorned by God Himself".  

We discuss so much more it is impossible to put it all down in this brief description!  You just need to listen yourself.

Genesis Lesson 13: Creation vs. Evolution {Seventh Day} - When did Lucifer fall? The Significant Sabbath Rest. The Amazing Human Body.

Genesis 2:1-7

The second chapter of Genesis is not only a record of the seventh and final day of the Creation Week, but it provides some details about the prehistoric earth and the creation of the first man and woman not included in the first chapter.  The chapters do not contradict, as some have claimed - and we discuss why they do not.

We also discuss the timing of Lucifer's fall.  We talk about why God created everything in stages, rather than all at once, and the answer is interesting and another testimony to His care and concern for man.  From this look at Genesis 2:1-7, we talk at length about the Sabbath rest.  Also included in this study is a brief look at how wondrously the human body is - and what a testimony to the Creator we are!

 

Genesis Lesson 12: Creation vs. Evolution {No More Monkey Business} A Vital Lesson for Entire Family!

Okay, you HAVE to listen to this message, "No More Monkey Business"!  In this critical lesson, we give documented evidence about the various  hominids or "ape men" (aka "missing links" between apes and humans) that have been used by evolutionists in their attempt to disprove the Biblical account of man's origin, from God.  We discuss, with documentation, the truth about all these pieces of "evidence" (i.e. Ramapithecus, Australopithecus, Peking Man, Homo Erectus, Java Man, Piltdown Man, Neanderthal Man, Nebraska Man, etc.).  This is AN EYE-OPENER, for this world has been greatly "hoaxed"! 

We also discuss and analyze another great hoax that has been put upon the world - the age of the earth!  

This is a lesson for you, your children, and grandchildren!  It is time for the truth to be known!

Genesis Lesson 11: Creation vs. Evolution {Sixth Day} Four Ways Man Differs from Animal World

Genesis 1:26-41

This is the account of the crowning summit of God's creation, man.  We discuss the inter-Trinitarian conversation of Genesis 1:26 ("Let Us make man is Our image," which proves God's multiple Persons in One Godhead (we analyze why He was not speaking to anyone outside Himself).  Then, we look at His creation of man, His commission to man (i.e. man's privilege to reproduce and his privilege of responsibility, called "the cultural mandate"), His cuisine for man, and His closing creation comment (1:31).

Included in this study are four ways in which man differs from the animal world.  We discuss what it means that we (humanity) are made in the image of God.

Genesis Lesson 10: Creation vs. Evolution {Sixth Day} Animals that Baffle Evolutionists!

Genesis 1:24, 25a

This is Part I of the sixth day's creation activity regarding land animals.  We discuss all kinds of amazing creatures and how they testify of an Intelligent Creator.  Share this lesson with the whole family - together learn how God's creatures, from the smallest to the largest, testify against evolution!  Learn about the incredibly complex self-defense system of the Bombardier Beetle, the mimicry phenomenon of many creatures, which baffle evolutionists and testify to a Creator.  Learn about the sophisticated vibration sensors of moles, the upside-down pouch of the female wombat, the communication frequencies of frogs, the hibernation process of ground squirrels, the duckbill platypus, the elephant's built-in cooling system, the incredible neck of the giraffe, fire-breathing "dragons," and much more!

Genesis Lesson 9: Creation vs. Evolution {Fifth Day} The Fossil Record re Dinosaurs. How DNA defies Evolution

Genesis 1:20-23

In this lesson on God's fifth day of the Creation Week, we discuss how the Biblical record of creation clashes "head on" with the naturalistic theories of origins.  There can be no compromise between the two.  We talk about Louis Pasteur (a creationist) and his work to prove the fallacy of the spontaneous combustion concept.  We also discuss the important Law of Biogenesis!  

How does the creation account of Genesis, as well as the Book of Job, tell us dinosaurs did not live on millions of years before people?  And how does the fossil record provide evidence that men and dinosaurs lived contemporaneously?

We discuss the amazing DNA super-molecule, which stores all the coded hereditary information for every living organism (and how it defies evolution).   Ever hear of the cleaning symbiosis arrangement between certain creatures?  It is a process that would never have "survived" the "trial and error" process offered by evolutionists!  What about the migratory instincts of many fish and fowl?  Again, it  totally disallows a piecemeal "trial and error" evolutionary process over millions of years.  

If man wants to truly understand where life came from, he merely has to look around at creation; it will tell him in abundant ways!  "But now ask the beasts, and they will teach you; and the birds of the air, and they will tell you; or speak to the earth, and it will teach you; and the fish of the sea will explain it to you!" (Job 12:7, 8).

 

Genesis Lesson 8: Creation vs. Evolution {Fourth Day} Learn about Big Bang, Fission, and Steady-State Theories of Evolution

Genesis 1:14-19. 

God created the heavenly bodies on the fourth day of the Creation Week.  This means the sun was created after the earth according to Biblical Creationism.  This directly contradicts evolutionary teaching that the earth was either thrown off from the sun or that both the earth and sun condensed from a huge "protosun" of whirling dust and gas billions of years ago.  We discuss why any attempt to compromise creationism with evolutionism does NOT work!

Also discussed in this lesson are the following Cosmogonies (evolutionary theories about the origin of the universe):  The Big Bang Theory, The Fission Theory, and The Steady-State Theory".  We also discuss how the two laws of thermodynamics, "the Law of Mass-Energy Conservation" and "the Law of Energy Decay" refute any theory that the universe somehow randomly created itself - that matter and energy came from nowhere.

Genesis Lesson 7: Creation vs. Evolution {Third Day} Filling the Earth!

Genesis 1:9-13. 

God finished His formation work and began His filling work!  See what He filled it with in this lesson!

Genesis Lesson 6: Creation vs. Evolution {Second Day} - The Tri-une aspects of our World!

Genesis 1:6-8

This lesson is on the Spirit's inspired account of the second day of the Creation Week.  We discuss how absolutely perfect this planet we call "Home" is!  Everyone should be thankfully amazed about the incredible details that had to "come together" for Earth to be a livable place.  Forethought, planning, and design are everywhere abundantly evident!  We talk about the creation of the atmosphere and hydrosphere of our uniquely designed planet.  

We also mention more "tri-unities" in our world - you will be excited to realize how MANY there are!  I guarantee you won't hear about them from the secular world, for they present too much obvious evidence of their Tri-une Creator!

Genesis Lesson 5: Creation vs. Evolution {First Day} - We Discuss ”The Day-Age Theory/Progressive Creationism

Genesis 1:3-5.

We discuss God's first set of "Ten Commandments" and His principle of separation (found from day one of creation until the end of Revelation), and the "Day-Age Theory".  We discuss what the light of day one was, since the sun was not created until day four.  We also discuss some of the vast differences between belief in Creationism from Evolutionism and how it is literally impossible to attempt to compromise the two in such ways proposed by "The Gap Theory," "Progressive Creationism," and "Theistic Evolutionism".   

The stages of creation found in Genesis chapter one follow a natural sequence; each creative act was necessary before the next creative act could take place.  It was all done in a precise and orderly process.  Man could not have survived if the order of creation was rearranged or in a different sequence. 

 

Genesis Lesson 4: Creation vs. Evolution {Triune Universe Created} - What about the Gap Theory?

Genesis 1:1b and 1:2. 

We discuss the creation of the heavens and Earth, giving a serious critique of two creation theories: 1.  The Gap Theory and 2. The Unshaped Earth Theory.  Also discussed is the Holy Spirit's part in the creative work - the movement of the Spirit is extremely fascinating when we discover the meaning of the Hebrew word for "move" in Genesis 1:2.

Genesis Lesson 3: Creation vs. Evolution {In the Beginning}

Genesis 1:1a 

This is the first in our "Creation versus Evolution" series.  It is packed with interesting and informative vital information found in simply half a verse: Genesis 1:1a.  If we are going to understand anything else in Scripture or in the world, we need to first understand the teaching of the first sentence of the Bible, for it answers the two most basic questions of humanity: when was the universe created? and where did the universe come from?

Learn how the first of many names for God used in the Scripture is a uni-plural proper noun - the name Elohim.  Elohim is plural, but is used with a singular verb ("created"); this testifies of a Tri-une Godhead.  We discuss how there is simply one alternative to believing in a Self-existent, eternal Creator God, and it is to believe in eternal matter.  However, the concept of eternal matter cannot go "hand-in-hand" with the scientific law of cause and effect, since random particles of matter could never, by themselves, generate a complex, orderly, intelligible world and universe, much less generate living persons who are able to apply intelligence to the understanding of the complex order of the universe!  Scientifically, the concept of eternal matter is impossible.   

Genesis Lesson 2: Introduction to Book of Beginnings {Includes a Fascinating Comparison of Genesis and Revelation}

In this second half of our Introduction to Genesis, the book of beginnings, we discuss the three main purposes for the book: the historical purpose, the spiritual purpose, and the Christological purpose (we have an entire series of finding "Christ in Genesis" - see podcast tag).  We also discuss many special features of this unique and all-important first book of God's Word (i.e. it is the book of the Creation account, of human ancestry, of the patriarchs, of Israel's beginning - and it begins to teach us about God's grace, His covenant promises, and man's pilgrimage of faith). 

In this study, we do a fascinating comparison between the first and last books of Scripture - the Book of Genesis and the Book of Revelation, and that amazing comparison surely shows how the whole of Scripture has one Divine Author!

Genesis Lesson 1: The Foundation of History

This is the first lesson in our study of the Book of Genesis, "the book of beginnings".  Genesis lays the foundation of history; it gives us the critical information needed to know about origins.  Genesis is "the seed plot of the Bible" because all "the forests" of Scripture find their beginning as "seedlings" in it.  Actually, it presents the beginning of everything in existence except God Himself (i.e. the origin of the universe, of order and complexity, of the atmosphere and hydrosphere, of life, of man, of marriage, of evil, of God's plan for salvation, of government, the nations and people groups, of the nation of Israel).

In this Part I of our Introduction to Genesis, in additional to discussing how the book is foundational to history, we talk about the author of the book (we discuss "The Documentary Hypothesis" which teaches that Moses was not the author - and why we disagree).  We also discuss the method involved in writing Genesis and the dating of the book (when it was written).

Ruth - Part II {An End Times’ Prophetic Perspective!}

Since Israel's return to her land, the Book of Ruth is now seen with even deeper prophetic significance than ever before.  It is far more than a picture of Christ and His redemptive love for His mostly-Gentile "Bride," the Church.  There are two additional "love stories" in this account; they are between Naomi and Ruth (i.e., Israel and the Church) and Boaz and Naomi (Christ's love and eventual restoration of Israel).  Find out the importance of Leviticus 23:22 - a verse that does not seem to belong in the middle of God's instructions regarding the seven Jewish feast days; yet it does fit - plus it connects us to the Book of Ruth!  SO MUCH NEW INSIGHT TO AN OLD, FAMILIAR STORY - YOU WILL LOVE THIS STUDY!

Book of Ruth - Part 1 {Three Love Stories in One}

Although you may be very familiar with the small Old Testament Book of Ruth, you will come away from this two-part study of it with a brand-new understanding of its prophetical significance.  There is so much more to be "gleaned" than a romantic, redemptive "love story" between Boaz and Ruth and how their relationship pictures Christ and the Church!  As history has progressed, new revelation from an old book has come to light! 

Acts Lesson 26: Stephen’s Martyrdom {A Standing Ovation!}

Stephen's message of Acts 7 was the masterpiece of a skilled artist painting pictures of Jesus Christ from Old Testament characters; it was the discourse of a Scriptural scholar, the keenly selective historical dissertation of a Spirit-filled prophet, and the work of a lethally skilled warrior using the two-edged sword of truth!  It was also Stephen's death warrant.  He had lived like Jesus, he had spoken like Jesus, and he was to die for Jesus.

Stephen, whose face glowed like that of an angel, was bound for Heaven.  There are causes worth dying for, and Stephen found the best.  He died for the sake of the only message on earth that saves the eternal souls of men, the Gospel of Christ.  Stephen was the first person to die for the truth of Jesus' atonement work.  When his spirit was about to depart from his body, he looked up to see the resurrected Lord standing on the right hand of God!  He was not in His seated "finished-work of redemption" position!  It was the body language of the Redeemer saying, "Well done, thou good and faithful servant"!  Stephen finished his course; he ran the race to the finish line and was the first to cross - and the Lord gave him a standing ovation!

Acts Lesson 25: Stephen’s Message VIII {Israel’s Indictment}

This is the conclusion of the longest sermon in the Book of Acts - and likely the most important.  Stephen had reviewed Israel's history and the great contributions of some of her most honored leaders (Abraham, Joseph, Moses, Joshua, David, and Solomon).  The High Court of Israel had gotten a quick overview of her history, which the men permitted Stephen to present because they loved to hear about themselves.  However, slowly, his selective presentation started to get uncomfortable as they began to realize where his focus on their "rejection of deliverers" pattern of behavior was going.  Was he really going to indict them for having rejected (and killed) Jesus?!  Would he dare to go that far!?

Yes, he would, even though he knew it would likely cost him his life.  Realizing his listeners were reaching the end of their tolerance of him and were about to make him stop, Stephen catapulted into his application-rebuke - and it was BOLD and BLUNT!  After calling them "stiff-necked" and uncircumcised in heart and ears, He told them, ". . . ye do always resist the Holy Ghost: as your fathers did, so do ye" (Acts 7:51)!  He also accused them of the betrayal and murder of "the Just One" - and they knew he spoke of Jesus and used for Him a title only reserved for God!

Stephen's phenomenal use of his two-edged sword, the Word of God, hit its target.  The Sanhedrin Council members "were cut to the heart" (7:54).  Their hypocritically pious masks were torn off and they were exposed for the false shepherds they were.  Yet, rather than repent, they gnashed their teeth in seething anger.  THEY had been the ones on trial, and they were guilty of having blasphemed everything God had ever given them!  They could not defend themselves, so they decided they would silence the one who spoke the truth about their depraved hearts.  Saul of Tarsus was among them; little did they know he would soon pick-up where Stephen left off!  Truth cannot be silenced, much as men might try.

Acts Lesson 24: Stephen’s Message VII {The Temple}

Acts 7:44-50; Stephen's defense against the charge that he had blasphemed the Temple.  Tensions are beginning to rise in the Council members listening to his powerful message!  He is coming close to his conclusion.  Stephen had evidently spoken a lot (in his past debates in the Greek-speaking synagogues) about the One (Jesus) Who was greater than the Temple, which is why he was accused of blaspheming the Temple.  In his sermon, Stephen stressed how the Tabernacle (later the Temple) served as a witness of that which was Greater!  It was a picture-type witness of the day when the Messiah would tabernacle with men and open the way for God to bring a redeemed people boldly into His holy Presence to tabernacle (dwell) with Him forever!

Stephen's point was that he was not blaspheming the current Temple by his understanding that its purpose was ended, and it would give place to the next stage: God dwelling in His people.

Acts Lesson 23: Stephen’s Message VI {The Law}

In Acts 7:38 to 43, Stephen shifted from demonstrating his respect for Moses to demonstrating his respect for the Law.  He was again claiming "not guilty" to the charge brought against him that he blasphemed the Law.  He affirmed his absolute faith in the Law by declaring God was its Author and Moses its recipient.

In summarizing the final 40-year period of Moses' life, Stephen went on the offensive.  He reminded the Council how quickly Israel had turned her heart back to Egypt and her "gods" once Moses ascended Mount Sinai.  With him out of sight, they readily dismissed the very one who delivered them.  Stephen's point was that this was exactly what Israel's religious rulers did.  The One Who came and did the work of deliverance for them was now also "out of sight" - for He had ascended much higher than Mount Sinai!  They turned from the Prophet like unto Moses, their Messiah, and were, in effect, clinging to the works of Aaron's hands, pictured by their whole priestly system of Judaism.  With the completed atonement work of Christ, Judaism was a dead religion.  The reality had come, so the patterns and shadows were no longer needed.  But the hearts of Israel's leadership were focused on the world (Egypt) - and Stephen said, they "rejoiced in the works of their own hands" (Acts 7:41).  They did not worship God; they worshipped a "god" of their own making.

It was the members of Israel's High Court who broke the Law, just as their forefathers had done at Sinai and throughout their entire history!

Acts Lesson 22: Stephen’s Message V {Moses' Divine Commission. Also how the Burning Bush Symbolizes Israel}

In Stephen's historical narrative regarding Moses, he came to his Divine Commission at the Burning Bush.  Learn how the thorny bush is a picture of Israel!

Stephen's message about Moses was powerfully applied to the Lord Jesus and Israel's rejection of Him when he got to verses 35 to 37.  Dr. John Phillips wrote that Stephen "skillfully dropped his brush and pallet and picked up his sword" as he brought home to the Council all he had been saying about Moses in light of Jesus!  With Moses, God honored the one Israel had rejected.  He sent them the very one they had rejected to be their ruler and deliverer.  His implication was that the Jews had done to Jesus what their forefathers did to Moses.

It is often said, by Jewish people today and others, as well, that if Jesus was their Messiah, the leaders of Israel would have known and recognized Him.  However, that would not be consistent with her spiritual leaders throughout her history.  This was the point Stephen was making in Acts 7.  It was their typical response NOT to accept the men God sent to deliver them, as exemplified with Joseph and Moses - and how God's prophets were treated.  What they did to Jesus was exceedingly more serious, for in having rejected Him, they rejected the Great I AM of the Burning Bush - they only One Who provides spiritual deliverance!

Acts Lesson 21: Stephen’s Message IV {Moses; Two Deliverances}

As Stephen did with Joseph, he likewise did with Moses - he preached Christ (without mentioning His name) by his selective summation of Moses' life (his initial rejection and eventual acceptance as Israel's deliverer).  He wanted them to see that Jesus was very much the Fulfillment of Moses' words about the Messiah being "a Prophet . . . like unto me" (Deut. 18:15).

In this lesson, Stephen got into the second phase of Moses' life (his second 40-year life segment), when he made his first "visit" to his people as their deliverer and was rejected and then vanished from sight (presumed dead) as he lived with the Gentiles (Midianites).

Stephen's underlying message to the Jews of his day was that unless they wanted to continue to follow the pattern of their forefathers, who betrayed and rejected the ones (Joseph and Moses) who God providentially "raised from the dead" to be their deliverers, they should repent for having done exactly the same with Jesus!

Acts Lesson 20: Stephen’s Message III {Moses, the Deliverer Delivered}

In the first 16 verses of his amazingly brilliant sermon, Stephen covered Israel's history from Abraham in Mesopotamia to Joseph in Egypt (a fascinating way to attack the Jews' proud obsession with the land, as well as their arrogance toward Jews who lived outside the land).  In his second sermon "division," he dealt with the historical period of Moses and the Law.  In verses 17 to 43, he actually covered the circumstances prior to the birth of Moses all the way to the time of the Babylonian Captivity.

As Stephen did with Joseph (Lesson 19), Israel's first deliverer, he did likewise with Israel's next historical deliverer, Moses - he used them both as types of Christ (which they are).  He knew the Jews would not interrupt him as he spoke of Moses, for they thought of no one more highly than him (they elevated him far too much).

The whole idea of picture-types of the Messiah having been prophetically revealed in the lives of their most honored historical figures was a completely new concept to the Jews.  Stephen showed them, via his summary-narration of the life of Moses, that the similarities between Moses and Jesus are nothing short of having been divinely orchestrated.

Take out your Christ-colored glasses as we take a train-ride (not a jet-tour as with Joseph) through the life of Moses!

Acts Lesson 19: Stephen’s Message II {Jet-Tour of Life of Joseph}

In his purposely selective account of Jewish history (which kept the attention of the Council members, for they loved their own story), Stephen was making his defense against the accusations that he had blasphemed Moses, God, the Temple, and the Law.  In doing so, he was also (unknown to them, at first) building his case of indictment against his Jewish audience!  He was exposing their unjustified physical obsession with the land (Israel), the Law, and the Temple.  Rather than humbly acknowledging these were great privileges to be used wisely for God's glory in their witness of Him to the rest of the world, they proudly turned them into their false triune "god"!  They had come to view them as pillars of proof for their heavenly security!

The most important thing Stephen was accomplishing (yet unknown) in his powerful sermon was presenting the High Council of Israel with evidence for faith in Jesus!  He did this by using several key figures from Israel's history: Joseph and Moses.  In this lesson, which is Stephen's jet-tour account of the life of Joseph, the Council members heard for the first time the Biblical account of Joseph used as a graphic illustration of their own evil, envious betrayal and murder of Jesus!

Acts Lesson 18: Stephen’s Message I {Abraham of Mesopotamia}

Stephen had "an irresistible ministry"!  He was a Scripture-scholar, extremely skilled and astute in using the Old Testament to defend his faith in Jesus.  He was a Christian apologist ("apologia" is a Greek word that refers to "a speech in defense of something").

Stephen's POWERFUL message of Acts chapter 7 was basically a last major appeal to the leadership of Israel (the Sanhedrin Council) to accept Jesus as the long-promised Messiah.  Stephen was brought for trial before the Council, falsely accused of four things: speaking blasphemous words (1) against Moses, (2) against God, (3) against the Temple, and (4) against the Law.  While he stood before his opponents and their lying accusations, his face was glowing with the righteousness of truth and the glory of God!  Amazing.  By visibly putting His "glory stamp" on Stephen's face, the Lord Jesus was showing forth His approval of the message he had been proclaiming in the synagogues and which he was about to proclaim in Acts 7.

Stephen's message was his response to the evil high priest's question, "Are these things so?" - referring to the four accusations against him.  In verses 2 to 50, he managed to keep his hostile listeners' attention by talking about their favorite subject: themselves and their heritage!  Yet, as he reviewed the major periods of Jewish history, he indirectly was responding to the false and accusations against him and building his case against them!   His sermon is brilliant on so many levels!  It was completely irrefutable, and cost him his life.  

In this lesson, Stephen began his "history lesson" regarding Israel's period of the patriarchs by speaking about Abraham.  You have to listen to how absolutely clever Stephen was in using "father" Abraham to convict the Jews of their own sinful prejudices!

Acts Lesson 17: Stephen’s Ministry

This is the first of ten messages on one of the most influential men for the furtherance of the Gospel of Christ who ever lived, Stephen.  There is a reason why more information is recorded in the eternal Word of God on the martyrdom of Stephen than any other man's death except the Lord Jesus - that reason is twofold.  First, Stephen's words and witness had an IRRESISTIBLE impact on the heart, soul, and mind of Saul of Tarsus (who became Paul, human author of about half of the New Testament).  Second, it was Stephen's martyrdom that resulted in the great First Century persecution of the Church in Jerusalem, which forced Christians into the next two regions of Christ's Great Commission, Judea and Samaria.

Stephen is my ultimate hero when it comes to understanding the importance of using the Old Testament to preach Jesus Christ!  He is my hero when it comes to boldness in proclaiming Christ to a very hostile audience!  He is my hero when it comes to giving his all for his Lord and Saviour and doing it with grace and forgiveness of those who killed him.  Stephen well deserved the STANDING OVATION he received from the Lord Jesus!  I cannot wait to meet him one day.

Acts Lesson 16: Growing Pains and Gains

The Early Church grows both in numbers and in spiritual maturity, which is not without it's "pains"! 

With growth by multiplication comes “growing pains”; more potential problems arise whenever bigger numbers of people are involved.  With growth, there is always the need to make adjustments; there is the need for the spiritual leadership to wisely delegate the workload of the ministry with others who are spiritually qualified. As Moses learned through the wisdom of his father-in-law Jethro, he could not single-handedly “do it all” (Exodus 18:13-26), so the twelve Apostles discovered they could and should not attend to all the multi-faceted aspects of the ministry alone. Fortunately, the Early Church was led by twelve Spirit-filled men, who rightly handled the first threat to the beautiful unity of the Church with God-given wisdom. 

What the problem was and how the Apostles took care of it is the subject matter of this lesson, entitled, “Growing Pains and Gains”. The outline for this look at Acts 6:1-7 consists of two parts:  I.  “Slighted Widows” (6:1-4) and II. “Seven Workers” (6:5-7).

Acts Lesson 15: Happy to Suffer for Jesus!

In this lesson, we are brought back to the issue of whether it is right to obey God when His commandments come into direct conflict with those of men in authority over believers.  Peter and John had asked this question as they stood in trial before the High Court Council of Israel, but it had not been answered.  However, the Lord Himself answered the question through the series of events that followed their release!  When the men, with the other Apostles, returned to "preaching Jesus," all twelve were arrested for their disobedience.  But a God-sent angel released them from prison, and they immediately returned to "preaching Jesus" - plus performing all manner of mighty miracles in His name.   The Lord was providing the answer to the question of obeying Him over men when their commandments contradict!  He also gave a direct answer through the mouth of Peter, who spoke on behalf of all the Apostles, when he said (again standing in trial before the Council), "We ought to obey God rather then men" (5:29).

The high priest and others went into a rage and wanted to slay all twelve men!  God intervened by providentially using one of their own members, Gamaliel.  His words spared the men from being killed, although they were each severely beaten.  What the Council members saw after the men were flogged absolutely amazed them!  The men were beaming with joy!  They were thrilled to have been "rewarded" for knowing (in a small way) the fellowship of Christ's sufferings!  They were "Happy to Suffer for Jesus"!

Find out what the Apostles did right after they were beaten and then released!  It is such a strong testimony to us today!

Acts Lesson 14: Evangelism Explosion

Satan's use of persecution in the arrest of Peter and James by the High Court of Israel had not worked to silence either the Apostles or the Church!  The threats of the religious rulers only succeeded in empowering and emboldening all the early believers even more than before they were persecuted!  Thus, the Evil One tried-on another disguise.  He went from being the roaring lion to the deceiving serpent when he attempted to destroy the unity of purity of the Church from with (the sin of Ananias and Sapphira - see previous lesson).

However, the persecution of the Church by Satan was mightily used by the Lord for her overall good; she was now in possession of great power, great grace, and great fear [of Him] (Acts 4:33, 5:5, 11).  The great fear of the Lord, due to the deaths of Ananias and Sapphira, caused the Early Church to be even more effective for Christ!  The result was that multitudes both of men and women were being added to the Lord!  In other words, there was an "Evangelism Explosion"!

In this lesson, all the Apostles are arrested for disobeying the Council's threat not to preach Jesus!  They are liberated from prison by an angel.  What did they do upon being so miraculously released?  Did they run for cover in the Upper Room?  No!  They went straight back to the Temple where they were arrested, and stood up and preached Jesus!

Acts Lesson 13: Sin From Within {Ananias and Sapphria; Why were they struck dead?}

A very, very interesting lesson!  This is the first recorded serious intrusion of "Sin from Within" the Church!  Learn why this lesson is really "the tale of two men, Barnabas and Ananias"?

What did the married couple of this account do to cause both their lives to be taken by God Himself?  Were they saved (true believers) or unsaved?  How do Ananias and Sapphira compare with Adam and Eve?

Peter's word to Ananias of Acts 5:4a repudiate those who claim the Early Church was practicing communism (no private property; an enforcement of communal property)!  Find out how!

 

Acts Lesson 12: How the Church is to Respond to Persecution

In this important lesson on Acts 4:23-33, we learn, by example, how a Spirit-filled Church responds to persecution!  In the previous lesson, we had an example of how Spirit-filled individual Christians respond to opponents of the Gospel.  Now, we are given the example on how the entire body of believers corporately should respond to the persecution of those in the Body of Christ, which is a threat on all of them.

What is our response to the pressures being increasingly brought on Christians in our world (and nation) today?  Do we magnify the power of the Lord in our responses or do we magnify the enemy?  Are we filled with anxiety and fear and anger and resentment?  If so, we are magnifying evil men way out of proportion to the power and authority and sovereignty of our Almighty God!

Acts Lesson 11: The Persecution Begins {Good Lesson for our Day!}

While Peter (accompanied by John and the healed lame man) was still in the midst of his powerful second sermon (Acts 3:12-26), he was interrupted by the sudden appearance of "the priests . . . the captain of the Temple [guard] . . . and the Sadducees" (4:1).  They came to arrest both Peter and John (likely also the former lame man).  These enemies of Christ were not only furious that His followers were preaching His resurrection, but doing so in broad daylight in the Temple!  Interestingly, in Acts, it is primarily the Sadducees who take the lead in persecuting the Church.  This is because their erroneous theology taught there is no resurrection of the dead!

In this lesson (Acts 4:1-22), we not only discuss the interruption of Peter's sermon (the arrest), but the interrogation he and John faced the next morning before the Sanhedrin Council, the inspiration of Peter's remarkable speech in answer to that interrogation, the immense impression his speech made on the Council, and then their intention to silence them with threats to never speak or teach in the name of Jesus again!

The response of the two Apostles to the threat of those in authority over them to never preach of Jesus was fantastic!!  They would obey the Higher Authority, God!  Anti-Christian governments and powerful institutions are increasingly trying to stop the spread of the Gospel message of Christ Jesus - we need to follow the example of Peter and John!

Acts Lesson 10: Second Church Sermon {Peter’s Sharpened Sword}

The healed lame man (see Lesson 9) was not only immediately very public about his over-flowing joy, but also about his praise to God and his thankfulness to the men the Lord used to perform his miracle.  Those men were Peter and John.  The Apostolic sign-miracle was divinely orchestrated to draw a large, very willing-to-listen crowd to whom Peter than had an opportunity to preach "The Second Church Sermon.  The theme of the first sermon was that God made Jesus Who Israel had crucified both Lord and Christ (2:36).  The theme of this second sermon was the God wanted to bless the people through His Son Jesus by turning them from your iniquities (3:26).

In just seven verses, Peter again yielded his new sword (the Word of God), under the leading of the Spirit, to exalt the name of Jesus.  He referred to Jesus as "the Holy One," "the Just," "the Prince of life," "Christ," and a Prophet of the Lord like unto Moses.  The sermon was Christ-centered, Scriptural, highly theological, bold yet compassionately confrontational, and applicational.  Peter's sermon was only seven verses long because it was interrupted by the sudden appearance of the priests with the captain of the Temple guard and the Sadducees.  They came collectively to arrest both Peter and John (and maybe even the former lame man with them).

Acts Lesson 9: Greater Than Silver or Gold {New Life for the Lame}

This lesson is on Acts 3:1-11, Peter's healing (with John) of a lame man (who had never walked) at the Beautiful Gate, begging for alms.  To his plea, Peter spoke the famous words, "Silver and gold have I none, but such as I have give I thee.  In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth rise up and walk" - and the man who had never stood on his own legs before, much less know how to walk, immediately leaped up, walked, went into the Temple walking, leaping, and praising God!  Isn't it wonderful the former lame man knew to whom the praise belonged?  He did not kiss the hand of Peter; nor did he even praise Peter.  His praise went to the Lord, Who the man knew and understood had done the healing through His servants! 

"The power was Christ's, but the hand was Peter's" (Thomas Walker).  This was the Lord continuing His work on earth through His Church by His Spirit.  This was an Apostolic miracle.  This miracle confirmed the great sermon he had just preached (his first, and the first of the Church Age).  Remember - the miracle confirmed the message, and it was the message that produced the fruit!