Small Steps with God

77 - Unpacking Bible Difficulties

We investigate the rich and complex world of the Bible, exploring its many facets through scholarly insight and personal reflection.

Inspired by Father Mike Schmitz, we discuss various ways to engage with the Bible, whether as historical documentation, wisdom literature, or a collection of parables and stories.

Understanding these perspectives enriches our approach and deepens our connection with the text.

The Significance of Context and Genre: Delve into the importance of recognizing the genre of Biblical texts. Is it a poem meant to inspire, a historical account, or a parable teaching a moral lesson?

The Role of Translations: How does translation affect our understanding of the Bible? We discuss the nuances lost and gained in the transition from Hebrew and Greek to modern languages.

Personal Reflections and Spiritual Insights: The hosts share personal stories about how the Bible challenges and changes them, illustrating the scripture’s relevance in contemporary life.

Conclusion: Engaging with the Bible is not just about academic knowledge; it’s a personal journey that shapes our understanding of faith, morality, and ourselves.

Download blank templates, schedules here:
https://schmern2.notion.site/Downloads-Template-Word-and-Excel-Schedule-67439d14449d4c20bfe00efe069f78b8

Logos RAMPS Workflow - RAMPS Bible Study - The Bible in Small Steps in Logos Workflows

Jill’s Links
https://jillfromthenorthwoods.com/

https://www.youtube.com/@smallstepswithgod

https://www.buymeacoffee.com/smallstepspod

https://twitter.com/schmern

Email the podcast at [email protected]

“Scripture quotations are from the ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), © 2001 by Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved. The ESV text may not be quoted in any publication made available to the public by a Creative Commons license. The ESV may not be translated in whole or in part into any other language.”

Scripture quotations marked CSB have been taken from the Christian Standard Bible®, Copyright © 2017 by Holman Bible Publishers. Used by permission. Christian Standard Bible® and CSB® are federally registered trademarks of Holman Bible Publishers.

“The Scriptures quoted are from the NET Bible® http://netbible.com copyright ©1996, 2019 used with permission from Biblical Studies Press, L.L.C. All rights reserved”.

Bible Maps and images used with permission from https://www.bible.ca/maps/ or https://www.freebibleimages.org/illustrations/bj-ot-world/

Copyright 2014 Faithlife / Logos Bible Software. Free for non-commercial use by individuals or organizations. May be presented before live audiences; may be posted on social media; may be re-distributed. May not be used commercially. May not be modified or included in published works without permission; contact [email protected]. Attribute as: “Copyright 2014 Faithlife / Logos Bible Software ()”.

By choosing to watch this video or listen to this podcast, you acknowledge that you are doing so of your own free will. The content shared here reflects personal experiences and opinions and is intended for informational and inspirational purposes only. I am not a licensed healthcare provider, psychiatrist, or counselor. Any advice or suggestions offered should not be considered a substitute for professional medical or mental health advice. You are solely responsible for any decisions or actions you take based on this content.

76 - The Sweet Joys in Life

In today’s episode, we delve into Margaret Feinberg’s captivating book, “Scouting the Divine: Searching for God in Wine, Wool, and Wild Honey,” a journey that intertwines the ancient world of agriculture with profound spiritual insights. Feinberg invites us to explore the biblical narrative through the lens of farming, viticulture, and beekeeping, revealing the deep connections between divine craftsmanship and the bounty of the land.
We explore the significance of the “land of milk and honey” in the Bible, a metaphor for prosperity and God’s promises, and how this phrase resonates with those deeply rooted in agriculture. Through conversations with farmers and vintners, Feinberg uncovers the artistry in farming and the rich symbolism of honey and wine in the scriptures, illustrating the sweetness of life and the richness of God’s provisions.
Our discussion extends to the practical and spiritual aspects of beekeeping, the abundance provided by milk, and the health benefits of honey, showcasing the interconnectedness of food, health, spirituality, and community. This episode invites listeners to ponder the divine significance of the food on their plates and the profound insights agriculture offers into our faith and daily lives.
Join us as we journey through the landscapes of “Scouting the Divine,” rediscovering the sacredness of the land, the nourishment it provides, and the spiritual lessons embedded within the soil and the harvest. Let’s embrace the small steps through the harvest, finding God in the everyday elements of life and appreciating the divine connections present in agriculture.

Download blank templates, schedules here:
https://schmern2.notion.site/Downloads-Template-Word-and-Excel-Schedule-67439d14449d4c20bfe00efe069f78b8

Logos RAMPS Workflow - RAMPS Bible Study - The Bible in Small Steps in Logos Workflows

Jill’s Links
https://jillfromthenorthwoods.com/

https://www.youtube.com/@smallstepswithgod

https://www.buymeacoffee.com/smallstepspod

https://twitter.com/schmern

Email the podcast at [email protected]

“Scripture quotations are from the ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), © 2001 by Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved. The ESV text may not be quoted in any publication made available to the public by a Creative Commons license. The ESV may not be translated in whole or in part into any other language.”

Scripture quotations marked CSB have been taken from the Christian Standard Bible®, Copyright © 2017 by Holman Bible Publishers. Used by permission. Christian Standard Bible® and CSB® are federally registered trademarks of Holman Bible Publishers.

“The Scriptures quoted are from the NET Bible® http://netbible.com copyright ©1996, 2019 used with permission from Biblical Studies Press, L.L.C. All rights reserved”.

Bible Maps and images used with permission from https://www.bible.ca/maps/ or https://www.freebibleimages.org/illustrations/bj-ot-world/

Copyright 2014 Faithlife / Logos Bible Software. Free for non-commercial use by individuals or organizations. May be presented before live audiences; may be posted on social media; may be re-distributed. May not be used commercially. May not be modified or included in published works without permission; contact [email protected]. Attribute as: “Copyright 2014 Faithlife / Logos Bible Software ()”.

By choosing to watch this video or listen to this podcast, you acknowledge that you are doing so of your own free will. The content shared here reflects personal experiences and opinions and is intended for informational and inspirational purposes only. I am not a licensed healthcare provider, psychiatrist, or counselor. Any advice or suggestions offered should not be considered a substitute for professional medical or mental health advice. You are solely responsible for any decisions or actions you take based on this content.

75 - Harvesting Hope

In today’s episode, we dive into the fascinating intersection of farming and biblical teachings, inspired by Margaret Feinberg’s “Scouting the Divine.” We explore how the age-old practice of farming enriches our understanding of spiritual principles and offers tangible lessons on faith, stewardship, and community.
Key Highlights:

The Profession of Hope: Farming, at its core, is an act of faith. We discuss how this profession mirrors biblical narratives, emphasizing hope, patience, and the cyclical nature of growth and renewal.

Shepherding as a Model for Leadership: The intimate relationship between shepherd and sheep provides a powerful metaphor for God’s care and our responsibilities as leaders. We reflect on how this relationship teaches us about protection, knowing those we lead, and the importance of presence.

Sowing Seeds of Faith: The unpredictability of agriculture parallels our spiritual journeys. We delve into the parable of the sower, discussing how faith can thrive under various conditions and the role of the environment in spiritual growth.

First Fruits of Labor: Offering the first fruits is a testament to our trust in God’s provision. We examine this practice’s significance in cultivating a life of gratitude and reliance on God.

The Community Harvest: Finally, we explore the communal aspect of the harvest, drawing parallels between the collective effort in agriculture and the collaborative nature of spiritual growth within the church community.
Conclusion: Join us as we unearth the rich spiritual insights found in the rhythms of farming and shepherding. Let’s learn together how these age-old practices can inspire us to sow seeds of faith and hope in lives and communities.

Download blank templates, schedules here:
https://schmern2.notion.site/Downloads-Template-Word-and-Excel-Schedule-67439d14449d4c20bfe00efe069f78b8

Logos RAMPS Workflow - RAMPS Bible Study - The Bible in Small Steps in Logos Workflows

Jill’s Links
https://jillfromthenorthwoods.com/

https://www.youtube.com/@smallstepswithgod

https://www.buymeacoffee.com/smallstepspod

https://twitter.com/schmern

Email the podcast at [email protected]

“Scripture quotations are from the ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), © 2001 by Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved. The ESV text may not be quoted in any publication made available to the public by a Creative Commons license. The ESV may not be translated in whole or in part into any other language.”

Scripture quotations marked CSB have been taken from the Christian Standard Bible®, Copyright © 2017 by Holman Bible Publishers. Used by permission. Christian Standard Bible® and CSB® are federally registered trademarks of Holman Bible Publishers.

“The Scriptures quoted are from the NET Bible® http://netbible.com copyright ©1996, 2019 used with permission from Biblical Studies Press, L.L.C. All rights reserved”.

Bible Maps and images used with permission from https://www.bible.ca/maps/ or https://www.freebibleimages.org/illustrations/bj-ot-world/

Copyright 2014 Faithlife / Logos Bible Software. Free for non-commercial use by individuals or organizations. May be presented before live audiences; may be posted on social media; may be re-distributed. May not be used commercially. May not be modified or included in published works without permission; contact [email protected]. Attribute as: “Copyright 2014 Faithlife / Logos Bible Software ()”.

By choosing to watch this video or listen to this podcast, you acknowledge that you are doing so of your own free will. The content shared here reflects personal experiences and opinions and is intended for informational and inspirational purposes only. I am not a licensed healthcare provider, psychiatrist, or counselor. Any advice or suggestions offered should not be considered a substitute for professional medical or mental health advice. You are solely responsible for any decisions or actions you take based on this content.

74 - The Meaning of the Seder and Jesus

The celebration of Passover Seder and its connection to the story of Jesus. We explored the various elements of the Passover meal and how they symbolize different aspects of the Jewish people’s escape from Egypt. The reclining posture symbolizes freedom, while the yeast-free dishes represent the haste of their flight. The Passover Seder’s rich symbolism is truly fascinating, and we also noted the role of a lamb in the historical Passover, which can be seen as a foreshadowing of Jesus, the Lamb of God.

In the second part, we discussed how the elements of the Passover Seder are echoed in Christian beliefs. We saw this in the wine that represents the water turning to blood, but there were other plagues we see in the last week, like the darkness that fell when the sun was blotted out and the death of the firstborn son. We also touched on the idea that the three pieces of matzah present at the Seder could represent the Holy Trinity, a concept that holds deep significance in Christianity. It is the second piece of matzah that is broken and then hidden.

We examined the role of children in the Passover Seder. We highlighted the tradition of the youngest child asking the four questions, then the children all search for the hidden piece of matzah, and inviting the prophet Elijah. These practices not only make the Seder an engaging experience for children but also serve to pass on the important stories and lessons of the Jewish faith to the next generation.

Finally, we ended on a reflective note, considering why Jesus chose Passover as the time to reveal His mission. We discussed the possibility that by choosing this holiday, Jesus was showing the fulfillment of the Old Testament prophecies in His life and death. We also pondered the ways in which understanding the Passover can enrich our understanding of Jesus’s story.

Download blank templates, schedules here:
https://schmern2.notion.site/Downloads-Template-Word-and-Excel-Schedule-67439d14449d4c20bfe00efe069f78b8

Logos RAMPS Workflow - RAMPS Bible Study - The Bible in Small Steps in Logos Workflows

Jill’s Links
https://jillfromthenorthwoods.com/

https://www.youtube.com/@smallstepswithgod

https://www.buymeacoffee.com/smallstepspod

https://twitter.com/schmern

Email the podcast at [email protected]

“Scripture quotations are from the ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), © 2001 by Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved. The ESV text may not be quoted in any publication made available to the public by a Creative Commons license. The ESV may not be translated in whole or in part into any other language.”

Scripture quotations marked CSB have been taken from the Christian Standard Bible®, Copyright © 2017 by Holman Bible Publishers. Used by permission. Christian Standard Bible® and CSB® are federally registered trademarks of Holman Bible Publishers.

“The Scriptures quoted are from the NET Bible® http://netbible.com copyright ©1996, 2019 used with permission from Biblical Studies Press, L.L.C. All rights reserved”.

Bible Maps and images used with permission from https://www.bible.ca/maps/ or https://www.freebibleimages.org/illustrations/bj-ot-world/

Copyright 2014 Faithlife / Logos Bible Software. Free for non-commercial use by individuals or organizations. May be presented before live audiences; may be posted on social media; may be re-distributed. May not be used commercially. May not be modified or included in published works without permission; contact [email protected]. Attribute as: “Copyright 2014 Faithlife / Logos Bible Software ()”.

By choosing to watch this video or listen to this podcast, you acknowledge that you are doing so of your own free will. The content shared here reflects personal experiences and opinions and is intended for informational and inspirational purposes only. I am not a licensed healthcare provider, psychiatrist, or counselor. Any advice or suggestions offered should not be considered a substitute for professional medical or mental health advice. You are solely responsible for any decisions or actions you take based on this content.

73 - Jesus and Passover

Today, we discussed the historical and religious significance of Passover. The profound meaning of this Jewish holiday celebrates not only the Israelites’ exodus from Egypt but also the concepts of freedom and salvation. As Christians, we explored how understanding the full story of Passover can deepen our appreciation for the sacrifice of Jesus, our ‘Passover Lamb.’

During our conversation, we talked about the various ways that Passover has been celebrated throughout Jewish history, including the sacrifice of a Passover lamb and the consumption of unleavened bread or matzah. The matzah, which lacks leavening, symbolizes the haste at which the Israelites had to leave Egypt, leaving no time for bread to rise. It also serves as a reminder of sin, as leavening, like sin, can grow within us and transform us intox something different.

We also explored the connection between the elements of a traditional Passover Seder and Christian communion. Jesus himself, during the Last Supper, which was a Passover meal, used bread and wine to signify his body and blood, thus instituting the Christian sacrament of the Eucharist. This profound connection between Passover and Christianity highlights the deep roots of Christian faith in Jewish tradition.

Finally, we discussed how Christians have engaged with Passover throughout history. While some early Christians included Passover in their Easter celebrations, others, like Emperor Constantine, tried to sever ties with Jewish practices. However, understanding Passover can provide powerful insights into our faith and deepen our appreciation for the sacrifice of Jesus. So, our challenge to you is to reflect on the symbolism of your favorite religious holiday and think about the profound meaning it holds for you. Until next time, keep taking those small steps on your journey of faith.

Download blank templates, schedules here:
https://schmern2.notion.site/Downloads-Template-Word-and-Excel-Schedule-67439d14449d4c20bfe00efe069f78b8

Logos RAMPS Workflow - RAMPS Bible Study - The Bible in Small Steps in Logos Workflows

Jill’s Links
https://jillfromthenorthwoods.com/

https://www.youtube.com/@smallstepswithgod

https://www.buymeacoffee.com/smallstepspod

https://twitter.com/schmern

Email the podcast at [email protected]

“Scripture quotations are from the ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), © 2001 by Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved. The ESV text may not be quoted in any publication made available to the public by a Creative Commons license. The ESV may not be translated in whole or in part into any other language.”

Scripture quotations marked CSB have been taken from the Christian Standard Bible®, Copyright © 2017 by Holman Bible Publishers. Used by permission. Christian Standard Bible® and CSB® are federally registered trademarks of Holman Bible Publishers.

“The Scriptures quoted are from the NET Bible® http://netbible.com copyright ©1996, 2019 used with permission from Biblical Studies Press, L.L.C. All rights reserved”.

Bible Maps and images used with permission from https://www.bible.ca/maps/ or https://www.freebibleimages.org/illustrations/bj-ot-world/

Copyright 2014 Faithlife / Logos Bible Software. Free for non-commercial use by individuals or organizations. May be presented before live audiences; may be posted on social media; may be re-distributed. May not be used commercially. May not be modified or included in published works without permission; contact [email protected]. Attribute as: “Copyright 2014 Faithlife / Logos Bible Software ()”.

By choosing to watch this video or listen to this podcast, you acknowledge that you are doing so of your own free will. The content shared here reflects personal experiences and opinions and is intended for informational and inspirational purposes only. I am not a licensed healthcare provider, psychiatrist, or counselor. Any advice or suggestions offered should not be considered a substitute for professional medical or mental health advice. You are solely responsible for any decisions or actions you take based on this content.

72- The Significance of His Death and Resurrection
We look into the significance of the anointing of Jesus by Mary, a moment that marked both a royal and a burial ceremony. The apostles misunderstood this moment. We also discussed the Passover meal, where Jesus announced the new covenant and instituted communion. He also announced the new covenant from God to his people. We see that Jesus’ foretelling of Peter’s denial came true as Peter denied knowing Jesus three times.

Failing to follow the normal trial procedures, the trial was nothing more than trumped-up charges against Jesus. Despite the lack of evidence, Jesus was condemned to death. On Good Friday, Jesus was brought to Pilate by the chief priests. In a cruel mockery, Jesus was crucified as the “King of the Jews”.

The faithfulness of the women who followed Jesus stood in stark contrast to the apostles who had fled. After Jesus’ death, Joseph of Arimathea requested Pilate for Jesus’ body, which was then placed in Joseph’s tomb. Lastly, we discussed Jesus’ resurrection. Upon finding the empty tomb, the women were told by a man in a white robe that Jesus had risen and that they should tell the disciples and Peter to meet him in Galilee. This is where the Book of Mark ends, leaving us to ponder on the significance of Jesus’ death and resurrection in relation to our salvation.

Download blank templates, schedules here:
https://schmern2.notion.site/Downloads-Template-Word-and-Excel-Schedule-67439d14449d4c20bfe00efe069f78b8

Logos RAMPS Workflow - RAMPS Bible Study - The Bible in Small Steps in Logos Workflows

Jill’s Links
https://jillfromthenorthwoods.com/

https://www.youtube.com/@smallstepswithgod

https://www.buymeacoffee.com/smallstepspod

https://twitter.com/schmern

Email the podcast at [email protected]

“Scripture quotations are from the ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), © 2001 by Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved. The ESV text may not be quoted in any publication made available to the public by a Creative Commons license. The ESV may not be translated in whole or in part into any other language.”

Scripture quotations marked CSB have been taken from the Christian Standard Bible®, Copyright © 2017 by Holman Bible Publishers. Used by permission. Christian Standard Bible® and CSB® are federally registered trademarks of Holman Bible Publishers.

“The Scriptures quoted are from the NET Bible® http://netbible.com copyright ©1996, 2019 used with permission from Biblical Studies Press, L.L.C. All rights reserved”.

Bible Maps and images used with permission from https://www.bible.ca/maps/ or https://www.freebibleimages.org/illustrations/bj-ot-world/

Copyright 2014 Faithlife / Logos Bible Software. Free for non-commercial use by individuals or organizations. May be presented before live audiences; may be posted on social media; may be re-distributed. May not be used commercially. May not be modified or included in published works without permission; contact [email protected]. Attribute as: “Copyright 2014 Faithlife / Logos Bible Software ()”.

By choosing to watch this video or listen to this podcast, you acknowledge that you are doing so of your own free will. The content shared here reflects personal experiences and opinions and is intended for informational and inspirational purposes only. I am not a licensed healthcare provider, psychiatrist, or counselor. Any advice or suggestions offered should not be considered a substitute for professional medical or mental health advice. You are solely responsible for any decisions or actions you take based on this content.

72- The Significance of His Death and Resurrection
We look into the significance of the anointing of Jesus by Mary, a moment that marked both a royal and a burial ceremony. The apostles misunderstood this moment. We also discussed the Passover meal, where Jesus announced the new covenant and instituted communion. He also announced the new covenant from God to his people. We see that Jesus’ foretelling of Peter’s denial came true as Peter denied knowing Jesus three times.

Failing to follow the normal trial procedures, the trial was nothing more than trumped-up charges against Jesus. Despite the lack of evidence, Jesus was condemned to death. On Good Friday, Jesus was brought to Pilate by the chief priests. In a cruel mockery, Jesus was crucified as the “King of the Jews”.

The faithfulness of the women who followed Jesus stood in stark contrast to the apostles who had fled. After Jesus’ death, Joseph of Arimathea requested Pilate for Jesus’ body, which was then placed in Joseph’s tomb. Lastly, we discussed Jesus’ resurrection. Upon finding the empty tomb, the women were told by a man in a white robe that Jesus had risen and that they should tell the disciples and Peter to meet him in Galilee. This is where the Book of Mark ends, leaving us to ponder on the significance of Jesus’ death and resurrection in relation to our salvation.

Download blank templates, schedules here:
https://schmern2.notion.site/Downloads-Template-Word-and-Excel-Schedule-67439d14449d4c20bfe00efe069f78b8

Logos RAMPS Workflow - RAMPS Bible Study - The Bible in Small Steps in Logos Workflows

Jill’s Links
https://jillfromthenorthwoods.com/

https://www.youtube.com/@smallstepswithgod

https://www.buymeacoffee.com/smallstepspod

https://twitter.com/schmern

Email the podcast at [email protected]

“Scripture quotations are from the ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), © 2001 by Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved. The ESV text may not be quoted in any publication made available to the public by a Creative Commons license. The ESV may not be translated in whole or in part into any other language.”

Scripture quotations marked CSB have been taken from the Christian Standard Bible®, Copyright © 2017 by Holman Bible Publishers. Used by permission. Christian Standard Bible® and CSB® are federally registered trademarks of Holman Bible Publishers.

“The Scriptures quoted are from the NET Bible® http://netbible.com copyright ©1996, 2019 used with permission from Biblical Studies Press, L.L.C. All rights reserved”.

Bible Maps and images used with permission from https://www.bible.ca/maps/ or https://www.freebibleimages.org/illustrations/bj-ot-world/

Copyright 2014 Faithlife / Logos Bible Software. Free for non-commercial use by individuals or organizations. May be presented before live audiences; may be posted on social media; may be re-distributed. May not be used commercially. May not be modified or included in published works without permission; contact [email protected]. Attribute as: “Copyright 2014 Faithlife / Logos Bible Software ()”.

By choosing to watch this video or listen to this podcast, you acknowledge that you are doing so of your own free will. The content shared here reflects personal experiences and opinions and is intended for informational and inspirational purposes only. I am not a licensed healthcare provider, psychiatrist, or counselor. Any advice or suggestions offered should not be considered a substitute for professional medical or mental health advice. You are solely responsible for any decisions or actions you take based on this content.

71 - The Last Week Begins

In this podcast, I delve into the final week of Christ’s life, providing an in-depth exploration of the events and teachings that led to his crucifixion. We also review and discuss aspects of the book The Last Week, a day-to-day account of Jesus’ final week in Jerusalem by Marcus Borg and John Crosan. We discuss the significance of Jesus’ entry into Jerusalem, the confrontations he has with Jewish leaders, and his prophetic teachings about the destruction of the temple and the end times. We discuss the various interpretations of these events and their significance in the context of the Jewish faith. We also touch on the societal and political dynamics of the time, including the role of the Romans and the collaboration of the temple leadership.

Moving on, I talk about the trials and tribulations Jesus faced in the lead up to his crucifixion. I discuss the false trials, the cruel treatment he received, and the political maneuvering that led to his death. We also discuss how these events were prophesied and how they fulfilled the promises of the Old Testament. This part of the podcast brings to life the harsh reality of Jesus’ sacrifice and its profound significance in Christian faith.

I then shift to the aftermath of Jesus’ death, focusing on the reactions of his followers and the societal upheaval that followed. I discuss how the disciples went into hiding, how the Jewish leadership tried to maintain control, and the various interpretations of Jesus’ resurrection. We also touch on the concept of the afterlife and the promise of salvation, as well as the role of faith and righteousness in the Christian belief system.

Download blank templates, schedules here:
https://schmern2.notion.site/Downloads-Template-Word-and-Excel-Schedule-67439d14449d4c20bfe00efe069f78b8

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Jill’s Links
https://jillfromthenorthwoods.com/

https://www.youtube.com/@smallstepswithgod

https://www.buymeacoffee.com/smallstepspod

https://twitter.com/schmern

Email the podcast at [email protected]

“Scripture quotations are from the ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), © 2001 by Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved. The ESV text may not be quoted in any publication made available to the public by a Creative Commons license. The ESV may not be translated in whole or in part into any other language.”

Scripture quotations marked CSB have been taken from the Christian Standard Bible®, Copyright © 2017 by Holman Bible Publishers. Used by permission. Christian Standard Bible® and CSB® are federally registered trademarks of Holman Bible Publishers.

“The Scriptures quoted are from the NET Bible® http://netbible.com copyright ©1996, 2019 used with permission from Biblical Studies Press, L.L.C. All rights reserved”.

Bible Maps and images used with permission from https://www.bible.ca/maps/ or https://www.freebibleimages.org/illustrations/bj-ot-world/

Copyright 2014 Faithlife / Logos Bible Software. Free for non-commercial use by individuals or organizations. May be presented before live audiences; may be posted on social media; may be re-distributed. May not be used commercially. May not be modified or included in published works without permission; contact [email protected]. Attribute as: “Copyright 2014 Faithlife / Logos Bible Software ()”.

By choosing to watch this video or listen to this podcast, you acknowledge that you are doing so of your own free will. The content shared here reflects personal experiences and opinions and is intended for informational and inspirational purposes only. I am not a licensed healthcare provider, psychiatrist, or counselor. Any advice or suggestions offered should not be considered a substitute for professional medical or mental health advice. You are solely responsible for any decisions or actions you take based on this content.

70 - Rome and the People of Israel

Today we discuss the historical context of Roman influence in the time when Jesus was crucified. It’s important to note the paradoxical nature of the Roman civilization - their aim was to establish peace, yet they employed force and conquest to achieve it. They installed friendly governments and maintained peace in their conquered lands by ensuring basic necessities for the people but suppressed any form of dissent. This context sets the stage for Jesus’s entry into Jerusalem, often contrasted with Pilate’s entry.

On the day known as Palm Sunday, Jesus enters Jerusalem riding on a donkey through the gate used by the common people. This is seen as a confrontation between the kingdom of man and the kingdom of God. Pilate, the Roman governor, on the other hand, enters through a separate, grander gate, symbolizing the might of the Roman Empire. Pilate’s primary role was to maintain peace and prevent revolts, a task he primarily performed from Herod’s old grounds inside Jerusalem. Jesus had the job to save all humanity from their sins.

Jerusalem itself has a rich history as a religious center and was transformed into a domination system characterized by economic exploitation, political oppression, and religious crackdown. This led to a reputation of oppression for those living outside of Jerusalem. Interestingly, Jesus, during his ministry, spent time in Galilee, outside of Herod’s jurisdiction. This was likely to avoid an immediate crackdown from the authorities in Jerusalem.

The narrative concludes with a reference to a quote from Micah, a prophet in the Hebrew Bible. The quote criticizes the rulers of Jerusalem for their injustice and wrongdoing, painting a picture of the city’s moral decline. This helps us understand the historical and socio-political context in which Jesus began his final week in Jerusalem, setting the stage for his crucifixion.

Download blank templates, schedules here:
https://schmern2.notion.site/Downloads-Template-Word-and-Excel-Schedule-67439d14449d4c20bfe00efe069f78b8

Logos RAMPS Workflow - RAMPS Bible Study - The Bible in Small Steps in Logos Workflows

Jill’s Links
https://jillfromthenorthwoods.com/

https://www.youtube.com/@smallstepswithgod

https://www.buymeacoffee.com/smallstepspod

https://twitter.com/schmern

Email the podcast at [email protected]

“Scripture quotations are from the ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), © 2001 by Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved. The ESV text may not be quoted in any publication made available to the public by a Creative Commons license. The ESV may not be translated in whole or in part into any other language.”

Scripture quotations marked CSB have been taken from the Christian Standard Bible®, Copyright © 2017 by Holman Bible Publishers. Used by permission. Christian Standard Bible® and CSB® are federally registered trademarks of Holman Bible Publishers.

“The Scriptures quoted are from the NET Bible® http://netbible.com copyright ©1996, 2019 used with permission from Biblical Studies Press, L.L.C. All rights reserved”.

Bible Maps and images used with permission from https://www.bible.ca/maps/ or https://www.freebibleimages.org/illustrations/bj-ot-world/

Copyright 2014 Faithlife / Logos Bible Software. Free for non-commercial use by individuals or organizations. May be presented before live audiences; may be posted on social media; may be re-distributed. May not be used commercially. May not be modified or included in published works without permission; contact [email protected]. Attribute as: “Copyright 2014 Faithlife / Logos Bible Software ()”.

By choosing to watch this video or listen to this podcast, you acknowledge that you are doing so of your own free will. The content shared here reflects personal experiences and opinions and is intended for informational and inspirational purposes only. I am not a licensed healthcare provider, psychiatrist, or counselor. Any advice or suggestions offered should not be considered a substitute for professional medical or mental health advice. You are solely responsible for any decisions or actions you take based on this content.

69 - Setting the Greek Stage for Jesus

In this episode, we'll be delving into the extensive history and influence of the Greeks on the land of Israel, setting the stage for the time of Jesus. 

The Greeks, who had conquered Israel in 330 BC, brought about a significant cultural shift. As I explored the topic, I found it fascinating how the Jewish people began to appreciate Greek sophistication, philosophies, and language. I was particularly interested in the evolution of the language from Hebrew to Aramaic to Greek, reflecting an increased sophistication needed to capture the depth of Jewish and Christian faith.

The Hellenic influence on different groups, particularly the Sadducees and Pharisees. I was amazed to learn that the Sadducees, being aristocrats, were more Hellenized and sought to align with the Roman upper class. On the other hand, the Pharisees, while also Hellenized to some extent, adhered more strictly to Jewish traditions. However, they were drawn to Greek education and the teacher-student relationship.

As I explored further, I came across the philosophical ideas that infiltrated Jewish land, such as Gnosticism and Stoicism, and the rejection of monotheism by some people in Israel. Despite the Greek era ending with Rome's conquest, Greek philosophy and language had a lasting impact, which is evident in the New Testament. It's fascinating how the Greek influence was still prevalent during Jesus's time.

https://smallstepswithgod.com/69-setting-the-greek-stage-for-jesus/

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