In this episode of the Daily Bible Refresh, Dr. Brad Miller takes listeners through a progressive reading of Matthew 24:23-35, using the Message version to highlight the importance of discernment and authentic faith in challenging times. He warns against the allure of false messiahs, celebrity spirituality, and the dangers of being swept up by hype and fear, instead urging a focus on quiet, steady faith, healing, justice, and community. By interpreting apocalyptic imagery as a call for perspective and hope—not panic—Dr. Miller provides practical action steps to evaluate spiritual claims and encourages redirecting energy toward efforts that embody mercy and justice.

Key Takeaways:

1. Discernment is more important than spectacle—don’t be swayed by flashy personalities or mass movements.
2. Apocalyptic biblical passages are about unveiling truth and encouraging hope, not inciting fear or panic.
3. Progressive faith resists personality cults and values the quiet, consistent work of God in the world.
4. Evaluate spiritual claims with a “discernment triad”: consider who benefits, what fruit is produced, and whether accountability exists.
5. Channel your time and resources into efforts that create justice and mercy, such as housing initiatives, cancer support groups, and environmental stewardship.
6. Small signs of hope—like green shoots on a fig tree—are reminders to pay attention to everyday moments where God is at work.

Links referenced in this episode:

• voiceofgoddaily.com

The "Daily Bible Refresh" is presented each day by Rev. Dr. Brad Miller who has a goal of speaking a bit of the bible into two million ears (one million people) in three years (2025-2028).

Brad served as a local church pastor for forty years and has a background in radio and podcasting. Moreover, he is a life-long student of The Bible.

He believes in the words of Jesus that “scripture is fulfilled in your hearing” (Luke 4:21)

The "Daily Bible Refresh" is available seven days a week by 6:00 am ET. The episodes are no longer than ten minutes long and are...

• Understandable: A reading from the New Testament (usually the Gospel) selected from the Revised Common Lectionary using "The Message" translation.
• Relatable: You will have a couple of "points to ponder" from the text which will relate to your life
• Applicable: Every episode includes a way you can take action based on the reading
• A recommended resource to help you go deeper in biblical study and spiritual direction.
• A prayer for your day.

The "Daily Bible Refresh" is available every day at VoiceofGodDaily.com on Apple Podcasts, Spotify and all major podcast directories.

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Remember… “All scripture is God-breathed and useful”(2 Timothy 3:16)