May 17, 2024 • 54 mins
Chapter 12 of Heroes in the Bible: Jesus with Dr. Tony Evans is inspired by the Gospels.
The Good Shepherd - Jesus is faced with a challenge. Does he choose justice and be seen as a tyrant, or does he choose mercy and lose his credibility as a Rabbi? While any other person would have to choose between the two, Jesus does not. He balances love and justice like a good shepherd.
Today's opening prayer is inspired by John 10:10, The thief cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy: I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly.
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Episode Transcript
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Speaker 1 (00:00):
The thief cometh not but for to steal, and to kill,
and to destroy. I am come that they might have life,
and that they might have it more abundantly. John ten ten,
Heavenly Father. Satan is a thief who is out to
destroy every living being because he knows that this is
(00:21):
the only way he can strike at your heart. He
knows how much you love humanity, so if he can
keep them from connecting you, he wins. You came to
expose his plots, plans, and schemes and set your people free.
You have provided everything we need, but it is still
(00:41):
a choice we have to make. You came to offer
us power over death and eternal life. You came to
bless us with hope, peace and love. In the midst
of turmoil. You showed us your goodness through your son, Jesus.
How can people not see that? Use me today to
(01:02):
reach them with your truth. Amen. Stay tuned to immerse
yourself in the greatest stories ever told from pray dot
COM's podcast, Heroes in the Bible.
Speaker 2 (01:16):
Hi, I'm doctor Tony Evans, your host for Heroes in
the Bible. Jesus. If you've enjoyed this podcast so far,
please share it with your family and friends so they
can know Jesus Christ in a personal way, because knowing
Jesus is the key to understanding the Bible. Welcome to
the greatest story ever told. It is a story of
it with shepherd's heart for his sheep, a father's love
(01:38):
for his children, and a hero's triumph over death and darkness.
This is a story that continues to shape and mold
the world around us, bringing the divine heart of God
right into the hearts of you and me. This episode
reminds us of Jesus's heart for the downtrodden, defenseless, and
pure of heart. As we have gone through the life
(01:58):
of Jesus so far, it can't help but be compelled
by just how many stories there are of Jesus caring
for the individual. He helped people who were sick, listen
to people who were broken, and rebuke the powers of
darkness that sought to corrupt people. Jesus cared deeply, and
that should make us want to do the same. These
stories are powerful and they cut at the parts of
(02:20):
us that just want to look out for Number One,
I pray this episode grips your soul, especially as you
hear Jesus's heart for children. Before we dive into the
works and words of Jesus, we will begin with the prelude.
This prelude features a character very few people know about.
His story is short and often lost behind the shimmering
(02:41):
veneer of King David's life. However, this mighty man of
Valor's moment in scripture reminds us that God's heart is
for the weak and feeble. He will stop at nothing
to defend the helpless from evil. The prelude and the
episode afterward invite us to ask how we can defend
the defenseless and love the outcasts. My prayer for you
(03:01):
today is that the shepherding heart of God would be
on full display for you to see. I pray Jesus'
words would remind you that you are loved despite your brokenness.
I pray that this episode would inspire you to seek
Jesus for guidance, provision, healing, acceptance, just as the characters
of this story did. Here is episode twelve, The Good Shepherd.
Speaker 3 (03:32):
Prailud to chapter twelve. Shama breathed him deeply, looking out
onto the Philistine hoarde approaching. Their spears were set and
their swords were secured tightly, Shama exhaled, listening to the
steady rhythm of his heartbeat. The farmers of Lehigh had
(03:52):
retreated into their homes, watching from the windows as shamasted alone.
He stood in the lentil field. Bushes swayed gently to
the wind. The earth began to shake as the Philistines
came closer. All the men of the city had fled,
but not Shama. He knew that this little patch of
farm was the only livelihood the people of Lehigh had.
(04:16):
He would not let it be taken by Philistine dogs.
The opposing army picked up their pace, working their way
into a sprint. Shama set his feet, widening his stance.
He drew his sword and braced his shield. The two
dozen Philistines closed the gap and lunged at in with
spears and swords. Shama lifted his stance like an elegant dance,
(04:39):
shifting and moving his feet and hits. He dodged every
advance and responded with the swift swing of his sword.
One Philistine got an edge on him and drew him
back with his shield. However, Shama regained balance quickly and
tossed a dagger that was attached to his head a
direct hit. Two more advanced towards him. One was met
with a quick jab to the belly, and the other
(05:00):
was sent to his back with a blow from Shama's shield.
He fought for what seemed like ours. As he held
his ground, the Philistines that were still alive retreated, leaving
the Lentil field alone to the people of Lehigh. Shama panted,
blood dripped down his armor, and his face was covered
in dust and sweat. But he had done it. He
(05:23):
defended the Lentil Field from the Philistines. He did not
defeat a giant, nor did he lead an army into battle.
This mighty man of David stood his ground against a
foe that sought to take advantage of the weak and helpless.
He was one man against many, yet God empowered him
to victory. This is because God's heart is always for
(05:47):
those who cannot help themselves. God's heart is for the vulnerable,
the weak, and the helpless, so he sends his heroes
to respond to the needs of those who cannot help themselves.
This is the heart of God and the heart of
his Messiah. Chapter twelve, the good Shepherd Jesus descended down
(06:14):
the mountain with Peter, James, and John. Their faces still
wore the shock and awe of what had just occurred.
They were able to see the heavenly radiance of Jesus unveiled.
For a moment on that mountain, they were able to
comprehend the greatest miracle of Jesus. His greatest miracle was
(06:35):
not turning water in the wine, healing the blind, or
calm in the storm. The miracle occurred every day as
he continually held back the entirety of his glory. As
they reached the base of the mountain, a large commotion
could be heard from camp. Peter was the first to
(06:57):
respond and run. The others followed, hurrying down the path.
They reached camp and found a large crowd violently arguing
with the rest of the disciples. Jesus saw a few
members pointing at the disciples frauds. They shouted, who were
you to call yourselves disciples of Jesus. Peter lunged himself
into the crowd, separating them from the disciples. It only
(07:20):
made them more angry. One of them swung at Peter,
but before he could respond, Jesus rushed into the scene,
and the attention of the crowd was diverted. His very
presence changed their countenance. What is going on here, Jesus asked.
The crowd parted and a man emerged, holding his son
in his arms. He was a short and portly man,
(07:44):
quite possibly a butcher by trade. His strong arms held
up his boy, who could not have been older than
ten years of age. The boy was limp in his
father's arms, grunting incessantly. Teacher, the man said, bowing before Jesus.
Speaker 4 (08:01):
It brought my son to you. A spirit has taken him.
Speaker 3 (08:05):
Jesus peered at the boy. His eyes were rolled back
and his neck twitched from side to side. He scanned
the boy's body. It was covered in burn marks. The
father took notice of Jesus's eyes and began to weep.
Speaker 4 (08:20):
The spirit comes without.
Speaker 3 (08:22):
Notice, he said, with watered eyes.
Speaker 4 (08:25):
He'll take control of my son and throw him into
the fire. He foams at the mouth and grinds his teeth,
and then he will throw my son into the water
to drown.
Speaker 3 (08:36):
The man clinched his eyes closed, holding his son tightly.
Speaker 4 (08:41):
I came to your disciples so they might cast out
the demon, but they couldn't. They gave me hope and
it has been shattered.
Speaker 3 (08:52):
The man broke down, unable to console himself. Jesus caught
a glimpse of the Pharisees and scribes smirking in the corner.
They reveled in the disciples inability to cast out the demon.
Jesus walked forward with his chest held high and fists clenched.
He pointed to them with his gaze as intense as
(09:14):
a bolt of lightning.
Speaker 5 (09:15):
You crooked and perverse generation, he shouted, faithless, that is
what you are. How long must I endure you?
Speaker 3 (09:24):
Jesus looked at the child. He was in much pain.
Bring me the boy, Jesus said. As the father lifted
his arms to hand the boy to Jesus, the demon
awoke from his slumber. He had felt the presence of
the Messiah and knew his time was almost up. The
demon was determined to do as much damage as he
(09:45):
could with a few moments he had left. The boy
leaped out of the father's arms onto the ground. The
demon thrashed his body under the floor, banging his head
against the rocks. Foam spit forth from the boy's mouth,
and his eyes rolled back into their sockets. The crowd
recoiled terrifying that the boy might harm them if they
(10:06):
got too close. The father fell on top of his son,
trying to restrain him, but the demon was too powerful.
He threw the father off of him and leaped towards him,
grabbing his throat. The entire crowd could hear the slight
cracking of the father's throat. The demon was unnaturally strong.
Jesus stepped forward, grabbing the boy from on top of
(10:29):
his father. He restrained him in his arms. The boy
thrashed back and forth, screaming with blood curdling volume. The
father gasped for air, sobbing at the sight of his son.
The boy writhed in Jesus's arms, yet Jesus remained calm,
making sure to not harm him. He looked at the
(10:49):
father and asked.
Speaker 5 (10:50):
Do you believe I can heal you?
Speaker 3 (10:52):
So the father opened up his hands to Jesus and
shook his head.
Speaker 4 (10:56):
I believe, Lord.
Speaker 3 (10:59):
There was a pause as the father stared at his son.
For years, this demon had plagued him. He had begun
to lose hope that anything would change.
Speaker 4 (11:10):
I believe, but help my unbelief.
Speaker 3 (11:14):
Jesus nodded. The man's response was honest and pure. He
did not give any false platitudes or promises. He simply
shared the state of his heart. He brought his real
and honest emotions. Jesus held the boy close, hugging him
as he struggled. Jesus's teeth clenched and his brow furrowed.
(11:38):
He hugged the boy with the loving embrace of a father. Then,
with authority, he spoke to the demon deep within.
Speaker 5 (11:47):
You, mute and deaf spirit, hear the voice of your creator.
I command you to come out of this boy and
plague him no more.
Speaker 3 (11:55):
The boy's screams increased to a deafening level. He convulsed
and rushed his body, until finally going limp, Jesus set
him down gently on the floor. The boy seemed dead
for a moment. However, Jesus grabbed his hand and lifted
him up on two feet. The boy was restored, and
(12:17):
the father felt like he was meeting his son for
the first time. The disciples departed from Galilee, concerned about
what they had just seen. Jesus knew that there were
greater troubles ahead for them, yet there was no way
for them to truly understand. How could they. In many ways,
the Kingdom of Heaven was upside down compared to the
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common culture of mankind. However, Jesus still saw it fitting
to prepare his disciples for events to come.
Speaker 5 (12:49):
The Son of Man will be delivered into the hands
of men, Jesus said, They will kill him, and he
will raise himself up on the third day.
Speaker 3 (12:57):
As Jesus spoke these things, the disciple struggled. They said nothing,
afraid of the answers to their questions. They had made
their way to Copernium and a large group was gathering
in a household. Peter reclined at the table, enjoying a
rare moment of silence with his own thoughts. However, the
(13:19):
moment was quickly interrupted as a temple official approached him.
Ah Simon, the man said. As he sat down, he
panted Peter on the back and said, I heard.
Speaker 6 (13:30):
You might be here with Jesus.
Speaker 3 (13:32):
It has been a while. Peter gulped. The man was
a temple tax collector, and Peter had been behind on
his temple tax for quite some time. The man sat
next to him and poured a drink from the basin.
Sitting on the table, he sipped casually, enjoying the tension
he caused, Peter.
Speaker 7 (13:52):
Tell me, Simon, did your teacher pay his taxes unlike
some in this room.
Speaker 3 (13:58):
Peter buried his head into his hands and sighed. He
was a lowly fisherman without much coin to spare. On
top of this, he was responsible for his wife and
father in law. He does, Peter answered quickly. Then he
got up from his seat and walked out of the house.
The collector smirked as Peter walked away. Peter stepped out
(14:20):
on to the patio. He rubbed his temples and sighed.
He felt a great deal of guilt about not being
able to afford his temple tax. It was one thing
to avoid taxes imposed by Rome, but to not contribute
to the temple of God was a source of shame.
Peter looked up to the stars, unaware of Jesus sitting
(14:42):
a few feet in front of him. Peter was lost
in thought, reeling in guilt. Then he heard Jesus speak
into the silence.
Speaker 5 (14:52):
Come and see Peter.
Speaker 3 (14:54):
Jesus said, gesturing to a spot on the small wall
next to him. Jesus would all often retreat to be
alone with God. Peter felt honored to sit next to
him during one of these moments, Jesus turned to Peter.
Speaker 5 (15:09):
Tell me what you think, Peter, when kings tax the land,
do you think they taxed their own sons or others?
Speaker 3 (15:16):
Jesus asked others. Peter answered plainly. Jesus nodded, sons are free.
A father would never let his son pay the taxes
of everyone else. However, in order to not needlessly offend others,
I pay the tax, and so should you. Peter held
(15:36):
his head low as he spoke. Jesus gave him a
pat on the shoulder.
Speaker 5 (15:42):
Spend some time down by the sea to clear your mind.
Cast a hook and take the first fish that comes up.
Open its mouth. There you'll find a shekel that should
cover the tax form me and for you.
Speaker 3 (15:56):
Peter did as he was told. He sat with a
rod and life in the water, watching the moonlight reflected
in the sea. The line tugged and a fish appeared
out of the water. Peter opened its mouth and lo
and behold something shined in the moonlight. Peter pulled out
a shekel. He could not help but chuckle. Jesus had
(16:19):
strange ways of providing, but he always came through. The
Next day, Jesus was teaching to a large group near
the Sea of Galilee. The seagulls flew high above them,
descending into the waters below. Jesus sat at the edge
of an elevated stone, and hundreds of people sat below
(16:39):
on the shore. Jesus spoke about the Kingdom of Heaven.
He spoke about the greatness of God's will acted out
in the hearts of people.
Speaker 4 (16:49):
Teacher, who is the greatest in the Kingdom of Heaven?
How can I or any of us truly be great?
Speaker 3 (16:56):
Someone asked. Jesus nodded at the question. He gestured towards
some of the children playing in the sand near the water.
He waved at them to come over, and they happily
ran and climbed up the rock. One of the children
leapt onto Jesus's lap, and the other climbed up on
top of his shoulders. Jesus laughed, allowing them to play
(17:18):
with his hair and jump off his back.
Speaker 5 (17:20):
You see these children, Jesus asked, They are humble and
approach me with joy. Their faith is pure and undefiled.
Whoever is like one of these children his greatest in
the Kingdom of God.
Speaker 3 (17:33):
One of the children sat quietly on Jesus's lap, playing
with a stone she found on the shore. Jesus looked
at each child with love. Then he looked seriously at
the crowd.
Speaker 5 (17:45):
Whoever accepts and loves a child in my name also
receives me. However, whoever causes one of these little ones
harm or causes them to sin, it would be better
for him to have a stone fastened around his neck
and thrown into the bottom of the sea.
Speaker 3 (18:01):
The people gasped at Jesus's intensity. However, he had a
heart for the innocent and needed to make it clear
that those who harmed the innocent will not go unpunished.
The children jumped off the stone and ran back to
fine shells on the shore. Jesus smiled, then returned his
gaze to the crowd.
Speaker 5 (18:22):
Temptation to sin is everywhere. There's a great sorrow in
the world because of it, he said. However, it is
necessary that temptations come in this way. Our faith is
strengthened in them. However, you must be careful. If your
hand or foot causes you to sin, cut it off.
Speaker 3 (18:40):
Jesus gestured with his hands, cutting off his arm. The
crowd gasped and flinched. However, Jesus spoke in metaphor, showcasing
the lengths we must go to separate ourselves from sin.
Speaker 8 (18:53):
It is better for you to be without an off
or a leg than to be thrown in eternal fire.
So if you are causes you to sin, pluck it out,
throw it away. It is better that you enter life
with one eye than two eyes in eternal death.
Speaker 3 (19:09):
The people nodded, understanding the severity of their sin. However,
it would be hard to uphold the high standard of Jesus.
They would need help, and Jesus was determined to give it.
Jesus gestured at the children again. People watched as they
played innocently near the water. Their laughter was contagious and
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caused the crowd to laugh as well. Jesus smiled and
looked at the crowd. Looking at the children, they were
his little ones. He saw them in the same way
they saw the children. He lifted his voice and reminded
them of his heart.
Speaker 5 (19:50):
Let us say, if shepherd has a hundred sheep, he
tends to them well within his pasture. However, one of
them falls astray and wanders oft into the wilderness. Were
lie and wait. The shepherd takes action and leaves the
ninety nine sheep in search of the one. He ascends
into the mountains. He risks death an injury to save
the one sheep who went astray. Then he finds the sheep,
(20:14):
and his entire household rejoices. That is the heart of
my father in heaven. It is not his will that
any should perish.
Speaker 3 (20:25):
Jesus peered out into the crowd. In the corner, he
could see two men facing each other, disputing silently.
Speaker 5 (20:34):
Forgive one another.
Speaker 3 (20:35):
Jesus shouted. The men quickly ceased their arguing. Embarrassed that
Jesus had caught them, he smiled and shook his head.
Then he turned to the rest of the crowd.
Speaker 5 (20:47):
If your brother sins against you, go and tell him
his fault. Do not bring others into it unless you've
spoken to him first. Be honest with one another. If
he does not listen, bring a few more, so they
may be witnesses to your dispute and help. If he
refuse us to listen, still bring him to the church
so they might lovingly lead him. Wherever two or three
(21:08):
are gathered in the midst of dispute, I will be
in their midst to aid.
Speaker 3 (21:13):
Peter looked at his brother Andrew. He smirked. The two
of them had had many disputes in their lives. Andrew
was more level handed, quiet, However, Peter was brash and loud.
Speaker 6 (21:27):
How many times should I forgive my brother? Peter asked
the rabbis, tell us to forgive three times? Shall we
forgive more? Perhaps seven times?
Speaker 3 (21:37):
Peter's number was generous. However, Jesus had a different number
in mind.
Speaker 5 (21:43):
No, Peter, not seven seventy seven.
Speaker 3 (21:47):
The crowd laughed at the absurd number. However, Jesus was
not joking. He held up his hand and told them
a story.
Speaker 5 (21:56):
There was a ruler who wished to settle his accounts
with servants. He lent money to one of the servants,
owed him ten thousand talents. Surely it was a number
too great to repay. Since he could not pay the debt,
the ruler offered for the servant and his family to
be sold into slavery to repay the payment. The servant
(22:17):
leaped onto the floor and fell on his face. He
begged the ruler forgive me, forgive me of my debt.
Although he did not deserve forgiveness, the ruler gave it anyway,
for he was merciful and kind. The very same day,
the ruler was walking about the city when he caught
a glimpse of the very same servant arguing with another man.
(22:38):
He watched as the servant swung at the man, hitting
him to the floor. The two of them fought and
thrashed at one another until the servant came on top
of him and began.
Speaker 3 (22:46):
To choke him.
Speaker 5 (22:47):
Pay me what you owe me, the servant yelled. As
he turns out, the servant owed the man one hundred talents.
The man gasped for air and begged for mercy, Please
forgive me of the debt. Yet and did not have mercy.
When the ruler heard this, he summoned him, you wicked servant,
I forgave you all your debt, yet you choked this
(23:10):
man for a hundred. In his anger, the ruler sent
him out into the prison.
Speaker 3 (23:16):
Jesus paused and allowed the crowd to understand the message.
Speaker 5 (23:20):
You have been forgiven much, Jesus said, the same will
happen to you if you do not forgive others.
Speaker 3 (23:26):
With that, Jesus departed with his disciples. There were things
to prepare for for Jesus was about to set his
face to Jerusalem, Desiring for the entire region around him
to hear the proclaimed gospel, Jesus sent out his disciples
into different regions so he might preach. However, the Samaritan
(23:49):
village nearby would not receive him. James and John boiled
with rage that they would reject Jesus. They steamed with
anger and bickered amongst themselves on how they should respond. Finally,
they came to Jesus and said.
Speaker 9 (24:04):
Lord, shall we call down fire from heaven to obliterate
those who reject you.
Speaker 3 (24:09):
Jesus looked at them dismayed. His face showed shock, worry,
and anger that they would even suggest such a thing.
Of course, not. Thus he nicknamed both of them sons
of Thunder. As the rest of them were walking into
another town, a man came to them. He approached Jesus smugly,
(24:30):
prepared to follow Jesus wherever he went.
Speaker 4 (24:33):
Lord, allow me to follow you wherever you.
Speaker 3 (24:36):
Go, the man said, with a grin. He held himself
with confidence. He had seen Jesus heal the sick and
multiply food. He saw the crowds call to make him
king and await his revolution to the throne. To him,
Jesus's life seemed glamorous. He desired to be a part
(24:56):
of it and share in the glory. Jesus did not
shew the man away. Instead, he painted him a picture
of what it was truly like to follow him.
Speaker 5 (25:08):
Foxes have holes and birds have nests, But the son
of man has no place to lay his head. He
has no home to call his owner comforts to return to.
So follow me if you desire.
Speaker 3 (25:21):
The man paused for a moment. He responded trepidaciously.
Speaker 4 (25:26):
Saying, well, perhaps I should first tend to my father
before he passes and secure my inheritance. Once he is
gone and I have buried him, I can return to
follow you.
Speaker 3 (25:39):
Jesus shook his head.
Speaker 5 (25:40):
Leave the dead to bury their own dead, as for you,
go and proclaim the Kingdom of God.
Speaker 3 (25:47):
Another man approached Jesus and said.
Speaker 4 (25:50):
Lord, I will follow you, but first allow me to
say goodbye to my family.
Speaker 3 (25:55):
Jesus shook his head again.
Speaker 5 (25:57):
You do not understand yet the weight of them what
you are seeking. No man can put his hand to
the plow and look back. The line becomes jacket and crooked.
No man is fit to commit to the Kingdom of
God if he.
Speaker 3 (26:11):
Looks back Jesus sat on a stone beside the road.
A large caravan of people were packing to depart from
Galilee to Jerusalem. Jesus watched as families packed food, instruments,
and sacrifices for the Feast of Booths. It was an
entire celebration where families camped and makeshift booths outside Jerusalem
(26:35):
to remember Israel's time in the wilderness.
Speaker 9 (26:38):
Are you coming, Jesus?
Speaker 3 (26:40):
Jesus looked up and saw his brothers approaching. James, Jude, Joseph,
and Simon were all packing their things to depart. Jesus
would not go with them. The religious leaders were waiting
for him there. He had known about their plot to
kill him, and there were still a few things to
do before he would give him himself up. His brothers
(27:03):
stood over him with their arms crossed. They knew better
than anyone that Jesus was unique, yet they were skeptical
of his miracles and had issues with his claims to
be the son of God.
Speaker 9 (27:16):
Why have you remained in Galilee so long? Jude asked,
No one respects Galileans. If you really want to be
known for all your words and miracles, you would do
them in Jerusalem. That is where the people that matter are.
Speaker 4 (27:29):
If you really do these things, why remain in an
anonymous region of Galilee.
Speaker 3 (27:34):
James chimed in, Come with.
Speaker 4 (27:36):
Us, we would also like to see you make a
name for yourself.
Speaker 3 (27:40):
There was sarcasm and snark in their voices. They did
not believe in him. However, they would soon see for
themselves what was to come. James and Jude in particular
would be completely transformed by the work Jesus did. Yet,
for now, Jesus was content to allow them to poke fun.
(28:01):
They were his brothers after all. Jesus stood to his
feet and panted Jude on the shoulders.
Speaker 5 (28:08):
Ah, my brothers, you shall have to go on without me.
My time has not yet come.
Speaker 3 (28:14):
Simon scoffed.
Speaker 10 (28:16):
Do not have people waiting for you in Jerusalem. How
is it that you claim to be so close to
God but avoid the people of God. Stop wasting your
time in Galilee with all these fishermen.
Speaker 5 (28:28):
Jesus shrugged as I said, my time to show myself
has not yet come. However, for you, my brothers, it
is always time. The world hates me because I testify
to its wickedness. If the world does not hate you,
nobody lies and wait for you, and nobody's seeking to
kill you. So go, go and be free. I am
sure I will see you soon.
Speaker 3 (28:50):
So his brothers departed with the rest of the caravan.
Musicians sat in their carriages with their lyres, and the
children played their flutes. It was a joyous occasion for
any Jew. However, Jesus had a mission. Once the caravan left,
he silently and secretly made his way to Jerusalem. The
(29:12):
brothers approached the grand city of Jerusalem. It was teeming
with life. The market places were bustling with fresh produce
and fine items. Families from different nations and regions danced
through the city streets, taking in the glory of God's city.
The temple was central, like the beating heart of the city.
(29:34):
From it, thousands of people poured in and out daily,
making sacrifices and offering prayers to God. On the outskirts
of the city, hundreds of tents and booths were set
up to celebrate the feast of booths. Children ran to
and from each tent, rolling around in the grass. Women
(29:54):
started fires to cook food. As the men sat among
one another, laughing and craft their tents. The brothers of
Jesus could not help but feel slightly sorrowful that Jesus
was not with them. For three years now, he had
been traveling from region to region preaching and healing. They
(30:16):
missed him. Perhaps that is why they ridiculed him so often.
The brothers sat by the fire waiting for the feast
to begin. They exchanged stories of their childhood and laughed,
making mention of Jesus. Often. The few of the people
around them took notice and approached their fire.
Speaker 4 (30:36):
Are you the brothers of Jesus.
Speaker 3 (30:39):
They asked. The brothers nodded.
Speaker 4 (30:41):
Where is he? Has he come with you to the feast?
Speaker 5 (30:44):
He is remaining in Galilee.
Speaker 3 (30:46):
Joseph replied quickly. They often grew tired of answering questions
about Jesus. However, more and more people listened in and
huddled near the fire. They disputed among themselves. Some would
say he is a good man. Others would whisper he
is the Messiah. Then more would respond, he's leading people astray.
(31:08):
Nobody was in agreement to the character of Jesus, not
even his own brothers. Meanwhile, in the temple, the religious
leaders were teaching a large crowd. They spoke of the
law and devotion to the temple economy. As they spoke,
Jesus weaved his way through the crowns, remaining anonymous under
(31:29):
a cloak. He remained hidden, observing the people as they
sought answers to life's greatest questions. He listened to the
Pharisees fumble the word of God and teach it as
a means to control and manipulate. Without a word, Jesus
removed his hood and walked to the other side of
(31:51):
the temple. Slowly people began to recognize him. The Pharisees
watched as the attention of the crowd was diverted to
the other side of the temple, like his shifting tide.
The amount of people listening to them reduced to nearly nothing.
They looked to the other side of the temple and
(32:11):
saw Jesus proclaiming the mercy, justice, love, and triumph of
the Kingdom of God. The Jews marveled. Many of them
had not listened to him before. The locals of Jerusalem
were connoisseurs of good teaching. They listened often to the
rhetoric of Hebrew scholars and debate between rabbis. However, as
(32:34):
they listened to Jesus, they heard things that they had
never heard before. How is it that this uneducated man
can say such things? They asked. Jesus held out his arms.
Speaker 5 (32:48):
My teaching is not my own, It is from the
one who sent me.
Speaker 3 (32:52):
Some in the crown began to recognize Jesus as the
one whom the Pharisees were plotting to kill. How is
it that people in the city are wanting to kill him,
yet he stands here boldly for all to see. The
crowd was stirring, questioning who Jesus really was. Who is
this man? They asked? Can it be that he really
is the Christ? Jesus scanned the crowd. He stretched out
(33:17):
his arms and gestured to them.
Speaker 5 (33:19):
You know who I am. You know where I came from.
I've been sent by God. I know him. I come
from him. Is he who guides me?
Speaker 3 (33:30):
As the words left Jesus's mouth, the crowd irrupted in rage.
They called for him to be arrested. They spat in
his direction and called him a blasphem. Yet many people
believed in him. At the edge of the temple, Jesus's
brothers watched in awe as Jesus continued speaking. The Pharisees
(33:52):
called for the guards to arrest him.
Speaker 4 (33:54):
He is a blasphemer, they yelled, seize him.
Speaker 3 (33:58):
So the guards approached the platform were Jesus taught. They
marched with their swords drawn, ready to take Jesus by force. However,
they slowed their pursuit as they heard Jesus speak. They
heard about depths of God's goodness, the origin of justice,
and the meaning behind the law. They were enraptured by
(34:20):
his sermon, so instead of arresting him, they sheathed their
swords and listened. The Pharisees were outraged that they could
not lay a hand on Jesus, so they sought to
end him in secret. Their rage boiled with a quiet
and ancient evil. They did not know it, but they
(34:40):
were being played as pawns in the hand of a
great enemy. In the secrecy of night, the Pharisees ploted
how they might kill him. Nicodemus remained in the back
of the room, silently listening. Nobody knew that he had
once visited Jesus and had been transform formed by his words.
(35:02):
He cleared his throat to get the room's attention. Nicodemus
was respected among the Pharisees. His teaching was highly sought after,
and he was known as one of the deepest thinkers
of the day. All were silent as Nicodemus stood.
Speaker 4 (35:19):
You would condemn this man without a trial. Nicodemus asked,
why would we not truly inquire about his actions to
see if he really is who people say he is.
Speaker 3 (35:30):
Yet his words fell flat. The group was more concerned
with their power than the truth, so Nicodemus shrunk back,
scheming about how he could possibly stop what was about
to happen. It was morning and the sun was peeking
through the fig trees as Jesus lay underneath. The morning
(35:53):
haze caused the light to disperse in hundreds of directions,
illuminating the blooming flowers and morning dew. Jesus walked the
garden at the Mount of Olives and prayed. He breathed
in the crisp air and felt the first rays of
the sun gently touch his face. He listened to the
(36:14):
babbling brook Kidron and watched the clear water run through
the garden. He would be back here soon. It would
be a less peaceful experience than this. The day was
getting closer. Jesus departed from the Mount of Olives and
sat at the temple courtyard. He leaned his head against
(36:36):
the wall, enjoying a moment of silence with his God.
Then he heard a mob of people approaching. In front
of the throng of people were a few pharisees and
scribes dragging a woman through the dirt by her hair.
Her screams were louder than the mob of people. Jesus
stood to his feet and marched towards them. They saw
(36:59):
je Jesus and threw the woman to the ground at
his feet. Her face hit the dirt with a thud.
She gasped for air. As she turned to her side.
Jesus could see the bruises on her wrists from the
men who grabbed her. Her clothes were torn and falling
off her body, and blood was running down her temple.
(37:22):
Jesus looked up at the man standing over her. They
wore smug grins and pointed to the woman, Tisha. One
of the pharisees shouted.
Speaker 7 (37:31):
This woman has been caught in adultery. According to the
law of Moses.
Speaker 3 (37:37):
She should be stoned, they said, trying to trap him
into forgiving a woman who was clearly guilty. One of
the pharisees grabbed the woman by the hair and shouted.
Speaker 7 (37:47):
So what do you say now, Jesus, What shall be
done to her? Will you obey the law of Moses,
a compromise yet again to befriend whores and sinners.
Speaker 3 (38:00):
Jesus's heart beat faster. They had made a spectacle of
this woman. They had reduced her to nothing. The whole
crowd looked upon her with disgust and spat in her direction.
The woman shrunk in shame. She curled into herself, covering
her ears as she listened to people scoff at her.
(38:24):
She knew what people did to women caught in adultery.
She knew she was about to be stoned. Jesus looked
up at the people. Underneath Jesus's blank expression was a
rumbling of anger. Not anger towards the woman, but the
men wh would treat her like an animal to prove
(38:44):
a point. He knew. They did not care about the
woman's sin. They desired to trap Jesus, and they were
willing to stone this woman to validate themselves. Within Jesus
was the power of Heaven behind the common frame of
a Hebrew was the creator of the universe. With a word,
(39:06):
he could destroy all of them, yet he kept his
power sheathed. He would not address them in the way
they deserved. Even the corrupt deserved a chance to repent.
So Jesus took two steps forward and crouched down in
the dirt. He began to write words in the dust
(39:26):
with his finger. There was a silence as the religious
leaders read what Jesus was writing. The woman peeked her
eyes over. She could not see what Jesus was writing,
but she could notice that it made the Pharisees uncomfortable.
Jesus stood to his feet and looked at them. He
(39:49):
picked up a stone off the floor and walked towards them.
Their eyes widened. Jesus was unpredictable to them what he
stone the woman, or would he attack them. The crowd
took a few steps back, bracing for Jesus to strike
them down. Instead, he reached out with the stone resting.
Speaker 1 (40:10):
On his palm.
Speaker 5 (40:12):
If any one among you is without sin, let him
throw the first stone.
Speaker 3 (40:18):
Jesus dropped the stone in front of the woman and Pharisees.
It fell to the floor with a thud. Everyone was silent.
Jesus knelt down again and continued writing in the dirt.
The men looked at his words written in the dust,
and one by one they began to leave. Each man,
(40:40):
beginning with the oldest, departed in a hurry. The woman
watched as the men grumbled. Their faces were filled with worry.
Perhaps they did not want anyone to read what Jesus
was writing. Perhaps it was about them. The pharisees and
scribes left without a word. They grumbled as they departed,
(41:03):
swiftly so no one would talk to them. The crowns
also departed, for there was no longer a spectacle to watch.
All that remained was Jesus and the woman. Her body
was bruised and bleeding from being dragged in the dirt.
She covered herself best she could. They had drug her
out of her bed, right in the act of adultery,
(41:26):
yet the man had not been taken. She was frustrated, ashamed,
and alone. Jesus walked over to her and knelt on
to the floor. He took the robe off his back
and draped it over her shoulders. He met the woman's
eyes and then gestured to the empty courtyard.
Speaker 5 (41:46):
Tell me, he said, who is left to seame you?
Speaker 3 (41:51):
The woman looked round. Her tears fell into the dirt
before Jesus. She shook her head and answered, no one,
My Lord. Jesus propped up her chin so her eyes
met his.
Speaker 5 (42:05):
Then neither do I sheme you.
Speaker 3 (42:07):
He helped the woman to her feet and brush the
dirt off her clothes.
Speaker 5 (42:11):
Leave now in freedom, go and sin no more.
Speaker 3 (42:16):
So the woman departed, feeling the full weight of grace.
Jesus outstretched his arms to the people and proclaimed.
Speaker 5 (42:26):
I am the good Shepherd. The good shepherd lays his
life down for the sheep.
Speaker 3 (42:32):
He then pointed to the Pharisees.
Speaker 5 (42:34):
The hired hand sees the wolf coming and leaves the
sheep to save himself. He cares nothing for the sheep.
Speaker 3 (42:41):
Jesus paste the ground outside the temple.
Speaker 5 (42:44):
I am the good Shepherd, and I will lay down
my life for the sheep.
Speaker 3 (42:49):
They will hear me and.
Speaker 5 (42:51):
Listen to my voice. Know this, whatever may come in
the future, nobody takes my life from me. I lay
it down will for the sake of those God has
given to me. I have the authority to lay down
my life. I have the authority to raise it up again.
Speaker 3 (43:09):
As he said these things, there was another division among
the Jews. Many of them said he has a demon
he's insane, Why listen to him? Others said, these are
not the words of one who is oppressed by demon.
Can a demon open the eyes of the blind? Jesus
left from there, healing the blind and rebuking the Pharisees
(43:31):
for their lack of compassion over the last, all the
while their hatred for him grew. The name of Jesus
became a point of debate between people in Jerusalem. While
people from Galilee rejoiced in his miracles, the religious elite
of Jerusalem analyzed and debated them. All the while Jesus
(43:54):
set his heart towards the final act of his ministry.
He was beginning to set his gaze on the hill
outside the city, the place of the skull convarry.
Speaker 2 (44:08):
God's heart is always for those who cannot help themselves.
God's heart is for the vulnerable, the weak, and the helpless,
So he sends his heroes to respond to the needs
of those who cannot help themselves. This is the heart
of God and the heart of his Messiah. During the
time of Jesus, there were a variety of different predictions
on who the Messiah would be. Very few of those
(44:30):
predictions involved the carpenter who hung out with blind men,
tax collectors, and fishermen. Jesus flipped everybody's expectations upside down.
His constant attendance to the sick demon possessed an outcast
gives us a good idea of how God defines heroism.
When Samad defended the little feel from the Philistines, he
(44:51):
displayed true heroism. He fought for the helpless and defended
the dignity of something small. Jesus was constantly paying attention
to the feels, those seemingly small and insignificant people who
needed help. SHAMAI use the sword, but Jesus had a
different weapon at his disposal, the spirit of God. His
disciples found themselves incapable of casting out a demon from
(45:14):
a small boy. The boy's father was angry, confused, and
beside himself with grief. Wouldn't you be the Demon's grip
on this boy caused him to harm himself and the
people around him. If you are a parent listening to this,
you can only imagine the anguish this father was feeling.
Jesus knew what the father was thinking, but he also
(45:35):
knew what the pharisees and scribes were thinking. They snickered
at the disciples inability to heal the boy, and that
made Jesus enraged. They were so self righteous that they
had closed their hearts off to compassion. The contrast between
Jesus and the Pharisees only becomes more apparent as this
series continues. They would rather this boy continue to suffer
(45:58):
than give Jesus a victim. When we have prioritized our
own idea of morality over compassion and charity, we have
taken a dark turn. Jesus confronted the demon and held
the boy tightly so that he couldn't harm himself or
anyone else. He embraced the boy with love and rebuke
the tormenting spirit within him. If you have a chance
(46:19):
to go back and listen to this scene again, I
suggest you do. Imagine all the darkness that plagues your mind.
Then imagine Jesus's strong arms wrapping around you. You thrash,
you tug away, but he doesn't let go. Instead, he
speaks truth to your soul and rebukes the lies you
have believed.
Speaker 3 (46:38):
Powerful.
Speaker 2 (46:39):
I also love the Father's prayer in this episode. Did
you notice it? At first? It doesn't seem like a prayer,
but it is. It is a prayer. You and I
can both pray every time we doubt. Lord. I believe,
but help my unbelief. What an honest and simple prayer.
It is a prayer I can relate to. I want
to believe Jesus can do anything, but sometimes I can't
(47:01):
get myself to a place of full surrendering trust. Pray
to God, declare your belief in him, but also ask
him to help you where your faith may fail. After
Jesus helped the boy, he had a moment alone with
his disciples to prepare their heart for the troubles ahead.
The son of Man will be delivered into the hands
of men, Jesus said. They will kill him, and he
(47:22):
will be raised again on the third day. Our hero
will eventually be taken by soldiers and nail to a cross.
He will bleed and hang like a criminal. He wanted
to prepare his disciples so that they might have hope,
but they never seemed to get it. I wonder why
that was. Why did the cross still seem like a surprise.
(47:43):
Jesus spent a lot of time warning them of his
death and resurrection. I think God is often speaking to us,
giving us reminders and guidance for the future. However, some
things go in one ear and out the other. It
is only when we truly experience those things ourselves that
we possess what God has been telling us all along. Nevertheless,
(48:05):
Jesus was patient with his disciples. He loved them like
a shepherd loves his sheep. Jesus loved Peter as well,
providing for him in the small ways and the being.
There probably a thousand profound points we could extrapolate from
the fish and the coin, but I would rather remind
us of a simple point. God cares about the small
(48:25):
things like paying your bills or getting your car fixed.
He notices your minor insecurities and hidden embarrassments. All these
things are seen by Jesus, and he wants to attend
to your needs. If you feel like the small accumulated
issues in your life don't matter to God, let me
remind you that they do. Speaking of Jesus's heart for
(48:47):
small things, this episode gave us a glimpse in of
Jesus's heart for children. Would ask about what it takes
to be great in God's kingdom. Jesus answered, with you
see these children, they are humble and approach me with
joy that faith is pure and undefiled. Whoever is like
one of these children is greatest in the kingdom of heaven.
(49:08):
God wants us to approach him with childlike faith. The
faith a child has when they jump into their parents'
arms or run to them when they are afraid, is
the same faith we are called to. Is the same
faith we're called to. Children have no problem expressing their
needs or acknowledging their emotions. They also hopefully trust their
(49:28):
parents and lean on their understanding of the world. This
is how God desires us to approach him honestly, with
pure hearts and humble spirits. This episode was not all
good feelings and pleasant sayings, though. As the children ran
off to play, Jesus gives the crowd a stern mourning.
It was perhaps one of the harshest things Jesus ever said.
(49:49):
Whoever accepts and loves a child in my name also
receives me. However, whoever causes one of these little ones
harm or causes them to sin, it would be better
for him to have a stone fastened around his neck
and thrown into the bottom of the sea. You heard
that correctly. Jesus said it would be better to drown
(50:10):
in the bottom of the sea than to be caught
abusing a child. That's how harsh the punishment will be
for those who mistreat children. Jesus was ferociously passionate about
preserving the joy and faith of the little ones. Children
are not just our future, they are our present. They
are a present reminder of joy, faith, and honesty. Preserving
(50:33):
the innocence of children preserves our own innocence in a way.
May we never neglect them or sit idly by while
others harmed them. The episode ended with a famous scene.
A woman was dragged out in shame. She was caught
in the act of adultery and brought before Jesus for judgment.
The religious leaders wanted to test Jesus. If he showed
(50:53):
a mercy, they would say he didn't take the law seriously.
If he showed a judgment, they would say he was
a hipoce. So what does Jesus do? He writes in
the sand. Many have speculated what this writing was. Some
say he was listing the sins of the Pharisees. I
personally liked that theory. Others say that he may have
been writing Jeremiah thirteen when it says, oh Lord, the
(51:17):
Hope of Israel. All who forsake you shall be put
to shame. Those who turn away from you shall be
written in the earth, for they have forsaken the Lord,
the fountain of living water. Either way, it struck a
chord with the mob. One by one they started to leave.
All that remained were Jesus and this woman. I want
us all to pause for a moment and consider this woman.
(51:40):
She had been forcibly taken from her room, having been
caught in the act of adultery. She was probably poorly clothed,
without a head covering and a shame. On top of that,
the man who was also committing adultery was nowhere to
be found. She was brought out as a spectacle and
nothing else. Nobody cared about her story, her past, or
her shame. They wanted to judge her to feel better
(52:02):
about themselves, no matter what it cost her. The law
allowed for public stoning, so you can imagine her fear.
When Jesus picked up a stone. However, all he said was,
if anyone among you is without sin, let him throw
the first stone. People left, and she stood face to
face with Love Incarnate. What do you think she felt?
(52:23):
What world wind of emotions were circling in her head.
She got a taste of pure and undefiled mercy. That
day Jesus charged her to go and sin no more.
And that is the charge for you and me today.
We have been given an abundance of mercy. The punishment
we deserve was removed from us. Jesus has shown compassion, kindness,
(52:45):
and grace. What should we do with it? Paul says
in Romans six. What shall we say?
Speaker 5 (52:50):
Then?
Speaker 2 (52:51):
Are we to continue in sin that grace may abound
by no means? How can we who died the sin
still live in it? Do you not know that all
of us who been baptized into Christ, Jesus were baptizing
to his death. We were buried therefore with him by
baptism and to death, in order that, just as Jesus
was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father,
we too might walk in the newness of life. Christ
(53:14):
died the death we deserved so that we might live
the life he lived. Mercy gives us the freedom to
go and sin no more. He hung like us, so
we can walk like him. Hallelujah. Jesus truly is the
good shepherd He laid down his life for us, we
as his sheep, can live in freedom from fear and shame.
(53:36):
My parting prayer for you is that you would listen
to his voice and be empowered to go and sin
no more. In our next episode, we will witness the
miracle that sealed Jesus's fate. So far, the religious leaders
have been able to tolerate his healings on the Sabbath
and signs in small towns, but this next miracle was
(53:56):
too big to ignore. Join us next time for episode thirteen,
Lazarus Come Out. Thank you for listening. For more inspiring stories,
daily prayers, and wisdom to last a lifetime, go to
pray dot com. And to expand your heroes in the
Bible Journey, download the Heroes of the Faith devotional at
Tonyevans dot org. Forward slash Heroes. Share this podcast with
(54:20):
a family member or friend so that they can know
Jesus in a personal way. You never know how great
of an impact the Bible and this podcast can have
on someone's life. God bless
The thief cometh not but for to steal, and to kill,
and to destroy. I am come that they might have life,
and that they might have it more abundantly. John ten ten,
Heavenly Father. Satan is a thief who is out to
destroy every living being because he knows that this is
(00:21):
the only way he can strike at your heart. He
knows how much you love humanity, so if he can
keep them from connecting you, he wins. You came to
expose his plots, plans, and schemes and set your people free.
You have provided everything we need, but it is still
(00:41):
a choice we have to make. You came to offer
us power over death and eternal life. You came to
bless us with hope, peace and love. In the midst
of turmoil. You showed us your goodness through your son, Jesus.
How can people not see that? Use me today to
(01:02):
reach them with your truth. Amen. Stay tuned to immerse
yourself in the greatest stories ever told from pray dot
COM's podcast, Heroes in the Bible.
Speaker 2 (01:16):
Hi, I'm doctor Tony Evans, your host for Heroes in
the Bible. Jesus. If you've enjoyed this podcast so far,
please share it with your family and friends so they
can know Jesus Christ in a personal way, because knowing
Jesus is the key to understanding the Bible. Welcome to
the greatest story ever told. It is a story of
it with shepherd's heart for his sheep, a father's love
(01:38):
for his children, and a hero's triumph over death and darkness.
This is a story that continues to shape and mold
the world around us, bringing the divine heart of God
right into the hearts of you and me. This episode
reminds us of Jesus's heart for the downtrodden, defenseless, and
pure of heart. As we have gone through the life
(01:58):
of Jesus so far, it can't help but be compelled
by just how many stories there are of Jesus caring
for the individual. He helped people who were sick, listen
to people who were broken, and rebuke the powers of
darkness that sought to corrupt people. Jesus cared deeply, and
that should make us want to do the same. These
stories are powerful and they cut at the parts of
(02:20):
us that just want to look out for Number One,
I pray this episode grips your soul, especially as you
hear Jesus's heart for children. Before we dive into the
works and words of Jesus, we will begin with the prelude.
This prelude features a character very few people know about.
His story is short and often lost behind the shimmering
(02:41):
veneer of King David's life. However, this mighty man of
Valor's moment in scripture reminds us that God's heart is
for the weak and feeble. He will stop at nothing
to defend the helpless from evil. The prelude and the
episode afterward invite us to ask how we can defend
the defenseless and love the outcasts. My prayer for you
(03:01):
today is that the shepherding heart of God would be
on full display for you to see. I pray Jesus'
words would remind you that you are loved despite your brokenness.
I pray that this episode would inspire you to seek
Jesus for guidance, provision, healing, acceptance, just as the characters
of this story did. Here is episode twelve, The Good Shepherd.
Speaker 3 (03:32):
Prailud to chapter twelve. Shama breathed him deeply, looking out
onto the Philistine hoarde approaching. Their spears were set and
their swords were secured tightly, Shama exhaled, listening to the
steady rhythm of his heartbeat. The farmers of Lehigh had
(03:52):
retreated into their homes, watching from the windows as shamasted alone.
He stood in the lentil field. Bushes swayed gently to
the wind. The earth began to shake as the Philistines
came closer. All the men of the city had fled,
but not Shama. He knew that this little patch of
farm was the only livelihood the people of Lehigh had.
(04:16):
He would not let it be taken by Philistine dogs.
The opposing army picked up their pace, working their way
into a sprint. Shama set his feet, widening his stance.
He drew his sword and braced his shield. The two
dozen Philistines closed the gap and lunged at in with
spears and swords. Shama lifted his stance like an elegant dance,
(04:39):
shifting and moving his feet and hits. He dodged every
advance and responded with the swift swing of his sword.
One Philistine got an edge on him and drew him
back with his shield. However, Shama regained balance quickly and
tossed a dagger that was attached to his head a
direct hit. Two more advanced towards him. One was met
with a quick jab to the belly, and the other
(05:00):
was sent to his back with a blow from Shama's shield.
He fought for what seemed like ours. As he held
his ground, the Philistines that were still alive retreated, leaving
the Lentil field alone to the people of Lehigh. Shama panted,
blood dripped down his armor, and his face was covered
in dust and sweat. But he had done it. He
(05:23):
defended the Lentil Field from the Philistines. He did not
defeat a giant, nor did he lead an army into battle.
This mighty man of David stood his ground against a
foe that sought to take advantage of the weak and helpless.
He was one man against many, yet God empowered him
to victory. This is because God's heart is always for
(05:47):
those who cannot help themselves. God's heart is for the vulnerable,
the weak, and the helpless, so he sends his heroes
to respond to the needs of those who cannot help themselves.
This is the heart of God and the heart of
his Messiah. Chapter twelve, the good Shepherd Jesus descended down
(06:14):
the mountain with Peter, James, and John. Their faces still
wore the shock and awe of what had just occurred.
They were able to see the heavenly radiance of Jesus unveiled.
For a moment on that mountain, they were able to
comprehend the greatest miracle of Jesus. His greatest miracle was
(06:35):
not turning water in the wine, healing the blind, or
calm in the storm. The miracle occurred every day as
he continually held back the entirety of his glory. As
they reached the base of the mountain, a large commotion
could be heard from camp. Peter was the first to
(06:57):
respond and run. The others followed, hurrying down the path.
They reached camp and found a large crowd violently arguing
with the rest of the disciples. Jesus saw a few
members pointing at the disciples frauds. They shouted, who were
you to call yourselves disciples of Jesus. Peter lunged himself
into the crowd, separating them from the disciples. It only
(07:20):
made them more angry. One of them swung at Peter,
but before he could respond, Jesus rushed into the scene,
and the attention of the crowd was diverted. His very
presence changed their countenance. What is going on here, Jesus asked.
The crowd parted and a man emerged, holding his son
in his arms. He was a short and portly man,
(07:44):
quite possibly a butcher by trade. His strong arms held
up his boy, who could not have been older than
ten years of age. The boy was limp in his
father's arms, grunting incessantly. Teacher, the man said, bowing before Jesus.
Speaker 4 (08:01):
It brought my son to you. A spirit has taken him.
Speaker 3 (08:05):
Jesus peered at the boy. His eyes were rolled back
and his neck twitched from side to side. He scanned
the boy's body. It was covered in burn marks. The
father took notice of Jesus's eyes and began to weep.
Speaker 4 (08:20):
The spirit comes without.
Speaker 3 (08:22):
Notice, he said, with watered eyes.
Speaker 4 (08:25):
He'll take control of my son and throw him into
the fire. He foams at the mouth and grinds his teeth,
and then he will throw my son into the water
to drown.
Speaker 3 (08:36):
The man clinched his eyes closed, holding his son tightly.
Speaker 4 (08:41):
I came to your disciples so they might cast out
the demon, but they couldn't. They gave me hope and
it has been shattered.
Speaker 3 (08:52):
The man broke down, unable to console himself. Jesus caught
a glimpse of the Pharisees and scribes smirking in the corner.
They reveled in the disciples inability to cast out the demon.
Jesus walked forward with his chest held high and fists clenched.
He pointed to them with his gaze as intense as
(09:14):
a bolt of lightning.
Speaker 5 (09:15):
You crooked and perverse generation, he shouted, faithless, that is
what you are. How long must I endure you?
Speaker 3 (09:24):
Jesus looked at the child. He was in much pain.
Bring me the boy, Jesus said. As the father lifted
his arms to hand the boy to Jesus, the demon
awoke from his slumber. He had felt the presence of
the Messiah and knew his time was almost up. The
demon was determined to do as much damage as he
(09:45):
could with a few moments he had left. The boy
leaped out of the father's arms onto the ground. The
demon thrashed his body under the floor, banging his head
against the rocks. Foam spit forth from the boy's mouth,
and his eyes rolled back into their sockets. The crowd
recoiled terrifying that the boy might harm them if they
(10:06):
got too close. The father fell on top of his son,
trying to restrain him, but the demon was too powerful.
He threw the father off of him and leaped towards him,
grabbing his throat. The entire crowd could hear the slight
cracking of the father's throat. The demon was unnaturally strong.
Jesus stepped forward, grabbing the boy from on top of
(10:29):
his father. He restrained him in his arms. The boy
thrashed back and forth, screaming with blood curdling volume. The
father gasped for air, sobbing at the sight of his son.
The boy writhed in Jesus's arms, yet Jesus remained calm,
making sure to not harm him. He looked at the
(10:49):
father and asked.
Speaker 5 (10:50):
Do you believe I can heal you?
Speaker 3 (10:52):
So the father opened up his hands to Jesus and
shook his head.
Speaker 4 (10:56):
I believe, Lord.
Speaker 3 (10:59):
There was a pause as the father stared at his son.
For years, this demon had plagued him. He had begun
to lose hope that anything would change.
Speaker 4 (11:10):
I believe, but help my unbelief.
Speaker 3 (11:14):
Jesus nodded. The man's response was honest and pure. He
did not give any false platitudes or promises. He simply
shared the state of his heart. He brought his real
and honest emotions. Jesus held the boy close, hugging him
as he struggled. Jesus's teeth clenched and his brow furrowed.
(11:38):
He hugged the boy with the loving embrace of a father. Then,
with authority, he spoke to the demon deep within.
Speaker 5 (11:47):
You, mute and deaf spirit, hear the voice of your creator.
I command you to come out of this boy and
plague him no more.
Speaker 3 (11:55):
The boy's screams increased to a deafening level. He convulsed
and rushed his body, until finally going limp, Jesus set
him down gently on the floor. The boy seemed dead
for a moment. However, Jesus grabbed his hand and lifted
him up on two feet. The boy was restored, and
(12:17):
the father felt like he was meeting his son for
the first time. The disciples departed from Galilee, concerned about
what they had just seen. Jesus knew that there were
greater troubles ahead for them, yet there was no way
for them to truly understand. How could they. In many ways,
the Kingdom of Heaven was upside down compared to the
(12:40):
common culture of mankind. However, Jesus still saw it fitting
to prepare his disciples for events to come.
Speaker 5 (12:49):
The Son of Man will be delivered into the hands
of men, Jesus said, They will kill him, and he
will raise himself up on the third day.
Speaker 3 (12:57):
As Jesus spoke these things, the disciple struggled. They said nothing,
afraid of the answers to their questions. They had made
their way to Copernium and a large group was gathering
in a household. Peter reclined at the table, enjoying a
rare moment of silence with his own thoughts. However, the
(13:19):
moment was quickly interrupted as a temple official approached him.
Ah Simon, the man said. As he sat down, he
panted Peter on the back and said, I heard.
Speaker 6 (13:30):
You might be here with Jesus.
Speaker 3 (13:32):
It has been a while. Peter gulped. The man was
a temple tax collector, and Peter had been behind on
his temple tax for quite some time. The man sat
next to him and poured a drink from the basin.
Sitting on the table, he sipped casually, enjoying the tension
he caused, Peter.
Speaker 7 (13:52):
Tell me, Simon, did your teacher pay his taxes unlike
some in this room.
Speaker 3 (13:58):
Peter buried his head into his hands and sighed. He
was a lowly fisherman without much coin to spare. On
top of this, he was responsible for his wife and
father in law. He does, Peter answered quickly. Then he
got up from his seat and walked out of the house.
The collector smirked as Peter walked away. Peter stepped out
(14:20):
on to the patio. He rubbed his temples and sighed.
He felt a great deal of guilt about not being
able to afford his temple tax. It was one thing
to avoid taxes imposed by Rome, but to not contribute
to the temple of God was a source of shame.
Peter looked up to the stars, unaware of Jesus sitting
(14:42):
a few feet in front of him. Peter was lost
in thought, reeling in guilt. Then he heard Jesus speak
into the silence.
Speaker 5 (14:52):
Come and see Peter.
Speaker 3 (14:54):
Jesus said, gesturing to a spot on the small wall
next to him. Jesus would all often retreat to be
alone with God. Peter felt honored to sit next to
him during one of these moments, Jesus turned to Peter.
Speaker 5 (15:09):
Tell me what you think, Peter, when kings tax the land,
do you think they taxed their own sons or others?
Speaker 3 (15:16):
Jesus asked others. Peter answered plainly. Jesus nodded, sons are free.
A father would never let his son pay the taxes
of everyone else. However, in order to not needlessly offend others,
I pay the tax, and so should you. Peter held
(15:36):
his head low as he spoke. Jesus gave him a
pat on the shoulder.
Speaker 5 (15:42):
Spend some time down by the sea to clear your mind.
Cast a hook and take the first fish that comes up.
Open its mouth. There you'll find a shekel that should
cover the tax form me and for you.
Speaker 3 (15:56):
Peter did as he was told. He sat with a
rod and life in the water, watching the moonlight reflected
in the sea. The line tugged and a fish appeared
out of the water. Peter opened its mouth and lo
and behold something shined in the moonlight. Peter pulled out
a shekel. He could not help but chuckle. Jesus had
(16:19):
strange ways of providing, but he always came through. The
Next day, Jesus was teaching to a large group near
the Sea of Galilee. The seagulls flew high above them,
descending into the waters below. Jesus sat at the edge
of an elevated stone, and hundreds of people sat below
(16:39):
on the shore. Jesus spoke about the Kingdom of Heaven.
He spoke about the greatness of God's will acted out
in the hearts of people.
Speaker 4 (16:49):
Teacher, who is the greatest in the Kingdom of Heaven?
How can I or any of us truly be great?
Speaker 3 (16:56):
Someone asked. Jesus nodded at the question. He gestured towards
some of the children playing in the sand near the water.
He waved at them to come over, and they happily
ran and climbed up the rock. One of the children
leapt onto Jesus's lap, and the other climbed up on
top of his shoulders. Jesus laughed, allowing them to play
(17:18):
with his hair and jump off his back.
Speaker 5 (17:20):
You see these children, Jesus asked, They are humble and
approach me with joy. Their faith is pure and undefiled.
Whoever is like one of these children his greatest in
the Kingdom of God.
Speaker 3 (17:33):
One of the children sat quietly on Jesus's lap, playing
with a stone she found on the shore. Jesus looked
at each child with love. Then he looked seriously at
the crowd.
Speaker 5 (17:45):
Whoever accepts and loves a child in my name also
receives me. However, whoever causes one of these little ones
harm or causes them to sin, it would be better
for him to have a stone fastened around his neck
and thrown into the bottom of the sea.
Speaker 3 (18:01):
The people gasped at Jesus's intensity. However, he had a
heart for the innocent and needed to make it clear
that those who harmed the innocent will not go unpunished.
The children jumped off the stone and ran back to
fine shells on the shore. Jesus smiled, then returned his
gaze to the crowd.
Speaker 5 (18:22):
Temptation to sin is everywhere. There's a great sorrow in
the world because of it, he said. However, it is
necessary that temptations come in this way. Our faith is
strengthened in them. However, you must be careful. If your
hand or foot causes you to sin, cut it off.
Speaker 3 (18:40):
Jesus gestured with his hands, cutting off his arm. The
crowd gasped and flinched. However, Jesus spoke in metaphor, showcasing
the lengths we must go to separate ourselves from sin.
Speaker 8 (18:53):
It is better for you to be without an off
or a leg than to be thrown in eternal fire.
So if you are causes you to sin, pluck it out,
throw it away. It is better that you enter life
with one eye than two eyes in eternal death.
Speaker 3 (19:09):
The people nodded, understanding the severity of their sin. However,
it would be hard to uphold the high standard of Jesus.
They would need help, and Jesus was determined to give it.
Jesus gestured at the children again. People watched as they
played innocently near the water. Their laughter was contagious and
(19:33):
caused the crowd to laugh as well. Jesus smiled and
looked at the crowd. Looking at the children, they were
his little ones. He saw them in the same way
they saw the children. He lifted his voice and reminded
them of his heart.
Speaker 5 (19:50):
Let us say, if shepherd has a hundred sheep, he
tends to them well within his pasture. However, one of
them falls astray and wanders oft into the wilderness. Were
lie and wait. The shepherd takes action and leaves the
ninety nine sheep in search of the one. He ascends
into the mountains. He risks death an injury to save
the one sheep who went astray. Then he finds the sheep,
(20:14):
and his entire household rejoices. That is the heart of
my father in heaven. It is not his will that
any should perish.
Speaker 3 (20:25):
Jesus peered out into the crowd. In the corner, he
could see two men facing each other, disputing silently.
Speaker 5 (20:34):
Forgive one another.
Speaker 3 (20:35):
Jesus shouted. The men quickly ceased their arguing. Embarrassed that
Jesus had caught them, he smiled and shook his head.
Then he turned to the rest of the crowd.
Speaker 5 (20:47):
If your brother sins against you, go and tell him
his fault. Do not bring others into it unless you've
spoken to him first. Be honest with one another. If
he does not listen, bring a few more, so they
may be witnesses to your dispute and help. If he
refuse us to listen, still bring him to the church
so they might lovingly lead him. Wherever two or three
(21:08):
are gathered in the midst of dispute, I will be
in their midst to aid.
Speaker 3 (21:13):
Peter looked at his brother Andrew. He smirked. The two
of them had had many disputes in their lives. Andrew
was more level handed, quiet, However, Peter was brash and loud.
Speaker 6 (21:27):
How many times should I forgive my brother? Peter asked
the rabbis, tell us to forgive three times? Shall we
forgive more? Perhaps seven times?
Speaker 3 (21:37):
Peter's number was generous. However, Jesus had a different number
in mind.
Speaker 5 (21:43):
No, Peter, not seven seventy seven.
Speaker 3 (21:47):
The crowd laughed at the absurd number. However, Jesus was
not joking. He held up his hand and told them
a story.
Speaker 5 (21:56):
There was a ruler who wished to settle his accounts
with servants. He lent money to one of the servants,
owed him ten thousand talents. Surely it was a number
too great to repay. Since he could not pay the debt,
the ruler offered for the servant and his family to
be sold into slavery to repay the payment. The servant
(22:17):
leaped onto the floor and fell on his face. He
begged the ruler forgive me, forgive me of my debt.
Although he did not deserve forgiveness, the ruler gave it anyway,
for he was merciful and kind. The very same day,
the ruler was walking about the city when he caught
a glimpse of the very same servant arguing with another man.
(22:38):
He watched as the servant swung at the man, hitting
him to the floor. The two of them fought and
thrashed at one another until the servant came on top
of him and began.
Speaker 3 (22:46):
To choke him.
Speaker 5 (22:47):
Pay me what you owe me, the servant yelled. As
he turns out, the servant owed the man one hundred talents.
The man gasped for air and begged for mercy, Please
forgive me of the debt. Yet and did not have mercy.
When the ruler heard this, he summoned him, you wicked servant,
I forgave you all your debt, yet you choked this
(23:10):
man for a hundred. In his anger, the ruler sent
him out into the prison.
Speaker 3 (23:16):
Jesus paused and allowed the crowd to understand the message.
Speaker 5 (23:20):
You have been forgiven much, Jesus said, the same will
happen to you if you do not forgive others.
Speaker 3 (23:26):
With that, Jesus departed with his disciples. There were things
to prepare for for Jesus was about to set his
face to Jerusalem, Desiring for the entire region around him
to hear the proclaimed gospel, Jesus sent out his disciples
into different regions so he might preach. However, the Samaritan
(23:49):
village nearby would not receive him. James and John boiled
with rage that they would reject Jesus. They steamed with
anger and bickered amongst themselves on how they should respond. Finally,
they came to Jesus and said.
Speaker 9 (24:04):
Lord, shall we call down fire from heaven to obliterate
those who reject you.
Speaker 3 (24:09):
Jesus looked at them dismayed. His face showed shock, worry,
and anger that they would even suggest such a thing.
Of course, not. Thus he nicknamed both of them sons
of Thunder. As the rest of them were walking into
another town, a man came to them. He approached Jesus smugly,
(24:30):
prepared to follow Jesus wherever he went.
Speaker 4 (24:33):
Lord, allow me to follow you wherever you.
Speaker 3 (24:36):
Go, the man said, with a grin. He held himself
with confidence. He had seen Jesus heal the sick and
multiply food. He saw the crowds call to make him
king and await his revolution to the throne. To him,
Jesus's life seemed glamorous. He desired to be a part
(24:56):
of it and share in the glory. Jesus did not
shew the man away. Instead, he painted him a picture
of what it was truly like to follow him.
Speaker 5 (25:08):
Foxes have holes and birds have nests, But the son
of man has no place to lay his head. He
has no home to call his owner comforts to return to.
So follow me if you desire.
Speaker 3 (25:21):
The man paused for a moment. He responded trepidaciously.
Speaker 4 (25:26):
Saying, well, perhaps I should first tend to my father
before he passes and secure my inheritance. Once he is
gone and I have buried him, I can return to
follow you.
Speaker 3 (25:39):
Jesus shook his head.
Speaker 5 (25:40):
Leave the dead to bury their own dead, as for you,
go and proclaim the Kingdom of God.
Speaker 3 (25:47):
Another man approached Jesus and said.
Speaker 4 (25:50):
Lord, I will follow you, but first allow me to
say goodbye to my family.
Speaker 3 (25:55):
Jesus shook his head again.
Speaker 5 (25:57):
You do not understand yet the weight of them what
you are seeking. No man can put his hand to
the plow and look back. The line becomes jacket and crooked.
No man is fit to commit to the Kingdom of
God if he.
Speaker 3 (26:11):
Looks back Jesus sat on a stone beside the road.
A large caravan of people were packing to depart from
Galilee to Jerusalem. Jesus watched as families packed food, instruments,
and sacrifices for the Feast of Booths. It was an
entire celebration where families camped and makeshift booths outside Jerusalem
(26:35):
to remember Israel's time in the wilderness.
Speaker 9 (26:38):
Are you coming, Jesus?
Speaker 3 (26:40):
Jesus looked up and saw his brothers approaching. James, Jude, Joseph,
and Simon were all packing their things to depart. Jesus
would not go with them. The religious leaders were waiting
for him there. He had known about their plot to
kill him, and there were still a few things to
do before he would give him himself up. His brothers
(27:03):
stood over him with their arms crossed. They knew better
than anyone that Jesus was unique, yet they were skeptical
of his miracles and had issues with his claims to
be the son of God.
Speaker 9 (27:16):
Why have you remained in Galilee so long? Jude asked,
No one respects Galileans. If you really want to be
known for all your words and miracles, you would do
them in Jerusalem. That is where the people that matter are.
Speaker 4 (27:29):
If you really do these things, why remain in an
anonymous region of Galilee.
Speaker 3 (27:34):
James chimed in, Come with.
Speaker 4 (27:36):
Us, we would also like to see you make a
name for yourself.
Speaker 3 (27:40):
There was sarcasm and snark in their voices. They did
not believe in him. However, they would soon see for
themselves what was to come. James and Jude in particular
would be completely transformed by the work Jesus did. Yet,
for now, Jesus was content to allow them to poke fun.
(28:01):
They were his brothers after all. Jesus stood to his
feet and panted Jude on the shoulders.
Speaker 5 (28:08):
Ah, my brothers, you shall have to go on without me.
My time has not yet come.
Speaker 3 (28:14):
Simon scoffed.
Speaker 10 (28:16):
Do not have people waiting for you in Jerusalem. How
is it that you claim to be so close to
God but avoid the people of God. Stop wasting your
time in Galilee with all these fishermen.
Speaker 5 (28:28):
Jesus shrugged as I said, my time to show myself
has not yet come. However, for you, my brothers, it
is always time. The world hates me because I testify
to its wickedness. If the world does not hate you,
nobody lies and wait for you, and nobody's seeking to
kill you. So go, go and be free. I am
sure I will see you soon.
Speaker 3 (28:50):
So his brothers departed with the rest of the caravan.
Musicians sat in their carriages with their lyres, and the
children played their flutes. It was a joyous occasion for
any Jew. However, Jesus had a mission. Once the caravan left,
he silently and secretly made his way to Jerusalem. The
(29:12):
brothers approached the grand city of Jerusalem. It was teeming
with life. The market places were bustling with fresh produce
and fine items. Families from different nations and regions danced
through the city streets, taking in the glory of God's city.
The temple was central, like the beating heart of the city.
(29:34):
From it, thousands of people poured in and out daily,
making sacrifices and offering prayers to God. On the outskirts
of the city, hundreds of tents and booths were set
up to celebrate the feast of booths. Children ran to
and from each tent, rolling around in the grass. Women
(29:54):
started fires to cook food. As the men sat among
one another, laughing and craft their tents. The brothers of
Jesus could not help but feel slightly sorrowful that Jesus
was not with them. For three years now, he had
been traveling from region to region preaching and healing. They
(30:16):
missed him. Perhaps that is why they ridiculed him so often.
The brothers sat by the fire waiting for the feast
to begin. They exchanged stories of their childhood and laughed,
making mention of Jesus. Often. The few of the people
around them took notice and approached their fire.
Speaker 4 (30:36):
Are you the brothers of Jesus.
Speaker 3 (30:39):
They asked. The brothers nodded.
Speaker 4 (30:41):
Where is he? Has he come with you to the feast?
Speaker 5 (30:44):
He is remaining in Galilee.
Speaker 3 (30:46):
Joseph replied quickly. They often grew tired of answering questions
about Jesus. However, more and more people listened in and
huddled near the fire. They disputed among themselves. Some would
say he is a good man. Others would whisper he
is the Messiah. Then more would respond, he's leading people astray.
(31:08):
Nobody was in agreement to the character of Jesus, not
even his own brothers. Meanwhile, in the temple, the religious
leaders were teaching a large crowd. They spoke of the
law and devotion to the temple economy. As they spoke,
Jesus weaved his way through the crowns, remaining anonymous under
(31:29):
a cloak. He remained hidden, observing the people as they
sought answers to life's greatest questions. He listened to the
Pharisees fumble the word of God and teach it as
a means to control and manipulate. Without a word, Jesus
removed his hood and walked to the other side of
(31:51):
the temple. Slowly people began to recognize him. The Pharisees
watched as the attention of the crowd was diverted to
the other side of the temple, like his shifting tide.
The amount of people listening to them reduced to nearly nothing.
They looked to the other side of the temple and
(32:11):
saw Jesus proclaiming the mercy, justice, love, and triumph of
the Kingdom of God. The Jews marveled. Many of them
had not listened to him before. The locals of Jerusalem
were connoisseurs of good teaching. They listened often to the
rhetoric of Hebrew scholars and debate between rabbis. However, as
(32:34):
they listened to Jesus, they heard things that they had
never heard before. How is it that this uneducated man
can say such things? They asked. Jesus held out his arms.
Speaker 5 (32:48):
My teaching is not my own, It is from the
one who sent me.
Speaker 3 (32:52):
Some in the crown began to recognize Jesus as the
one whom the Pharisees were plotting to kill. How is
it that people in the city are wanting to kill him,
yet he stands here boldly for all to see. The
crowd was stirring, questioning who Jesus really was. Who is
this man? They asked? Can it be that he really
is the Christ? Jesus scanned the crowd. He stretched out
(33:17):
his arms and gestured to them.
Speaker 5 (33:19):
You know who I am. You know where I came from.
I've been sent by God. I know him. I come
from him. Is he who guides me?
Speaker 3 (33:30):
As the words left Jesus's mouth, the crowd irrupted in rage.
They called for him to be arrested. They spat in
his direction and called him a blasphem. Yet many people
believed in him. At the edge of the temple, Jesus's
brothers watched in awe as Jesus continued speaking. The Pharisees
(33:52):
called for the guards to arrest him.
Speaker 4 (33:54):
He is a blasphemer, they yelled, seize him.
Speaker 3 (33:58):
So the guards approached the platform were Jesus taught. They
marched with their swords drawn, ready to take Jesus by force. However,
they slowed their pursuit as they heard Jesus speak. They
heard about depths of God's goodness, the origin of justice,
and the meaning behind the law. They were enraptured by
(34:20):
his sermon, so instead of arresting him, they sheathed their
swords and listened. The Pharisees were outraged that they could
not lay a hand on Jesus, so they sought to
end him in secret. Their rage boiled with a quiet
and ancient evil. They did not know it, but they
(34:40):
were being played as pawns in the hand of a
great enemy. In the secrecy of night, the Pharisees ploted
how they might kill him. Nicodemus remained in the back
of the room, silently listening. Nobody knew that he had
once visited Jesus and had been transform formed by his words.
(35:02):
He cleared his throat to get the room's attention. Nicodemus
was respected among the Pharisees. His teaching was highly sought after,
and he was known as one of the deepest thinkers
of the day. All were silent as Nicodemus stood.
Speaker 4 (35:19):
You would condemn this man without a trial. Nicodemus asked,
why would we not truly inquire about his actions to
see if he really is who people say he is.
Speaker 3 (35:30):
Yet his words fell flat. The group was more concerned
with their power than the truth, so Nicodemus shrunk back,
scheming about how he could possibly stop what was about
to happen. It was morning and the sun was peeking
through the fig trees as Jesus lay underneath. The morning
(35:53):
haze caused the light to disperse in hundreds of directions,
illuminating the blooming flowers and morning dew. Jesus walked the
garden at the Mount of Olives and prayed. He breathed
in the crisp air and felt the first rays of
the sun gently touch his face. He listened to the
(36:14):
babbling brook Kidron and watched the clear water run through
the garden. He would be back here soon. It would
be a less peaceful experience than this. The day was
getting closer. Jesus departed from the Mount of Olives and
sat at the temple courtyard. He leaned his head against
(36:36):
the wall, enjoying a moment of silence with his God.
Then he heard a mob of people approaching. In front
of the throng of people were a few pharisees and
scribes dragging a woman through the dirt by her hair.
Her screams were louder than the mob of people. Jesus
stood to his feet and marched towards them. They saw
(36:59):
je Jesus and threw the woman to the ground at
his feet. Her face hit the dirt with a thud.
She gasped for air. As she turned to her side.
Jesus could see the bruises on her wrists from the
men who grabbed her. Her clothes were torn and falling
off her body, and blood was running down her temple.
(37:22):
Jesus looked up at the man standing over her. They
wore smug grins and pointed to the woman, Tisha. One
of the pharisees shouted.
Speaker 7 (37:31):
This woman has been caught in adultery. According to the
law of Moses.
Speaker 3 (37:37):
She should be stoned, they said, trying to trap him
into forgiving a woman who was clearly guilty. One of
the pharisees grabbed the woman by the hair and shouted.
Speaker 7 (37:47):
So what do you say now, Jesus, What shall be
done to her? Will you obey the law of Moses,
a compromise yet again to befriend whores and sinners.
Speaker 3 (38:00):
Jesus's heart beat faster. They had made a spectacle of
this woman. They had reduced her to nothing. The whole
crowd looked upon her with disgust and spat in her direction.
The woman shrunk in shame. She curled into herself, covering
her ears as she listened to people scoff at her.
(38:24):
She knew what people did to women caught in adultery.
She knew she was about to be stoned. Jesus looked
up at the people. Underneath Jesus's blank expression was a
rumbling of anger. Not anger towards the woman, but the
men wh would treat her like an animal to prove
(38:44):
a point. He knew. They did not care about the
woman's sin. They desired to trap Jesus, and they were
willing to stone this woman to validate themselves. Within Jesus
was the power of Heaven behind the common frame of
a Hebrew was the creator of the universe. With a word,
(39:06):
he could destroy all of them, yet he kept his
power sheathed. He would not address them in the way
they deserved. Even the corrupt deserved a chance to repent.
So Jesus took two steps forward and crouched down in
the dirt. He began to write words in the dust
(39:26):
with his finger. There was a silence as the religious
leaders read what Jesus was writing. The woman peeked her
eyes over. She could not see what Jesus was writing,
but she could notice that it made the Pharisees uncomfortable.
Jesus stood to his feet and looked at them. He
(39:49):
picked up a stone off the floor and walked towards them.
Their eyes widened. Jesus was unpredictable to them what he
stone the woman, or would he attack them. The crowd
took a few steps back, bracing for Jesus to strike
them down. Instead, he reached out with the stone resting.
Speaker 1 (40:10):
On his palm.
Speaker 5 (40:12):
If any one among you is without sin, let him
throw the first stone.
Speaker 3 (40:18):
Jesus dropped the stone in front of the woman and Pharisees.
It fell to the floor with a thud. Everyone was silent.
Jesus knelt down again and continued writing in the dirt.
The men looked at his words written in the dust,
and one by one they began to leave. Each man,
(40:40):
beginning with the oldest, departed in a hurry. The woman
watched as the men grumbled. Their faces were filled with worry.
Perhaps they did not want anyone to read what Jesus
was writing. Perhaps it was about them. The pharisees and
scribes left without a word. They grumbled as they departed,
(41:03):
swiftly so no one would talk to them. The crowns
also departed, for there was no longer a spectacle to watch.
All that remained was Jesus and the woman. Her body
was bruised and bleeding from being dragged in the dirt.
She covered herself best she could. They had drug her
out of her bed, right in the act of adultery,
(41:26):
yet the man had not been taken. She was frustrated, ashamed,
and alone. Jesus walked over to her and knelt on
to the floor. He took the robe off his back
and draped it over her shoulders. He met the woman's
eyes and then gestured to the empty courtyard.
Speaker 5 (41:46):
Tell me, he said, who is left to seame you?
Speaker 3 (41:51):
The woman looked round. Her tears fell into the dirt
before Jesus. She shook her head and answered, no one,
My Lord. Jesus propped up her chin so her eyes
met his.
Speaker 5 (42:05):
Then neither do I sheme you.
Speaker 3 (42:07):
He helped the woman to her feet and brush the
dirt off her clothes.
Speaker 5 (42:11):
Leave now in freedom, go and sin no more.
Speaker 3 (42:16):
So the woman departed, feeling the full weight of grace.
Jesus outstretched his arms to the people and proclaimed.
Speaker 5 (42:26):
I am the good Shepherd. The good shepherd lays his
life down for the sheep.
Speaker 3 (42:32):
He then pointed to the Pharisees.
Speaker 5 (42:34):
The hired hand sees the wolf coming and leaves the
sheep to save himself. He cares nothing for the sheep.
Speaker 3 (42:41):
Jesus paste the ground outside the temple.
Speaker 5 (42:44):
I am the good Shepherd, and I will lay down
my life for the sheep.
Speaker 3 (42:49):
They will hear me and.
Speaker 5 (42:51):
Listen to my voice. Know this, whatever may come in
the future, nobody takes my life from me. I lay
it down will for the sake of those God has
given to me. I have the authority to lay down
my life. I have the authority to raise it up again.
Speaker 3 (43:09):
As he said these things, there was another division among
the Jews. Many of them said he has a demon
he's insane, Why listen to him? Others said, these are
not the words of one who is oppressed by demon.
Can a demon open the eyes of the blind? Jesus
left from there, healing the blind and rebuking the Pharisees
(43:31):
for their lack of compassion over the last, all the
while their hatred for him grew. The name of Jesus
became a point of debate between people in Jerusalem. While
people from Galilee rejoiced in his miracles, the religious elite
of Jerusalem analyzed and debated them. All the while Jesus
(43:54):
set his heart towards the final act of his ministry.
He was beginning to set his gaze on the hill
outside the city, the place of the skull convarry.
Speaker 2 (44:08):
God's heart is always for those who cannot help themselves.
God's heart is for the vulnerable, the weak, and the helpless,
So he sends his heroes to respond to the needs
of those who cannot help themselves. This is the heart
of God and the heart of his Messiah. During the
time of Jesus, there were a variety of different predictions
on who the Messiah would be. Very few of those
(44:30):
predictions involved the carpenter who hung out with blind men,
tax collectors, and fishermen. Jesus flipped everybody's expectations upside down.
His constant attendance to the sick demon possessed an outcast
gives us a good idea of how God defines heroism.
When Samad defended the little feel from the Philistines, he
(44:51):
displayed true heroism. He fought for the helpless and defended
the dignity of something small. Jesus was constantly paying attention
to the feels, those seemingly small and insignificant people who
needed help. SHAMAI use the sword, but Jesus had a
different weapon at his disposal, the spirit of God. His
disciples found themselves incapable of casting out a demon from
(45:14):
a small boy. The boy's father was angry, confused, and
beside himself with grief. Wouldn't you be the Demon's grip
on this boy caused him to harm himself and the
people around him. If you are a parent listening to this,
you can only imagine the anguish this father was feeling.
Jesus knew what the father was thinking, but he also
(45:35):
knew what the pharisees and scribes were thinking. They snickered
at the disciples inability to heal the boy, and that
made Jesus enraged. They were so self righteous that they
had closed their hearts off to compassion. The contrast between
Jesus and the Pharisees only becomes more apparent as this
series continues. They would rather this boy continue to suffer
(45:58):
than give Jesus a victim. When we have prioritized our
own idea of morality over compassion and charity, we have
taken a dark turn. Jesus confronted the demon and held
the boy tightly so that he couldn't harm himself or
anyone else. He embraced the boy with love and rebuke
the tormenting spirit within him. If you have a chance
(46:19):
to go back and listen to this scene again, I
suggest you do. Imagine all the darkness that plagues your mind.
Then imagine Jesus's strong arms wrapping around you. You thrash,
you tug away, but he doesn't let go. Instead, he
speaks truth to your soul and rebukes the lies you
have believed.
Speaker 3 (46:38):
Powerful.
Speaker 2 (46:39):
I also love the Father's prayer in this episode. Did
you notice it? At first? It doesn't seem like a prayer,
but it is. It is a prayer. You and I
can both pray every time we doubt. Lord. I believe,
but help my unbelief. What an honest and simple prayer.
It is a prayer I can relate to. I want
to believe Jesus can do anything, but sometimes I can't
(47:01):
get myself to a place of full surrendering trust. Pray
to God, declare your belief in him, but also ask
him to help you where your faith may fail. After
Jesus helped the boy, he had a moment alone with
his disciples to prepare their heart for the troubles ahead.
The son of Man will be delivered into the hands
of men, Jesus said. They will kill him, and he
(47:22):
will be raised again on the third day. Our hero
will eventually be taken by soldiers and nail to a cross.
He will bleed and hang like a criminal. He wanted
to prepare his disciples so that they might have hope,
but they never seemed to get it. I wonder why
that was. Why did the cross still seem like a surprise.
(47:43):
Jesus spent a lot of time warning them of his
death and resurrection. I think God is often speaking to us,
giving us reminders and guidance for the future. However, some
things go in one ear and out the other. It
is only when we truly experience those things ourselves that
we possess what God has been telling us all along. Nevertheless,
(48:05):
Jesus was patient with his disciples. He loved them like
a shepherd loves his sheep. Jesus loved Peter as well,
providing for him in the small ways and the being.
There probably a thousand profound points we could extrapolate from
the fish and the coin, but I would rather remind
us of a simple point. God cares about the small
(48:25):
things like paying your bills or getting your car fixed.
He notices your minor insecurities and hidden embarrassments. All these
things are seen by Jesus, and he wants to attend
to your needs. If you feel like the small accumulated
issues in your life don't matter to God, let me
remind you that they do. Speaking of Jesus's heart for
(48:47):
small things, this episode gave us a glimpse in of
Jesus's heart for children. Would ask about what it takes
to be great in God's kingdom. Jesus answered, with you
see these children, they are humble and approach me with
joy that faith is pure and undefiled. Whoever is like
one of these children is greatest in the kingdom of heaven.
(49:08):
God wants us to approach him with childlike faith. The
faith a child has when they jump into their parents'
arms or run to them when they are afraid, is
the same faith we are called to. Is the same
faith we're called to. Children have no problem expressing their
needs or acknowledging their emotions. They also hopefully trust their
(49:28):
parents and lean on their understanding of the world. This
is how God desires us to approach him honestly, with
pure hearts and humble spirits. This episode was not all
good feelings and pleasant sayings, though. As the children ran
off to play, Jesus gives the crowd a stern mourning.
It was perhaps one of the harshest things Jesus ever said.
(49:49):
Whoever accepts and loves a child in my name also
receives me. However, whoever causes one of these little ones
harm or causes them to sin, it would be better
for him to have a stone fastened around his neck
and thrown into the bottom of the sea. You heard
that correctly. Jesus said it would be better to drown
(50:10):
in the bottom of the sea than to be caught
abusing a child. That's how harsh the punishment will be
for those who mistreat children. Jesus was ferociously passionate about
preserving the joy and faith of the little ones. Children
are not just our future, they are our present. They
are a present reminder of joy, faith, and honesty. Preserving
(50:33):
the innocence of children preserves our own innocence in a way.
May we never neglect them or sit idly by while
others harmed them. The episode ended with a famous scene.
A woman was dragged out in shame. She was caught
in the act of adultery and brought before Jesus for judgment.
The religious leaders wanted to test Jesus. If he showed
(50:53):
a mercy, they would say he didn't take the law seriously.
If he showed a judgment, they would say he was
a hipoce. So what does Jesus do? He writes in
the sand. Many have speculated what this writing was. Some
say he was listing the sins of the Pharisees. I
personally liked that theory. Others say that he may have
been writing Jeremiah thirteen when it says, oh Lord, the
(51:17):
Hope of Israel. All who forsake you shall be put
to shame. Those who turn away from you shall be
written in the earth, for they have forsaken the Lord,
the fountain of living water. Either way, it struck a
chord with the mob. One by one they started to leave.
All that remained were Jesus and this woman. I want
us all to pause for a moment and consider this woman.
(51:40):
She had been forcibly taken from her room, having been
caught in the act of adultery. She was probably poorly clothed,
without a head covering and a shame. On top of that,
the man who was also committing adultery was nowhere to
be found. She was brought out as a spectacle and
nothing else. Nobody cared about her story, her past, or
her shame. They wanted to judge her to feel better
(52:02):
about themselves, no matter what it cost her. The law
allowed for public stoning, so you can imagine her fear.
When Jesus picked up a stone. However, all he said was,
if anyone among you is without sin, let him throw
the first stone. People left, and she stood face to
face with Love Incarnate. What do you think she felt?
(52:23):
What world wind of emotions were circling in her head.
She got a taste of pure and undefiled mercy. That
day Jesus charged her to go and sin no more.
And that is the charge for you and me today.
We have been given an abundance of mercy. The punishment
we deserve was removed from us. Jesus has shown compassion, kindness,
(52:45):
and grace. What should we do with it? Paul says
in Romans six. What shall we say?
Speaker 5 (52:50):
Then?
Speaker 2 (52:51):
Are we to continue in sin that grace may abound
by no means? How can we who died the sin
still live in it? Do you not know that all
of us who been baptized into Christ, Jesus were baptizing
to his death. We were buried therefore with him by
baptism and to death, in order that, just as Jesus
was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father,
we too might walk in the newness of life. Christ
(53:14):
died the death we deserved so that we might live
the life he lived. Mercy gives us the freedom to
go and sin no more. He hung like us, so
we can walk like him. Hallelujah. Jesus truly is the
good shepherd He laid down his life for us, we
as his sheep, can live in freedom from fear and shame.
(53:36):
My parting prayer for you is that you would listen
to his voice and be empowered to go and sin
no more. In our next episode, we will witness the
miracle that sealed Jesus's fate. So far, the religious leaders
have been able to tolerate his healings on the Sabbath
and signs in small towns, but this next miracle was
(53:56):
too big to ignore. Join us next time for episode thirteen,
Lazarus Come Out. Thank you for listening. For more inspiring stories,
daily prayers, and wisdom to last a lifetime, go to
pray dot com. And to expand your heroes in the
Bible Journey, download the Heroes of the Faith devotional at
Tonyevans dot org. Forward slash Heroes. Share this podcast with
(54:20):
a family member or friend so that they can know
Jesus in a personal way. You never know how great
of an impact the Bible and this podcast can have
on someone's life. God bless
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