The New Testament in a Year

Matthew 3. Day 71 - The New Testament in an Year

John the Baptist's Message.  The Baptism of Jesus.  Identity in Christ.  
“I baptize you with water for repentance, but the one who is coming after me is more powerful than I. I am not worthy to remove his sandals. He himself will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire."  Matthew 3:11 
In this episode, we journey into Matthew Chapter 3 with a keen focus on understanding the critical moments and messages that set the foundation for Jesus's ministry. As we explore, we pay particular attention to John the Baptist's emphatic call to repentance, a theme that resonates through the ages as a fundamental step towards spiritual renewal and readiness for the Kingdom of Heaven. We're invited to reflect on our own lives in light of John's message, considering what it means to produce "fruit in keeping with repentance" and how this prepares us for a deeper relationship with Christ. The baptism of Jesus by John in the Jordan River is another pivotal event we explore, highlighting Jesus's humility and obedience, the affirmation of His divine sonship, and the empowering presence of the Holy Spirit, which together mark the commencement of His public ministry.
As we journey through the scripture, we also observe the diverse reactions of the crowd, including the Pharisees and Sadducees, to John's baptism and his warnings about the coming judgment. This gives us insight into the varying states of heart and mind among those who came to John, challenging us to consider our own response to God's call for repentance and transformation. Through the "look-fors" identified in the episode, we engage with the text not just as historical narrative but as a living, breathing message, urging us to examine our spiritual readiness, embrace our identity in Christ, and live out our faith with authenticity and conviction. This exploration not only enriches our understanding of the scripture but also deepens our commitment to walking in the footsteps of Jesus, guided by the Holy Spirit and grounded in the love and approval of our Heavenly Father.

Matthew 2. Day 70 - The New Testament in an Year

Visit of the Wise Men.  The Flight to Egypt.  Herod Massacres Innocents. 
 
"Entering the house, they saw the child with Mary his mother, and falling to their knees, they worshiped him". Matthew 2:11
 
In this episode, we delve into Matthew Chapter 2, exploring the significant events that marked the early life of Jesus Christ. We uncover the profound visit of the Magi, a moment that signifies the recognition of Jesus' kingship beyond the Jewish community. The gifts they bring - gold, frankincense, and myrrh - each carry deep prophetic meaning, shedding light on Jesus' identity as king, God, and sacrifice. We also navigate through the darker aspects of this chapter, witnessing King Herod's deceit and his brutal decree that led to the massacre of the innocents. This tragic event fulfills Jeremiah's prophecy, reminding us of the spiritual battle surrounding Jesus' mission from the very beginning. Through these events, we're invited to see the intricate tapestry of prophecy and fulfillment, showcasing God's sovereign hand over history.
As we journey further, we witness the Holy Family's flight to Egypt, an event that not only ensures Jesus' safety but also fulfills the prophecy, "Out of Egypt I called my son." This segment of the narrative highlights God's providential care and the importance of obedience to divine guidance, as seen through Joseph's responsiveness to God's warnings. The flight to Egypt and the subsequent return also echo the broader biblical theme of redemption and deliverance. Through these stories, we're encouraged to trust in God's sovereignty and to see His active presence in guiding and protecting His people. This episode, rich with prophecy, tragedy, and divine intervention, challenges us to reflect on our own response to God's guidance and to embrace the light of Christ in the midst of darkness.

Matthew 1. Day 69 - The New Testament in an Year

The Genealogy of Jesus.  The Birth of Jesus Foretold.   Joseph’s Obedience.  
 
"But after he had considered these things, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream, saying, “Joseph, son of David, don’t be afraid to take Mary as your wife, because what has been conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit.  She will give birth to a son, and you are to name him Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins.”  Matthew 1:20-21
 
In this episode, we dive into the opening of the New Testament, focusing our attention on Matthew Chapter 1. We will discuss that the genealogy of Jesus not only connects Him to Abraham and David, emphasizing His rightful claim to messianic and royal lineage, but it also brings forward unexpected names, showcasing God's inclusive grace and the sovereign orchestration of history. As we look into the foretold birth of Jesus, we reflect on Joseph’s righteousness and his immediate obedience to God’s plans, even when those plans defy societal norms. The significant names of Jesus—"Jesus" meaning "The Lord saves" and "Immanuel" meaning "God with us"—stand out, underlining His mission and identity in a way that invites us into a deeper understanding of the divine narrative that the Bible unfolds.
Through this journey, we are encouraged to consider the implications of Joseph's obedience when faced with divine instruction, seeing it as a model for faith in action. The episode brings to light the importance of legal fatherhood in connecting Jesus to David's lineage, affirming His place in Jewish heritage and the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies.  This exploration opens up a unique perspective on God's active role in history and encourages personal reflection on the presence of God in our own lives, pushing us toward a more intimate and faithful walk with Christ.

James 5. Day 68 - The New Testament in an Year

Warning to the Rich.  Patience in Suffering.  The Power of Prayer.  
"Therefore, confess your sins to one another and pray for one another, so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person is very powerful in its effect."  James 5:16
 
In this episode of "The New Testament in a Year," we explore James Chapter 5 , focusing on the crucial themes of justice, patience, and the power of prayer. This concluding chapter offers warnings and encouragements, addressing both the wealthy oppressors and the suffering believers. It reminds us of the temporary nature of earthly wealth and underscores the importance of using resources in God-honoring ways, while also highlighting the virtues of patience and steadfastness through trials, drawing inspiration from biblical figures like the prophets and Job.
Key "look-fors" include the strong admonishment to the rich, the encouragement to remain patient in the face of suffering, and the emphasis on the transformative power of prayer in various life situations. Through these themes, the chapter invites listeners to reflect on the deeper principles of faith in action, stewardship, and community support. 
 

James 4. Day 67 - The New Testament in an Year

The Source of Conflicts.  The Call to Submission and Humility.  The Warning Against Worldliness. 
"Therefore, submit to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.:  James 4:7
In this episode of "The New Testament in a Year," we focus on James Chapter 4, a scripture rich with wisdom on resolving conflicts, embracing humility, and recognizing the pitfalls of worldliness. We uncover the root causes of disputes among believers—highlighting how unchecked desires can lead to division and distance from God's path. This chapter emphasizes the importance of humility in accessing God's grace, offering practical ways to develop a spirit of humility in their own lives. This guidance not only aims to mend interpersonal conflicts but also to foster a deeper relationship with God by resisting worldly temptations.
The discussion extends to the dangers of aligning ourselves too closely with worldly values, which James warns can result in a strained relationship with God. By evaluating our lives against the backdrop of divine wisdom, the episode challenges us to consider whether our actions and aspirations are in harmony with God's will or if they echo the world's fleeting desires. We discuss actionable steps for believers to draw nearer to God, thus realigning their priorities and desires with His. 

James 3. Day 66 - The New Testament in an Year

The Power of the Tongue.  Taming the Tongue.  Earthly and Heavenly Wisdom. 
 
"With the tongue we bless our Lord and Father, and with it we curse people who are made in God’s likeness."  James 3:9
 
In this episode of "The New Testament in a Year," we dive into James Chapter 3, shedding light on the profound impact of our speech, the daunting task of controlling the tongue, and the vital difference between earthly and heavenly wisdom. The conversation begins with an exploration of how our words can steer the course of our lives, emphasizing the need for mindfulness in our speech to uplift rather than harm. As we journey through the chapter, the discussion reveals the human incapacity to tame the tongue without divine assistance, urging us to seek guidance in aligning our words with love and truth.
The episode further distinguishes between the nature of earthly wisdom, marked by envy and selfish ambitions, and heavenly wisdom, characterized by purity, peace, and gentleness. This contrast serves as a beacon for us to identify the source of our wisdom and aspire to embody God's nature, fostering an environment of peace and righteousness. 
 
 
 
 

James 2. Day 65 - The New Testament in an Year

The Sin of Partiality.  The Royal Law of Love. Faith and Works. 
"For just as the body without the spirit is dead, so also faith without works is dead."  James 2:26
In this episode of "The New Testament in a Year," explore James Chapter 2, we discuss critical themes of our faith such as the sin of partiality, the intrinsic bond between faith and deeds, and the imperative to practice the royal law of love. Gain insights into the rejection of favoritism, challenging us to confront and discard cultural and personal biases. Understand the supreme importance of the command to love one's neighbor as oneself, a directive that underpins the essence of Christian conduct. Then we'll look at the vital relationship between faith and works through the examples of Abraham and Rahab, illustrating that genuine faith must be demonstrated through action.
This episode provides a deeper understanding of these essential teachings, coupled with practical applications to foster and support listeners on their spiritual journey. Engage with this episode for a compelling discussion that encourages reflection on embodying God's love in daily life and actions, demonstrating how to actively live out one's faith, underpinned by the significant teachings of James Chapter 2, as the journey through the New Testament continues throughout the year.

James 1. Day 64 - The New Testament in an Year

WELCOME TO THE BOOK OF JAMES!   
 
Trials and Joy. Wisdom from God. The Rich and the Poor. 
"Consider it a great joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you experience various trials, because you know that the testing of your faith produces endurance." James 1:2-3
 
In this episode of "The New Testament in a Year," we delve into James Chapter 1 , focusing on how to live out faith amidst trials and temptations. The episode explores the paradox of finding joy in trials, emphasizing that these challenges test our faith, leading to perseverance and ultimately spiritual maturity. It highlights the importance of seeking wisdom from God, essential for navigating life's trials and making decisions that align with His will, while stressing the need to ask in faith without succumbing to doubt. The discussion also touches on the perspectives of wealth and poverty, pointing out the fleeting nature of earthly riches compared to the eternal value of spiritual wealth, and encourages listeners to find pride not in material wealth but in their spiritual status before God. Lastly, the episode discusses the blessings that come from persevering under trial, showcasing trials not just as hurdles but as pathways to receiving God's ultimate reward, aiming to equip listeners with practical applications of James's teachings to face life's difficulties with a godly perspective and deepen their relationship with Christ.

Galatians 6. Day 63 - The New Testament in an Year

 
Bearing One Another's Burdens.  Sowing and Reaping.  Final Instructions. 
 
"Let us not get tired of doing good, for we will reap at the proper time if we don’t give up" Galatians 6:9 
 
In this episode of "The New Testament in a Year," we dive into Galatians Chapter 6, focusing on its significant themes and practical advice for living a life guided by the Spirit. This chapter concludes Paul's letter to the Galatians with important instructions on how believers can support each other, the consequences of our actions, and the transformative power of the cross of Christ.
The journey begins with a recap of Chapter 5, which sets the stage by contrasting the works of the flesh with the fruit of the Spirit. As we transition into Chapter 6, the episode highlights three key areas to focus on: bearing one another's burdens, the principle of sowing and reaping, and living as new creations through the power of Christ's sacrifice.

Galatians 5. Day 62 - The New Testament in an Year

Stand Firm in Freedom.  Fruit of the Spirit.  The Law Fulfilled Through Love. 
 
"For you were called to be free, brothers and sisters; only don’t use this freedom as an opportunity for the flesh, but serve one another through love." Galatians 5:13
 
In this episode of "The New Testament in a Year," we embark on a journey through Galatians Chapter 5, exploring the dynamic themes of freedom, love, and spiritual transformation central to Paul's message. This chapter is crucial, as it addresses the essence of Christian freedom—highlighting that this liberty is not an excuse for self-indulgence but a call to serve one another through love. The episode delves into Paul's persuasive arguments against returning to the restrictive yoke of the law and advocates for a life guided by the Spirit.
Listeners are guided through the contrasts between the works of the flesh and the fruit of the Spirit, emphasizing the transformation that occurs within a believer's life when it is led by the Spirit. The discussion brings to light how the fruit of the Spirit—love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control—marks a life that mirrors the character of Christ.