In this episode, two kinds of biblical meditation/reflection are discussed…contrasting and cross-referencing. Contrasting reflection looks the opposite of another text. Cross-referencing reflection brings in other passages related to the topic on which you are reflecting.
We reflect on the topics of rest and burden, as found in Exodus 5:4-9 (the Egyptian Pharaoh who commands the Israelites to return to their burdens) and in Matthew 11:28-30 (Christ, who offers to the exhausted and those unable to carry a heavy load, His true rest for our souls). We also briefly examine, whether knowingly or not, in both the past and present, those whose mindset about burdens and rest, is more like Pharaoh than Christ.
People love to collect things. Collections can include a wide range of objects including thimbles, automobiles, books and Bibles. We truly have treasure in our print and digital copies of Scripture. Yet, the Bible points to an even greater way that a Bible collection can be produced. It is made up of Scripture which we have stored/treasured in our hearts and minds.
This episode examines Psalm 119:11. We look at some reflections from the 17th century British minister Thomas Manton for insight on the value and great help an internal Bible collection can be to others and to you.
Today, we are blessed to have texts of Christian prayers from over the centuries.
In this episode, we read a prayer from 11th century England for the spread of Christ’s kingdom across the world. This prayer is not simply a kind of museum piece. It’s words ring as true and relevant to our time as it did a thousand years ago. Here is an instance in which 11th century devotion can shape ours today.
Are you a secret Christian? An answer in the 21st century and an answer in 17th century England would be different. Rather than trying to prevent others from knowing you are a believer in Christ, in the 17th century, a believer carried on three types of spiritual duties (Public – Fellowship with large numbers; Private – Fellowship with smaller numbers of persons; Secret – The spiritual duties/activities carried on by oneself in solitude.
This episode reviews these and looks to encourage us in the “secret duties”, not so much as to check off a spiritual activity list but with the mindset of taking time to commune with Christ and find rest for our souls.
The Bible is clear that the Lord Jesus, in His humanity, was conceived in the womb of the Virgin Mary. There is biblical evidence to show that Christ’s resurrection occurred in a never before used tomb. In essence, a virgin tomb.
The episode explores how this is far more than a point of biblical trivia. It has implications for the future rising from the dead for every believer in Christ.
Exploring the themes of Christ and light as found in the Bible
