40 Minutes In The Old Testament

A close reading of Isaiah 53 focusing on its vivid portrayal of suffering and sacrificial atonement. They trace servant language through exodus motifs and incarnational imagery. The conversation highlights rejection, substitution, burial, vindication, and triumphant intercession. Short reflections connect the chapter to New Testament citations and Good Friday themes.

Chad Bird discusses engaging with the Old Testament both online and in person. He highlights the importance of connecting scripture to modern life. Upcoming events, including a conference titled 'Out of Darkness into Christ,' are featured. The conversation encourages listeners to explore deeper theological insights and participate in community discussions. Bird's enthusiasm for teaching helps bridge the gap between ancient texts and contemporary faith.

The hosts dive into Isaiah 52, emphasizing God's promise of redemption without payment. Salvation is imminent, urging Israel to awake and rejoice. They explore the significance of spreading the good news to all nations and how Paul aligns this message with evangelism. A fascinating contrast is drawn between the hurried Exodus from Egypt and a safer, divinely protected return. The discussion culminates in the servant's dual themes of suffering and exaltation, highlighting the paradox of humiliation that leads to worldwide salvation.

The hosts explore the urgent call for God’s people to wake up and listen to His word. They delve into the powerful imagery of the 'arm of the Lord' and its connection to Exodus deliverance. Fear of man is contrasted with a trusting faith in God, emphasizing the importance of living with true hope. They discuss the fate of Jerusalem and the transformative joy that follows God’s intervention. The episode illustrates how past faithfulness and future promises inspire a bold, defiant faith.

Explore the dichotomy of obedience and failure in Isaiah, contrasting the faithful servant with Israel's disobedience. Delve into rich imagery, from the suffering servant foreshadowing Jesus’ Passion to courtroom metaphors illustrating divine vindication. Discover the transformative power of God’s word and the hope of a renewed Eden. The hosts reflect on trust versus self-made light, encouraging confidence in God amid reproach. It's a captivating discussion on salvation that endures beyond the ephemeral.

The hosts explore Isaiah's powerful imagery and its connections to the New Testament. They discuss God's unwavering compassion and the significance of being engraved on His palms, linking it to Christ's wounds. The conversation shifts to the expanding Kingdom of God, with nations bringing home the exiled. They emphasize the servant's role in redemption, touching on themes of suffering and the need for a Messiah. It's a thought-provoking journey through scripture, revealing God's enduring presence and love.

The Lord is a God whose teaching is profitable and who leads you to good places. God will have a people and will go to the coastland and rocks to do it. And it's better to bow than to be made to bow. Have a listen. Show Notes: Support 1517 Podcast Network 1517 Podcasts 1517 on Youtube 1517 Podcast Network on Apple Podcasts 1517 Events Schedule 1517 Academy - Free Theological Education What's New from 1517: Coming Home for Christmas: 1517 Advent Devotional Face to Face: A Novel of the Reformation by Amy Mantravadi Untamed Prayers: 365 Daily Devotions on Christ in the Book of Psalms by Chad Bird Remembering Your Baptism: A 40-Day Devotional by Kathryn Morales Sinner Saint by Luke Kjolhaug More from the hosts: Daniel Emery Price Chad Bird

The discussion dives into the painful yet purposeful process of being refined by God. It explores Israel's stubbornness juxtaposed with their sacred identity and the seductive allure of pagan worship. The hosts highlight Yahweh's unyielding love and sacrificial nature, contrasting it with the emptiness of idol worship. They emphasize God's role as a promise-keeper, declaring prophecies to validate His glory, and touch upon the Messianic foreshadowing within the narrative of Cyrus. A rich conversation of faith and divine character unfolds throughout.

This discussion delves into the futility of worshiping idols like Bel and Nebo, which can be captured and saved not at all. The hosts highlight the absurdity of expecting lifeless figures to respond to prayers. They draw contrasts between a caring God and the trapped idols of Babylon. With vivid imagery, the narrative shifts to Babylon’s inevitable downfall, emphasizing the end of their pride, luxury, and sorcery. Ultimately, they underscore God’s unwavering righteousness and the reality of those who cling to false hopes.

As 2025 wraps up, the hosts highlight their mission of sharing Christ's forgiveness and freedom. They delve into an Advent message about how Christ brings sinners home, drawing from Isaiah. The team behind the initiative, comprising pastors and creatives, is discussed along with their weekly resources. A significant year-end fundraising goal of $800,000 is announced, aiming for 1,000 donors on Giving Tuesday. Listeners are invited to support this vital mission to spread the message of hope and grace.