The Bible Dept.

If you’ve ever wondered why animal sacrifice was in the Bible or how Leviticus fits into your Bible reading plan… you’re not alone. These ancient rituals may seem irrelevant today, but they offer deep insight into God’s holiness, our human condition, and how to live a life aligned with His design. Leviticus 1–4 introduces the first four offerings—and trust us, they’re anything but boring when you know what to look for.✈️ Overview:• Leviticus opens with four key offerings: burnt, grain, peace, and unintentional sin.• These sacrifices weren’t just religious duty—they were tangible ways to express worship, gratitude, and repentance.• From economic flexibility (bulls, lambs, or birds) to spiritual symbolism (transferring guilt by laying on hands), every detail was intentional.• Holiness is the central theme—not sinlessness, but being set apart.🔎 Context Clues:• Animal sacrifice was common in ancient cultures, but Israel’s system stood out in purpose and structure.• God didn’t need blood—but the people needed visible, physical assurance that forgiveness was real.• The sacrificial system also foreshadowed Jesus, the once-and-for-all perfect sacrifice.• Leviticus reads more like a priestly instruction manual than a devotional—but that doesn’t make it less meaningful.🤓 Nerdy Nuggets:• Burnt offerings involved economic tiers (bulls, lambs, birds) to ensure everyone could participate in worship.• Organs and legs were washed before sacrifice—because excellence matters. God didn’t want offerings covered in filth.• Laying hands on the offering was a symbolic transfer of guilt—paralleling how blessing and healing are transferred now under Jesus.• Bezalel and Oholiab from Exodus were filled with the Spirit to build the tabernacle. Levitical priests now carry that call into daily worship.• In peace offerings, you had to kill the animal—making it personal and participatory.✅ Timeless Truths:• There’s an offering even for unintentional sin—because grace covers what we don’t even realize we’ve done.• God’s highest standard was for leaders (priests), not commoners. Leadership comes with higher accountability (see James 3:1).• God doesn’t demand the most expensive sacrifice—but He does want your best. Give Him the “fat”—your first fruits, your excellence, not leftovers.• Worship is both spiritual and physical—so don’t dismiss what seems “ritual.” The heart behind the action matters.At the end of the day, Leviticus isn’t just about rules—it’s about a relationship. A God who makes a way for people to dwell with Him. And every burnt offering, grain gift, and peace meal was a shadow pointing to Jesus—the perfect fulfillment of every sacrifice.🚀 START HERE!Want to join us on the journey? Check out the Start Page! You can start from Episode 001 on January 1st or jump in to follow along with us, your choice.📖 DOWNLOAD THE PLAN:Whether you’re new to the Bible or ready for a fresh start in 2025, this plan is for YOU. And the best part? The plan is FREE! Download it now and start your journey today.🤓 WANT MORE BIBLE NERD RESOURCES?Check out armacourses.com for biblical literacy resources, courses, and a community to grow with! Learn the Bible for yourself with 60+ courses and counting for only $13 / Month. Also, your first 30 days are on us. Join ARMA for FREE!🐉 PRE-ORDER DR.MANNY'S NEW BOOKCrushing Chaos is available now for preorder, shipping on May 6th. Learn more & buy now at https://crushingchaos.com.🤠 JOIN US IN NASHVILLE ON APRIL 26TH FOR ARMA ONE-DAYOur first ever ARMA One-Day event is coming to Nashville, TN. Join Dr. Manny for a live teaching experience based on his new book, Crushing Chaos. Seats are limited. Tickets are available now HERE!🍬 CHURCH CANDY MARKETINGGet NEW church guests, EVERY Sunday without you having to stress over ads, algorithms, or figuring out Facebook or Instagram. Head over to https://churchcandy.com/manny to book a discovery call today!👍 NEVER MISS AN EPISODE! LIKE & SUBSCRIBE:The Bible Dept. | YouTubeThe Bible Dept. | SpotifyThe Bible Dept. | Apple Podcasts📱 STAY CONNECTED:The Bible Dept. | InstagramThe Bible Dept. | FacebookDr. Manny Arango | InstagramARMA | Instagram📨 EMAIL US!Got questions or want to share your thoughts? Email us at hello@thebibledept.com.💥 MORE RESOURCES:Amazon Store | Shop The Bible Dept. EssentialsDr. Manny Arango’s Book | BrainwashedBook Dr. Manny to Speak🌱 WE’RE PLANTING A CHURCH!The Garden | Houston, TXThe Garden | InstagramThe Garden | FacebookSUBSPLASH: The Subsplash Platform is the complete solution for connecting with your community on Sunday and beyond. There’s no better way for your church or ministry to engage your audience, grow your giving, or host and stream your media. Learn more at https://subsplash.com/bible-departmentAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

What if hearing from God isn’t complicated—it’s just costly? As we close out Exodus, we don’t end with fireworks or plagues, but with presence. God’s glory fills the tabernacle. But here’s the twist: this moment isn’t just for ancient Israel. It’s a pattern for your life. Whether you’re trying to read the Bible daily, follow a one-year Bible reading plan, or dive deeper into Bible study, this episode will shift how you think about God’s voice—and what it takes to hear it.✈️ Overview:• The final chapters of Exodus echo creation language: “God saw…it was good,” “He finished the work,” and “He blessed them.”• God’s glory fills the tabernacle—just like it later fills Solomon’s temple (2 Chronicles 7) and the church in Acts 2.• The tabernacle → temple → church progression shows that God is still building dwelling places—and now, it’s you.• Repeated obedience (“as the Lord commanded Moses”) sets the stage for revelation and presence.🔎 Context Clues:• Exodus 40:34–38 is the climax of the book: the presence of God finally arrives.• “Tabernacle” = temporary tent for God’s presence in the wilderness. “Temple” = permanent version built later by Solomon.• This same glory shows up when Jesus visits the temple (Luke 2) and again in Acts 2—God fills what’s been faithfully built.• Hearing from God often comes through faithful leadership—Moses obeys, the people follow.🤓 Nerdy Nuggets:• Exodus 39:43 and 40:33 mirror Genesis 1–2: God saw…blessed…finished. Moses does the same.• Jesus echoes this in John 19 when He says, “It is finished”—the ultimate tabernacle moment.• Obedience and design aren’t just legalism—they’re the setup for glory.• The repetition of “as the Lord commanded Moses” (over 10 times!) shows that alignment precedes anointing.✅ Timeless Truths:• Want to hear God? Start by obeying what He’s already said.• You can’t crave His voice but ignore His commands.• Often, God speaks to leaders—and your trust in them reflects your trust in Him.• God still fills tabernacles. The question is—have we made room for Him to dwell?From absence to presence, from chaos to order—Exodus is a blueprint for intimacy. Let’s keep going.🚀 START HERE!Want to join us on the journey? Check out the Start Page! You can start from Episode 001 on January 1st or jump in to follow along with us, your choice.📖 DOWNLOAD THE PLAN:Whether you’re new to the Bible or ready for a fresh start in 2025, this plan is for YOU. And the best part? The plan is FREE! Download it now and start your journey today.🤓 WANT MORE BIBLE NERD RESOURCES?Check out armacourses.com for biblical literacy resources, courses, and a community to grow with! Learn the Bible for yourself with 60+ courses and counting for only $13 / Month. Also, your first 30 days are on us. Join ARMA for FREE!🐉 PRE-ORDER DR.MANNY'S NEW BOOKCrushing Chaos is available now for preorder, shipping on May 6th. Learn more & buy now at https://crushingchaos.com.🤠 JOIN US IN NASHVILLE ON APRIL 26TH FOR ARMA ONE-DAYOur first ever ARMA One-Day event is coming to Nashville, TN. Join Dr. Manny for a live teaching experience based on his new book, Crushing Chaos. Seats are limited. Tickets are available now HERE!🍬 CHURCH CANDY MARKETINGGet NEW church guests, EVERY Sunday without you having to stress over ads, algorithms, or figuring out Facebook or Instagram. Head over to https://churchcandy.com/manny to book a discovery call today!👍 NEVER MISS AN EPISODE! LIKE & SUBSCRIBE:The Bible Dept. | YouTubeThe Bible Dept. | SpotifyThe Bible Dept. | Apple Podcasts📱 STAY CONNECTED:The Bible Dept. | InstagramThe Bible Dept. | FacebookDr. Manny Arango | InstagramARMA | Instagram📨 EMAIL US!Got questions or want to share your thoughts? Email us at hello@thebibledept.com.💥 MORE RESOURCES:Amazon Store | Shop The Bible Dept. EssentialsDr. Manny Arango’s Book | BrainwashedBook Dr. Manny to Speak🌱 WE’RE PLANTING A CHURCH!The Garden | Houston, TXThe Garden | InstagramThe Garden | FacebookSUBSPLASH: The Subsplash Platform is the complete solution for connecting with your community on Sunday and beyond. There’s no better way for your church or ministry to engage your audience, grow your giving, or host and stream your media. Learn more at https://subsplash.com/bible-departmentAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

What if the most “boring” chapters in Exodus are actually blueprint-level brilliant? These repetitive tabernacle building instructions aren’t just filler—they’re theology in architectural form. Today, we unpack how the tabernacle reveals something about God, about you, and about what it means to live in alignment.✈️ Overview:• These chapters repeat earlier tabernacle instructions—but with a twist: now they’re actually building it.• The structure of the tabernacle (outer court, inner court, Holy of Holies) reflects both the Trinity and the human design—body, soul, and spirit.• The instructions aren’t arbitrary—they reveal God’s emphasis on order, holiness, and beauty, even in physical things.🔎 Context Clues:• The outer court, inner court, and Holy of Holies mirror the triune nature of God—and the triune nature of you.• Just like the tabernacle had specific materials and colors, your outer life (body), inner life (soul), and spiritual life (spirit) should reflect intentional design and unity.• God cares about the visible and the invisible. Wholeness isn’t just about your heart—it’s about alignment across every part of your life.🤓 Nerdy Nuggets:• Bezalel and Oholiab are the first people in the Bible filled with the Spirit—not just visited by it. And they’re artists.• They’re skilled in embroidery, design, metalwork, and construction—proving creativity and craftsmanship are spiritual gifts.• This links back to Proverbs 8 and the wisdom God used to create the world—God is once again bringing order out of chaos.✅ Timeless Truths:• The people gave so generously to the tabernacle project that Moses had to stop them from bringing more (Ex. 36:4–7).• True generosity doesn’t ask “What’s the minimum?” but overflows from a heart aligned with God’s vision.• You’re called to live in wholeness—where your body, soul, and spirit operate in unity, each part submitted to God’s design.The tabernacle isn’t just about blueprints for a tent in the desert. It’s a masterclass in design, identity, and generosity. Let it inspire you to live whole, give big, and build something that honors the presence of God. 🚀 START HERE!Want to join us on the journey? Check out the Start Page! You can start from Episode 001 on January 1st or jump in to follow along with us, your choice.📖 DOWNLOAD THE PLAN:Whether you’re new to the Bible or ready for a fresh start in 2025, this plan is for YOU. And the best part? The plan is FREE! Download it now and start your journey today.🤓 WANT MORE BIBLE NERD RESOURCES?Check out armacourses.com for biblical literacy resources, courses, and a community to grow with! Learn the Bible for yourself with 60+ courses and counting for only $13 / Month. Also, your first 30 days are on us. Join ARMA for FREE!🐉 PRE-ORDER DR.MANNY'S NEW BOOKCrushing Chaos is available now for preorder, shipping on May 6th. Learn more & buy now at https://crushingchaos.com.🤠 JOIN US IN NASHVILLE ON APRIL 26TH FOR ARMA ONE-DAYOur first ever ARMA One-Day event is coming to Nashville, TN. Join Dr. Manny for a live teaching experience based on his new book, Crushing Chaos. Seats are limited. Tickets are available now HERE!🍬 CHURCH CANDY MARKETINGGet NEW church guests, EVERY Sunday without you having to stress over ads, algorithms, or figuring out Facebook or Instagram. Head over to https://churchcandy.com/manny to book a discovery call today!👍 NEVER MISS AN EPISODE! LIKE & SUBSCRIBE:The Bible Dept. | YouTubeThe Bible Dept. | SpotifyThe Bible Dept. | Apple Podcasts📱 STAY CONNECTED:The Bible Dept. | InstagramThe Bible Dept. | FacebookDr. Manny Arango | InstagramARMA | Instagram📨 EMAIL US!Got questions or want to share your thoughts? Email us at hello@thebibledept.com.💥 MORE RESOURCES:Amazon Store | Shop The Bible Dept. EssentialsDr. Manny Arango’s Book | BrainwashedBook Dr. Manny to Speak🌱 WE’RE PLANTING A CHURCH!The Garden | Houston, TXThe Garden | InstagramThe Garden | FacebookSUBSPLASH: The Subsplash Platform is the complete solution for connecting with your community on Sunday and beyond. There’s no better way for your church or ministry to engage your audience, grow your giving, or host and stream your media. Learn more at https://subsplash.com/bible-departmentAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

Israel wasn’t just breaking rules when they worshipped the golden calf—they were breaking vows. In Exodus 32–34, the Bible paints a picture of covenant betrayal so raw, it’s like walking in on a cheating spouse during the honeymoon. Yahweh isn’t just angry—He’s heartbroken. But even in judgment, we see intercession, grace, and restoration. Let’s break down the most devastating—and revealing—moment in Israel’s early story.✈️ Overview:• Exodus 32–34 recounts the golden calf incident—a moment of national covenant betrayal right after God gives Israel His law.• Israel breaks the covenant before the ink is dry, turning a sacred festival into a pagan free-for-all.• Moses shatters the tablets, intercedes for the people, and pleads for God’s presence to remain with them.• Despite judgment, Yahweh renews His covenant, showing that mercy is still on the table.🔎 Context Clues:• This is a wedding gone wrong. Exodus 19 mirrors the ten stages of an ancient Jewish wedding—including betrothal, vows (Ten Commandments), and consummation (Tabernacle).• When Israel worships the golden calf, it’s not just idolatry—it’s adultery. They exchange their covenant with Yahweh for worship they find more “comfortable.”• The feast Israel throws for the calf mimics the one they were supposed to throw for Yahweh (Exodus 5:1, 9:13, 12:31).• Moses acts as a true priest and intercessor. Aaron, by contrast, fails in his first priestly role, giving the people what they want instead of what God requires.🤓 Nerdy Nuggets:• Drinking the powdered golden calf is a direct reference to the “Jealousy Test” in Numbers 5—a ritual for testing a wife’s faithfulness. God is testing His bride.• 3,000 die after drinking the mixture, confirming their guilt. This isn’t random punishment—it’s a divine response to covenant unfaithfulness.• Worshiping Yahweh through the golden calf isn’t “other gods” worship—it’s the right God in the wrong way, a common (and dangerous) distortion of worship.• Ancient wedding customs give rich theological insight into God’s relationship with His people—showing His faithfulness even when we are unfaithful.✅ Timeless Truths:• Idolatry often hides in comfort. Worshiping God on our terms isn’t worship—it’s self-service.• God doesn’t just want worship—He wants it His way. Real love honors real boundaries.• Leaders must protect the sacred, not bend to popular opinion. Aaron let the crowd lead; Moses stood in the gap.• Even when we shatter the covenant, God invites us back. His mercy meets our mess.If you’ve ever wandered, if you’ve ever made worship about yourself, Exodus 32–34 reminds us that God still pursues covenant—even after betrayal. Let’s keep going. Day 106 is next. You’re doing great.🚀 START HERE!Want to join us on the journey? Check out the Start Page! You can start from Episode 001 on January 1st or jump in to follow along with us, your choice.📖 DOWNLOAD THE PLAN:Whether you’re new to the Bible or ready for a fresh start in 2025, this plan is for YOU. And the best part? The plan is FREE! Download it now and start your journey today.🤓 WANT MORE BIBLE NERD RESOURCES?Check out armacourses.com for biblical literacy resources, courses, and a community to grow with! Learn the Bible for yourself with 60+ courses and counting for only $13 / Month. Also, your first 30 days are on us. Join ARMA for FREE!🐉 PRE-ORDER DR.MANNY'S NEW BOOKCrushing Chaos is available now for preorder, shipping on May 6th. Learn more & buy now at https://crushingchaos.com.🤠 JOIN US IN NASHVILLE ON APRIL 26TH FOR ARMA ONE-DAYOur first ever ARMA One-Day event is coming to Nashville, TN. Join Dr. Manny for a live teaching experience based on his new book, Crushing Chaos. Seats are limited. Tickets are available now HERE!🍬 CHURCH CANDY MARKETINGGet NEW church guests, EVERY Sunday without you having to stress over ads, algorithms, or figuring out Facebook or Instagram. Head over to https://churchcandy.com/manny to book a discovery call today!👍 NEVER MISS AN EPISODE! LIKE & SUBSCRIBE:The Bible Dept. | YouTubeThe Bible Dept. | SpotifyThe Bible Dept. | Apple Podcasts📱 STAY CONNECTED:The Bible Dept. | InstagramThe Bible Dept. | FacebookDr. Manny Arango | InstagramARMA | Instagram📨 EMAIL US!Got questions or want to share your thoughts? Email us at hello@thebibledept.com.💥 MORE RESOURCES:Amazon Store | Shop The Bible Dept. EssentialsDr. Manny Arango’s Book | BrainwashedBook Dr. Manny to Speak🌱 WE’RE PLANTING A CHURCH!The Garden | Houston, TXThe Garden | InstagramThe Garden | FacebookSUBSPLASH: The Subsplash Platform is the complete solution for connecting with your community on Sunday and beyond. There’s no better way for your church or ministry to engage your audience, grow your giving, or host and stream your media. Learn more at https://subsplash.com/bible-departmentAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

What do priests, cubits, and crazy wardrobe choices have in common? They all point to one massive truth: God is building something sacred—and we’re invited to be part of it. In Exodus 26–29, the instructions for the Tabernacle keep coming, but so does the revelation. We’re not just reading blueprints; we’re getting a backstage pass into how God reorders chaos and raises up priests to carry His presence. Spoiler: that includes you.✈️ Overview:• Exodus 26–27 outlines the physical design of the Tabernacle—curtains, cubits, cherubim, symmetry, and sacred space.• Exodus 28–29 shifts to the priests: Aaron and his sons are set apart to serve, intercede, and represent God to the people.• Through every detail, we see a bigger story unfolding—God is restoring Eden, inviting His people back into sacred relationship.🔎 Context Clues:• The Tabernacle is packed with echoes of Genesis 1–2: water imagery, trees, cherubim, and seven divine speech acts.• Curtains with cherubim mirror the angels guarding Eden, reminding us the Tabernacle is a return to pre-fall intimacy with God.• Ancient Near Eastern cultures were filled with priests—Israel’s priesthood would look radically different, built on holiness and service.• God’s instructions aren’t about aesthetics—they’re about making room for a holy God to dwell with unholy people, safely.🤓 Nerdy Nuggets:• The word “cubits” and the repetitive measurements reflect God’s emphasis on order—He brings symmetry into chaos.• The bronze basin is a callback to the waters of creation (Gen. 1:2), reinforcing the theme of creation through the Tabernacle.• The clothing of the high priest was intentionally bizarre—meant to visually display the uniqueness of Yahweh among the nations.• Ancient people saw blood as a symbol of life, not death—which reshapes how we understand sacrifice and the cross.✅ Timeless Truths:• The opposite of holy isn’t sinful—it’s common. Leaders are often called to give up not just sin, but common things, to live set apart.• Priests do four things: (1) Put God on display, (2) Help people navigate atonement, (3) Intercede for others, and (4) Distribute resources to those in need.• Every believer is now part of a “kingdom of priests.” This calling isn’t just ancient—it’s active.• Atonement means “at-one-ment”—God’s desire isn’t just forgiveness, but wholeness with Him, with others, and within ourselves.God isn’t just building a tent in the desert. He’s building a people—set apart, sacred, and strong enough to carry His presence into a chaotic world. Let’s be those people. And hey, if you’re on a streak, keep it up. If not, today’s a great day to start one. See you tomorrow.🚀 START HERE!Want to join us on the journey? Check out the Start Page! You can start from Episode 001 on January 1st or jump in to follow along with us, your choice.📖 DOWNLOAD THE PLAN:Whether you’re new to the Bible or ready for a fresh start in 2025, this plan is for YOU. And the best part? The plan is FREE! Download it now and start your journey today.🤓 WANT MORE BIBLE NERD RESOURCES?Check out armacourses.com for biblical literacy resources, courses, and a community to grow with! Learn the Bible for yourself with 60+ courses and counting for only $13 / Month. Also, your first 30 days are on us. Join ARMA for FREE!🐉 PRE-ORDER DR.MANNY'S NEW BOOKCrushing Chaos is available now for preorder, shipping on May 6th. Learn more & buy now at https://crushingchaos.com.🤠 JOIN US IN NASHVILLE ON APRIL 26TH FOR ARMA ONE-DAYOur first ever ARMA One-Day event is coming to Nashville, TN. Join Dr. Manny for a live teaching experience based on his new book, Crushing Chaos. Seats are limited. Tickets are available now HERE!🍬 CHURCH CANDY MARKETINGGet NEW church guests, EVERY Sunday without you having to stress over ads, algorithms, or figuring out Facebook or Instagram. Head over to https://churchcandy.com/manny to book a discovery call today!👍 NEVER MISS AN EPISODE! LIKE & SUBSCRIBE:The Bible Dept. | YouTubeThe Bible Dept. | SpotifyThe Bible Dept. | Apple Podcasts📱 STAY CONNECTED:The Bible Dept. | InstagramThe Bible Dept. | FacebookDr. Manny Arango | InstagramARMA | Instagram📨 EMAIL US!Got questions or want to share your thoughts? Email us at hello@thebibledept.com.💥 MORE RESOURCES:Amazon Store | Shop The Bible Dept. EssentialsDr. Manny Arango’s Book | BrainwashedBook Dr. Manny to Speak🌱 WE’RE PLANTING A CHURCH!The Garden | Houston, TXThe Garden | InstagramThe Garden | FacebookSUBSPLASH: The Subsplash Platform is the complete solution for connecting with your community on Sunday and beyond. There’s no better way for your church or ministry to engage your audience, grow your giving, or host and stream your media. Learn more at https://subsplash.com/bible-departmentAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

What if the Tabernacle wasn’t just a tent—but a doorway back to Eden? In Exodus 23–25, God lays out civil laws, confirms the covenant, and begins the instructions for His dwelling place. The Tabernacle isn’t a side note—it’s central. It’s where God’s holy presence meets sinful people. But it comes with tension: His presence is powerful, but it must be approached carefully. Holiness isn’t just about avoiding sin—it’s about recognizing what’s sacred, and treating it as such. Today’s reading shows us that access to God always comes with invitation, order, and grace.✈️ Overview:• God continues to give Israel laws for justice, compassion, and order• Exodus 24 confirms the covenant—Moses ascends the mountain, and the people promise to obey• Exodus 25 begins Tabernacle instructions—every detail reflects God’s character and heaven’s beauty• The Tabernacle is patterned after something heavenly—it’s Eden in the wilderness🔎 Context Clues:• The Tabernacle is a “pattern” of a heavenly reality (Ex. 25:9, 40)• God’s presence is like a nuclear reactor: life-giving, but dangerous if mishandled• Holiness means “set apart”—the opposite of common, not just the absence of sin• Eden language fills the Tabernacle story: a garden of ordered beauty in the chaos of the desert🤓 Nerdy Nuggets:• Seven divine speech acts (Ex. 25–31) mirror the seven days of creation• The menorah resembles the Tree of Life, pointing to restored access to God• Cherubim above the ark echo Eden’s guardians—God’s presence is sacred territory• Exodus 23:3 and 23:6 balance justice—don’t favor the poor or deny them justice. Walk in truth, not extremes✅ Timeless Truths:• God’s presence is free, but never flippant. He’s near, but He’s not casual• Grace always precedes instruction. Obedience flows from covenant, not the other way around• Exodus 23:30—God works “little by little.” Growth is slow, but intentional• Don’t fight sin you should be avoiding. Avoiding temptation is sometimes the most spiritual move• If they could build a Tabernacle in the wilderness, we can create space for God today—in our lives, homes, and heartsYou’re not just reading ancient blueprints—you’re being invited back into communion. Back into Eden. Back into God’s presence. If you’re on a streak, don’t break it. If today’s your first day, welcome. Let’s keep going—Day 104 is next.🚀 START HERE!Want to join us on the journey? Check out the Start Page! You can start from Episode 001 on January 1st or jump in to follow along with us, your choice.📖 DOWNLOAD THE PLAN:Whether you’re new to the Bible or ready for a fresh start in 2025, this plan is for YOU. And the best part? The plan is FREE! Download it now and start your journey today.🤓 WANT MORE BIBLE NERD RESOURCES?Check out armacourses.com for biblical literacy resources, courses, and a community to grow with! Learn the Bible for yourself with 60+ courses and counting for only $13 / Month. Also, your first 30 days are on us. Join ARMA for FREE!🐉 PRE-ORDER DR.MANNY'S NEW BOOKCrushing Chaos is available now for preorder, shipping on May 6th. Learn more & buy now at https://crushingchaos.com.🤠 JOIN US IN NASHVILLE ON APRIL 26TH FOR ARMA ONE-DAYOur first ever ARMA One-Day event is coming to Nashville, TN. Join Dr. Manny for a live teaching experience based on his new book, Crushing Chaos. Seats are limited. Tickets are available now HERE!🍬 CHURCH CANDY MARKETINGGet NEW church guests, EVERY Sunday without you having to stress over ads, algorithms, or figuring out Facebook or Instagram. Head over to https://churchcandy.com/manny to book a discovery call today!👍 NEVER MISS AN EPISODE! LIKE & SUBSCRIBE:The Bible Dept. | YouTubeThe Bible Dept. | SpotifyThe Bible Dept. | Apple Podcasts📱 STAY CONNECTED:The Bible Dept. | InstagramThe Bible Dept. | FacebookDr. Manny Arango | InstagramARMA | Instagram📨 EMAIL US!Got questions or want to share your thoughts? Email us at hello@thebibledept.com.💥 MORE RESOURCES:Amazon Store | Shop The Bible Dept. EssentialsDr. Manny Arango’s Book | BrainwashedBook Dr. Manny to Speak🌱 WE’RE PLANTING A CHURCH!The Garden | Houston, TXThe Garden | InstagramThe Garden | FacebookSUBSPLASH: The Subsplash Platform is the complete solution for connecting with your community on Sunday and beyond. There’s no better way for your church or ministry to engage your audience, grow your giving, or host and stream your media. Learn more at https://subsplash.com/bible-departmentAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

God doesn’t give laws to control us — He gives them to shape us. In Exodus 19–22, we don’t just get commandments; we witness a covenant. This isn’t about dry legalism. It’s about a divine relationship. Yahweh doesn’t demand obedience before deliverance — He saves first, then teaches His people how to live free. And in a world of guessing games with angry gods, the Torah is a breath of fresh air: clear, compassionate, and shockingly countercultural.✈️ Overview:• Exodus 19 begins the Israelites’ journey to Mount Sinai, where they encounter God in thunder, smoke, and holiness.• In Exodus 20, we receive the Ten Commandments — not as burdens, but as boundary lines for covenant living.• Chapters 21–22 begin to unpack detailed laws that govern justice, community, and compassion — laws that prioritize the vulnerable and reflect God’s character.🔎 Context Clues:• Compared to other ancient law codes like Hammurabi’s, the Torah is radically different: it prioritizes moral responsibility, not just case law.• Hammurabi’s Code protected elites — the Torah protects widows, orphans, foreigners, and the poor.• Ancient audiences didn’t see these laws as burdensome — they were liberating. For the first time, people knew exactly what their God required — and it never included child sacrifice.• Exodus 20:20 reminds us that the fear of the Lord isn’t about being scared — it’s about living in awe-filled obedience that leads away from sin.🤓 Nerdy Nuggets:• The phrase “on the third day” repeats throughout Exodus 19, pointing forward to Jesus — the messianic groom — at the wedding in Cana (John 2), also on the third day.• Exodus 19 is seen in Jewish tradition as a wedding ceremony between God and Israel. From this moment on, idolatry will be framed as adultery — covenant unfaithfulness.• The Torah contains positive obligations: to lend, to love, to act justly — not just to avoid wrongdoing but to do good proactively.✅ Timeless Truths:• God’s laws are not about control; they’re about covenant. They flow from grace, not fear.• Salvation always precedes obedience — that’s what makes it grace, not legalism.• The fear of God is a gift. Love may inspire us, but reverence keeps us.• You are part of a royal priesthood. Your life isn’t just for you — you are a bridge between heaven and earth, called to connect people with the presence of God.If you’re still here, you’re not just reading — you’re becoming. Don’t quit now! Day 102 reminds us who we are: treasured, set apart, and sent. If you’re on a streak, don’t break it. If today’s your first day, welcome. Let’s keep going.🚀 START HERE!Want to join us on the journey? Check out the Start Page! You can start from Episode 001 on January 1st or jump in to follow along with us, your choice.📖 DOWNLOAD THE PLAN:Whether you’re new to the Bible or ready for a fresh start in 2025, this plan is for YOU. And the best part? The plan is FREE! Download it now and start your journey today.🤓 WANT MORE BIBLE NERD RESOURCES?Check out armacourses.com for biblical literacy resources, courses, and a community to grow with! Learn the Bible for yourself with 60+ courses and counting for only $13 / Month. Also, your first 30 days are on us. Join ARMA for FREE!🐉 PRE-ORDER DR.MANNY'S NEW BOOKCrushing Chaos is available now for preorder, shipping on May 6th. Learn more & buy now at https://crushingchaos.com.🤠 JOIN US IN NASHVILLE ON APRIL 26TH FOR ARMA ONE-DAYOur first ever ARMA One-Day event is coming to Nashville, TN. Join Dr. Manny for a live teaching experience based on his new book, Crushing Chaos. Seats are limited. Tickets are available now HERE!🍬 CHURCH CANDY MARKETINGGet NEW church guests, EVERY Sunday without you having to stress over ads, algorithms, or figuring out Facebook or Instagram. Head over to https://churchcandy.com/manny to book a discovery call today!👍 NEVER MISS AN EPISODE! LIKE & SUBSCRIBE:The Bible Dept. | YouTubeThe Bible Dept. | SpotifyThe Bible Dept. | Apple Podcasts📱 STAY CONNECTED:The Bible Dept. | InstagramThe Bible Dept. | FacebookDr. Manny Arango | InstagramARMA | Instagram📨 EMAIL US!Got questions or want to share your thoughts? Email us at hello@thebibledept.com.💥 MORE RESOURCES:Amazon Store | Shop The Bible Dept. EssentialsDr. Manny Arango’s Book | BrainwashedBook Dr. Manny to Speak🌱 WE’RE PLANTING A CHURCH!The Garden | Houston, TXThe Garden | InstagramThe Garden | FacebookSUBSPLASH: The Subsplash Platform is the complete solution for connecting with your community on Sunday and beyond. There’s no better way for your church or ministry to engage your audience, grow your giving, or host and stream your media. Learn more at https://subsplash.com/bible-departmentAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

Testing in the wilderness isn’t about performance — it’s about presence. In Exodus 16–18, Israel doesn’t just get lessons in obedience. They get a crash course in identity. These aren’t random struggles; they’re purposeful moments where God invites His people to trust Him, serve one another, and live differently than Egypt taught them. Tests reveal what’s in the heart — not to shame us, but to shape us.✈️ Overview:• In Exodus 16, God provides manna and quail, along with Sabbath instructions — testing whether the people will trust His provision and pace.• Exodus 17 opens with thirst and complaint. God tells Moses to strike a rock — a powerful symbol of substitution.• The Amalekites attack, and Israel must fight not just to win, but to protect the weak among them.• In Exodus 18, Moses is reunited with Jethro, who helps him build a sustainable leadership structure.🔎 Context Clues:• Deuteronomy 8:2 reveals the point of wilderness testing: to “know” what’s in the heart — not cognitively, but experientially. In Hebrew thought, knowledge comes through relationship.• The test at Marah wasn’t just about bitter water — it was about shared sacrifice. Would the strong let the sick drink first?• The manna test wasn’t about food. It was about rhythm, restraint, and whether the people would obey even when it didn’t make sense.• The Amalekite attack exposed how Israel positioned their vulnerable. Were the elderly and disabled in the back, unprotected?🤓 Nerdy Nuggets:• “Omer” is a unit of measurement, but more than that — it’s a test of equity. Everyone gathered different amounts, but all had what they needed.• The rock Moses strikes in Exodus 17 is at Mount Horeb — the same place where God first called him. Full circle.• The command to choose men who will fight “for us” (Ex. 17:9) emphasizes community. This wasn’t about self-defense. It was about mutual care.✅ Timeless Truths:• God’s tests reveal, not just evaluate. They help us see what’s real — and give Him space to transform us.• The measure of maturity is how we treat the marginalized. God sees how we serve at the well.• Sometimes, God provides through others. If we hoard manna, someone else goes hungry.• Rest is part of the test. Obedience isn’t just about doing — it’s about stopping when He says stop.• You can’t love God without loving people. The tests of the wilderness are communal, not just personal.🚀 START HERE!Want to join us on the journey? Check out the Start Page! You can start from Episode 001 on January 1st or jump in to follow along with us, your choice.📖 DOWNLOAD THE PLAN:Whether you’re new to the Bible or ready for a fresh start in 2025, this plan is for YOU. And the best part? The plan is FREE! Download it now and start your journey today.🤓 WANT MORE BIBLE NERD RESOURCES?Check out armacourses.com for biblical literacy resources, courses, and a community to grow with! Learn the Bible for yourself with 60+ courses and counting for only $13 / Month. Also, your first 30 days are on us. Join ARMA for FREE!🐉 PRE-ORDER DR.MANNY'S NEW BOOKCrushing Chaos is available now for preorder, shipping on May 6th. Learn more & buy now at https://crushingchaos.com.🤠 JOIN US IN NASHVILLE ON APRIL 26TH FOR ARMA ONE-DAYOur first ever ARMA One-Day event is coming to Nashville, TN. Join Dr. Manny for a live teaching experience based on his new book, Crushing Chaos. Seats are limited. Tickets are available now HERE!🍬 CHURCH CANDY MARKETINGGet NEW church guests, EVERY Sunday without you having to stress over ads, algorithms, or figuring out Facebook or Instagram. Head over to https://churchcandy.com/manny to book a discovery call today!👍 NEVER MISS AN EPISODE! LIKE & SUBSCRIBE:The Bible Dept. | YouTubeThe Bible Dept. | SpotifyThe Bible Dept. | Apple Podcasts📱 STAY CONNECTED:The Bible Dept. | InstagramThe Bible Dept. | FacebookDr. Manny Arango | InstagramARMA | Instagram📨 EMAIL US!Got questions or want to share your thoughts? Email us at hello@thebibledept.com.💥 MORE RESOURCES:Amazon Store | Shop The Bible Dept. EssentialsDr. Manny Arango’s Book | BrainwashedBook Dr. Manny to Speak🌱 WE’RE PLANTING A CHURCH!The Garden | Houston, TXThe Garden | InstagramThe Garden | FacebookSUBSPLASH: The Subsplash Platform is the complete solution for connecting with your community on Sunday and beyond. There’s no better way for your church or ministry to engage your audience, grow your giving, or host and stream your media. Learn more at https://subsplash.com/bible-departmentAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

Monsters in the Bible? Chaos in the Scriptures? Dragons at the Red Sea? Yes — and not just metaphorically. Day 100 takes us into Exodus 12–15, where the parting of the sea isn’t just a miracle — it’s a cosmic battle. What seems like a political story on the surface is actually a theological earthquake beneath. Yahweh isn’t just rescuing Israel from Egypt — He’s going head-to-head with the spiritual powers behind Pharaoh, Rahab, and the gods of the Nile. The question is no longer “Can He save?” but “How deep does the saving go?”✈️ Overview:• The Israelites are finally delivered from Egypt after the tenth and final plague — the death of the firstborn (Ex. 12:29–30).• Exodus 13–14 recount the people’s journey out of slavery, God’s guidance by cloud and fire, and the miraculous parting of the Red Sea.• In Exodus 15, the story shifts to poetry and praise — but also to mythological language that reveals deeper truths about chaos, order, and spiritual warfare.🔎 Context Clues:• In the ancient Near East, waters like the Red Sea (the “Tehom”) symbolized chaos — not just physical danger but spiritual disorder.• Egyptian mythology viewed Pharaoh as a god and the Nile as sacred — so when Yahweh confronts Egypt, He’s confronting their entire worldview.• Exodus 15, Ezekiel 29, and Isaiah 51 all retell the Red Sea story with mythological language, portraying Pharaoh as a dragon or chaos monster like Rahab or Leviathan.• The biblical authors draw from familiar cultural myths (combat myths, sea monsters, chaos dragons) to show that Yahweh is the true and sovereign God above all others.🤓 Nerdy Nuggets:• The six-part biblical pattern (Chaos → Tehom → Ruach → Voice → Order → Test) appears repeatedly: from creation to flood, Exodus to Jordan, Jesus’ baptism to wilderness temptation.• “Tehom” (the deep) is the same Hebrew word used in Genesis 1 and the flood narrative, linking creation, de-creation, and deliverance.• Exodus 15 is not just a victory song — it’s theological poetry. By calling Pharaoh a dragon, the text aligns Egypt’s ruler with the forces of cosmic rebellion.✅ Timeless Truths:• “God always speaks the language of the people He’s trying to reach.” Whether through creation, chaos, or combat, He reveals Himself in ways we can understand.• Deliverance is more than escape — it’s re-creation. God doesn’t just bring His people out of slavery; He brings them into a new creation with order, presence, and purpose.• “Behind every political power is a spiritual principality.” Pharaoh wasn’t just a bad leader — he was propped up by demonic ideology. God doesn’t just confront injustice; He confronts the powers behind it.If you’ve made it to Day 100, we’re celebrating with you. And if today’s your first day, welcome. There’s no better time to jump in than now. Let’s keep going — out of chaos and into the presence of God.🚀 START HERE!Want to join us on the journey? Check out the Start Page! You can start from Episode 001 on January 1st or jump in to follow along with us, your choice.📖 DOWNLOAD THE PLAN:Whether you’re new to the Bible or ready for a fresh start in 2025, this plan is for YOU. And the best part? The plan is FREE! Download it now and start your journey today.🤓 WANT MORE BIBLE NERD RESOURCES?Check out armacourses.com for biblical literacy resources, courses, and a community to grow with! Learn the Bible for yourself with 60+ courses and counting for only $13 / Month. Also, your first 30 days are on us. Join ARMA for FREE!🐉 PRE-ORDER DR.MANNY'S NEW BOOKCrushing Chaos is available now for preorder, shipping on May 6th. Learn more & buy now at https://crushingchaos.com.🤠 JOIN US IN NASHVILLE ON APRIL 26TH FOR ARMA ONE-DAYOur first ever ARMA One-Day event is coming to Nashville, TN. Join Dr. Manny for a live teaching experience based on his new book, Crushing Chaos. Seats are limited. Tickets are available now HERE!🍬 CHURCH CANDY MARKETINGGet NEW church guests, EVERY Sunday without you having to stress over ads, algorithms, or figuring out Facebook or Instagram. Head over to https://churchcandy.com/manny to book a discovery call today!👍 NEVER MISS AN EPISODE! LIKE & SUBSCRIBE:The Bible Dept. | YouTubeThe Bible Dept. | SpotifyThe Bible Dept. | Apple Podcasts📱 STAY CONNECTED:The Bible Dept. | InstagramThe Bible Dept. | FacebookDr. Manny Arango | InstagramARMA | Instagram📨 EMAIL US!Got questions or want to share your thoughts? Email us at hello@thebibledept.com.💥 MORE RESOURCES:Amazon Store | Shop The Bible Dept. EssentialsDr. Manny Arango’s Book | BrainwashedBook Dr. Manny to Speak🌱 WE’RE PLANTING A CHURCH!The Garden | Houston, TXThe Garden | InstagramThe Garden | FacebookSUBSPLASH: The Subsplash Platform is the complete solution for connecting with your community on Sunday and beyond. There’s no better way for your church or ministry to engage your audience, grow your giving, or host and stream your media. Learn more at https://subsplash.com/bible-departmentAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

God didn’t just send plagues to prove a point—He sent them to confront a lie. In Egypt, Pharaoh wasn’t just a political leader. He was worshiped as a god. The entire society was built on a spiritual system of oppression, deception, and idolatry. So when Yahweh sends plagues, it’s not random—it’s war. A war against false gods. A war against chaos. A war against pride. This isn’t just about Exodus—it’s about what happens when we lose God and life starts to unravel.✈️ Overview:Today’s chapters (Exodus 9–11) showcase the escalation of divine judgment through the final plagues leading up to the death of the firstborn. From hailstorms to locusts, from darkness to death, God systematically dismantles Egypt’s power structures. But these events aren’t just natural disasters—they’re theological statements. Pharaoh refuses to release the Israelites, and Yahweh responds not just with power, but with precision. Each plague builds toward the ultimate act of deliverance that’s coming in chapter 12.🔎 Context Clues:• God’s stated purpose for the plagues is to “bring judgment on all the gods of Egypt” (Ex. 12:12; Num. 33:4).• This episode unpacks the biblical concept of monolatry—not just belief in one god, but exclusive worship of Yahweh in a world where other spiritual powers exist.• Pharaoh is treated as a deity, not just a man. God’s engagement with him reflects divine confrontation, not just political resistance.• The Egyptian worldview saw gods as region-specific powers. Yahweh’s global sovereignty completely shatters that framework.🤓 Nerdy Nuggets:• The ten plagues correlate to specific Egyptian gods: Hopi (Nile), Heket (frogs), Hathor (livestock), Seth (storms), Ra (sun), and more. Each judgment is targeted.• The plague of darkness (Ex. 10) directly undermines the sun god Ra, the pinnacle of Egyptian worship.• The word for “gatherings of water” in Exodus mirrors the language used in Genesis 1—pointing to the unraveling of creation itself. The plagues aren’t just punishment; they’re de-creation.✅ Timeless Truths:• “God doesn’t answer arrogance with affirmation—He answers it with reality.” Pharaoh wanted to be seen as a god, and God responded accordingly.• The plagues reveal what happens when we try to sustain creation without the Creator. Life collapses.• You’re always serving something. The choice isn’t if you’ll have a master—it’s who your master will be.• When we reject God’s order, we’re not choosing freedom—we’re choosing chaos.• God has the power to move your life from chaos to order—but pride will always resist that move.Day 99 reminds us that spiritual warfare isn’t superstition—it’s Scripture. The gods of Egypt weren’t figments of imagination. They were real powers—and Yahweh dismantled them one by one. If you’re still tracking with us, I’m proud of you. If not, today’s the perfect day to jump back in. Just keep going—we’re almost at Day 100.🚀 START HERE!Want to join us on the journey? Check out the Start Page! You can start from Episode 001 on January 1st or jump in to follow along with us, your choice.📖 DOWNLOAD THE PLAN:Whether you’re new to the Bible or ready for a fresh start in 2025, this plan is for YOU. And the best part? The plan is FREE! Download it now and start your journey today.🤓 WANT MORE BIBLE NERD RESOURCES?Check out armacourses.com for biblical literacy resources, courses, and a community to grow with! Learn the Bible for yourself with 60+ courses and counting for only $13 / Month. Also, your first 30 days are on us. Join ARMA for FREE!🐉 PRE-ORDER DR.MANNY'S NEW BOOKCrushing Chaos is available now for preorder, shipping on May 6th. Learn more & buy now at https://crushingchaos.com.🤠 JOIN US IN NASHVILLE ON APRIL 26TH FOR ARMA ONE-DAYOur first ever ARMA One-Day event is coming to Nashville, TN. Join Dr. Manny for a live teaching experience based on his new book, Crushing Chaos. Seats are limited. Tickets are available now HERE!🍬 CHURCH CANDY MARKETINGGet NEW church guests, EVERY Sunday without you having to stress over ads, algorithms, or figuring out Facebook or Instagram. Head over to https://churchcandy.com/manny to book a discovery call today!👍 NEVER MISS AN EPISODE! LIKE & SUBSCRIBE:The Bible Dept. | YouTubeThe Bible Dept. | SpotifyThe Bible Dept. | Apple Podcasts📱 STAY CONNECTED:The Bible Dept. | InstagramThe Bible Dept. | FacebookDr. Manny Arango | InstagramARMA | Instagram📨 EMAIL US!Got questions or want to share your thoughts? Email us at hello@thebibledept.com.💥 MORE RESOURCES:Amazon Store | Shop The Bible Dept. EssentialsDr. Manny Arango’s Book | BrainwashedBook Dr. Manny to Speak🌱 WE’RE PLANTING A CHURCH!The Garden | Houston, TXThe Garden | InstagramThe Garden | FacebookSUBSPLASH: The Subsplash Platform is the complete solution for connecting with your community on Sunday and beyond. There’s no better way for your church or ministry to engage your audience, grow your giving, or host and stream your media. Learn more at https://subsplash.com/bible-departmentAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands