Life is portrayed as a journey, with significant reference to the Garden of Eden as the ultimate representation of life and refuge. The Garden symbolizes heaven on earth, while moments of darkness in human communities lead to the establishment of temporary, Eden-like refuges, such as the Passover or Lot's house, which provide a taste of Eden amid ruin. The path to ultimate life is described as a constricted road, emphasizing the challenges and oppression faced by those who follow this path. The term 'constricted' implies a squeezing or oppression, mirroring the struggles faced by individuals when they reject teachings, leading to persecution. This constriction is vividly illustrated in Jesus's parable of the four soils, where the faith of those who initially accept his teachings with joy falters under adversity, showing that true perseverance requires deep roots amid trials.
Sermon on the Mount E34 – Jesus closes the Sermon on the Mount by presenting his listeners with a choice, illustrated in three parts. He first describes two gates and two paths. The narrow gate is difficult to enter, but it opens up the way to life. The wide gate is easy to navigate, but it leads to ruin. In this episode, Tim and Jon explore the choice we all must make after listening to Jesus’ words and how the decision to live out our true calling as humans is challenged daily by paths that appear easier.
Timestamps
- Chapter 1: The Wide and Narrow Gates We Walk Through (0:00-12:49)
- Chapter 2: The Narrow Door (12:49-28:32)
- Chapter 3: The Few and the Many (28:32-45:16)
Referenced Resources
Show Music
- Original Sermon on the Mount music by Richie Kohen
- BibleProject theme song by TENTS
- “Golden” by Aarigod
- “Longing” by Chase Mackintosh
Show Credits
Jon Collins is the creative producer for today's show. Production of today's episode is by Lindsey Ponder, producer; Cooper Peltz, managing producer; and Colin Wilson, producer. Stephanie Tam is our consultant and editor. Tyler Bailey is our supervising engineer. Frank Garza and Aaron Olsen edited today's episode. Aaron Olsen also provided the sound design and mix for today's episode. Nina Simone does our show notes, and Hannah Woo provides the annotations for our app. Today’s hosts are Jon Collins and Michelle Jones, and Tim Mackie is our lead scholar.
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