Bible Study on the Go - Holy Cross Lutheran Church, O'Fallon, Missouri

The final podcast of this Lenten season! Brian, Pastor Gimbel, and Isaac wrap up the season with the discussion of Isaiah 65. This passage connects us back to Genesis chapter 1 and connects us forward to Revelation as we hear about the new Heavens and the new Earth. We can’t even fathom what that will be like! The guys dive deep into a discussion about what it will be like to live in this world, and all the things that they hope will come. What a wonderful reminder for us to have as we’ve just come off of our Easter celebration. As they move on, Isaac digs out the parts of the passage where we see our themes of justice and righteousness, much to the awe of Brian. Essentially this passage is just loads and loads of hope about what is to come and what we have to look forward to because we are connected to Christ through our baptism.

Happy Good Friday!! On this penultimate episode of the Isaiah podcast we have just the original three Brian, Pastor Gimbel, and Isaac. In the beginning of the passage the reader asks for God to come down from the heavens, in an element of punishment, in a way, as Pastor Gimbel describes. This leads to a discussion on how God comes to us; in a sweet gentle way or in a way of power, might, and wrath. Pastor Gimbel then asks the question why, why is God coming down. The ultimate answer is He comes to tackle our sin. He comes down in anger, which we know, but yet we still ask Him to come. This connects us to Good Friday. This is the day that has us more focused on our sinful nature. We reflect on how serious our sinful nature is, and how it was all laid onto one man. Fear not, by the end of the passage there is some hope to be found!

For today’s episode, host Brian Belter once again welcome Pastor Gimbel, Isaac Conrad, and Shana Ziolko as they discuss Isaiah 61.  Pastor Gimbel kicks off the discussion with a reminder that Jesus Christ quoted this exact passage early on in His ministry and put Himself as the fulfillment of these powerful words.  The discussion then goes to the Biblical idea of the Year of Jubilee as the crew debates whether or not that idea would still be a good one today.  Later, Pastor Gimbel is encouraged to consider wearing special headdresses in church, but counters that by sharing that he already wears plenty of things on his head at home with his children.  Finally, the discussion concludes with the reminder of God’s promise to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob that still holds true today: that we are all gathered into the family of God!

A full boat, as Brian calls it, as today he is joined once again by Pastor Gimbel, Isaac, Shana, and Pastor Meyer. The conversation starts with discussion on how we have a God that we can turn to and He invites us to call upon Him. This is a very unique and beautiful thing to Christianity! Next, Pastor Gimbel invites us to focus on the passage, “My thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways.” We have to take comfort in the fact that it is ok for us to say we just don’t know what is going on in our world right now. Brian provides hope that we will come out of this stronger and have better relationships with each other, which can translate into a better relationship with God!

Today Brian, Pastor Gimbel, Isaac, and Shana break down Isaiah chapter 42 into two chunks. The first section, verses 1-4, gives us a little insight into our Lenten theme this year of the suffering servant. The servant is not fighting the inevitable, but will carry out what He was sent to do. The crew talks a lot about the justice that we actually deserve, but instead we are given grace by God. In the second half of this passage we focus on the power of God’s creation. We also get a call back to the covenants that God has made with His people. This starts a deep discussion as to whether this passage is referring to Jesus, or to Abraham, or even to us. The contrast is evident in these passages, we see the power of the servant and also the suffering of the servant, which points us directly to Holy Week!

On this episode, Brian, Pastor Gimbel, Isaac, and Shana dive deeper into Isaiah 43 and all of the baptism imagery that we find in this wonderful passage! Isaac shares why he is so excited about baptism, while Pastor Gimbel provides a solid baptism illustration from one of his favorite Disney Pixar movies. Shana chimes in with a whole host of other Old Testament Biblical images that connect to this passage, while Brian lifts up the Great Exchange theme that is at the center of this passage – a theme that is at the heart and core of our lives as Christians!

Brian is back! We have a large crew today to discuss Isaiah 41; Pastor Gimbel, Pastor Meyer, Isaac Conrad, and Shana Ziolko join. In the beginning of the chapter we see the Isrealites drawing near, knowing that they are coming to be judged. We see God speaking to His people directly. He is stating His control over the state of the world; He is part of the happenings. Even so despite that judgement that God is giving, He is also providing comfort in a real way. The crew relates this to our current day dealings with how this pandemic is making us take a closer look at ourselves and reflect on what things we have built as our idols and perhaps receiving judgement from God. However, we get to take comfort that God is now showing us what is more important and that He is in control!

Pastor Gimbel steers the ship himself in today’s episode covering the later half of Isaiah 40. Today he welcomes Pastor Meyer, Isaac Conrad, Shana Ziolko, and faithful editor Kevin Smith. We start out with perhaps a bit of scolding asking, “Have you not been paying attention to what the prophets have been telling you this whole time?” However, as our crew moves through the verses, the guys are able to relate what is happening in this passage with what we are currently experiencing in the world today. The group reminds us God is in control, and trusting in God is what will get, not only the Israelites, but now us, through this. God never sleeps and never grows weary!

Brian and Pastor Gimbel are back this week with special guest once again Shana Ziolko. As we move into this second half of Isaiah we start to see more Gospel oriented words and hope for the future. These words give us comfort that even though we should receive double punishment for our sins, we actually receive double blessings. Brian also points us to our justice finding in this passage, maybe in a little more round about way but it is there. This is a great episode that shows us that the Word of God is forever even when all else, even our flesh, fades away.

On this week’s episode, Brian Belter and Pastor Gimbel welcome Pastor Meyer and Shana Ziolko to discuss Isaiah 11. The crew today decides to rename the studio the “Cockatrice’s Den” in honor of the unique reference found in this passage. After the crew tries to figure out what exactly a cockatrice is, Shana highlights how God usually chooses people we least expect. Finally, Brian astutely points out once again how justice and righteousness show up in this passage.

Merry Christmas once again as Brain talks with Pastor Gimbel and Isaac Conrad about Isaiah chapter 9 today. The conversation starts with pointing out some of the misconceptions that this passage could have brought about, including giving the people at the time an excuse to not accept Jesus as the Messiah. So the question becomes how is this prophecy fulfilled then, since we know it is clearly about Jesus? Brian and Pastor Gimbel each offer their own wonderful explanations with great imagery. What are your thoughts? Please leave your comments below or tell the guys what you think.

Brian welcomes Pastor Gimbel, Isaac Conrad, and Pastor Meyer to discuss the ‘Christmas passage’ from Isaiah 7 on today’s episode. The guys offer a little background knowledge on the characters in this passage before they dive into the discussion. We then jump right to the sign of “Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and shall call his name Immanuel.” The debate is on, how do we translate this prophecy and connect it to Jesus? And what a prophecy it is! Listen in as the guys offer their different viewpoints, and nerd out a little in the process.

This week Brain welcomes back Pastor Gimbel and Isaac Conrad to talk about Isaiah chapter 6. They read and discuss Isaiah’s vision of the Lord. The discussion begins with the imagery of using coals to cleanse Isaiah’s lips. He needs to be purified and cleansed because he is getting ready to spout the righteous word of the Lord. As always, the Gospel is pulled to the forefront, as we see in verse 7 our sin is taken away and our guilt is atoned for and we are cleansed and purified as well. We must truly believe that God’s forgiveness is real and our sin is taken away forever. We are called to be Holy, set apart!

On this episode of the podcast, Brian Belter, Isaac Conrad, and Pastor Gimbel discuss the reading from Isaiah 1:10-18.  We hear a bit more about the background about what God’s people were doing at the time of Isaiah. Meanwhile, Pastor Gimbel shares a little more about his home life while Brian gives advice on how to clean tough stains. More importantly, we hear the beautiful promise about how God changes us by taking our scarlet sins and making them white as snow!

The Lenten podcast returns! On this episode we are starting a new conversational Bible study series as we take a deeper dive into the book of Isaiah. Join host Brian Belter, Pastor Gimbel, and Pastor Meyer as they discuss some of the background and themes of this wonderful book of the Bible and see how it all points to our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Look for new episodes on Tuesdays and Fridays from now through Easter.

This week’s sermon, “Set Free” is based off of the epistle lesson from Galatians 5.  In the apostle Paul’s letter to the Galatians, Paul exhorts the Galatian Christian to live in the freedom obtained through Christ which ultimately leads to love that serves others.  Even though we often fail to recognize the freedom we have in Christ, today we are reminded that true freedom is in Jesus Christ and shows itself as we serve our neighbors out of love.

On this audio special, hear from Kevin Smith as he narrates the story of Jesus Christ as drawn from all four Gospels. Scene III. The Palace of the High Priest Scene IV. The Praetorium Scene V. Calvary

On this audio special, hear from Kevin Smith as he narrates the story of Jesus Christ as drawn from all four Gospels

Brian and Kevin wrap up the book of Exodus with the final Conversational Devotional of this Lenten season. In this reading we see God reminding the people that He is among them. They have built the tabernacle and have created a place for God’s presence to reside. The one on one conversation between God and the people is over for now. However, this leads us to our faith in knowing God is always there. His spirit is with us to guide us everyday.

The Conversational Devotional for today has Brian and Kevin discussing the shining face of Moses. After Moses had seen the glory of God his face shone and frightened the Israelites to the point that Moses would wear a veil when in their presence. Again we can pull this forward to Jesus and the transfiguration as the glory of God is shone upon Him on the mountaintop. The disciples were in fear just like the Israelites.

Brian and Kevin start this last week of the Exodus podcast talking about the remaking of the tablets. This has been a roller coaster of emotions as God once again renews His covenant with His people. As we see Moses continually interceding on behalf of the Israelites we are reminded of Christ interceding on our behalf. As we move into Holy Week it is a good reminder of Jesus taking all of our sin forever on his own shoulders.

Today’s episode centers around two sections of scripture. Brian and Kevin discuss the Lord sending His people to the promised land, but He will not go among them. Leaving the Israelites to wonder what the future holds for them as they are no longer worthy of His presence. However, in the second reading we once again see Moses intercede on behalf of the Israelites to try and calm God’s wrath.

Ohhhhh man is Moses mad!! Today Brian and Kevin welcome Solomon Conrad to the podcast. In this discussion we see Moses unleash his anger on the people when he comes down from the mountain and sees the great sinfulness that is taking place. He punishes the people and we see such human emotion and reactions in these passages. He demands that the people either stand on the side of God or suffer the consequences.

Brian and Pastor Andy Gimbel discuss the text for our final Wednesday Lenten service. The conversation centers around the Israelites’ construction of the golden calf. While Moses has been on Mount Sinai for 40 days, Aaron allows the people to build an idol in violation of the first commandment. This angers God and we see Moses pleading for the people to not be consumed. This points us to the same way Jesus stands between us and God in taking on all of our sin.

Today Brian and Kevin are joined once again by guest Elizabeth Belter. The devotion centers around God’s covenant of the Sabbath day and keeping it holy. We hear God give specific rules to Moses about how to keep this covenant as it is the direct sign between Him and His people. We discuss also how the sacrifice Jesus made grants us freedom from the strict rules the Israelites had to follow regarding the Sabbath.

As we enter the final week of Lent before Holy Week, Brian and Kevin welcome guests Pastor Andy Gimbel and Isaac Conrad. The conversation focuses on the consecrating of the priesthood. We see descriptions of the purpose and meaning behind the vestments that the priests wear. They discuss the anointing and the ties to Jesus and our modern day church.

Brian flies solo in the discussion today with the help of guests Pastor Andy Gimbel and Leah Miget. The conversation revolves around what the Ark of the Covenant means and how it is to be built. A little levity is brought to the discussion as they discuss Indiana Jones and the Raiders of the Lost Ark in relation to what the scriptures say the Ark is to look like. The Ark may be lost to us today but we no longer need a place for God to dwell. He sends his Holy Spirit to be with us and in us everyday.

The Conversational Devotional today centers around the establishment of the covenant. Brian, Kevin, and guest Elizabeth Belter discuss Moses’ confirming of God’s covenant with the sprinkling of the sacrificial blood on the people. We also see how Moses gathers 70 of his elders to teach them how to lead the people.

Brian and Kevin continue the roundtable discussion with Gene and Mary Camfield and Elizabeth Belter. The text for today centers around the covenant of the Ten Commandments. These verses can be heard in our Wednesday Lenten services today as well. The Israelites are in awe and almost fearful and ask Moses to speak with God for them. Listen in as we dig through the Commandments and how they center around how we are to treat God and treat our fellow man.

Today Brian and Kevin welcome a roundtable of sorts. Gene and Mary Camfield and Elizabeth Belter join the discussion today on the remainder of Exodus 19. In this reading we see God speak to the people. The Israelites are at the foot of the mountain witnessing the thunder and loud trumpet sounds as God speaks to Moses. Such amazing and awesome power and feeling this passage elicits.

As we move into week four of our Lenten devotional on Exodus, Brian and Kevin welcome avid listener and commentator Mary Camfield. The discussion centers around the Israelites arriving at Mount Sinai and God proclaiming them to be His “treasured possession”. Listen in on some great insights as the Israelites consecrate themselves in preparation for the Lord coming down into the sight of the people to speak.

Brian and Kevin welcome guest Isaac Conrad to discuss chapter 18 of Exodus. The conversation centers around Moses’ need to lean on the elders and create a government of sorts. We can see this mirrored in our own church. Just like Moses, the sole pastor of a congregation must rely on the elders to help with the flock. Such a blessing we have at Holy Cross with all of our volunteers and church leaders!

On today’s podcast Brian and Kevin welcome guest Pastor Andy Gimbel. We are introduced to Joshua during the reading and discussion today. The Israelites face not just physical needs as they wander but also threats from other people in the land. They war against the Amalekites, and we see how Moses needs the support of Aaron and Hur to prevail in the battle. Again one man cannot do it alone.

As Brian and Kevin dive into the text for the third Wednesday in Lent they discuss the Water from the Rock. The trend continues as the Lord hears the grumblings of the Israelites in the desert. We see again our theme of water and its power. From nothing the Lord, through Moses, provides nourishment for his people.

Brian and Kevin continue to discuss the Manna from Heaven on today’s episode. God has provided for his people, and lays down a few simple laws for them to follow. Yet just like us, the Israelites struggle to obey. However, our ever-loving God continues to provide and forgive for 40 years.

Brian and Kevin are back at it again for the second full week on the podcast. Today they discuss the miraculous nature of manna as well as other ways that God still takes care of us today.

On today’s conversational devotional, Brian and Kevin, they see yet another side of the Lord’s provision for His people, acting as His healer. Our hosts also bring to light a couple of strong parallels to the story of Jesus and of the Gospel message.

The Conversational Devotional today centers on the Song of Moses. Brian and Kevin discuss this perhaps skipped over chapter in Exodus. The Israelites are celebrating their escape from Pharaoh and the Egyptians and praising God. What a weight that must have been lifted off their shoulders!

Brian and Kevin share a discussion of the text that will be meditated upon in our second Wednesday Lenten service today. The Israelites are free…..now what? The guys talk about the Israelites being led through the wilderness by the pillars of God. We also get to see the awesome power of the Lord, once again, with the parting of the Red Sea. The power of the water as we’ve seen before!

The Conversational Devotional today centers around the tenth and final plague. Brian and Kevin dive into the awesome power of God and the wave of destruction from the deaths of all the first born sons in Egypt. This plague is so devastating and yet we can see the promise of our Savior in this first Passover.

This week we listen in to a conversation on the first nine plagues. The guys discuss Pharaoh’s ever hardened heart despite the plagues that are ravaging the Egyptians. We get a very in depth look at each plague and the ramifications on the land and people. Be sure to check out the bonus episode of the podcast where we have the opportunity to hear the Scripture reading in its entirety.

In this bonus episode, Kevin and Brian read through the Biblical text of the plagues.

Let my people go! I’m betting we’ve all heard, or even made, this exclamation at some point in our lives. Today’s conversation centers around Moses’ initial encounters with Pharaoh. Brian and Kevin discuss Moses’ plea to let his people go, if even just to be able to go pray, but Pharaoh’s heart is hardened.

Continuing on with the conversation, Brian and Kevin give us some insights on Moses’ journey back to Egypt. Again Moses feels unworthy and fears his people will not believe. Listen in to see how God placates Moses, and gives him wondrous signs to show the Israelites.

This Conversational Devotional centers around the text that can be heard at Holy Cross for the Lenten services today. It’s a familiar story you may know, the Burning Bush.  Brian and Kevin have a discussion about the awe Moses surely felt when speaking to God, but also the tremendous self doubt that he carries. After all he is just a man.

On this episode, Brian and Kevin look at the second half of Exodus 2 where we fast forward to Moses as an adult.  Kevin brings in some of the popular movie depictions of Moses’ upbringing and shares his thought as to how he was raised in the Egyptian household.  Meanwhile, Brian emphasizes the significance of Moses identifying himself with the Israelites, calling them “his people.”

On this episode, Brian Belter and Kevin Smith discuss the sad and unfortunate decision by Pharaoh of Egypt to make them endure even further.

On this episode, hosts Brian Belter and Kevin Smith begin to work their way through the book of Exodus.  Today we hear about how God continues to fulfill His promises to keep and protect His people even in the midst of troubled times.  We also join in a discussion on what it meant to for God’s people be sojourners and strangers while we also have our hearts open to sojourners and immigrants today.

On this episode, hosts Kevin Smith and Brian Belter go back in time a bit to give some background and introduction to the book of Exodus as we prepare to dig deeper into this treasure-filled book this Lenten season.

On this episode, hosts Kevin Smith and Brian Belter talk through some of the parallels between the stories of the birth of Moses from Exodus 2 and the birth of Jesus.  Hear them as they still share the significance and impact for our lives today too!