Scripture Explained Simply

Today, we’re talking about the New Birth with the story of Nicodemus. Nicodemus is the ultimate "insider." He’s got the credentials, the reputation, and the moral track record. Yet, he’s about to find out that having a good resume isn't the same thing as having a new life.John 3:1–15 (ESV)- Now there was a man of the Pharisees named Nicodemus, a ruler of the Jews. 2 This man came to Jesus by night and said to him, “Rabbi, we know that you are a teacher come from God, for no one can do these signs that you do unless God is with him.” 3 Jesus answered him, “Truly, truly, I say to you, unless one is born again he cannot see the kingdom of God.” 4 Nicodemus said to him, “How can a man be born when he is old? Can he enter a second time into his mother’s womb and be born?” 5 Jesus answered, “Truly, truly, I say to you, unless one is born of water and the Spirit, he cannot enter the kingdom of God. 6 That which is born of the flesh is flesh, and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit. 7 Do not marvel that I said to you, ‘You must be born again.’ 8 The wind blows where it wishes, and you hear its sound, but you do not know where it comes from or where it goes. So it is with everyone who is born of the Spirit.” 9 Nicodemus said to him, “How can these things be?” 10 Jesus answered him, “Are you the teacher of Israel and yet you do not understand these things? 11 Truly, truly, I say to you, we speak of what we know, and bear witness to what we have seen, but you do not receive our testimony. 12 If I have told you earthly things and you do not believe, how can you believe if I tell you heavenly things? 13 No one has ascended into heaven except he who descended from heaven, the Son of Man. 14 And as Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, so must the Son of Man be lifted up, 15 that whoever believes in him may have eternal life.Ezekiel 36:25–27 (ESV)- I will sprinkle clean water on you, and you shall be clean from all your uncleannesses, and from all your idols I will cleanse you. 26 And I will give you a new heart, and a new spirit I will put within you. And I will remove the heart of stone from your flesh and give you a heart of flesh. 27 And I will put my Spirit within you, and cause you to walk in my statutes and be careful to obey my rules.Check out: In the Trenches: The Church Health PodcastFocus exclusively on five pillars:Vision & Strategy for the modern era.Revitalization & Renewal for the plateaued church.Leadership Development.Pastoral Ministry and all the ups and downs.The Stats & Trends that will define the church this year and in the years ahead.And check out the new Church Health Snapshot for church leadership and staff meetings.Download the Snapshot [email protected] a Discovery CallHelp us grow our community by liking and sharing.

Today, we’re talking about the "God of the Overturn." We’re going to look at the righteous indignation of Christ and ask a hard question: If Jesus walked into the "temple" of your heart today, what tables would He need to flip? Our default setting is selfishness. But through Christ, we find a path to selflessness.John 2:13–25 (ESV): The Passover of the Jews was at hand, and Jesus went up to Jerusalem. In the temple he found those who were selling oxen and sheep and pigeons, and the money-changers sitting there. And making a whip of cords, he drove them all out of the temple, with the sheep and oxen. And he poured out the coins of the money-changers and overturned their tables. And he told those who sold the pigeons, “Take these things away; do not make my Father’s house a house of trade.” His disciples remembered that it was written, “Zeal for your house will consume me.” So the Jews said to him, “What sign do you show us for doing these things?” Jesus answered them, “Destroy this temple, and in three days I will raise it up.” The Jews then said, “It has taken forty-six years to build this temple, and will you raise it up in three days?” But he was speaking about the temple of his body. When therefore he was raised from the dead, his disciples remembered that he had said this, and they believed the Scripture and the word that Jesus had spoken. Now when he was in Jerusalem at the Passover Feast, many believed in his name when they saw the signs that he was doing. But Jesus on his part did not entrust himself to them, because he knew all people and needed no one to bear witness about man, for he himself knew what was in man.Check out: In the Trenches: The Church Health PodcastFocus exclusively on five pillars:Vision & Strategy for the modern era.Revitalization & Renewal for the plateaued church.Leadership Development.Pastoral Ministry and all the ups and downs.The Stats & Trends that will define the church this year and in the years ahead.And check out the new Church Health Snapshot for church leadership and staff meetings.Download the Snapshot [email protected] a Discovery CallHelp us grow our community by liking and sharing.

Today we’re looking at John 2:1–12. We’re going to talk about why Jesus cares about your celebrations, what it means when He blesses the institution of marriage, and what to do when your life feels like an "empty jar."John 2:1-12 (ESV)- On the third day there was a wedding at Cana in Galilee, and the mother of Jesus was there. Jesus also was invited to the wedding with his disciples. When the wine ran out, the mother of Jesus said to him, “They have no wine.” And Jesus said to her, “Woman, what does this have to do with me? My hour has not yet come.” His mother said to the servants, “Do whatever he tells you.” Now there were six stone water jars there for the Jewish rites of purification, each holding twenty or thirty gallons. Jesus said to the servants, “Fill the jars with water.” And they filled them up to the brim. And he said to them, “Now draw some out and take it to the master of the feast.” So they took it. When the master of the feast tasted the water now become wine, and did not know where it came from (though the servants who had drawn the water knew), the master of the feast called the bridegroom and said to him, “Everyone serves the good wine first, and when people have drunk freely, then the poor wine. But you have kept the good wine until now.” This, the first of his signs, Jesus did at Cana in Galilee, and manifested his glory. And his disciples believed in him. After this he went down to Capernaum, with his mother and his brothers and his disciples, and they stayed there for a few days. Check out: In the Trenches: The Church Health PodcastFocus exclusively on five pillars:Vision & Strategy for the modern era.Revitalization & Renewal for the plateaued church.Leadership Development.Pastoral Ministry and all the ups and downs.The Stats & Trends that will define the church this year and in the years [email protected] a Discover CallHelp us grow our community by liking and sharing.

Today, we’re looking at one of the most exciting parts of the story: the recruitment. We’re watching Jesus start to gather the men who would eventually turn the world upside down. But as we look at John 1:35–51, I want you to notice something crucial: Jesus doesn’t use a cookie-cutter approach. He meets every single one of these men exactly where they are, in a way that is perfectly suited to their personality and their story.John 1:35-51:The next day again John was standing with two of his disciples, and he looked at Jesus as he walked by and said, “Behold, the Lamb of God!” The two disciples heard him say this, and they followed Jesus. Jesus turned and saw them following and said to them, “What are you seeking?” And they said to him, “Rabbi” (which means Teacher), “where are you staying?” He said to them, “Come and you will see.” So they came and saw where he was staying, and they stayed with him that day, for it was about the tenth hour. One of the two who heard John speak and followed Jesus was Andrew, Simon Peter’s brother. He first found his own brother Simon and said to him, “We have found the Messiah” (which means Christ). He brought him to Jesus. Jesus looked at him and said, “You are Simon the son of John. You shall be called Cephas” (which means Peter). The next day Jesus decided to go to Galilee. He found Philip and said to him, “Follow me.” Now Philip was from Bethsaida, the city of Andrew and Peter. Philip found Nathanael and said to him, “We have found him of whom Moses in the Law and also the prophets wrote, Jesus of Nazareth, the son of Joseph.” Nathanael said to him, “Can anything good come out of Nazareth?” Philip said to him, “Come and see.” Jesus saw Nathanael coming toward him and said of him, “Behold, an Israelite indeed, in whom there is no deceit!” Nathanael said to him, “How do you know me?” Jesus answered him, “Before Philip called you, when you were under the fig tree, I saw you.” Nathanael answered him, “Rabbi, you are the Son of God! You are the King of Israel!” Jesus answered him, “Because I said to you, ‘I saw you under the fig tree,’ do you believe? You will see greater things than these.” And he said to him, “Truly, truly, I say to you, you will see heaven opened, and the angels of God ascending and descending on the Son of Man.”Check out: In the Trenches: The Church Health PodcastFocus exclusively on five pillars:Vision & Strategy for the modern era.Revitalization & Renewal for the plateaued church.Leadership Development.Pastoral Ministry and all the ups and downs.The Stats & Trends that will define the church this year and in the years [email protected] a Discover CallHelp us grow our community by liking and sharing.

We are taking a brief pause from our walk through the Gospel of John today for a very important reason. We are just a couple of days away from the most significant morning on the Christian calendar: Easter or what I love to call Resurrection Sunday. Today we are going to discover 2 realities of the empty tomb that should be at the forefront of our minds as we celebrate Easter. 1 Corinthians 15:1-8, 12-19-Now I would remind you, brothers, of the gospel I preached to you, which you received, in which you stand, and by which you are being saved, if you hold fast to the word I preached to you—unless you believed in vain. For I delivered to you as of first importance what I also received: that Christ died for our sins in accordance with the Scriptures, that he was buried, that he was raised on the third day in accordance with the Scriptures, and that he appeared to Cephas, then to the twelve. Then he appeared to more than five hundred brothers at one time, most of whom are still alive, though some have fallen asleep. Then he appeared to James, then to all the apostles. Last of all, as to one untimely born, he appeared also to me...Now if Christ is proclaimed as raised from the dead, how can some of you say that there is no resurrection of the dead? But if there is no resurrection of the dead, then not even Christ has been raised. And if Christ has not been raised, then our preaching is in vain and your faith is in vain. We are even found to be misrepresenting God, because we testified about God that he raised Christ, whom he did not raise if it is true that the dead are not raised. For if the dead are not raised, not even Christ has been raised. And if Christ has not been raised, your faith is futile and you are still in your sins. Then those also who have fallen asleep in Christ have perished. If in Christ we have hope in this life only, we are of all people most to be pitied.To connect with Keith:[email protected] a Discover CallHelp us grow our community by liking and sharing.

John the Baptist points his finger at Jesus and declares, "Behold, the Lamb of God." What does that mean and what does it mean for you. John 1:19-34- And this is the testimony of John, when the Jews sent priests and Levites from Jerusalem to ask him, “Who are you?” He confessed, and did not deny, but confessed, “I am not the Christ.” And they asked him, “What then? Are you Elijah?” He said, “I am not.” “Are you the Prophet?” And he answered, “No.” So they said to him, “Who are you? We need to give an answer to those who sent us. What do you say about yourself?” He said, “I am the voice of one crying out in the wilderness, ‘Make straight the way of the Lord,’ as the prophet Isaiah said.” (Now they had been sent from the Pharisees.) They asked him, “Then why are you baptizing, if you are neither the Christ, nor Elijah, nor the Prophet?” John answered them, “I baptize with water, but among you stands one you do not know, even he who comes after me, the strap of whose sandal I am not worthy to untie.” These things took place in Bethany across the Jordan, where John was baptizing. The next day he saw Jesus coming toward him, and said, “Behold, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world! This is he of whom I said, ‘After me comes a man who ranks before me, because he was before me.’ I myself did not know him, but for this purpose I came baptizing with water, that he might be revealed to Israel.” And John bore witness: “I saw the Spirit descend from heaven like a dove, and it remained on him. I myself did not know him, but he who sent me to baptize with water said to me, ‘He on whom you see the Spirit descend and remain, this is he who baptizes with the Holy Spirit.’ And I have seen and have borne witness that this is the Son of God.”To connect with Keith:[email protected] a Discover CallHelp us grow our community by liking and sharing.

"We make our decisions and our decisions make us." When we make sinful or bad or poor or lazy decisions, those decisions shape and affect us. Further those decisions have a way of having a ripple affect, affecting areas that we had no idea. They have the power to make us stumble. 1 Cor. 10:1-13 (ESV): For I do not want you to be unaware, brothers, that our fathers were all under the cloud, and all passed through the sea, and all were baptized into Moses in the cloud and in the sea, and all ate the same spiritual food, and all drank the same spiritual drink. For they drank from the spiritual Rock that followed them, and the Rock was Christ. Nevertheless, with most of them God was not pleased, for they were overthrown in the wilderness. Now these things took place as examples for us, that we might not desire evil as they did. Do not be idolaters as some of them were; as it is written, “The people sat down to eat and drink and rose up to play.” We must not indulge in sexual immorality as some of them did, and twenty-three thousand fell in a single day. We must not put Christ to the test, as some of them did and were destroyed by serpents, nor grumble, as some of them did and were destroyed by the Destroyer. Now these things happened to them as an example, but they were written down for our instruction, on whom the end of the ages has come. Therefore let anyone who thinks that he stands take heed lest he fall. No temptation has overtaken you that is not common to man. God is faithful, and he will not let you be tempted beyond your ability, but with the temptation he will also provide the way of escape, that you may be able to endure it.To connect with Dr. Keith and Hudson Ministries:https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61577357215904For speaking, coaching, and consulting: [email protected] or schedule a discovery call at hudsonleadership.com

We are looking at John 1:14–18. If there is a "hinge" upon which the entire New Testament swings, it’s these verses. This is where the "Logos"—the Architect of the galaxies—decides to put on a suit of human skin.John 1:14-18 (ESV): And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we have seen his glory, glory as of the only Son from the Father, full of grace and truth. (John bore witness about him, and cried out, “This was he of whom I said, ‘He who comes after me ranks before me, because he was before me.’ ”) For from his fullness we have all received, grace upon grace. For the law was given through Moses; grace and truth came through Jesus Christ. No one has ever seen God; God the only Son, who is at the Father’s side, he has made him known.Listener Guide- Hypostatic UnionTo connect with Dr. Keith and Hudson Ministries:https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61577357215904For speaking, coaching, and consulting: [email protected] or schedule a discovery call at hudsonleadership.com

Today, we’re looking at a witness. Not in a TV drama, but in the courtroom of history. This witness is here to testify to the Truth—to point us to the Light.John 1:6-13 (ESV)- There was a man sent from God, whose name was John. He came as a witness, to bear witness about the light, that all might believe through him. He was not the light, but came to bear witness about the light. The true light, which gives light to everyone, was coming into the world. He was in the world, and the world was made through him, yet the world did not know him. He came to his own, and his own people did not receive him. But to all who did receive him, who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God, who were born, not of blood nor of the will of the flesh nor of the will of man, but of God.Discussion Guide- https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/6vpcogzye4fxa10ebpexs/Witness-on-the-Stand-Guide.pdf?rlkey=vtt2y4nec9ncfoqwtuhmhdgn6&dl=0To connect with Dr. Keith and Hudson Ministries:https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61577357215904For speaking, coaching, and consulting: [email protected] or schedule a discovery call at hudsonleadership.com

The Gospel of John starts with that kind of "The time has finally come" energy. But John doesn't start with a stable in Bethlehem or a list of ancestors. He starts with a prologue that is unlike anything else in the Bible. He dives in headfirst.John 1:1–5 (ESV):"In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was in the beginning with God. All things were made through him, and without him was not any thing made that was made. In him was life, and the life was the light of men. The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it."Episode Guide- https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/pl2g9zr3vyxuelitwgoih/Light-In-the-Darkness-Guide.pdf?rlkey=4xi6do5owyh6b8y135wl8q4ex&dl=0To connect with Dr. Keith and Hudson Ministries:https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61577357215904For speaking, coaching, and consulting: [email protected] or schedule a discovery call at hudsonleadership.com

In today's episode, we reach the end of the Book of Judges. I’m going to be honest with you: for me, this is the hardest and saddest part of the Bible to read. If Judges 1 through 16 were a downward spiral, Chapters 17 through 21 are the crash and burn.These final chapters function as an appendix. They aren't necessarily chronological; they are snapshots of what life looked like during this era. They describe a society in total freefall—religiously, morally, and socially.To follow along in the Scripture- https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Judges%2017&version=ESVTo connect with Dr. Keith and Hudson Ministries:https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61577357215904For speaking, coaching, and consulting: [email protected] or schedule a discovery call at hudsonleadership.com

In this episode, we dive into Judges 13-16 as we look at Samson, who is a man of massive contradictions. He had supernatural strength but a microscopic will. He was a set-apart Nazarite who couldn't stop touching what was "unclean." He is a mirror for all of us who have ever felt a gap between the potential God gave us and the choices we actually make.Scripture Link- https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=judges%2013&version=ESVTo connect with Dr. Keith and Hudson Ministries: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61577357215904For speaking, coaching, and consulting: [email protected]

In our final episode of 2025, and we are closing out the year with one of the most tragic and complex stories in the Book of Judges: the story of Jephthah in Judges chapters 10-12. This is a tough story about the danger of rash vows and the futility of trying to bargain with God.To connect with Dr. Keith and Hudson Ministries: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61577357215904For speaking, coaching, and consulting: [email protected]

Last time, we saw women of incredible courage—Deborah and Jael. Today, we meet a man who starts out as the opposite of brave, a man who is completely paralyzed by insecurity.If you've ever felt like your background disqualifies you, or that you're the last person God would ever choose, this message is for you. We’re going to watch God take a man who saw himself as "the least" and turn him into a "Mighty Man of Valor."Judges 6-8To connect with Dr. Keith and Hudson Ministries: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61577357215904For speaking, coaching, and consulting: [email protected]

Today, we are jumping into Judges 4 and 5. This is a fascinating section of Scripture because we get the story told twice.Chapter 4 is the Prose Account. It gives us the history. Its the Detective Friday, “All we want are the facts, ma'am." It tells us what happened.Chapter 5 is the Poetic Version. This is the "Song of Deborah." It’s a masterpiece of Hebrew poetry that tells us how it felt and what it meant.We’re dealing with a massive military threat. We’re talking about 900 iron chariots. In the ancient world, that’s like fighting a division of F-33's with spit wads. It was a terror in the flatlands near the Valley of Jezreel.But the real battle in this text isn't just on the field. The real battle is in the heart. It’s a battle between Faithfulness and Fear. It’s about Courage versus Hesitation.To connect with Dr. Keith and Hudson Ministries: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61577357215904For speaking, coaching, and consulting: [email protected]

Today, we're diving into Judges 3, and we're going to see that deliverance in action. And the truth is, God's resume for heroes looks nothing like ours. We look for the polished, the perfect, the predictable. God looks for the available. We're going to see how God uses the most unexpected people to bring about massive victory.Judges 3:1–31 (ESV)1Now these are the nations that the Lord left, to test Israel by them, that is, all in Israel who had not experienced all the wars in Canaan. 2It was only in order that the generations of the people of Israel might know war, to teach war to those who had not known it before. 3These are the nations: the five lords of the Philistines and all the Canaanites and the Sidonians and the Hivites who lived on Mount Lebanon, from Mount Baal-hermon as far as Lebo-hamath. 4They were for the testing of Israel, to know whether Israel would obey the commandments of the Lord, which he commanded their fathers by the hand of Moses. 5So the people of Israel lived among the Canaanites, the Hittites, the Amorites, the Perizzites, the Hivites, and the Jebusites. 6And their daughters they took to themselves for wives, and their own daughters they gave to their sons, and they served their gods. 7And the people of Israel did what was evil in the sight of the Lord. They forgot the Lord their God and served the Baals and the Asheroth. 8Therefore the anger of the Lord was kindled against Israel, and he sold them into the hand of Cushan-rishathaim king of Mesopotamia. And the people of Israel served Cushan-rishathaim eight years. 9But when the people of Israel cried out to the Lord, the Lord raised up a deliverer for the people of Israel, who saved them, Othniel the son of Kenaz, Caleb’s younger brother. 10The Spirit of the Lord was upon him, and he judged Israel. He went out to war, and the Lord gave Cushan-rishathaim king of Mesopotamia into his hand. And his hand prevailed over Cushan-rishathaim. 11So the land had rest forty years. Then Othniel the son of Kenaz died. 12And the people of Israel again did what was evil in the sight of the Lord, and the Lord strengthened Eglon the king of Moab against Israel, because they had done what was evil in the sight of the Lord. 13He gathered to himself the Ammonites and the Amalekites, and went and defeated Israel. And they took possession of the city of palms. 14And the people of Israel served Eglon the king of Moab eighteen years. 15Then the people of Israel cried out to the Lord, and the Lord raised up for them a deliverer, Ehud, the son of Gera, the Benjaminite, a left-handed man. The people of Israel sent tribute by him to Eglon the king of Moab. 16And Ehud made for himself a sword with two edges, a cubit in length, and he bound it on his right thigh under his clothes. 17And he presented the tribute to Eglon king of Moab. Now Eglon was a very fat man. 18And when Ehud had finished presenting the tribute, he sent away the people who carried the tribute. 19But he himself turned back at the idols near Gilgal and said, “I have a secret message for you, O king.” And he commanded, “Silence.” And all his attendants went out from his presence. 20And Ehud came to him as he was sitting alone in his cool roof chamber. And Ehud said, “I have a message from God for you.” And he arose from his seat. 21And Ehud reached with his left hand, took the sword from his right thigh, and thrust it into his belly. 22And the hilt also went in after the blade, and the fat closed over the blade, for he did not pull the sword out of his belly; and the dung came out. 23Then Ehud went out into the porch and closed the doors of the roof chamber behind him and locked them. 24When he had gone, the servants came, and when they saw that the doors of the roof chamber were locked, they thought, “Surely he is relieving himself in the closet of the cool chamber.” 25And they waited till they were embarrassed. But when he still did not open the doors of the roof chamber, they took the key and opened them, and there lay their lord dead on the floor. 26Ehud escaped while they delayed, and he passed beyond the idols and escaped to Seirah. 27When he arrived, he sounded the trumpet in the hill country of Ephraim. Then the people of Israel went down with him from the hill country, and he was their leader. 28And he said to them, “Follow after me, for the Lord has given your enemies the Moabites into your hand.” So they went down after him and seized the fords of the Jordan against the Moabites and did not allow anyone to pass over. 29And they killed at that time about 10,000 of the Moabites, all strong, able-bodied men; not a man escaped. 30So Moab was subdued that day under the hand of Israel. And the land had rest for eighty years. 31After him was Shamgar the son of Anath, who killed 600 of the Philistines with an oxgoad, and he also saved Israel.To connect with Dr. Keith and Hudson Ministries: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61577357215904For speaking, coaching, and consulting: [email protected]

Today, we're moving into Judges 2, and it’s a sobering reality check. We're going to see the devastating, long-term consequences of that one compromise. This chapter establishes the painful, predictable Cycle of Spiritual Slump that defines the next 300 years of Israel’s history.The truth is, this cycle isn't just history. It's a mirror for every person, every leader, and every church that loses its focus.Judges 2 (ESV): Now the angel of the Lord went up from Gilgal to Bochim. And he said, “I brought you up from Egypt and brought you into the land that I swore to give to your fathers. I said, ‘I will never break my covenant with you, and you shall make no covenant with the inhabitants of this land; you shall break down their altars.’ But you have not obeyed my voice. What is this you have done? So now I say, I will not drive them out before you, but they shall become thorns in your sides, and their gods shall be a snare to you.” As soon as the angel of the Lord spoke these words to all the people of Israel, the people lifted up their voices and wept. And they called the name of that place Bochim. And they sacrificed there to the Lord. When Joshua dismissed the people, the people of Israel went each to his inheritance to take possession of the land. And the people served the Lord all the days of Joshua, and all the days of the elders who outlived Joshua, who had seen all the great work that the Lord had done for Israel. And Joshua the son of Nun, the servant of the Lord, died at the age of 110 years. And they buried him within the boundaries of his inheritance in Timnath-heres, in the hill country of Ephraim, north of the mountain of Gaash. And all that generation also were gathered to their fathers. And there arose another generation after them who did not know the Lord or the work that he had done for Israel. And the people of Israel did what was evil in the sight of the Lord and served the Baals. And they abandoned the Lord, the God of their fathers, who had brought them out of the land of Egypt. They went after other gods, from among the gods of the peoples who were around them, and bowed down to them. And they provoked the Lord to anger. They abandoned the Lord and served the Baals and the Ashtaroth. So the anger of the Lord was kindled against Israel, and he gave them over to plunderers, who plundered them. And he sold them into the hand of their surrounding enemies, so that they could no longer withstand their enemies. Whenever they marched out, the hand of the Lord was against them for harm, as the Lord had warned, and as the Lord had sworn to them. And they were in terrible distress. Then the Lord raised up judges, who saved them out of the hand of those who plundered them. Yet they did not listen to their judges, for they whored after other gods and bowed down to them. They soon turned aside from the way in which their fathers had walked, who had obeyed the commandments of the Lord, and they did not do so. Whenever the Lord raised up judges for them, the Lord was with the judge, and he saved them from the hand of their enemies all the days of the judge. For the Lord was moved to pity by their groaning because of those who afflicted and oppressed them. But whenever the judge died, they turned back and were more corrupt than their fathers, going after other gods, serving them and bowing down to them. They did not drop any of their practices or their stubborn ways. So the anger of the Lord was kindled against Israel, and he said, “Because this people have transgressed my covenant that I commanded their fathers and have not obeyed my voice, I will no longer drive out before them any of the nations that Joshua left when he died, in order to test Israel by them, whether they will take care to walk in the way of the Lord as their fathers did, or not.” So the Lord left those nations, not driving them out quickly, and he did not give them into the hand of Joshua.To connect with Dr. Keith and Hudson Ministries: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61577357215904For speaking, coaching, and consulting: [email protected]

Today, we’re starting at the beginning, in Judges Chapter 1. We're looking at the success and, tragically, the early failures of this young nation, Israel. They had been given the land! The mission was clear: drive out the enemy and take possession!Read along with me as I murder a lot of these names and names of places. Judges 1 (ESV): After the death of Joshua, the people of Israel inquired of the Lord, “Who shall go up first for us against the Canaanites, to fight against them?” The Lord said, “Judah shall go up; behold, I have given the land into his hand.” And Judah said to Simeon his brother, “Come up with me into the territory allotted to me, that we may fight against the Canaanites. And I likewise will go with you into the territory allotted to you.” So Simeon went with him. Then Judah went up and the Lord gave the Canaanites and the Perizzites into their hand, and they defeated 10,000 of them at Bezek. They found Adoni-bezek at Bezek and fought against him and defeated the Canaanites and the Perizzites. Adoni-bezek fled, but they pursued him and caught him and cut off his thumbs and his big toes. And Adoni-bezek said, “Seventy kings with their thumbs and their big toes cut off used to pick up scraps under my table. As I have done, so God has repaid me.” And they brought him to Jerusalem, and he died there. And the men of Judah fought against Jerusalem and captured it and struck it with the edge of the sword and set the city on fire. And afterward the men of Judah went down to fight against the Canaanites who lived in the hill country, in the Negeb, and in the lowland. And Judah went against the Canaanites who lived in Hebron (now the name of Hebron was formerly Kiriath-arba), and they defeated Sheshai and Ahiman and Talmai. From there they went against the inhabitants of Debir. The name of Debir was formerly Kiriath-sepher. And Caleb said, “He who attacks Kiriath-sepher and captures it, I will give him Achsah my daughter for a wife.” And Othniel the son of Kenaz, Caleb’s younger brother, captured it. And he gave him Achsah his daughter for a wife. When she came to him, she urged him to ask her father for a field. And she dismounted from her donkey, and Caleb said to her, “What do you want?” She said to him, “Give me a blessing. Since you have set me in the land of the Negeb, give me also springs of water.” And Caleb gave her the upper springs and the lower springs. And the descendants of the Kenite, Moses’ father-in-law, went up with the people of Judah from the city of palms into the wilderness of Judah, which lies in the Negeb near Arad, and they went and settled with the people. And Judah went with Simeon his brother, and they defeated the Canaanites who inhabited Zephath and devoted it to destruction. So the name of the city was called Hormah. Judah also captured Gaza with its territory, and Ashkelon with its territory, and Ekron with its territory. And the Lord was with Judah, and he took possession of the hill country, but he could not drive out the inhabitants of the plain because they had chariots of iron. And Hebron was given to Caleb, as Moses had said. And he drove out from it the three sons of Anak. But the people of Benjamin did not drive out the Jebusites who lived in Jerusalem, so the Jebusites have lived with the people of Benjamin in Jerusalem to this day. The house of Joseph also went up against Bethel, and the Lord was with them. And the house of Joseph scouted out Bethel. (Now the name of the city was formerly Luz.) And the spies saw a man coming out of the city, and they said to him, “Please show us the way into the city, and we will deal kindly with you.” And he showed them the way into the city. And they struck the city with the edge of the sword, but they let the man and all his family go. And the man went to the land of the Hittites and built a city and called its name Luz. That is its name to this day. Manasseh did not drive out the inhabitants of Beth-shean and its villages, or Taanach and its villages, or the inhabitants of Dor and its villages, or the inhabitants of Ibleam and its villages, or the inhabitants of Megiddo and its villages, for the Canaanites persisted in dwelling in that land. When Israel grew strong, they put the Canaanites to forced labor, but did not drive them out completely. And Ephraim did not drive out the Canaanites who lived in Gezer, so the Canaanites lived in Gezer among them. Zebulun did not drive out the inhabitants of Kitron, or the inhabitants of Nahalol, so the Canaanites lived among them, but became subject to forced labor. Asher did not drive out the inhabitants of Acco, or the inhabitants of Sidon or of Ahlab or of Achzib or of Helbah or of Aphik or of Rehob, so the Asherites lived among the Canaanites, the inhabitants of the land, for they did not drive them out. Naphtali did not drive out the inhabitants of Beth-shemesh, or the inhabitants of Beth-anath, so they lived among the Canaanites, the inhabitants of the land. Nevertheless, the inhabitants of Beth-shemesh and of Beth-anath became subject to forced labor for them. The Amorites pressed the people of Dan back into the hill country, for they did not allow them to come down to the plain. The Amorites persisted in dwelling in Mount Heres, in Aijalon, and in Shaalbim, but the hand of the house of Joseph rested heavily on them, and they became subject to forced labor. And the border of the Amorites ran from the ascent of Akrabbim, from Sela and upward.To connect with Dr. Keith and Hudson Ministries: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61577357215904For speaking, coaching, and consulting: [email protected]

Today, we’re diving into the final, incredible section of Paul's letter, starting at verse 10. This passage is Paul's masterclass on contentment. It’s the secret to thriving in every single circumstance—whether you’re soaring or struggling.Many people struggle with this. We're wired for more. More impact, more growth, more resources. We often confuse ambition with a spirit of greed and envy.Paul is going to teach us how to detach our happiness from our circumstances and find contentment.Philippians 4:10-23 (ESV):"I rejoiced in the Lord greatly that now at length you have revived your concern for me. You were indeed concerned for me, but you had no opportunity. Not that I am speaking of being in need, for I have learned in whatever situation I am to be content. I know how to be brought low, and I know how to abound. In any and every circumstance, I have learned the secret of facing plenty and hunger, abundance and need. I can do all things through him who strengthens me. Yet it was kind of you to share my trouble. And you Philippians yourselves know that in the beginning of the gospel, when I left Macedonia, no church entered into partnership with me in giving and receiving, except you only. Even in Thessalonica you sent me help for my needs once and again. Not that I seek the gift, but I seek the fruit that increases to your credit. I have received full payment, and more. I am well supplied, having received from Epaphroditus the gifts you sent, a fragrant offering, a sacrifice acceptable and pleasing to God. And my God will supply every need of yours according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus. To our God and Father be glory forever and ever. Amen. Greet every saint in Christ Jesus. The brothers who are with me greet you. All the saints greet you, especially those of Caesar’s household. The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit."To connect with Dr. Keith and Hudson Ministries: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61577357215904For speaking, coaching, and consulting: [email protected]

Today, we're moving from thinking to doing. We're looking at Philippians 4:9, where Paul gives us the formula for a life where the God of Peace shows up. This isn't theoretical. This is practical obedience. The truth is, it’s not enough to just know the truth. You have to live it.Philippians 4:9 (ESV):"What you have learned and received and heard and seen in me—practice these things, and the God of peace will be with you."Questions to Consider and Ask: Who is a mature believer you know that you can learn, receive, hear, and see their faith to be an example and encouragement for you?What are you currently learning about God? How are you handling [a specific area of life]?What is the single most essential daily habit you have for staying close to God?To connect with Dr. Keith and Hudson Ministries: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61577357215904For speaking, coaching, and consulting: [email protected]

Today, we're looking at where that "peace of God, which surpasses all understanding (Phil 4:7)," starts in your mind.Your mind is a battlefield. It’s the control center for your entire life. Where your heart and mind is—that's exactly where your actions will be. Thoughts lead to actions. If you want a different result in your life, you have to change your thinking.In today's study, we’re diving into Philippians 4:8 were we will see Paul’s guide to an entirely new thought life. We’ll look at the power of intentionally putting our minds on heavenly things through praise and prayer.Philippians 4:8 (ESV): "Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things."To connect with Dr. Keith and Hudson Ministries: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61577357215904For speaking, coaching, and consulting: [email protected]

Today as we look at Philippians 4:4-7, we're diving into a powerful passage that offers a roadmap to enduring peace and constant joy, regardless of what life throws our way.Philippians 4:4-7 English Standard Version (ESV):"Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice. Let your reasonableness be known to everyone. The Lord is at hand; do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus."To connect with Dr. Keith and Hudson Ministries: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61577357215904For speaking, coaching, and consulting: https://hudsonleadership.com/book-a-discovery-call

Today, we're going to pull back the curtain on a specific conflict between two specific people. We're diving into a short passage today with Philippians 4:2-3, where Paul gets deeply personal. We'll explore how we can help in times of conflict and how our own personal and cultural allegiances might be blinding us to the true nature of disunity.Philippians 4:2-3 English Standard Version (ESV):"I entreat Euodia and I entreat Syntyche to agree in the Lord. Yes, I ask you also, true companion, help these women, who have labored side by side with me in the gospel together with Clement and the rest of my fellow workers, whose names are in the book of life."To connect with Dr. Keith and Hudson Ministries: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61577357215904For speaking, coaching, and consulting: https://hudsonleadership.com/book-a-discovery-call

Today, we're going to see a warning. Paul is going to point out some serious trip points, some dangers that can distort the gospel. It's not enough to be in the race; you have to be running in the right direction. We'll look at the red flags of a distorted gospel and what we can do to protect our faith.Philippians 3:12-4:1 English Standard Version (ESV)."Not that I have already obtained this or am already perfect, but I press on to make it my own, because Christ Jesus has made me his own. Brothers, I do not consider that I have made it my own. But one thing I do: forgetting what lies behind and straining forward to what lies ahead, I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus. Let those of us who are mature think this way, and if in anything you think otherwise, God will reveal that also to you. Only let us live up to what we have already attained. Brothers, join in imitating me, and keep your eyes on those who walk as we have set an example for you. For many, of whom I have often told you and now tell you even with tears, walk as enemies of the cross of Christ. Their end is destruction, their god is their stomach, and they glory in their shame, with minds set on earthly things. But our citizenship is in heaven, and from it we await a Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ, who will transform our lowly body to be like his glorious body, by the power that enables him even to subject all things to himself. Therefore, my brothers, whom I love and long for, my joy and my crown, stand firm thus in the Lord, my beloved."To connect with Dr. Keith and Hudson Ministries: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61577357215904For speaking, coaching, and consulting: https://hudsonleadership.com/book-a-discovery-call

The authenticity of our faith isn't just measured by the intensity of our initial decision to follow Christ. It's a lifetime adventure. And sometimes we need a spiritual kick in the pants.Today, we're diving into Philippians 3:12-14, where Paul gives us a call to get back on track. He’s going to tell us what it looks like to press on, to keep pushing toward the goal, no matter what. He’s talking to the people who think they’ve already arrived and the people who have completely given up. Really, this message is for all of us.Philippians 3:12-14 English Standard Version (ESV)."Not that I have already obtained this or am already perfect, but I press on to make it my own, because Christ Jesus has made me his own. Brothers, I do not consider that I have made it my own. But one thing I do: forgetting what lies behind and straining forward to what lies ahead, I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus."To connect with Dr. Keith and Hudson Ministries: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61577357215904For speaking, coaching, and consulting: https://hudsonleadership.com/book-a-discovery-call

Today, we're diving into Philippians 3:1-11, where Paul, a guy with a serious highlight reel, makes a radical, mind-blowing declaration. He's going to tell us that everything he had, everything he worked for, it's all just rubbish compared to the surpassing worth of knowing Christ. This passage is a joyous celebration of righteousness through faith alone. It’s the ultimate mic drop on human effort.Philippians 3:1-11 English Standard Version (ESV)."Finally, my brothers, rejoice in the Lord. To write the same things to you is no trouble to me and is safe for you. Look out for the dogs, look out for the evil ones, look out for those who mutilate the flesh. For we are the circumcision, who worship by the Spirit of God and glory in Christ Jesus and put no confidence in the flesh—though I myself have reason for confidence in the flesh also. If anyone else thinks he has reason for confidence in the flesh, I have more: circumcised on the eighth day, of the people of Israel, of the tribe of Benjamin, a Hebrew of Hebrews; as to the law, a Pharisee; as to zeal, a persecutor of the church; as to righteousness under the law, blameless. But whatever gain I had, I counted as loss for the sake of Christ. Indeed, I count everything as loss because of the surpassing worth of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord. For His sake I have suffered the loss of all things and count them as rubbish, in order that I may gain Christ and be found in him, not having a righteousness of my own that comes from the law, but that which comes through faith in Christ, the righteousness from God that depends on faith—that I may know Him and the power of His resurrection, and may share His sufferings, becoming like Him in His death, that by any means possible I may attain the resurrection from the dead."To connect with Dr. Keith and Hudson Ministries: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61577357215904For speaking, coaching, and consulting: https://hudsonleadership.com/book-a-discovery-call

In this episode we continue in Philippians 2, and the focus shifts from our individual walk to our faith family support system. As we walk through this passage, we’re going to meet two of Paul's incredible ministry partners, Timothy and Epaphroditus. Through their examples, we'll learn about the incredible value of encouragement partners—people who walk alongside us, share our burdens, and champion our faith. And just as importantly, we’ll see our own responsibility to be that kind of partner for others.Philippians 2:19-30 in the English Standard Version (ESV):"I hope in the Lord Jesus to send Timothy to you soon, so that I too may be cheered by news of you. For I have no one like him, who will be genuinely concerned for your welfare. For they all seek their own interests, not those of Jesus Christ. But you know Timothy's proven worth, how as a son with a father he has served with me in the gospel. I hope therefore to send him just as soon as I see how it will go with me, and I trust in the Lord that shortly I myself will come also. I have thought it necessary to send to you Epaphroditus, my brother and fellow worker and fellow soldier, and your messenger and minister to my need, for he has been longing for you all and has been distressed because you heard that he was ill. Indeed he was ill, near to death. But God had mercy on him—and not only on him but on me also, lest I should have sorrow upon sorrow. I am the more eager to send him, therefore, that when you see him again you may rejoice, and that I may be less distressed. So receive him in the Lord with all joy, and honor such men, for he nearly died for the work of Christ, risking his life to complete what was lacking in your service to me."To connect with Dr. Keith and Hudson Ministries: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61577357215904For speaking, coaching, and consulting: https://hudsonleadership.com/book-a-discovery-call

We grumble and complain about anything and everything. I’m too busy or I’m bored. I didn’t like that plot twist in that movie. It’s too hot or it's too cold. As we walk through this passage we’ll see why this seemingly small habit of complaining and grumbling is so detrimental and how a heart of joy in Christ can transform us, making us shine like lights in a dark world.Philippians 2:14-18 English Standard Version (ESV):"Do all things without grumbling or questioning, that you may be blameless and innocent, children of God without blemish in the midst of a crooked and twisted generation, among whom you shine as lights in the world, holding fast to the word of life, so that in the day of Christ I may be proud that I did not run in vain or labor in vain. Even if I am to be poured out as a drink offering upon the sacrificial offering of your faith, I am glad and rejoice with you all. Likewise you also should be glad and rejoice with me."To connect with Dr. Keith and Hudson Ministries: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61577357215904For speaking, coaching, and consulting: https://hudsonleadership.com/book-a-discovery-call

Paul shifts from the sublime example of Christ to our practical, individual responsibility. He gives us a command that can sound a little intimidating at first: "work out your own salvation with fear and trembling." We’re going to unpack exactly what this means in light of God's active work within us. It’s a vital reminder of the beautiful partnership between our effort and God's grace.Philippians 2:12-13 English Standard Version (ESV):"Therefore, my beloved, as you have always obeyed, so now, not only as in my presence but much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling, for it is God who works in you, both to will and to work for His good pleasure."To connect with Dr. Keith and Hudson Ministries: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61577357215904For speaking, coaching and consulting: https://hudsonleadership.com/book-a-discovery-call

We're diving into Philippians 2:5-11, often referred to as the "Christ Hymn." This isn't just beautiful poetry; it's the theological bedrock for all Christian humility and service. It will profoundly shape our understanding of true leadership and divine love. This passage takes us from the depths of humility to the heights of exaltation, all through the person of Jesus Christ.Philippians 2:5-11 in the English Standard Version (ESV):"Have this mind among yourselves, which is in Christ Jesus, who, though He was in the form of God, did not count equality with God a thing to be grasped, but emptied Himself, by taking the form of a servant, being born in the likeness of men. And being found in human form, He humbled Himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross. Therefore God has highly exalted Him and bestowed on Him the name that is above every name, so that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.”To connect with Dr. Keith and Hudson Ministries: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61577357215904For speaking, coaching and consulting: https://hudsonleadership.com/book-a-discovery-call

In this episode, we discover Paul continues the thought of unity. As we dive into this passage he gives us the radical, counter-cultural key to achieving that unity. It's a challenging principle, but one that holds immense power to transform our relationships, our churches, and our communities. We're going to dive into Philippians 2:3-4, where we'll explore the pivotal distinction between living selfishly versus selflessly, and what it truly means to adopt the humble mindset of Christ.Philippians 2:3-4 (ESV): Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves. Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others.To connect with Dr. Keith and Hudson Ministries: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61577357215904For speaking, coaching and consulting: https://hudsonleadership.com/book-a-discovery-call

Today, we're stepping into Philippians 2, and Paul immediately dives into a theme that is both beautiful and incredibly challenging for the church throughout history: unity in Christian love. He urges us to be "of the same mind, having the same love, being in full accord and of one mind." What does this profound call to oneness truly mean, and how can we practically pursue it in our relationships within the body of Christ?Phil. 2:1-2 (ESV): So if there is any encouragement in Christ, any comfort from love, any participation in the Spirit, any affection and sympathy, complete my joy by being of the same mind, having the same love, being in full accord and of one mind.To connect with Dr. Keith and Hudson Ministries: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61577357215904For speaking, coaching and consulting: https://hudsonleadership.com/book-a-discovery-call

We're going to dive into Philippians 1:27-30, where Paul urges the Philippians, and us, to live in a way that is worthy of the gospel of Christ. This isn't just about what we believe, but how we live what we believe, especially when facing opposition. We'll unpack what it means to stand firm, to strive together, and not to be frightened by our opponents.Philippians 1:27-30-English Standard Version (ESV):"Only let your manner of life be worthy of the gospel of Christ, so that whether I come and see you or am absent, I may hear of you that you are standing firm in one spirit, with one mind striving side by side for the faith of the gospel, and not frightened in anything by your opponents. This is a clear sign to them of their destruction, but of your salvation, and that from God. For it has been granted to you that for the sake of Christ you should not only believe in him but also suffer for his sake, engaged in the same conflict that you saw I had and now hear that I still have."To connect with Dr. Keith and Hudson Ministries: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61577357215904For speaking, coaching and consulting: https://hudsonleadership.com/book-a-discovery-call

Join me as we explore what it truly means when Paul declares, "For to me, to live is Christ, and to die is gain." What does it mean to live with Christ as your everything?Philippians 1:19-26 (ESV):"For I know that through your prayers and the help of the Spirit of Jesus Christ this will turn out for my deliverance, as it is my eager expectation and hope that I will not be at all ashamed, but that with full courage now as always Christ will be honored in my body, whether by life or by death. For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain. If I am to live in the flesh, that means fruitful labor for me. Yet which I shall choose I cannot tell. I am hard pressed between the two. My desire is to depart and be with Christ, for that is far better. But to remain in the flesh is more necessary on your account. Convinced of this, I know that I will remain and continue with you all, for your progress and joy in the faith, so that your boasting in Christ Jesus may abound because of me when I come to you again. Only let your manner of life be worthy of the gospel of Christ, so that whether I come and see you or am absent, I may hear of you that you are standing firm in one spirit, with one mind striving side by side for the faith of the gospel,"To connect with Dr. Keith and Hudson Ministries: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61577357215904For speaking, coaching and consulting: https://hudsonleadership.com/book-a-discovery-call

Join us as we unpack and apply Philippians 1:12-18 as we talk about the urgency of advancing the gospel and our personal responsibility in the grand mission. Philippians 1:12-18 (ESV):"I want you to know, brothers, that what has happened to me has really served to advance the gospel, so that it has become known throughout the whole imperial guard and to all the rest that my imprisonment is for Christ. And most of the brothers, having become confident in the Lord by my imprisonment, are much more bold to speak the word without fear. Some indeed preach Christ from envy and rivalry, but others from good will. The latter do it out of love, knowing that I am put here for the defense of the gospel. The former proclaim Christ out of selfish ambition, not sincerely, but thinking to afflict me in my imprisonment. What then? Only that in every way, whether in pretense or in truth, Christ is proclaimed, and in that I rejoice. Yes, and I will rejoice,"To connect with Dr. Keith and Hudson Ministries: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61577357215904For speaking, coaching and consulting: https://hudsonleadership.com/book-a-discovery-call

Join us as we unpack and apply Philippians 1:3-11 as we talk about how a thankful heart leads to thankful prayer. Philippians 1:3-11 (ESV):"I thank my God in all my remembrance of you, always in every prayer of mine for you all, making my prayer with joy, because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now. And I am sure of this, that he who began a good work in you will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ. It is right for me to feel this way about you all, because I hold you in my heart, for you are all partakers with me of grace, both in my imprisonment and in the defense and confirmation of the gospel. For God is my witness, how I yearn for you all with the affection of Christ Jesus. And it is my prayer that your love may abound more and more, with knowledge and all discernment, so that you may approve what is excellent, and so be pure and blameless for the day of Christ, filled with the fruit of righteousness that comes through Jesus Christ, to the glory and praise of God."To connect with Dr. Keith and Hudson Ministries: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61577357215904For speaking, coaching and consulting: https://hudsonleadership.com/book-a-discovery-call

We begin this brand new podcast off by walking through the letter to the church at Phillipi. We’re diving into a powerful, yet often overlooked, aspect of the Christian life found right at the very beginning of the Apostle Paul’s letter to the Philippians. The wonderful truth from God's Word is this: You are not alone. Philippians 1:1-2 (ESV), "“Paul and Timothy, servants of Christ Jesus, To all the saints in Christ Jesus who are at Philippi, with the overseers and deacons: Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.”https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61577357215904