Biblical Foundations Academy International Podcast with Keith Johnson

This week’s Prophet reading—traditionally called the Haftorah—combines two passages and covers 2 Kings 4:42–5:19 and 7:3–20. These Prophet readings accompany the Torah portions Tazria (Leviticus 12:1–13:59) and Metzora (Leviticus 14:1–15:33). These Haftorahs relate the history of two miracles. The first caused the Syrian general Naaman to declare: “Now I know that there is no God in the whole world except in Israel!” The second was the supernatural rescue of the city of Samaria from a Syrian invasion. Listen to Keith Johnson and Nehemia Gordon as they discover priceless gems in this installment of Prophet Pearls: Exploring Biblical Prophecy for Yesterday, Today, and Tomorrow. Support the show

This week’s Prophet reading—traditionally called the Haftorah—combines two passages and covers 1 Kings 7:40–8:21. These Prophet readings accompany the Torah portions Vayakhel (Exodus 35:1–38:20) and Pekudei (Exodus 38:21–40:38). This Haftorah begins by mentioning a number of items that Solomon had contracted with Hiram, king of Tyre, to make for the temple in Jerusalem. The passage goes on to relate how Solomon oversaw the placement of the Ark of the Covenant into the temple, followed by his blessing over the nation. The king declared that day how God had made it possible for him to build a house where the name of God might dwell among His people. Listen to Keith Johnson and Nehemia Gordon as they discover priceless gems in this installment of Prophet Pearls: Exploring Biblical Prophecy for Yesterday, Today, and Tomorrow. Support the show

The Prophet section, or what is traditionally called the Haftorah reading that accompanies the Torah portion of Bereshit (Genesis 1:1–6:8), is Isaiah 42:5–43:10. In this dramatic passage the Creator identifies Himself and describes one of the roles of His chosen servant. He also assures the servant of His mercy and ultimate redemption, and calls upon him to witness to the nations. Listen to Keith Johnson and Nehemia Gordon as they discover priceless pearls in this first of many audio blog recordings of Prophet Pearls: Exploring Biblical Prophecy for Yesterday, Today, and Tomorrow. If you would like to listen to Keith and Nehemia discuss the Torah portions that correlate to the Prophet portions here are the original Torah Pearls programs recorded in 2011-2012. Support the show

This week’s Prophet reading—traditionally called the Haftorah—is Isaiah 49:14–51:3. It accompanies the Torah portion Eikev (Deuteronomy 7:12–11:25). In this passage the prophet Isaiah gives reassurance of God’s unfailing love. To a personified Jerusalem He says, “I never could forget you.” Those who pursue righteousness and seek God are admonished to consider God’s faithfulness to Abraham. Listen to Keith Johnson and Nehemia Gordon as they discover priceless gems in this installment of Prophet Pearls: Exploring Biblical Prophecy for Yesterday, Today, and Tomorrow. If you would like to listen to Keith and Nehemia discuss the Torah portions that correlate to the Prophet portions here are the original Torah Pearls programs recorded in 2011-2012. Support the show

This week’s Prophet reading—traditionally called the Haftorah—is Isaiah 40:1–26. It accompanies the Torah portion Vaetchanan (Deuteronomy 3:23–7:11). In this Haftorah Isaiah conveys powerful promises of God’s restored blessings and presence among His people. He will come in might and care for His people as a shepherd cares for his flock. The passage concludes with a declaration of the incomparable power and majesty of the Almighty. Listen to Keith Johnson and Nehemia Gordon as they discover priceless gems in this installment of Prophet Pearls: Exploring Biblical Prophecy for Yesterday, Today, and Tomorrow. If you would like to listen to Keith and Nehemia discuss the Torah portions that correlate to the Prophet portions here are the original Torah Pearls programs recorded in 2011-2012. Support the show

This week’s Prophet reading—traditionally called the Haftorah—is Isaiah 1:1–27. It accompanies the Torah portion Devarim (Deuteronomy 1:1–3:22). This opening passage from the book of Isaiah catalogs many of God’s complaints against Judah and Jerusalem for their betrayal of His covenant. Despite the persistent sins of the national leaders and the general populace, God admonishes them to “cease to do evil” and “learn to do good.” The result will be complete cleansing, the removal of their sins. Listen to Keith Johnson and Nehemia Gordon as they discover priceless gems in this installment of Prophet Pearls: Exploring Biblical Prophecy for Yesterday, Today, and Tomorrow. If you would like to listen to Keith and Nehemia discuss the Torah portions that correlate to the Prophet portions here are the original Torah Pearls programs recorded in 2011-2012. Support the show

This week’s Prophet reading—traditionally called the Haftorah—combines two passages and covers Jeremiah 1:1–2:28 and 3:4. These Prophet readings accompany the Torah portions Matot (Numbers 30:2–32:42) and Masei (Numbers 33:1–36:13). These passages begin with the calling and commission of the prophet Jeremiah, and God’s assurance that He will strengthen and defend Jeremiah against the contempt and vengeance of his countrymen. God then proceeds to indict the nation of Judah for its abject idolatry, characterized as spiritual harlotry. One of God’s accusations is that His people had turned their backs to Him in order to worship false gods, even to the point of calling them “father.” Listen to Keith Johnson and Nehemia Gordon as they discover priceless gems in this installment of Prophet Pearls: Exploring Biblical Prophecy for Yesterday, Today, and Tomorrow. If you would like to listen to Keith and Nehemia discuss the Torah portions that correlate to the Prophet portions here are the original Torah Pearls programs recorded in 2011-2012. Support the show

This week’s Prophet reading—traditionally called the Haftorah—is 1 Kings 18:46–19:21. It accompanies the Torah portion Pinchas (Numbers 25:10–30:1). This week’s Haftorah deals with the aftermath of the prophet Elijah’s epic defeat of the prophets of Baal. Upon hearing Queen Jezebel’s death threat, Elijah flees to Horeb, the mountain of God, where he encounters the Almighty and receives instructions on what he is to do next. The passage concludes with Elijah’s designation of Elisha as his assistant. Listen to Keith Johnson and Nehemia Gordon as they discover priceless gems in this installment of Prophet Pearls: Exploring Biblical Prophecy for Yesterday, Today, and Tomorrow. If you would like to listen to Keith and Nehemia discuss the Torah portions that correlate to the Prophet portions here are the original Torah Pearls programs recorded in 2011-2012. Support the show

This week’s Prophet reading—traditionally called the Haftorah—is Micah 5:6–6:8 (5:7–6:8 in English versions). It accompanies the Torah portion Balak (Numbers 22:2–25:9). This passage begins with a prophecy about Israel’s restoration and the punishment of her enemies. Then follows God’s indictment of His people for their infidelity. The Haftorah concludes with a well-known summary of what God requires of us in order to walk in harmony with Him. Listen to Keith Johnson and Nehemia Gordon as they discover priceless gems in this installment of Prophet Pearls: Exploring Biblical Prophecy for Yesterday, Today, and Tomorrow. If you would like to listen to Keith and Nehemia discuss the Torah portions that correlate to the Prophet portions here are the original Torah Pearls programs recorded in 2011-2012. Support the show

This week’s Prophet reading—traditionally called the Haftorah—is Judges 11:1–33. It accompanies the Torah portion Chukat (Numbers 19:1–22:1). This Haftorah is the story of Jephthah, a renegade warrior who is recruited to defend a portion of Israel against an invasion by the neighboring Ammonites. After failing to dissuade the Ammonites, Jephthah leads a successful campaign against them, freeing Israel from their threat. Jephthah is best known for a rash vow he makes before embarking on the military campaign.Listen to Keith Johnson and Nehemia Gordon as they discover priceless gems in this installment of Prophet Pearls: Exploring Biblical Prophecy for Yesterday, Today, and Tomorrow. If you would like to listen to Keith and Nehemia discuss the Torah portions that correlate to the Prophet portions here are the original Torah Pearls programs recorded in 2011-2012. Support the show

This week’s Prophet reading—traditionally called the Haftorah—is 1 Samuel 11:14–12:22. It accompanies the Torah portion Korach (Numbers 16:1–18:32). This week’s Haftorah begins with the coronation of Saul, the first king of Israel. During the inauguration celebration the prophet Samuel castigates the people for having rejected God as their king in favor of a human monarch. Nevertheless, Samuel assures them that if the people and the king will faithfully obey God it will go well for them. The passage concludes with Samuel’s assurance that God will never abandon His chosen people. Listen to Keith Johnson and Nehemia Gordon as they discover priceless gems in this installment of Prophet Pearls: Exploring Biblical Prophecy for Yesterday, Today, and Tomorrow. If you would like to listen to Keith and Nehemia discuss the Torah portions that correlate to the Prophet portions here are the original Torah Pearls programs recorded in 2011-2012. Support the show

This week’s Prophet reading—traditionally called the Haftorah—is Joshua 2:1–24. It accompanies the Torah portion Sh’lach (Numbers 13:1–15:41). This Haftorah relates the story of the two spies who go to Jericho in advance of Israel’s entrance into the land of Canaan. They are protected by a woman named Rahab, who confesses, “The LORD your God is the only God in heaven above and on earth below.” In turn, the spies promise to protect her and her family when the Israelites invade Jericho. Listen to Keith Johnson and Nehemia Gordon as they discover priceless gems in this installment of Prophet Pearls: Exploring Biblical Prophecy for Yesterday, Today, and Tomorrow. If you would like to listen to Keith and Nehemia discuss the Torah portions that correlate to the Prophet portions here are the original Torah Pearls programs recorded in 2011-2012. Support the show

This week’s Prophet reading—traditionally called the Haftorah—is Zechariah 2:14–4:7. It accompanies the Torah portion Beha’alotcha (Numbers 8:1–12:16). This Haftorah speaks of a time when God will again dwell among His people in Jerusalem. The passage includes a reference to the function of an “adversary” and also predicts the arrival of one called the Branch. It concludes with the assurance that God’s plans will be brought to fruition, not by human might or power, but by His spirit. Listen to Keith Johnson and Nehemia Gordon as they discover priceless gems in this installment of Prophet Pearls: Exploring Biblical Prophecy for Yesterday, Today, and Tomorrow. If you would like to listen to Keith and Nehemia discuss the Torah portions that correlate to the Prophet portions here are the original Torah Pearls programs recorded in 2011-2012. Support the show

This week’s Prophet reading—traditionally called the Haftorah—is Judges 13:2–25. It accompanies the Torah portion Nasso (Numbers 4:21–7:89). This Haftorah begins the famous story of Samson. After 40 years of Philistine oppression, God promises to raise up a deliverer. A divine messenger announces the birth and mission of Samson and instructs his parents about certain special requirements concerning their son. Samson is to be a Nazirite from the time of his conception to the end of his life. Listen to Keith Johnson and Nehemia Gordon as they discover priceless gems in this installment of Prophet Pearls: Exploring Biblical Prophecy for Yesterday, Today, and Tomorrow. If you would like to listen to Keith and Nehemia discuss the Torah portions that correlate to the Prophet portions here are the original Torah Pearls programs recorded in 2011-2012. Support the show

This week’s Prophet reading—traditionally called the Haftorah—is Hosea 2:1–22 (1:10–2:20 in English). It accompanies the Torah portion Bemidbar (Numbers 1:1–4:20). The reading for this week is a blend of warnings of severe punishment and profound promises of the ultimate restoration of a beautiful and harmonious relationship between God and His people. Employing the metaphor of a rejected wife, God promises to espouse her forever. Whereas it was once said, “You are not my people,” they will be called “children of the living God.” Listen to Keith Johnson and Nehemia Gordon as they discover priceless gems in this installment of Prophet Pearls: Exploring Biblical Prophecy for Yesterday, Today, and Tomorrow. If you would like to listen to Keith and Nehemia discuss the Torah portions that correlate to the Prophet portions here are the original Torah Pearls programs recorded in 2011-2012. Support the show

This week’s Prophet reading—traditionally called the Haftorah—is Jeremiah 32:6–27. It accompanies the Torah portion Behar (Leviticus 25:1–26:2). The context of this passage is the impending destruction of Jerusalem by the Babylonians. It recounts God’s instruction to Jeremiah to purchase a parcel of land, an act that presages the eventual restoration and rebuilding of the city. Before the nation went into captivity God said, “Houses and fields and vineyards shall yet again be bought in this land.” Listen to Keith Johnson and Nehemia Gordon as they discover priceless gems in this installment of Prophet Pearls: Exploring Biblical Prophecy for Yesterday, Today, and Tomorrow. If you would like to listen to Keith and Nehemia discuss the Torah portions that correlate to the Prophet portions here are the original Torah Pearls programs recorded in 2011-2012. Support the show

This week’s Prophet reading—traditionally called the Haftorah—is Jeremiah 16:19–17:14. It accompanies the Torah portion Bechukotai (Leviticus 26:3–27:34). This week’s reading speaks of the futility of false gods, religious lies, and trusting in man, followed by God’s promise to teach people about Himself. God speaks of searching men’s hearts and dealing with them according to their deeds. The passage ends with Jeremiah’s request to be healed and saved. Listen to Keith Johnson and Nehemia Gordon as they discover priceless gems in this installment of Prophet Pearls: Exploring Biblical Prophecy for Yesterday, Today, and Tomorrow. If you would like to listen to Keith and Nehemia discuss the Torah portions that correlate to the Prophet portions here are the original Torah Pearls programs recorded in 2011-2012. Support the show

This week’s Prophet reading—traditionally called the Haftorah—is Ezekiel 44:15–31. It accompanies the Torah portion Emor (Leviticus 21:1–24:23). This Haftorah looks forward to the restoration of a faithful priesthood, whose principal responsibility can be summed up as teaching the people “what is sacred and what is profane, and what is clean and unclean.” Listen to Keith Johnson and Nehemia Gordon as they discover priceless gems in this installment of Prophet Pearls: Exploring Biblical Prophecy for Yesterday, Today, and Tomorrow. If you would like to listen to Keith and Nehemia discuss the Torah portions that correlate to the Prophet portions here are the original Torah Pearls programs recorded in 2011-2012. Support the show

This week’s Prophet reading—traditionally called the Haftorah—combines two passages and covers Ezekiel 22: 1–19 and Amos 9:7–15. These Prophet readings accompany the Torah portions Achrei Mot (Leviticus 16:1–18:30) and Kedoshim (Leviticus 19:1–20:27). In the first of these two passages Ezekiel is commissioned to sit as a judge over the city of Jerusalem. He enumerates the crimes that have led to God’s displeasure, but also explains that His punishment will ultimately bring about the purification of His people. The second passage echoes the theme of sin and punishment, also ending with a striking promise of restoration, peace, and abundance. Listen to Keith Johnson and Nehemia Gordon as they discover priceless gems in this installment of Prophet Pearls: Exploring Biblical Prophecy for Yesterday, Today, and Tomorrow. If you would like to listen to Keith and Nehemia discuss the Torah portions that correlate to the Prophet portions here are the original Torah Pearls programs recorded in 2011-2012. Support the show

This week’s Prophet reading—traditionally called the Haftorah—combines two passages and covers Ezekiel 22: 1–19 and Amos 9:7–15. These Prophet readings accompany the Torah portions Achrei Mot (Leviticus 16:1–18:30) and Kedoshim (Leviticus 19:1–20:27). In the first of these two passages Ezekiel is commissioned to sit as a judge over the city of Jerusalem. He enumerates the crimes that have led to God’s displeasure, but also explains that His punishment will ultimately bring about the purification of His people. The second passage echoes the theme of sin and punishment, also ending with a striking promise of restoration, peace, and abundance. Listen to Keith Johnson and Nehemia Gordon as they discover priceless gems in this installment of Prophet Pearls: Exploring Biblical Prophecy for Yesterday, Today, and Tomorrow. If you would like to listen to Keith and Nehemia discuss the Torah portions that correlate to the Prophet portions here are the original Torah Pearls programs recorded in 2011-2012. Support the show