Know Your Bible

Episode Description:
Welcome to another inspiring episode of the Know Your Bible Program, brought to you by the David J. Lewis Evangelistic Association in conjunction with the Churches of Christ. Hosted by John David Berlin and featuring evangelist David J. Lewis, this week's program opens with a moving vocal reminder that the Lord will always make a way for those who walk in Heaven's light.Dive deep into the Old Testament as we open our Bibles to a classic story of faith, doubt, and divine reassurance. Whether you are tuning in from Arizona, Oregon, or anywhere around the world, grab your Bible and join us as we explore how God uses ordinary individuals to achieve extraordinary things.

• Walking in the Light: True spiritual guidance comes from intentionally shunning wrongdoing and actively pursuing righteousness.
• The Great Commission: Believers are continually called to "go and preach the word to all the world," sharing the gospel globally.
• The Ultimate Reward: Living a life dedicated to faith prepares us for the ultimate spiritual goal: hearing the Lord say, "Well done."
• Overcoming Doubt: Setting the stage in the Book of Judges to explore how God answers our insecurities and strengthens our faith when we feel ill-equipped.

 Featured Scripture Links Follow along with this episode's study using these online resources:

• Read the full chapter text on Bible Gateway: Judges 6 (NIV)
• Study parallel translations and commentaries on Bible Hub: Judges Chapter 6

Evangelist David J. Lewis

Phone: 480-209-6154 2114 W. Apache Trail, Ste 1 #145 Apache Junction, AZ 85120

Email: [email protected]

Overcoming Transitions & Claiming God's Promises: Lessons from Joshua 1

Episode Title: Commissioned for Leadership — Lessons from Joshua Chapter 1

Program: Know Your Bible Program (Episode PGM0476)

Host & Speaker: David J. Lewis (with introduction by John David Berlin)

Episode Description

In this episode of the Know Your Bible Program, host David J. Lewis walks through the major transition of leadership from Moses to Joshua as recorded in Joshua Chapter 1 and Deuteronomy Chapter 34.

Explore why Moses was prohibited from entering the Promised Land, how God prepared Joshua to lead Israel across the Jordan, and what divine principles of courage, scriptural meditation, and active obedience mean for believers today as we seek God's promised rest.

Key Takeaways

• Letting Go of the Past to Move Forward: Moses was a great leader, but when his time was completed, God commissioned Joshua to lead Israel into the next chapter. God commands us to focus on the future rather than dwelling on what has passed.

• Giving Glory to God Alone: Moses lost the privilege of entering Canaan not simply for striking the rock, but for failing to sanctify God before Israel—taking credit ("Must we fetch you water out of this rock?") for a miracle that belonged to God alone.

• Courage and Strength in Leadership: God commands Joshua three distinct times to "be strong and of a good courage." Leading God's people requires steadfast boldness against external opposition and internal challenges.

• Uncompromising Adherence to Scripture: Victory requires strict obedience to God's Word—turning neither to the right nor to the left, but meditating on His law day and night.

• Active Obedience & Community: Entering God's rest demands preparation and active obedience, as well as total engagement within the body of Christ rather than isolated, individual faith.

Key Scriptures & Bible Passages

• Deuteronomy 34:5–9 — The death of Moses and the passing of leadership wisdom to Joshua.

• Numbers 20:10–12 — Why Moses was barred from entering the Promised Land at Kadesh.

• Joshua 1:1–15 — God's commission, promises, and instructions to Joshua and the tribes of Israel.

• Romans 8:14–17, 31–32 — The assurance that if God is for us, none can stand against us.

• 2 Timothy 3:16–17 — The sufficiency and inspiration of Scripture for all good works.

• Psalm 1:1–2 & Psalm 119:11 — The blessing of meditating on and hiding God's Word in your heart.

• Hebrews 5:9 & Acts 5:32 — The necessity of obeying God to receive His promised blessings and salvation.

Contact & Event Information

• Phone: (480) 209-6154

• Mailing Address: 2114 W. Apache Trail, Suite 1 #145, Apache Junction, AZ 85120

• Upcoming Event: Annual Arizona Lectureship in Phoenix, AZ (October 11th–15th) featuring over 50 speakers. Contact the program for free CDs of this message or other Bible topics.

Know Your Bible: The Life of Moses & Faithful Obedience

Episode Summary In this episode of the Know Your Bible Program, speaker David J. Lewis explores the early life, trial, and divine calling of Moses from the Book of Exodus. From his protection in the bulrushes along the Nile to his 40 years in Midian and his miraculous encounter with God at the burning bush, discover how God prepares His leaders and answers our doubts. Speaker Lewis also shares reflections on standing up for righteousness and enduring the hardships that come with serving God.

Key Takeaways

• Providential Care & Preservation: Despite Pharaoh’s cruel decree to destroy infant Hebrew males, Moses was safely hidden among the bulrushes along the river’s brink and raised under the protection of Pharaoh's daughter.

• Standing Up for Justice: Moses chose to identify with his Hebrew brethren rather than live in luxury, eventually fleeing to the land of Midian after defending a fellow Hebrew.

• God’s Divine Calling: At Mount Horeb, God appeared to Moses through a burning bush that was not consumed, revealing His eternal name as "I AM THAT I AM" and appointing Moses to lead Israel out of bondage.

• Overcoming Excuses: Despite Moses' feelings of inadequacy and fear, God provided miraculous signs and assurances to equip him for his mission.

• Faithfulness Through Trials: Obeying God does not guarantee an easy path—when Moses first confronted Pharaoh, the workload on the Israelites was increased, demonstrating that true faith requires perseverance through hardship.

Key Bible Passages

• Exodus 1:22 — Pharaoh’s decree to throw Hebrew baby boys into the river.

• Exodus 2:1–10 — The birth of Moses, his placement in the bulrushes, and his adoption.

• Exodus 2:11–14 — Moses intercedes for his brethren and flees to Midian.

• Exodus 3:1–15 — The encounter at the burning bush and the revelation of "I AM THAT I AM."

• Exodus 4:1–3 — God gives Moses the sign of the rod turning into a serpent.

• Exodus 5:12 — Increased burdens on Israel after Moses confronts Pharaoh.

Title: Know Your Bible: The Journey and Faithfulness of Joseph

Description: Join David J. Lewis for an inspiring study of one of the Old Testament’s most captivating figures: Joseph. From favored son and dreamer to facing the betrayal of his brothers, false accusations, and imprisonment in Egypt, Joseph’s story demonstrates how unwavering faith and obedience shine through life's trials. Discover how God was with Joseph through every hardship, ultimately elevating him to save nations from famine and bring his family to reconciliation.

Key Takeaways:

• The Danger of Favoritism: Jacob’s overt preference for Joseph sowed intense envy and discord among his brothers, illustrating how favoritism can lead to family breakdown.

• Faithfulness Under Trial: Whether serving in Potiphar’s household or placed over prisoners in Egypt, Joseph maintained his integrity and trust in God despite unjust treatment.

• Resisting Temptation: Joseph stood firm against Potiphar’s wife, prioritizing his devotion to God over personal ruin.

• God’s Providence and Loyalty: What others intended for harm, God intended for good, demonstrating that God remains loyal to His people through all circumstances.

Featured Scripture Passages:

• Genesis 37:2–4 – Jacob’s favoritism and Joseph’s coat of many colors

• Genesis 37:5–11 – Joseph’s dreams of the sheaves and stars

• Genesis 37:23–28 – Joseph sold into slavery by his brothers

• Genesis 39:1–6 – Joseph prospers in Potiphar’s house

• Genesis 39:7–23 – Falsely accused and cast into prison

• Genesis 40:2–23 – Interpreting dreams for the butler and the baker

• Genesis 41:1–45 – Pharaoh’s dream and Joseph’s rise to power in Egypt

• Genesis 42–50 – Famine, reconciliation, and family reunion

In this episode, Bro. David Lewis from the Church of Christ walks us through the life of the Old Testament patriarch Jacob. From his birth grasping his brother’s heel to his years of rivalry, deceit, divine encounters, and heartbreak, Jacob’s journey shows how God shapes imperfect people into His divine purpose. Join us as we examine key moments in Jacob's life, the consequences of scheming, and how God’s grace meets us in our own struggles.

Key Takeaways:

• Selfish Service vs. True Love: Jacob bargained for Esau's birthright during a vulnerable moment, showing how easily people fall into serving others only when there is something to gain—a warning against transactional relationships and conditional kindness.

• The High Cost of Deceit: Deceiving his father Isaac allowed Jacob to take the blessing, but it broke his family apart and forced him to flee for his life. Later, Jacob experienced the weight of deceit himself when Laban tricked him on his wedding night.

• God’s Promises Are Guaranteed: At Bethel, God renewed the Abrahamic covenant with Jacob, proving that God's plan relies on His faithfulness rather than human bargaining or manipulation.

• Surrender Brings Transformation: Jacob's night-long struggle at Peniel led to a physical limp and a new name—Israel. True spiritual transformation happens when we stop striving in our own strength and yield to God.

• Deep Roots in Redemption: From the sorrow of Rachel's passing near Bethlehem to the overarching lineage of Jacob's family, God continually uses life's hardships to set the stage for His eventual Messiah.

Scripture References:

• Genesis 25:21–34 – The birth of Esau and Jacob, and Esau selling his birthright  

   

• Genesis 27:14–29 – Jacob deceives Isaac and steals Esau’s blessing

• Genesis 28:10–22 – Jacob’s dream of the ladder at Bethel and God’s promise

• Genesis 29:9–28 – Jacob’s labor for Rachel and Leah

• Genesis 32:24–30 – Jacob wrestles at Peniel and receives the name Israel

• Genesis 35:16–20 – The birth of Benjamin and the death of Rachel near Bethlehem  

   

Episode Title: From Hatred to Forgiveness: The Story of Esau

Description: In this broadcast of the Know Your Bible Program, Evangelist David J. Lewis walks through the life of Esau—exploring his birth, the loss of his birthright and blessing, his initial plot to murder his twin brother Jacob, and his eventual choice to offer complete forgiveness.

Through Esau's story, Evangelist Lewis examines the dangers of reacting out of temporary distress, blaming others for self-inflicted choices, and harboring long-term hatred. Most importantly, the lesson highlights Esau’s dramatic shift years later when he ran to embrace Jacob, serving as a powerful example of why believers must extend forgiveness to others to remain in right standing with God.

Key Takeaways:

• The Sanctity of Life: Scripture calls Jacob and Esau "children" while they were still in Rebekah’s womb, demonstrating that God recognizes human life before birth.

• Don't Trade Long-Term Blessings for Short-Term Relief: Esau allowed physical hunger and catastrophic thinking ("I am at the point to die") to convince him to sell his birthright for a single bowl of stew, failing to utilize his own talents and resources.

• Tears Cannot Always Undo Consequences: Although Esau wept bitterly over losing his father's blessing, some choices carry irreversible worldly consequences. Salvation must be cherished before it is too late.

• Forgiveness Is Essential for Salvation: Despite years of bitterness and planning murder, Esau eventually let go of his anger and embraced Jacob. True forgiveness toward others is a non-negotiable requirement for receiving God's forgiveness.

Key Bible Passages:

• Genesis 25:21–34 – The birth of Jacob and Esau, and Esau selling his birthright.

• Genesis 27:30–42 – Esau loses his blessing to Jacob and plots revenge.

• Genesis 33:1–4 – Esau reunites with Jacob, embracing and forgiving him.

• Hebrews 12:16–17 – Warning against becoming profane like Esau, who found no place for repentance regarding his lost blessing.

• Matthew 6:14–15 – Jesus' warning on the necessity of forgiving others so God may forgive us.

In this episode of the Know Your Bible Program, host David J. Lewis walks us through Genesis 21–24 to explore the life of Isaac, the long-awaited son of promise. From God fulfilling His word to Abraham to the prophetic parallels hidden within the sacrifice on Mount Moriah, this study reveals how God's timeline always unfolds with purpose—and how Isaac's story points directly to Jesus Christ.

Key Takeaways

• God Keeps His Promises on His Timeline: Abraham and Sarah waited 25 years for Isaac. God's plans are not bound by human timeframes, and He always fulfills His commitments at the appointed hour.

• Prophetic Shadows of the Cross: Isaac carrying his own wood up Mount Moriah, being offered by his father, and being spared through a ram in the thicket serve as a direct, prophetic picture of Christ carrying His cross to Golgotha and serving as the Lamb of God.

• The Spiritual Seed of Abraham: Through baptism and faith in Christ, Christians become part of the promised seed of Abraham, sharing in the spiritual inheritance promised thousands of years ago.

• Providential Direction in Relationships: The story of Eliezer finding Rebekah illustrates how God works through prayer, hospitality, and providence to guide crucial life decisions.

Scripture References

• Genesis 21:1–8: The birth of Isaac and God's promise fulfilled

• Genesis 16:1–4: Sarah, Hagar, and the consequences of stepping ahead of God's timing

• Genesis 21:9–13: The departure of Hagar and Ishmael

• Genesis 22:1–18: The testing of Abraham and the sacrifice on Mount Moriah

• Galatians 3:16, 26–29: Understanding Christ and believers as Abraham’s seed

• Genesis 24:1–67: Eliezer’s journey and Isaac receiving Rebekah as his wife

Title: Choosing Legacy: The Dichotomy of Abram and Lot

Description: Join host David J. Lewis on the Know Your Bible Program as he delves into Genesis 13 to explore the contrasting choices made by Abram and Lot. In this episode, we examine how Abram prioritized peace, generosity, and faith—securing a spiritual legacy—while Lot was led by the "lust of the eyes," leading to tragedy and heartache. Discover timeless lessons on avoiding strife, making godly choices, and living peaceably with those around us.

Key Takeaways:

• Proactive Peace: Abram took the initiative to resolve potential conflict before it turned into strife, serving as an example of how Christians should seek harmony and live peaceably with others.

• The Danger of Material Desire: Lot chose the fertile Plain of Jordan based on immediate visual appeal and material advantage, eventually facing spiritual decay, loss of wealth, and tragic family outcomes in Sodom.

• Spiritual vs. Physical Promises: While Abram's physical descendants were relatively small in number compared to world populations, God's promise of an uncountable seed was fulfilled spiritually through faith and baptism in Christ.

• Complete Obedience Matters: Half-hearted compliance with God's directives—such as Abram initially taking Lot along—can lead to unintended hardship later on.

Featured Bible Passages:

• Genesis 12:1–31 – Abram's call and journey out of Ur and Haran.

• Genesis 13:1–18 – The separation of Abram and Lot; God's covenant promise to Abram.

• Genesis 19:1–26 – The wickedness of Sodom and the escape of Lot's family.

• Romans 12:18 – Living peaceably with all men.

• Galatians 3:26–29 – Becoming Abraham's seed through faith and baptism in Jesus Christ.

• 1 John 2:15–17 – Overcoming the lust of the eyes, lust of the flesh, and pride of life.

Title: Lessons from Genesis 12: Faith, Failure, and Divine Promises

Podcast Description

In this episode of the Know Your Bible Program, host David J. Lewis walks through the entirety of Genesis 12 to examine the life of Abram. From his initial calling out of Haran to his missteps during the famine in Egypt, this study explores what it truly means to follow God's call, the spiritual nature of divine promises, and the practical dangers of compromise and partial obedience.

Key Takeaways

• The Calling from Haran: God called Abram while he was in Haran, demonstrating that spiritual growth requires moving forward when prompted rather than staying stagnant.

• Spiritual Descendants: The promises made to Abraham extend beyond physical lineage to all who put on Christ, forming a spiritual family grafted into God's covenant.

• The Danger of Partial Obedience: By bringing his nephew Lot along despite instructions to leave his kindred, Abram introduced unnecessary complications into God's plan.

• Sojourning and Worship: Throughout his travels, Abram prioritized building altars to God, serving as a reminder to focus on a heavenly home rather than earthly attachments.

• Human Frailty in Egypt: Out of fear, Abram compromised his integrity by misrepresenting Sarai as his sister, illustrating how leaving where God wants us leads to degradation and trouble.

• Cutting Off Temptation: Pharaoh’s swift action to return Sarai and send Abram away demonstrates the importance of promptly removing temptation and avoiding the appearance of evil.

Bible Passages Referenced

• Genesis 11 – Terah's journey from Ur of the Chaldees to Haran.

• Genesis 12 – The call of Abram, the covenant promises, and his journey into Egypt.

• Galatians 3 – Spiritual lineage and becoming children of Abraham through faith in Christ.

• Romans 8 – Spiritual adoption and being grafted into God's family.

• John 13:35 – Love for one another as the identifying mark of discipleship.

• Acts 8–9 – The persecution of the church and Saul's encounter on the road to Damascus.

• Hebrews 11 – The faith of Abraham as a sojourner seeking a heavenly country.

• 1 Thessalonians 5:22 – Abstaining from all appearance of evil.

Description:

In this episode of the Know Your Bible Program, speaker David J. Lewis explores Genesis chapter 6, examining the life and character of Noah amidst a surrounding world of deep moral decay. Lewis delves into the timeline of Noah's family, the dimensions and preparation of the ark, and the corrupt societal conditions that parallel Jesus' warnings in Matthew 24. Concluding with a look at Genesis 6:22, the sermon highlights Noah's complete compliance with God's instructions and discusses what true, unreserved obedience looks like today.

Key Takeaways:

• Noah's Age & Family Timeline: Based on Genesis 5:32 and Genesis 11:10, Noah was around 500 years old before having children, meaning he worked on the ark's initial preparations long before his sons could assist him.

• Parallels to Modern Culture: The moral corruption and violence of Noah's day mirror modern cultural decline, aligning with Christ's warning regarding the times preceding the return of the Son of Man.

• Spiritual Perfection: Noah was described as "perfect" and "just," where "perfect" biblically signifies being whole or complete in one's commitment to God rather than flawlessness.

• Ark Logistics & Animal Cargo: God instructed Noah to construct an ark measuring 300 cubits long, 50 cubits wide, and 30 cubits high, housing seven pairs of clean animals and one pair of unclean animals alongside food reserves.

• Complete Obedience: Noah fulfilled all that God commanded him—a standard of complete adherence that Lewis applies to essential Christian practices like faith, repentance, confession, and baptism.

Scripture & Bible Passages Referenced:

• Genesis 6:1–22 – The corruption of man, God's grief, the call to Noah, and instructions for building the ark.

• Genesis 11:10 – Genealogy of Shem and the timeline following the flood.

• Matthew 5:48 – The call to be perfect as the Father in heaven is perfect.

• Matthew 24:37–38 – The conditions of the world prior to the coming of the Son of Man.

• Job 14:1 – Life's brevity and trouble for those born of women.

• Mark 16:16 – Belief, baptism, and salvation.

• Hebrews 5:9 – Eternal salvation for all who obey Him.

• James 2:10 – The importance of keeping the entirety of the law.

Episode Description

Join Evangelist David J. Lewis in this episode of the Know Your Bible Program as we launch a brand-new series exploring major characters of the Bible. Starting at the very beginning in Genesis, we examine the creation of the first man, Adam.

In this study, we break down what it means to be made in the image of God, the unique spiritual nature given to humanity, and God’s intentional design for work, stewardship, and relationships. Whether looking at the foundational laws of nature or the purpose behind human existence, this episode offers a practical and scripture-focused dive into Genesis Chapters 1 and 2.

Key Takeaways

• Created After "Kind" — God established nature so that every creature reproduces strictly after its own kind, underscoring humanity's direct, unique creation in God’s image.

• The Dual Nature of Man — Humanity is both physical (formed from the dust) and spiritual (given a living soul/spirit breathed into us by God).

• Free Will & Moral Choice — Unlike the rest of creation, human beings were endowed with a conscious choice of will, carrying both accountability and purpose.

• Work & Dominion — From the very beginning, God gave man a job to do—assigning stewardship over creation and providing everything necessary to sustain life.

• God’s Structure for Relationships — God recognized that it was not good for man to be alone and created woman as his companion, establishing the original foundation for marriage.

Featured Bible Passages

• Genesis 1:26–28 – Creation of man in God's image and the mandate for dominion.

• Genesis 1:29–30 – God’s provision of food and sustenance for man and creation.

• Genesis 2:7 – Man formed from dust and receiving the breath of life.

• Genesis 2:8–17 – The Garden of Eden, work responsibilities, and God’s single restriction.

• Genesis 2:18–25 – The naming of animals and the creation of woman.

• Ecclesiastes 12:7 – The return of the body to dust and the spirit to God.

• Matthew 6:33 – Seeking first the kingdom of God and His righteousness.

• 2 Thessalonians 3:10 – The biblical principle regarding work and responsibility.

Here is a podcast description based on the transcript from the AudioToText.com page:

Podcast Title: Staying with the Ship: Faith Lessons from Paul's Voyage to RomeEpisode Description

Join evangelist David J. Lewis in this episode of the Know Your Bible program as we explore the dramatic final chapters of the Book of Acts. Focusing on the Apostle Paul's perilous voyage to Rome as a prisoner, we unpack the timeless spiritual lessons hidden within one of the greatest maritime storms in scripture.

From the danger of listening to the wrong voices to the unwavering certainty of God's promises, this episode reminds us that no matter how violent the storm, everything will work out for good as long as we "stay with the ship" and abide in His will.

Key Takeaways

• The Danger of Bad Advice: Just as the centurion ignored Paul’s inspired warning and trusted the ship's crew instead, we often find ourselves in dire straits by listening to the wrong influences rather than divine wisdom.

• Courage Over Fear: The phrase "be of good cheer" in the King James Bible historically translates to having courage. With 365 commands in the Bible telling us not to fear, we are reminded to trust that God remains in control even when all hope seems lost.

• The Grace Caveat: God promised to save everyone on board, but it came with a strict condition: they had to remain on the vessel. Similarly, spiritual salvation requires us to stay faithful and abide in Christ's word.

• God Transformed the Captivity: Paul may have been a prisoner, but his faith earned him such prestige that his captors ultimately relied on him, proving that God can turn any dire situation into an opportunity for healing and ministry.

Scripture References & Links

Follow along with the scriptures discussed in this episode:

• Paul's Journey Begins: Acts 27:1

• The Storm (Euroclydon) Hits: Acts 27:14–20

• Paul's Prophetic Warning: Acts 27:9–13

• An Angel Brings Comfort: Acts 27:21–26

• The Command to Stay with the Ship: Acts 27:27–32

• Shipwreck and Miracles on Melita (Malta): Acts 28:1–11

• Abiding in the Word: John 8:31

• The Great Commission Promise: Matthew 28:18–20

Join evangelist David J. Lewis in this powerful study of Acts chapters 13 and 14 as we retrace the steps of the Apostle Paul’s first major missionary tour. From the calling of the Holy Spirit in Antioch to a miraculous recovery from a brutal stoning in Lystra, this episode dives deep into the high stakes, supernatural interventions, and human challenges of the early Church.

Along the way, we explore timeless lessons on letting go of people's past mistakes, overcoming the desire for human praise, and learning to lean entirely on God's grace when the world turns against us.

Inside This Episode:

• The Call at Antioch: The Holy Spirit sets apart Barnabas and Saul for the work ahead (Acts 13:1-3).

• A New Name & First Convert: Saul becomes Paul during a spiritual showdown in Cyprus with Elymas the sorcerer (Acts 13:7-12).

• Turning to the Gentiles: Facing envy and contradiction from his own brethren, Paul makes a monumental shift in his ministry strategy (Acts 13:45-52).

• Misplaced Glory at Lystra: After healing a lifelong cripple, Paul and Barnabas must aggressively restrain the crowds from treating them like pagan gods (Acts 14:8-18).

• Left for Dead, But Not Done: Stoned and dragged out of the city, Paul miraculously gets back up and walks right back into the fight (Acts 14:19-20).

Key Takeaway: "Just because someone does something different than we do doesn't make them wrong. And you know something? It doesn't make us right... We have to look at the whole diamond." — David J. Lewis

Connect With Us:

• Visit Us in Phoenix: Stop by our services at 1101 West Tanto Street or 43 West Broadway Road.

• Get a Free CD: Want a compact disc copy of this program or any other Bible subject? Contact us at 480-209-6154 or write to us at 2114 West Apache Trail, Suite 1145, Apache Junction, AZ 85120.

• Upcoming Event: Join us for our annual Arizona Lectureship conducting in Phoenix! Featuring over 50 speakers exploring God's Word.

Join evangelist David J. Lewis in this episode of Know Your Bible, brought to you by the David J. Lewis Evangelistic Association in conjunction with the Churches of Christ.

This week, we take a walk down the road to Emmaus to unpack an extraordinary, hidden-in-plain-sight conversation between the risen Christ and His disciples. Along the way, we tackle one of the most debated topics in biblical chronology: Did Jesus actually die on a Friday?

Using strict scriptural math and Old Testament Passover context, David challenges the traditional "Good Friday" timeline to show how Jesus perfectly fulfilled His own prophecy down to the very hour.

Scripture Referenced in This Episode

• The Walk to Emmaus: Luke 24:13–33 – Two disciples commune with a "stranger" on Sunday, only to have their eyes opened during the breaking of bread.

• The Three Days & Three Nights Prophecy: Matthew 12:40 – Jesus explains the sign of the prophet Jonah and the exact duration He must remain in the heart of the earth.

• The Original Passover Timeline: Exodus 11 & Exodus 12 – How the traditional slaughtering, cooking, and eating of the Seder lamb aligns with a Thursday crucifixion rather than Friday.

Connect With Us: Have a Bible question or want to find a partnering Church of Christ congregation in your area (Phoenix, Eloy, Morenci, or Coquille)?

• Phone: 480-209-6154 (Available day or night)

• Mailing Address: 2114 West Apache Trail, Suite 1, Num. 145, Apache Junction, AZ 85120

Welcome to another weekly episode of the Know Your Bible Program, brought to you by the David J. Lewis Evangelistic Association in conjunction with the Churches of Christ.

In this episode, Evangelist David J. Lewis dives into Matthew Chapter 28, exploring one of the most pivotal events in human history: the resurrection of Jesus Christ. While the enemies of Jesus believed putting Him in a sealed tomb with guards would silence His message, Sunday was coming. Discover how trying to destroy the messenger can never stop the word of God.

Key Highlights From This Episode:

• The First Day of the Week: Why Sunday holds a profound significance in the scriptures, from the resurrection and Pentecost to the early church's tradition of worshiping on the first day.

• Three Days and Three Nights: A deep dive into biblical chronology, historical context, and Old Testament prophecies regarding the exact timeline of the crucifixion and burial.

• The Miracle of the Moved Stone: An insightful perspective on why the angel rolled away the stone—not to let Jesus out, but to let the witnesses in.

• The Response of Faith: Looking at the initial doubts of the disciples and Mary Magdalene, and what Jesus's resurrection means for believers today who "have not seen, and yet have believed."

Connect With Us & Visit

If you are in the Arizona area or looking for a church home, we invite you to worship with us at our local congregations:

• Phoenix, AZ: 1101 W. Tonto St. / 43 W. Broadway Road

• Morenci, AZ: Morenci Church of Christ

• Eloy, AZ: Eloy Church of Christ

• Coquille, OR: Coquille Church of Christ (Where you are a stranger only once!)

Contact & Resources

Have a Bible question or want to request a free compact disc (CD) of this program? Please reach out:

• Phone: 480-209-6154 (Available day or night)

• Mailing Address: 2114 West Apache Trail, Suite 1, No. 145, Apache Junction, AZ 85120

Upcoming Event: Join us for our annual Arizona Lectureship in Phoenix from October 11th through the 15th, featuring over 50 speakers exploring a singular powerful theme. All are welcome, and a complimentary meal is provided!

What can the quiet moments after the crucifixion teach us about true conviction and royalty? In this episode of Know Your Bible, host David J. Lewis walks us through the profound and often overlooked details of Christ’s burial from Matthew 27.

Focusing on the courageous actions of Joseph of Arimathea and Nicodemus—two powerful, wealthy members of the Sanhedrin council who chose to honor Jesus in secret—this message uncovers the deep significance of the brand-new tomb, the 100 pounds of royal spices, and the massive stone that sealed it. Evangelist Lewis challenges us to look past the surface of the burial to see how it fulfilled ancient scripture, debunked modern myths like the Shroud of Turin, and foreshadowed our own spiritual burial and rebirth. Tune in to discover why Jesus was honored as a noble leader in death and what his burial means for our salvation today.

Key Takeaways

• The Quiet Believers of the Sanhedrin: Unpacking how powerful leaders like Joseph of Arimathea and Nicodemus risked their standing to honor Christ.

• A Burial Fit for Royalty: Exploring the significance of the 100-pound mixture of myrrh and aloes used to preserve the body and symbolize majesty.

• Debunking the Shroud: Examining the traditional Jewish custom of using a separate face cloth (napkin) and why it contradicts modern burial cloth theories.

• The Immovable Stone: Understanding the structural design of first-century tombs and why the two-ton stone served as a miraculous barrier.

• Buried According to Scripture: Reflecting on how Christ's burial fulfilled Old Testament prophecy and serves as the ultimate model for biblical baptism.

Scripture References

• Matthew 27:57-60 – The account of Joseph of Arimathea begging Pilate for the body of Jesus and laying it in his own new tomb.

• Luke 23:50-52 – Dr. Luke's confirmation that Joseph was a good and just counselor who did not consent to the council's vote to condemn Jesus.

• John 19:38-40 – Nicodemus joining Joseph to bring an abundance of myrrh and aloes to wind the body in linen according to Jewish burial customs.

• 1 Corinthians 15:3-4 – Paul’s declaration of the foundational Gospel message: that Christ died, was buried, and rose again according to the Scriptures.

• Romans 6:3-4 – The spiritual connection between Christ’s literal burial and the believer’s burial through baptism into a new life.

About the Sponsor: This program is brought to you each week by the David J. Lewis Evangelistic Association in conjunction with the Churches of Christ. To request a free compact disc (CD) of this message, ask a Bible question, or find a local participating congregation in Phoenix, Morenci, or Eloy, Arizona, or Coquille, Oregon, please visit scwcc.org or call 480-209-6154.

The Cross of Christ – Mockery, Mercy, and the Ultimate Sacrifice

Host: David J. Lewis

Series: Know Your Bible Program

Scripture Focus: Matthew Chapter 27

Episode Description

In this powerful study, evangelist David J. Lewis walks us through the heartbreaking, triumphant, and prophetic events of the crucifixion of Jesus Christ in Matthew 27. From the calculated betrayal by religious leaders to the final breaths of the Savior, this episode exposes the human motivations behind the cross—and the divine purpose that turned man's worst sin into our greatest victory.

Dive deep into the trial before Pilate, the manipulation of the crowds, and the deep symbolism behind the blood of Christ. Together, we will examine the historical realities, correct common misconceptions about the weight of the cross, and trace the profound spiritual weight of Jesus' final words.

Key Takeaways & Scripture Timeline

• The Crowd's Choice (Verses 20–23): Discover how the chief priests and elders persuaded the multitude to demand the release of the murderer Barabbas and cry out for Jesus to be crucified. Read Matthew 27:20-23.

• The Futility of Washing Hands (Verses 24–25): Pontius Pilate tries to absolve himself of guilt in a basin of water while the crowd claims the blood of Christ upon themselves and their children. Read Matthew 27:24-25.

• The Soldiers' Mockery & Simon of Cyrene (Verses 27–32): From the crown of thorns to the purple robe, explore the cruelty of the Roman guard and the fascinating legacy left by Simon of Cyrene's family. Read Matthew 27:27-32.

• Truth Spoken in Mockery (Verses 33–44): As thieves and religious leaders taunt Him to "come down from the cross," we reflect on why Jesus chose to stay. Read Matthew 27:33-44.

• The Miraculous Aftermath (Verses 51–53): Earthquakes, split rocks, and the tearing of the temple veil. Read Matthew 27:51-53.

The Seven Final Sayings of Jesus Highlighted in This Episode:

1. "My God, my God, why hast thou forsaken me?" — Matthew 27:46

2. "Woman, behold thy son... Behold thy mother." — John 19:26-27

3. "I thirst." — John 19:28

4. "Father, forgive them; for they know not what they do." — Luke 23:34

5. "To day shalt thou be with me in paradise." — Luke 23:43

6. "It is finished (Tetelestai - Paid in Full)." — John 19:30

7. "Father, into thy hands I commend my spirit." — Luke 23:46

Connect With Us

Have a Bible question or looking for a church community in your area? We are here for you day or night.

• Visit Us in Phoenix, AZ: Join the Tonto Street Church of Christ (1101 W. Tonto St.) or the Broadway Road Church of Christ (43 W. Broadway Road).

• Partner Congregations: Stop by and worship with our partners at the Morenci Church of Christ (AZ), the Eloy Church of Christ (AZ), or the Church of Christ in Coquille, Oregon—where you are a stranger only once!

• Call Us: 480-209-6154 (At your beck and call anytime, day or night)

• Write to Us: 2114 West Apache Trail, Suite 1, #145, Apache Junction, AZ 85120

• Special Event: Come join us this October 11th–15th for the annual Arizona Lectureship in Phoenix! Everyone is welcome.

The Kiss of Death — The Betrayal of Jesus Christ

What does it mean to betray a friend? We’ve all seen the old gangster movies where a chilling kiss on the cheek marks a man for destruction. But that "kiss of death" wasn't invented by the mob—it was used thousands of years ago in a dark, quiet garden to sentence the Son of God to execution.

In this powerful episode of Know Your Bible, Evangelist David J. Lewis takes us directly into the heart of one of the most tragic and pivotal moments in human history: the betrayal of Jesus by Judas Iscariot. Judas wasn't an outsider; he was part of the original twelve apostles. For three and a half years, he walked with Jesus, watched the dead rise, saw the sick healed, and even had his feet washed by the Master. Yet, driven by false ideas of Christ's kingdom, he orchestrated a calculated plot to hand Him over to a weapon-wielding mob.

But as the trap springs, we see something remarkable. Jesus doesn't panic. He steps forward and utters three of the most terrifying, powerful words in scripture—"I am He"—causing the entire mob to fall backward to the ground in involuntary reverence.

Brother David challenges us to look past Judas and examine our own hearts. Every time we shun the truth, compromise our values out of fear, or step away from God's Word, are we fleeing from Christ just like the disciples did in the garden?

Discover how to stand firm in your faith, honor His sacrifice, and embrace the true plan of salvation through these foundational Scriptures:

• The Trap in the Garden: Read the sobering account of the betrayal, the deceptive kiss, and Christ's arrest in Matthew 26.

• The Leading of the Mob: See how Judas used his intimate knowledge of Jesus's prayer life to guide the chief priests and Pharisees straight to Him in John 18.

• Betrayed with Affection: Unpack the tragic irony of a sign of love being weaponized into an act of treason in Luke 22.

• The Naked Truth of Fear: Witness the moment fear overcame loyalty, causing the disciples to forsake Jesus and flee into the night in Mark 14.

Are you remaining loyal to Christ in your daily life, or are you walking away from His Word when the pressure mounts? Tune in to realign your path with Scripture and find true spiritual grounding.

Connect with the Ministry & Worship With Us: This program is proudly brought to you by the David J. Lewis Evangelistic Association in conjunction with the Churches of Christ. If you have a Bible question or need spiritual guidance, Brother David is at your beck and call anytime, day or night.

• Phone: 480-209-6154

• Mailing Address: 2114 West Apache Trail, Suite 1145, Apache Junction, AZ 85120

• Free Bible Study Resources: Request a compact disc (CD) of this broadcast or any other Bible subject completely free of charge by writing or calling.

Visit a Congregation Near You:

• Phoenix, AZ: 1101 W. Tonto St. or 43 W. Broadway Road

• Morenci, AZ: Morenci Church of Christ

• Eloy, AZ: Eloy Church of Christ

• Coquille, OR: Coquille Church of Christ ("Where you are a stranger only once!")

Save the Date — Annual Arizona Lectureship: Mark your calendars for October 11th through the 15th! The Churches of Christ will be conducting our annual Lectureship right here in Phoenix. Join us for an incredible week of edification featuring over 50 speakers from across the country diving deep into a single biblical theme. All are welcome—come exactly as you are!

Evangelist David J. Lewis comes to us from Apache Junction, Arizona, where he currently  serves the local church  as their full-time evangelist.

Phone: 480-209-61542

114 W. Apache Trail, Ste 1 #145

Apache Junction, AZ 85120

Here is a clear, scannable summary of the transcription from the Know Your Bible Program, structured as a podcast show-note or episode recap:

Podcast Episode Summary: The Reality of Gethsemane

In this episode of the Know Your Bible Program, host John David Berlin introduces a powerful sermon from evangelist David J. Lewis (representing the David J. Lewis Evangelistic Association and the Churches of Christ). Broadcasting from Arizona, Brother Lewis walks listeners through a deep, verse-by-verse examination of Matthew 26:36–56, dismantling common misconceptions about Jesus' final hours in the Garden of Gethsemane.

Key Takeaways

• Debunking the "Sweating Blood" Myth: Brother Lewis directly challenges a popular teaching that Jesus literally sweat drops of blood due to fear. He points directly to Luke's gospel, emphasizing that the text uses a personification ("his sweat was, as it were, great drops..."), meaning the sweat was pouring off Him as heavily as blood, but was still physically water.

• The True Source of Jesus' Agony: The sermon addresses the claim that Jesus feared death, calling that notion borderline blasphemous. Instead, Lewis argues that Jesus—knowing He would rise again in three days—did not fear physical death, but rather agonized over the upcoming, temporary separation from God the Father as He took on the sins of the world.

• The Frailty of the Disciples: The episode highlights the contrast between Jesus' persistent, godly trait of prayer and the physical weakness of His "inner circle" (Peter, James, and John), who repeatedly fell asleep when asked to watch and pray.

• Peter's Broken, yet Kept Promise: While Peter is often criticized for his defensive actions, Lewis points out that Peter actually intended to keep his promise to fight to the death. By drawing his sword against a massive mob and cutting off the ear of Malchus (the high priest's servant), Peter showed genuine, albeit misguided, willingness to die before Jesus stopped him.

• The Flight of Fear: The episode closes on a somber note, examining the sheer terror that caused all the disciples to abandon Jesus, including the historical detail in Mark's gospel of a young man fleeing completely naked after his linen cloth was grabbed.

Community & Contact Information

This program is brought to you in partnership with local Churches of Christ across Eloy and Morenci, Arizona, as well as Coquille, Oregon.

• Phoenix Locations: 1101 W. Tonto St. and 43 W. Broadway Road.

• Contact Phone: 480-209-2114

• Mailing Address: 2114 West Apache Trail, Suite 1, Number 145, Apache Junction, AZ 85120.

• Free Resource: Listeners can write or call to request a completely free compact disc (CD) copy of this program or any other Bible subject.

Upcoming Event: The annual Arizona Lectureship is taking place in Phoenix from October 11th through the 15th. The week-long event features over 50 speakers diving into a single biblical theme. All are welcome to attend for edification, singing, food, and fellowship

Evangelist David J. Lewis comes to us from Apache Junction, Arizona, where he currently  serves the local church  as their full-time evangelist.

Phone: 480-209-61542

114 W. Apache Trail, Ste 1 #145

Apache Junction, AZ 85120

Evangelist David J. Lewis comes to us from Apache Junction, Arizona, where he currently  serves the local church  as their full-time evangelist.

Phone: 480-209-61542

114 W. Apache Trail, Ste 1 #145

Apache Junction, AZ 85120