1 00:00:00,290 --> 00:00:03,390 Speaker 1: Blessed are those who have been persecuted for righteousness' sake, 2 00:00:04,269 --> 00:00:09,379 Speaker 1: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Matthew 5.10 Heavenly Father, 3 00:00:10,000 --> 00:00:13,060 Speaker 1: we come to you with hearts full of trust in 4 00:00:13,140 --> 00:00:17,579 Speaker 1: Jesus our Savior. Your words remind us that those who 5 00:00:17,640 --> 00:00:22,560 Speaker 1: are persecuted for righteousness' sake are blessed, for theirs is 6 00:00:22,600 --> 00:00:25,440 Speaker 1: the kingdom of heaven. We thank you for the strength 7 00:00:25,500 --> 00:00:29,620 Speaker 1: you give us to stand firm in our faith, even 8 00:00:30,110 --> 00:00:33,290 Speaker 1: when we face trials. Help us to trust in your 9 00:00:33,350 --> 00:00:38,330 Speaker 1: promises and to remain faithful, knowing that you are with us. 10 00:00:39,150 --> 00:00:42,510 Speaker 1: When we face opposition for following Jesus, fill us with 11 00:00:42,630 --> 00:00:48,110 Speaker 1: courage and peace. Let our lives reflect his love and truth, 12 00:00:48,770 --> 00:00:53,640 Speaker 1: and may we always find refuge in your presence. In Jesus' 13 00:00:53,700 --> 00:00:54,700 Speaker 1: name we pray. 14 00:00:55,440 --> 00:00:55,720 Speaker 2: Amen. 15 00:00:57,900 --> 00:01:00,900 Speaker 1: Thank you for praying with me today. You're listening to 16 00:01:00,940 --> 00:01:06,560 Speaker 1: the Jesus Podcast. Remain here for another dramatized story inspired 17 00:01:06,600 --> 00:01:09,699 Speaker 1: by the book of Acts and the birth of the church. 18 00:01:10,620 --> 00:01:14,000 Speaker 1: If this podcast has blessed you, make sure to follow 19 00:01:14,480 --> 00:01:20,470 Speaker 1: so you never have to miss an episode. James trudged 20 00:01:20,569 --> 00:01:24,630 Speaker 1: forward under the watchful eye of King Herod's soldiers. Their 21 00:01:24,750 --> 00:01:29,289 Speaker 1: armor clanged with each forceful pull of the chains. James' 22 00:01:29,390 --> 00:01:33,790 Speaker 1: bloodied hands twisted beneath his shackles. To the soldiers, his 23 00:01:33,890 --> 00:01:38,610 Speaker 1: chains ensured he couldn't escape. But to James, they were 24 00:01:38,670 --> 00:01:42,690 Speaker 1: a reminder that he would always be free. 25 00:01:43,560 --> 00:01:48,720 Speaker 3: Great are you, O Lord, for even in man's chains... 26 00:01:49,400 --> 00:01:51,100 Speaker 3: I will forever be set. 27 00:01:50,980 --> 00:01:54,650 Speaker 2: Free by your grace. Quiet down, dog! 28 00:01:55,270 --> 00:01:58,610 Speaker 1: The soldier behind the apostle blared at him, kicking him 29 00:01:58,750 --> 00:02:03,150 Speaker 1: forward with his boot. With the Roman influence, Herod's men 30 00:02:03,230 --> 00:02:06,920 Speaker 1: had mastered the art of torture, not just of the body, 31 00:02:07,440 --> 00:02:11,359 Speaker 1: but of the mind. James stumbled, but had learned through 32 00:02:11,419 --> 00:02:15,820 Speaker 1: experience that falling over did little to slow down their march. 33 00:02:16,650 --> 00:02:19,880 Speaker 1: The only thing worse than walking in this current state 34 00:02:20,440 --> 00:02:24,780 Speaker 1: was being dragged along the stone walkway. James could hear 35 00:02:24,800 --> 00:02:29,800 Speaker 1: the ominous caw of vultures as their broad wingspans cast 36 00:02:29,919 --> 00:02:33,840 Speaker 1: swirling shadows. The scavengers had learned the signs of when 37 00:02:33,870 --> 00:02:37,510 Speaker 1: their next meal was coming. James and the soldiers marched 38 00:02:37,550 --> 00:02:41,870 Speaker 1: toward a belligerent crowd. They encircled an open dirt patch. 39 00:02:42,570 --> 00:02:46,060 Speaker 1: At the center stood a large wooden platform only a 40 00:02:46,120 --> 00:02:50,440 Speaker 1: few inches high. A large wooden throne sat on the 41 00:02:50,490 --> 00:02:54,770 Speaker 1: far end, where King Herod sat, wholly satisfied with the 42 00:02:54,830 --> 00:02:58,790 Speaker 1: scene before him. The soldiers led James to the platform 43 00:02:59,290 --> 00:03:03,670 Speaker 1: and forced him to take a stand. Once stable, James 44 00:03:03,770 --> 00:03:07,990 Speaker 1: locked eyes with Herod. He was a confident king, to 45 00:03:08,030 --> 00:03:11,060 Speaker 1: be sure. His recent persecutions of the people of the 46 00:03:11,120 --> 00:03:15,720 Speaker 1: way had brought unwavering support from the Jews and Despite 47 00:03:15,740 --> 00:03:20,910 Speaker 1: the believers' resilience, King Herod was doing his part to 48 00:03:20,990 --> 00:03:23,430 Speaker 1: topple them over stone by stone. 49 00:03:24,150 --> 00:03:28,750 Speaker 4: James, son of Zebedee, you are guilty of crimes against 50 00:03:28,810 --> 00:03:33,520 Speaker 4: the Jews. Your penalty is death by sword. 51 00:03:34,180 --> 00:03:38,869 Speaker 1: The crowd erupted in thunderous applause. The only sound James 52 00:03:38,910 --> 00:03:42,820 Speaker 1: heard the sliding of metal against metal as the soldier 53 00:03:42,880 --> 00:03:45,420 Speaker 1: behind him drew his sword from its sheath. 54 00:03:48,480 --> 00:03:50,970 Speaker 5: The apostles all knew it was coming. They all knew 55 00:03:51,040 --> 00:03:53,089 Speaker 5: that it was only a matter of time before one 56 00:03:53,250 --> 00:03:56,170 Speaker 5: or all of them faced the same fate that Jesus faced. 57 00:03:56,850 --> 00:03:58,850 Speaker 5: But they did so with joy in their hearts. 58 00:03:59,250 --> 00:04:00,450 Speaker 2: Yes, it was hard. 59 00:04:00,630 --> 00:04:04,810 Speaker 5: Yes, it caused anguish and despair. But that despair always 60 00:04:04,850 --> 00:04:07,730 Speaker 5: gave way to hope in the end. Welcome to the 61 00:04:07,770 --> 00:04:11,560 Speaker 5: Jesus Podcast. Today, we're rounding out our mini-series through the 62 00:04:11,600 --> 00:04:14,339 Speaker 5: birth of the church. We're diving into a story inspired 63 00:04:14,380 --> 00:04:18,320 Speaker 5: by Acts 12, verses 1-23. A passage that reads like 64 00:04:18,339 --> 00:04:21,440 Speaker 5: an epic drama with villains, heroes, suspense, and a plot 65 00:04:21,480 --> 00:04:24,460 Speaker 5: twist that would make Hollywood jealous. We're talking about kings 66 00:04:24,500 --> 00:04:27,440 Speaker 5: who think they're gods, prisons that can't hold apostles, and 67 00:04:27,700 --> 00:04:29,680 Speaker 5: a praying church that shakes the heavens. 68 00:04:30,279 --> 00:04:30,670 Speaker 2: Let's go. 69 00:04:33,690 --> 00:04:37,670 Speaker 1: John wept in the dining room, dragging his fingernails through 70 00:04:37,690 --> 00:04:41,870 Speaker 1: the table. marks in the wood, pulled with blood from 71 00:04:41,900 --> 00:04:46,010 Speaker 1: his mangled hands. John barely noticed the pain he was 72 00:04:46,089 --> 00:04:51,110 Speaker 1: causing himself. The grieving brother released his inner turmoil. He 73 00:04:51,270 --> 00:04:55,750 Speaker 1: pounded the table before pressing his palms hard against the surface. 74 00:04:56,370 --> 00:04:59,660 Speaker 1: He leaned over the table and kicked his chair back 75 00:04:59,980 --> 00:05:00,700 Speaker 1: against the wall. 76 00:05:01,380 --> 00:05:02,560 Speaker 2: It's not fair! 77 00:05:03,040 --> 00:05:06,040 Speaker 6: Saul went around murdering us and he's given a second chance? 78 00:05:06,660 --> 00:05:07,779 Speaker 6: James never hurt a fly. 79 00:05:08,690 --> 00:05:13,010 Speaker 1: Now he's... John's anger quickly turned to sobs of despondency. 80 00:05:13,630 --> 00:05:16,880 Speaker 1: His forehead thudded in the puddle of blood as it 81 00:05:17,020 --> 00:05:18,600 Speaker 1: mixed with his pouring tears. 82 00:05:19,920 --> 00:05:22,140 Speaker 3: Why couldn't it have been me? 83 00:05:23,279 --> 00:05:25,940 Speaker 6: I don't know what to do without him. 84 00:05:26,880 --> 00:05:30,610 Speaker 3: It's always been James and John, sons of thunder. 85 00:05:31,580 --> 00:05:33,550 Speaker 6: But now it feels like I'm a wisp of a 86 00:05:33,630 --> 00:05:35,029 Speaker 6: cloud being burnt by the sun. 87 00:05:36,010 --> 00:05:39,169 Speaker 1: Losing his brother was like losing a part of himself. 88 00:05:40,050 --> 00:05:42,640 Speaker 1: The other apostles did their best to console him, but 89 00:05:43,160 --> 00:05:47,460 Speaker 1: found themselves short on words. They knew that nothing they 90 00:05:47,540 --> 00:05:52,080 Speaker 1: could say would bring James back. Instead, they flocked around 91 00:05:52,140 --> 00:05:55,990 Speaker 1: him and cried. Sometimes the best thing to do for 92 00:05:56,010 --> 00:05:59,570 Speaker 1: a mourning loved one is to mourn with them. Deep 93 00:05:59,990 --> 00:06:04,150 Speaker 1: called to deep as the storm of John's emotions rocked 94 00:06:04,210 --> 00:06:09,210 Speaker 1: his spirit's like a rickety vessel tossed at sea. But 95 00:06:09,270 --> 00:06:14,260 Speaker 1: in time, the breakers would send him careening against the 96 00:06:14,440 --> 00:06:15,740 Speaker 1: rock of ages. 97 00:06:16,580 --> 00:06:21,280 Speaker 3: John, we know you are hurting. We just want you 98 00:06:21,320 --> 00:06:26,460 Speaker 3: to know we are here for you. And more importantly, 99 00:06:27,300 --> 00:06:28,979 Speaker 3: the Lord is here with you. 100 00:06:29,680 --> 00:06:33,140 Speaker 1: Peter couldn't help but feel awkward, trying to comfort his 101 00:06:33,200 --> 00:06:37,060 Speaker 1: longtime friend. He knew he had no reason to, but 102 00:06:37,520 --> 00:06:42,200 Speaker 1: in a way he felt guilty, offering consolation, knowing full 103 00:06:42,240 --> 00:06:45,680 Speaker 1: well that his own brother was standing just on the 104 00:06:45,720 --> 00:06:49,039 Speaker 1: other side of the room. Not wanting to press too hard, 105 00:06:49,700 --> 00:06:52,800 Speaker 1: Peter took a step back from John and allowed others 106 00:06:53,140 --> 00:06:57,730 Speaker 1: to fill the gap. Matthew stepped forward, his eyes reflecting 107 00:06:57,850 --> 00:07:02,090 Speaker 1: a deep well of pain. He couldn't match John's sorrow, 108 00:07:02,650 --> 00:07:06,039 Speaker 1: but he could remind him of the hope that lay within. 109 00:07:06,540 --> 00:07:10,480 Speaker 6: John, say it with me. Blessed are those who are 110 00:07:10,520 --> 00:07:18,490 Speaker 6: persecuted for righteousness' sake. For theirs is the kingdom of heaven. 111 00:07:19,890 --> 00:07:23,530 Speaker 1: Back in his palace, King Herod dined with his trusted advisors. 112 00:07:24,270 --> 00:07:27,350 Speaker 1: The martyrdom of James had given him another victory among 113 00:07:27,390 --> 00:07:30,830 Speaker 1: the Jews, and he had no intention of losing traction 114 00:07:31,350 --> 00:07:35,560 Speaker 1: in gaining their favor. His table was eloquently set, with 115 00:07:35,580 --> 00:07:40,740 Speaker 1: the finest delicacies, roasted lamb with fig glaze, perfectly ripe 116 00:07:40,860 --> 00:07:44,810 Speaker 1: fruit from his orchards, and baked bread from the country's 117 00:07:44,950 --> 00:07:49,090 Speaker 1: purest flour. He stuffed his mouth with his dinner, as 118 00:07:49,130 --> 00:07:53,760 Speaker 1: his advisors stuffed his mind with plans for further persecutions. 119 00:07:54,110 --> 00:07:55,170 Speaker 1: of the people of the way. 120 00:07:55,750 --> 00:07:59,300 Speaker 2: My lord, it appears you've won the hearts of the people. 121 00:07:59,770 --> 00:08:02,840 Speaker 2: Yet our efforts are doing very little to slow down 122 00:08:02,900 --> 00:08:07,600 Speaker 2: the followers of Jesus of Nazareth. They gain traction by 123 00:08:07,680 --> 00:08:11,520 Speaker 2: the day. Even Saul of Tarsus has turned to them. 124 00:08:12,120 --> 00:08:17,460 Speaker 2: Perhaps they need another stark reminder of your unmatched authority. 125 00:08:18,120 --> 00:08:20,660 Speaker 2: At the very least, it's sure to earn you more 126 00:08:20,720 --> 00:08:21,850 Speaker 2: praise from the people. 127 00:08:22,580 --> 00:08:26,370 Speaker 1: Elias had served in Herod's courts for several years, devoting 128 00:08:26,470 --> 00:08:29,470 Speaker 1: all of his margin to climbing the ranks. He had 129 00:08:29,530 --> 00:08:32,870 Speaker 1: finally earned the right to tickle the king's ears, and 130 00:08:32,910 --> 00:08:36,630 Speaker 1: from Herod's sly smile, he was doing a fine job. 131 00:08:37,510 --> 00:08:39,340 Speaker 4: Oh, yes. 132 00:08:40,460 --> 00:08:41,840 Speaker 3: A good thought, young. 133 00:08:43,880 --> 00:08:45,520 Speaker 2: Elias, my lord. 134 00:08:46,100 --> 00:08:50,079 Speaker 1: Elias bowed his head, not letting the king's ignorance bruise 135 00:08:50,200 --> 00:08:50,660 Speaker 1: his pride. 136 00:08:51,340 --> 00:08:52,740 Speaker 3: Yes, yes, Elias. 137 00:08:54,280 --> 00:08:57,000 Speaker 4: It suits me to put your plan into action. 138 00:08:59,090 --> 00:09:02,210 Speaker 3: What do you recommend as the next steps? 139 00:09:02,770 --> 00:09:06,229 Speaker 1: Elias did his best to remain dignified, though he wanted 140 00:09:06,270 --> 00:09:10,430 Speaker 1: to dance through the streets as his professional aspirations. 141 00:09:10,100 --> 00:09:13,780 Speaker 2: Came to life. It appears that one Peter of Galilee 142 00:09:13,820 --> 00:09:17,790 Speaker 2: has become a foundational part of this little movement. I 143 00:09:17,850 --> 00:09:21,380 Speaker 2: would recommend we seize him. Now would be the perfect time, 144 00:09:21,860 --> 00:09:25,380 Speaker 2: as the festival of unleavened bread will undoubtedly have the 145 00:09:25,400 --> 00:09:29,420 Speaker 2: city swarming with people. If we play our cards just right, 146 00:09:29,960 --> 00:09:33,280 Speaker 2: the size of the audience at his trial will be unprecedented. 147 00:09:33,960 --> 00:09:37,970 Speaker 2: Every Jew in the land will know your strong hand. 148 00:09:40,970 --> 00:09:45,290 Speaker 1: King Herod remained absorbed in thought, strategizing his next move. 149 00:09:46,050 --> 00:09:50,089 Speaker 1: His drunken, meandering thoughts faded in and out of a 150 00:09:50,130 --> 00:09:53,110 Speaker 1: desire for bloodshed and political tenderness. 151 00:09:54,990 --> 00:10:00,000 Speaker 4: Elias, on the day of the festival, you will take... 152 00:10:00,179 --> 00:10:03,459 Speaker 4: a small platoon of soldiers into the lower. 153 00:10:03,280 --> 00:10:04,340 Speaker 6: Parts of the city. 154 00:10:04,760 --> 00:10:08,410 Speaker 4: Well, I may have scouted the area and have confirmed 155 00:10:08,429 --> 00:10:12,829 Speaker 4: the whereabouts of the, uh, uh, what do they call themselves? 156 00:10:12,850 --> 00:10:18,000 Speaker 2: Aposties? Apostles? Apostles, yeah. 157 00:10:18,890 --> 00:10:21,319 Speaker 4: I'll have a spy go out before. 158 00:10:20,980 --> 00:10:24,440 Speaker 3: You to confirm that Peter is among them. 159 00:10:25,480 --> 00:10:29,200 Speaker 1: Elias was ecstatic at the opportunity. Little did he know, 160 00:10:29,720 --> 00:10:33,950 Speaker 1: King Herod's move was calculated and tipped the scales in 161 00:10:33,990 --> 00:10:39,010 Speaker 1: his favor. Should things go according to plan, Herod only 162 00:10:39,150 --> 00:10:42,689 Speaker 1: bolstered his status further. But putting Elias at the front 163 00:10:42,710 --> 00:10:46,729 Speaker 1: of the charge meant that should things go south, all 164 00:10:46,790 --> 00:10:50,750 Speaker 1: the blame would be easily shifted to him. But the 165 00:10:50,780 --> 00:10:55,030 Speaker 1: young man's vigor and vim provided him with the same 166 00:10:55,170 --> 00:10:59,929 Speaker 1: kind of foresight. He greedily accepted the offer to lead 167 00:10:59,990 --> 00:11:09,620 Speaker 1: the king's soldiers as visions of grandeur filled his head. Meanwhile, 168 00:11:09,670 --> 00:11:13,760 Speaker 1: the apostles were busily preparing for the Passover meal, the 169 00:11:13,800 --> 00:11:18,430 Speaker 1: long-awaited start of the festival of unleavened bread. The holiday 170 00:11:18,480 --> 00:11:22,319 Speaker 1: had become bittersweet to many of the believers, but it 171 00:11:22,380 --> 00:11:27,120 Speaker 1: was that same bittersweet taste that made its significance all 172 00:11:27,179 --> 00:11:31,439 Speaker 1: the more greater. For the people of the way, Passover 173 00:11:31,559 --> 00:11:35,980 Speaker 1: not only symbolized God's faithfulness to Israel during their flee 174 00:11:36,020 --> 00:11:40,120 Speaker 1: from Egypt, but now it had become a reminder of 175 00:11:40,160 --> 00:11:45,000 Speaker 1: the tender love of Christ. He was their Passover lamb 176 00:11:45,540 --> 00:11:49,560 Speaker 1: that saved the from the throes of death. While the 177 00:11:49,600 --> 00:11:52,260 Speaker 1: rest of the apostles had gone to the marketplace for 178 00:11:52,300 --> 00:11:56,480 Speaker 1: some forgotten ingredients, Peter and Andrew had convinced John to 179 00:11:56,820 --> 00:12:00,260 Speaker 1: stay back and help them prepare the meal. They had 180 00:12:00,350 --> 00:12:03,190 Speaker 1: hoped that some time alone would be a relief to 181 00:12:03,230 --> 00:12:06,450 Speaker 1: John and his grieving, but they thought that perhaps the 182 00:12:06,490 --> 00:12:11,110 Speaker 1: sharing of memories and time with childhood friends would be therapeutic. 183 00:12:11,650 --> 00:12:13,510 Speaker 2: John, can you pass me what's left of the cinnamon? 184 00:12:14,170 --> 00:12:15,750 Speaker 2: We can have the rest when the others get back. 185 00:12:16,620 --> 00:12:19,120 Speaker 2: I find the Cherisette's flavor to be much more balanced 186 00:12:19,160 --> 00:12:23,939 Speaker 2: when it's had time to sit. Oh, look at my brother, 187 00:12:24,020 --> 00:12:24,560 Speaker 2: the chef. 188 00:12:25,280 --> 00:12:28,819 Speaker 3: You know, John, when we were boys, Andrew didn't even 189 00:12:28,860 --> 00:12:31,520 Speaker 3: know how to hold a knife right. Ema had to 190 00:12:31,580 --> 00:12:35,300 Speaker 3: hold his hands the first time we helped prepare for Passover. 191 00:12:35,880 --> 00:12:39,250 Speaker 1: John chuckled at the brothers as he reminisced about his home. 192 00:12:40,290 --> 00:12:44,710 Speaker 1: His heart felt the sharp pangs of mourning intermingled with 193 00:12:44,770 --> 00:12:49,280 Speaker 1: the warmth of nostalgia. A tear slipped around the corner 194 00:12:49,350 --> 00:12:53,470 Speaker 1: of his smile. As they continued to cook, the friends 195 00:12:53,550 --> 00:12:55,809 Speaker 1: could hear muffled voices outside. 196 00:12:56,370 --> 00:12:57,630 Speaker 2: It sounds like the others are back. 197 00:12:58,270 --> 00:13:00,610 Speaker 6: Hurry up with that cinnamon before Andrew goes mad. 198 00:13:01,050 --> 00:13:05,790 Speaker 1: Suddenly, the door burst open, sending splinters into every corner 199 00:13:05,830 --> 00:13:09,670 Speaker 1: of the room. Dust billowed into the small house, followed 200 00:13:09,790 --> 00:13:15,560 Speaker 1: closely by four armored men carrying swords and shields. They 201 00:13:15,640 --> 00:13:20,199 Speaker 1: stepped aside, creating a gap between them, through which a 202 00:13:20,300 --> 00:13:24,390 Speaker 1: much younger man walked. Peter, Andrew, and John pivoted their 203 00:13:24,429 --> 00:13:27,830 Speaker 1: feet back to run, but remained still when they realized 204 00:13:28,330 --> 00:13:31,670 Speaker 1: there was nowhere to turn. Peter stepped in front of them, 205 00:13:32,250 --> 00:13:35,360 Speaker 1: the biggest and burliest of them. He no longer lived 206 00:13:35,550 --> 00:13:39,300 Speaker 1: by the sword, but he was by no means a coward. 207 00:13:40,080 --> 00:13:42,780 Speaker 1: The leader of the group carried an air of naive 208 00:13:42,960 --> 00:13:46,240 Speaker 1: arrogance as he entered. It hadn't taken long for him 209 00:13:46,280 --> 00:13:49,070 Speaker 1: to grow comfortable with his newfound authority. 210 00:13:49,650 --> 00:13:52,970 Speaker 2: On behalf of King Herod, we are looking for the 211 00:13:53,010 --> 00:13:57,630 Speaker 2: man called Simon Bar-Jonah. You may know him as Peter. 212 00:13:58,230 --> 00:14:01,820 Speaker 1: The apostles stared straight ahead, not wanting to give away 213 00:14:01,920 --> 00:14:07,480 Speaker 1: Peter's identity. But Elias' cold stare directly at Peter indicated 214 00:14:07,540 --> 00:14:11,740 Speaker 1: his question was more rhetorical. He knew exactly who he 215 00:14:11,780 --> 00:14:16,260 Speaker 1: was after. Andrew's instincts took control as he stepped forward, 216 00:14:16,880 --> 00:14:18,300 Speaker 1: much to Elias' surprise. 217 00:14:18,800 --> 00:14:20,960 Speaker 6: And what does King Herod want with Peter? 218 00:14:21,520 --> 00:14:25,420 Speaker 1: Elias snarled at Andrew's boldness, but was determined to keep 219 00:14:25,460 --> 00:14:28,660 Speaker 1: his appearance of absolute control over the situation. 220 00:14:29,040 --> 00:14:31,620 Speaker 2: He is to be put on trial for threats to 221 00:14:31,640 --> 00:14:36,210 Speaker 2: the crown and to the people of Israel. Threats against 222 00:14:36,250 --> 00:14:38,070 Speaker 2: the crown? Are you mad? 223 00:14:38,770 --> 00:14:41,729 Speaker 1: Andrew couldn't stand the thought of Peter's life being at 224 00:14:41,850 --> 00:14:45,340 Speaker 1: risk again. After Peter had spent the night in prison 225 00:14:45,400 --> 00:14:48,280 Speaker 1: with John, Andrew had been mortified by. 226 00:14:48,220 --> 00:14:49,350 Speaker 2: The thought of losing him. 227 00:14:50,090 --> 00:14:54,590 Speaker 1: And now that John was living Andrew's worst nightmare, he 228 00:14:54,690 --> 00:14:57,390 Speaker 1: was set on protecting Peter at all cost. 229 00:14:57,770 --> 00:15:00,550 Speaker 2: The only one who is mad here is you. Now 230 00:15:00,630 --> 00:15:03,630 Speaker 2: step aside so we can apprehend the accused. 231 00:15:04,090 --> 00:15:07,410 Speaker 1: Peter took a large step forward with his arms stretched 232 00:15:07,530 --> 00:15:11,410 Speaker 1: out in front of him. His face was resolute. He 233 00:15:11,450 --> 00:15:14,680 Speaker 1: didn't dare look at Andrew for fear of breaking down. 234 00:15:15,260 --> 00:15:18,320 Speaker 1: He knew that the safest option for his brother and 235 00:15:18,340 --> 00:15:22,590 Speaker 1: the other believers was to go without quarreling. He had 236 00:15:22,650 --> 00:15:27,070 Speaker 1: been through this before and trusted in the Lord's sovereignty. 237 00:15:27,890 --> 00:15:32,150 Speaker 1: The soldiers strode forward in unison and promptly bound Peter's hands, 238 00:15:32,910 --> 00:15:36,380 Speaker 1: cinching them tighter than was necessary for a man who 239 00:15:36,410 --> 00:15:41,180 Speaker 1: wasn't fighting back. With a smirk, Elias turned his back 240 00:15:41,240 --> 00:15:45,570 Speaker 1: to the stunned Andrew and John. Elias' eyes flickered with 241 00:15:45,630 --> 00:15:50,370 Speaker 1: satisfaction as they marched out the door. He was already 242 00:15:50,470 --> 00:15:54,690 Speaker 1: basking in the glory of his successful raid. When the 243 00:15:54,750 --> 00:15:58,740 Speaker 1: others returned, Andrew and John explained what had happened. With 244 00:15:58,820 --> 00:16:02,480 Speaker 1: heavy hearts, they began to earnestly pray to the only 245 00:16:02,600 --> 00:16:06,700 Speaker 1: one who could save Peter now. Word quickly spread to 246 00:16:06,740 --> 00:16:10,580 Speaker 1: the believers throughout the city, and in one harmonious voice, 247 00:16:11,100 --> 00:16:16,979 Speaker 1: thousands of people throughout Jerusalem made petitions for the imprisoned apostle. 248 00:16:17,700 --> 00:16:21,710 Speaker 1: The people would find comfort and strength in their God. 249 00:16:24,650 --> 00:16:27,410 Speaker 1: Peter yawned as drips of water trickled down the wall 250 00:16:27,430 --> 00:16:31,730 Speaker 1: of his cell. The cold, damp floor was playing its 251 00:16:31,830 --> 00:16:36,050 Speaker 1: part in keeping him awake, but the rhythmic drops had 252 00:16:36,130 --> 00:16:40,030 Speaker 1: fought hard to lull him to sleep with relative success. 253 00:16:41,110 --> 00:16:44,570 Speaker 1: On either side of Peter sat two soldiers, They were 254 00:16:44,610 --> 00:16:48,120 Speaker 1: chained to Peter, and by the sound of their steady 255 00:16:48,170 --> 00:16:52,280 Speaker 1: breathing and slow dragging of chains against wood, they were 256 00:16:52,360 --> 00:16:58,540 Speaker 1: fast asleep. Just then, piercing the darkness, a bright light appeared. 257 00:16:59,180 --> 00:17:03,970 Speaker 1: The radiance burned behind Peter, rousing him from his half-sleep state. 258 00:17:04,790 --> 00:17:07,250 Speaker 1: Peter rolled over and covered his eyes with his arm. 259 00:17:08,090 --> 00:17:11,109 Speaker 1: He closed his eyes tighter, but was startled by a 260 00:17:11,290 --> 00:17:14,910 Speaker 1: kick in his side. Worried he had awakened the guards, 261 00:17:15,310 --> 00:17:19,409 Speaker 1: and with them, their anger, he sat up abruptly. But 262 00:17:19,450 --> 00:17:24,250 Speaker 1: to his surprise, the two men were still sound asleep. Then, 263 00:17:25,010 --> 00:17:27,629 Speaker 1: someone shouted from outside the cell door. 264 00:17:27,950 --> 00:17:29,369 Speaker 2: Quickly, get up. 265 00:17:30,130 --> 00:17:33,210 Speaker 1: In alarm, Peter pushed himself to his feet. As he 266 00:17:33,250 --> 00:17:36,090 Speaker 1: wheeled around to find the source of the voice, he 267 00:17:36,150 --> 00:17:40,290 Speaker 1: felt his shackles loosen from around his wrists. Looking down, 268 00:17:40,910 --> 00:17:44,280 Speaker 1: the pins had cracked apart. He shook them to the 269 00:17:44,320 --> 00:17:48,100 Speaker 1: ground with a loud clang. The cell door swiveled open 270 00:17:48,180 --> 00:17:52,300 Speaker 1: slowly with a whine. Peter waited for guards to come in, 271 00:17:52,380 --> 00:17:56,740 Speaker 1: but the doorway remained empty. He heard the voice again, 272 00:17:57,240 --> 00:17:59,850 Speaker 1: coming from the direction of the light that had awoken 273 00:17:59,890 --> 00:18:01,129 Speaker 1: him outside the cell. 274 00:18:01,490 --> 00:18:03,609 Speaker 2: Put on your clothes and sandals. 275 00:18:04,190 --> 00:18:08,149 Speaker 1: Without thinking, Peter obeyed the command. He quickly dressed and 276 00:18:08,230 --> 00:18:12,010 Speaker 1: stepped out of his cell. Before him stood a man 277 00:18:12,490 --> 00:18:16,419 Speaker 1: in white robes Peter looked at him, then at the 278 00:18:16,460 --> 00:18:20,550 Speaker 1: sleeping guards. Peter wondered if he should be afraid. 279 00:18:21,369 --> 00:18:21,910 Speaker 2: But of whom? 280 00:18:22,510 --> 00:18:25,990 Speaker 1: He couldn't say. But before he could decide, he was 281 00:18:26,050 --> 00:18:27,130 Speaker 1: given another command. 282 00:18:27,530 --> 00:18:32,210 Speaker 2: Do not worry about them. They won't stir. Quickly, wrap 283 00:18:32,230 --> 00:18:34,840 Speaker 2: your cloak around yourself and follow me. 284 00:18:35,540 --> 00:18:39,000 Speaker 1: Peter followed the man, wondering if he was still asleep 285 00:18:39,320 --> 00:18:42,800 Speaker 1: and caught in a dream. Whether it was real or 286 00:18:42,820 --> 00:18:46,859 Speaker 1: a figment of his imagination, Peter figured anything was better 287 00:18:47,060 --> 00:18:49,859 Speaker 1: than another night on the dirty floor of his cell. 288 00:18:50,600 --> 00:18:53,480 Speaker 1: He pulled his cloak tightly around his face and followed 289 00:18:53,520 --> 00:18:57,960 Speaker 1: the man. Peter felt like time had frozen. They walked 290 00:18:58,040 --> 00:19:01,340 Speaker 1: past the two outer guards and seemed to be bothered 291 00:19:01,440 --> 00:19:04,760 Speaker 1: from their deep slumber, despite the commotion Peter and the 292 00:19:04,880 --> 00:19:08,580 Speaker 1: angel were causing. The angel led Peter out of the 293 00:19:08,619 --> 00:19:12,930 Speaker 1: prison corridors. straight to the immense iron gates that led 294 00:19:13,190 --> 00:19:17,200 Speaker 1: into the city. Peter marveled when the angel waved his hand, 295 00:19:17,880 --> 00:19:20,060 Speaker 1: and the gates opened in obedience. 296 00:19:20,460 --> 00:19:21,800 Speaker 2: This way. Hurry now. 297 00:19:22,400 --> 00:19:26,419 Speaker 1: We're almost out. The angel moved with ease. Though he 298 00:19:26,480 --> 00:19:29,820 Speaker 1: walked like any other man, his elegant motion made it 299 00:19:29,920 --> 00:19:34,050 Speaker 1: seem like he was floating through the air. Peter struggled 300 00:19:34,070 --> 00:19:37,889 Speaker 1: to keep up. Halfway down a street, Peter raised his 301 00:19:38,010 --> 00:19:41,000 Speaker 1: arm to ask his rescuer to wait. But before he 302 00:19:41,040 --> 00:19:46,669 Speaker 1: could say anything, the man disappeared. Peter stopped abruptly. He 303 00:19:46,690 --> 00:19:49,770 Speaker 1: looked around but could find no trace of the man. 304 00:19:50,640 --> 00:19:54,290 Speaker 1: Peter smiled, feeling silly that it had taken him so 305 00:19:54,369 --> 00:19:56,449 Speaker 1: long to realize what had happened. 306 00:19:57,010 --> 00:19:59,530 Speaker 3: Now I know without a doubt that the Lord has 307 00:19:59,590 --> 00:20:03,109 Speaker 3: done it again. He sent his angel and rescued me 308 00:20:03,170 --> 00:20:06,510 Speaker 3: from Herod's clutches and from everything the Jewish people were 309 00:20:06,550 --> 00:20:08,469 Speaker 3: hoping would happen. Praise you. 310 00:20:09,850 --> 00:20:12,869 Speaker 1: Peter glanced up and down the empty street. He knew 311 00:20:12,930 --> 00:20:15,620 Speaker 1: it wouldn't be long before the guards learned of his escape. 312 00:20:16,220 --> 00:20:19,480 Speaker 1: He had to devise a plan. He recognized a few 313 00:20:19,580 --> 00:20:23,219 Speaker 1: shops and remembered he was near the house of one 314 00:20:23,240 --> 00:20:23,880 Speaker 1: of the believers. 315 00:20:24,619 --> 00:20:27,419 Speaker 3: If I head north from here, it should take me 316 00:20:27,460 --> 00:20:30,690 Speaker 3: to John Mark's mother's house. I can lay low there 317 00:20:30,790 --> 00:20:31,970 Speaker 3: until morning breaks. 318 00:20:32,550 --> 00:20:35,330 Speaker 1: Under the cover of night, Peter made his way to 319 00:20:35,350 --> 00:20:38,930 Speaker 1: the house. When he arrived, He saw the light trickling 320 00:20:39,050 --> 00:20:41,889 Speaker 1: out of the door's cracks. He pulled his cloak down 321 00:20:41,910 --> 00:20:45,900 Speaker 1: around his shoulders and knocked softly. He waited a few 322 00:20:45,940 --> 00:20:50,180 Speaker 1: minutes and knocked again. He heard shuffling inside and saw 323 00:20:50,220 --> 00:20:53,379 Speaker 1: the shadow of two feet stopping on the other side 324 00:20:53,420 --> 00:20:53,880 Speaker 1: of the door. 325 00:20:54,260 --> 00:20:57,879 Speaker 3: Rhoda, is that you? I'm sorry to intrude in the 326 00:20:57,920 --> 00:21:01,390 Speaker 3: middle of the night. It's just your master's house was 327 00:21:01,450 --> 00:21:02,990 Speaker 3: closest and I thought. 328 00:21:03,510 --> 00:21:06,410 Speaker 7: My word, Peter, is that you? 329 00:21:06,430 --> 00:21:06,490 Speaker 5: No. 330 00:21:07,740 --> 00:21:12,070 Speaker 7: Oh, praise Adonai, you're safe. The others won't believe it. 331 00:21:12,490 --> 00:21:14,310 Speaker 7: They've been up praying all night. 332 00:21:14,990 --> 00:21:18,730 Speaker 1: Peter heard the servant's footsteps race away. He knocked again, 333 00:21:19,369 --> 00:21:22,690 Speaker 1: but there was no response. Rhonda ran to the largest 334 00:21:22,800 --> 00:21:26,639 Speaker 1: room of the house, where others were gathered in incessant prayers. 335 00:21:27,320 --> 00:21:30,060 Speaker 1: Without hesitation, the servant interrupted them. 336 00:21:30,540 --> 00:21:32,960 Speaker 7: Peter is here. He's right outside the door. 337 00:21:32,980 --> 00:21:37,780 Speaker 6: Rhoda, please, this isn't funny. Now come, join us again. 338 00:21:37,800 --> 00:21:40,959 Speaker 7: I'm not joking. He's really here. 339 00:21:41,590 --> 00:21:44,550 Speaker 6: Please don't take offense to this, but I think you're tired. 340 00:21:45,109 --> 00:21:46,389 Speaker 2: I mean, we all are. 341 00:21:47,130 --> 00:21:48,750 Speaker 6: Why don't you close your eyes for a bit and 342 00:21:48,790 --> 00:21:50,429 Speaker 6: then you can pray with us in the morning. 343 00:21:50,970 --> 00:21:53,450 Speaker 1: The man was trying to be as tender as possible, 344 00:21:54,170 --> 00:21:55,280 Speaker 1: but Rhonda pressed on. 345 00:21:56,180 --> 00:21:59,180 Speaker 7: You don't understand. He really is here. 346 00:21:59,200 --> 00:22:01,460 Speaker 6: And did you see Peter? 347 00:22:01,480 --> 00:22:07,580 Speaker 7: Well, technically, no. But I heard him. I know it's 348 00:22:07,619 --> 00:22:08,199 Speaker 7: his voice. 349 00:22:09,030 --> 00:22:12,830 Speaker 6: Perhaps what you were hearing was his angel. Peter's in prison, 350 00:22:13,290 --> 00:22:16,229 Speaker 6: and there's no escape from Harrod's ironclad grips. 351 00:22:16,770 --> 00:22:20,290 Speaker 1: Peter could hear snippets of the conversation. He pressed his 352 00:22:20,330 --> 00:22:23,090 Speaker 1: head against the door with a laugh. He had to 353 00:22:23,170 --> 00:22:27,830 Speaker 1: admit everything Rhonda was saying sounded absurd. He knocked hard 354 00:22:27,910 --> 00:22:30,910 Speaker 1: against the door, hoping to rescue the poor girl from 355 00:22:30,970 --> 00:22:31,770 Speaker 1: appearing mad. 356 00:22:32,430 --> 00:22:35,939 Speaker 7: Listen, do you not hear that knocking? When was the 357 00:22:35,960 --> 00:22:38,080 Speaker 7: last time you had an angel knock at your door, hmm? 358 00:22:39,050 --> 00:22:42,169 Speaker 1: The others in the room sat motionless, with ears perked. 359 00:22:42,650 --> 00:22:46,070 Speaker 1: For the first time, they could hear the knocking. They 360 00:22:46,109 --> 00:22:49,169 Speaker 1: clambered to their feet and hurried to the door. Peter 361 00:22:49,330 --> 00:22:52,250 Speaker 1: heard the latch click and stepped back just as the 362 00:22:52,270 --> 00:22:56,429 Speaker 1: door flung open. The group stared in amazement, wondering if 363 00:22:56,470 --> 00:23:00,250 Speaker 1: their eyes were deceiving them. Peter held up his arms 364 00:23:00,950 --> 00:23:04,720 Speaker 1: as though to prove he was indeed with them. The 365 00:23:04,780 --> 00:23:09,980 Speaker 1: believers ran outside and embraced Peter with excited shouts. Peter 366 00:23:10,060 --> 00:23:11,120 Speaker 1: laughed at the gaggle. 367 00:23:11,619 --> 00:23:15,220 Speaker 3: Shh, unless you want the whole of Jerusalem to know 368 00:23:15,260 --> 00:23:15,979 Speaker 3: where I am. 369 00:23:18,640 --> 00:23:22,330 Speaker 1: Everyone sat at the table and listened with fascination as 370 00:23:22,420 --> 00:23:27,250 Speaker 1: Peter shared about his midnight escape with the angel. Everyone 371 00:23:27,350 --> 00:23:33,050 Speaker 1: could hardly believe it, but the evidence was undeniable. Come morning, 372 00:23:33,730 --> 00:23:36,490 Speaker 1: Herod and his guards would have their own problems on 373 00:23:36,540 --> 00:23:40,420 Speaker 1: their hands. But as for the people of God, they 374 00:23:40,480 --> 00:23:45,820 Speaker 1: would have a story that would resonate throughout history. God's 375 00:23:45,880 --> 00:23:51,250 Speaker 1: Spirit was moving with unstoppable might, and the name of 376 00:23:51,490 --> 00:23:56,950 Speaker 1: Jesus would continue to spread to every corner of the world. 377 00:24:05,220 --> 00:24:08,609 Speaker 5: Our story begins with Herod Agrippa I, a king who 378 00:24:08,650 --> 00:24:11,689 Speaker 5: cared more about his approval ratings than justice or righteousness. 379 00:24:12,130 --> 00:24:15,270 Speaker 5: Seeing that persecuting Christians pleased the people, he had James, 380 00:24:15,330 --> 00:24:18,950 Speaker 5: the brother of John, executed. This was the first apostle 381 00:24:19,210 --> 00:24:22,609 Speaker 5: to be killed. But Herod wasn't satisfied. He arrested Peter, 382 00:24:22,770 --> 00:24:25,490 Speaker 5: intending to make a public spectacle of his trial after 383 00:24:25,510 --> 00:24:29,389 Speaker 5: the Passover. Isn't it interesting how things never change? Leaders 384 00:24:29,410 --> 00:24:32,230 Speaker 5: still pander to the masses, often at the expense of 385 00:24:32,340 --> 00:24:36,490 Speaker 5: truth and morality. Herod's actions were driven by politics, not principles. 386 00:24:37,050 --> 00:24:40,169 Speaker 5: But here's the kicker. Earthly power is no match for 387 00:24:40,210 --> 00:24:44,820 Speaker 5: divine purpose. Peter's in prison, guarded by 16 soldiers. Herod 388 00:24:44,859 --> 00:24:48,620 Speaker 5: wasn't taking any chances after Peter's previous jailbreak in Acts 389 00:24:48,640 --> 00:24:51,920 Speaker 5: chapter 5. But what is Peter doing on what would 390 00:24:51,980 --> 00:24:53,580 Speaker 5: be the eve of his execution? 391 00:24:54,080 --> 00:24:54,600 Speaker 3: He's sleeping. 392 00:24:55,020 --> 00:24:58,420 Speaker 5: Not pacing, not plotting an escape. Sleeping so soundly that 393 00:24:58,460 --> 00:25:00,409 Speaker 5: an angel has to whack him on the side to 394 00:25:00,450 --> 00:25:03,570 Speaker 5: wake him up. Talk about a Talk about peace that 395 00:25:03,609 --> 00:25:07,629 Speaker 5: surpasses all understanding. Just like Jesus slept on a boat 396 00:25:07,670 --> 00:25:09,840 Speaker 5: in the midst of a storm, Peter's sleeping in a 397 00:25:09,900 --> 00:25:13,659 Speaker 5: prison cell as he awaits his trial and execution. Peter's 398 00:25:13,720 --> 00:25:16,200 Speaker 5: trust in God was so profound that the chains and 399 00:25:16,220 --> 00:25:19,000 Speaker 5: the guards didn't faze him at all. It challenges us 400 00:25:19,040 --> 00:25:21,879 Speaker 5: to consider, how do we respond when we're imprisoned by 401 00:25:21,940 --> 00:25:24,869 Speaker 5: our circumstances? Do we panic or do we rest in 402 00:25:24,910 --> 00:25:28,990 Speaker 5: God's sovereignty? Meanwhile, the church was earnestly praying for Peter. 403 00:25:29,460 --> 00:25:33,580 Speaker 5: The original Greek implies intense, fervent prayer, stretching themselves out 404 00:25:33,600 --> 00:25:37,260 Speaker 5: before God. They didn't have political influence, wealth, or weapons. 405 00:25:37,720 --> 00:25:40,440 Speaker 5: All they had was prayer, and they wielded it mightily. 406 00:25:41,140 --> 00:25:43,850 Speaker 5: Here's where it gets amusing. Despite their earnest prayers, when 407 00:25:43,880 --> 00:25:45,980 Speaker 5: Peter shows up at the door, they don't actually believe 408 00:25:46,030 --> 00:25:49,310 Speaker 5: it's him. Rhoda, the servant girl, is so excited that 409 00:25:49,350 --> 00:25:51,910 Speaker 5: she forgets to even open the door. She opens the door, 410 00:25:52,210 --> 00:25:53,990 Speaker 5: hears that it's Peter, and then goes to run and 411 00:25:54,010 --> 00:25:57,060 Speaker 5: tell everybody, not even thinking to let him in. The 412 00:25:57,100 --> 00:25:59,960 Speaker 5: others think she's out of her mind or that Peter 413 00:25:59,980 --> 00:26:03,399 Speaker 5: might be an angel. It seems even the early church 414 00:26:03,440 --> 00:26:06,530 Speaker 5: had moments of doubt. Yes, they were praying for his safety. 415 00:26:06,570 --> 00:26:07,410 Speaker 5: They were praying for. 416 00:26:07,350 --> 00:26:08,149 Speaker 2: Him to be freed. 417 00:26:08,450 --> 00:26:11,130 Speaker 5: But when it actually happened, it was really hard to believe. 418 00:26:11,570 --> 00:26:13,669 Speaker 5: And that should tell you about the humanity of prayer, 419 00:26:13,710 --> 00:26:16,570 Speaker 5: shouldn't it? We pray for these things earnestly. We pray 420 00:26:16,609 --> 00:26:18,629 Speaker 5: them in trust that God's going to do what he 421 00:26:18,670 --> 00:26:20,980 Speaker 5: says he's going to do. But that doesn't make miracles 422 00:26:21,060 --> 00:26:23,879 Speaker 5: any less surprising to us. You see, they were praying 423 00:26:23,940 --> 00:26:26,290 Speaker 5: for a miracle, but were surprised when it happened. It's 424 00:26:26,330 --> 00:26:29,850 Speaker 5: humorous yet humbling reminder that sometimes we pray without fully 425 00:26:29,910 --> 00:26:33,530 Speaker 5: expecting God to answer. Now back to Peter. The angel 426 00:26:33,690 --> 00:26:36,190 Speaker 5: led him past the guards. They led him through the 427 00:26:36,230 --> 00:26:39,930 Speaker 5: gates and into the city streets. Only then does Peter 428 00:26:39,970 --> 00:26:41,340 Speaker 5: realize that it's not a vision. 429 00:26:41,520 --> 00:26:41,990 Speaker 2: It's real. 430 00:26:42,380 --> 00:26:45,440 Speaker 5: God had delivered him from Herod's clutches. On the flip side, 431 00:26:45,520 --> 00:26:48,899 Speaker 5: Herod faces a different fate. After Peter's escape, Herod is 432 00:26:49,140 --> 00:26:53,240 Speaker 5: furious and has the guards executed. Later, during a public address, 433 00:26:53,280 --> 00:26:55,500 Speaker 5: the people shout, This is the voice of God, not 434 00:26:55,520 --> 00:26:58,260 Speaker 5: of a man. And instead of correcting them, Herod revels 435 00:26:58,300 --> 00:27:01,659 Speaker 5: in the undulation. Immediately, an angel strikes him down and 436 00:27:01,740 --> 00:27:07,070 Speaker 5: he dies a gruesome death. You see, Peter's deliverance and 437 00:27:07,250 --> 00:27:11,330 Speaker 5: Herod's gruesome death are actually images of the future of 438 00:27:11,390 --> 00:27:14,250 Speaker 5: someone who is working against the kingdom of God and 439 00:27:14,290 --> 00:27:17,540 Speaker 5: someone who's working for the kingdom of God. It's actually 440 00:27:17,580 --> 00:27:21,660 Speaker 5: an image and a metaphor for their eternities. Pride comes 441 00:27:21,720 --> 00:27:25,199 Speaker 5: before the fall, doesn't it? Herod's demise contrasts sharply with 442 00:27:25,260 --> 00:27:28,889 Speaker 5: Peter's deliverance. One man's arrogance leads to his downfall, while 443 00:27:28,910 --> 00:27:32,669 Speaker 5: the other man's humility leads to his salvation. Acts 12 444 00:27:32,670 --> 00:27:36,330 Speaker 5: reminds us that while believers may face persecution, God's mission 445 00:27:36,510 --> 00:27:41,979 Speaker 5: is unshackled and unstoppable. Jesus is greater than any circumstance 446 00:27:42,000 --> 00:27:45,080 Speaker 5: you find yourself in. Which leads me to introduce our 447 00:27:45,200 --> 00:27:49,140 Speaker 5: next mini-series after this one. And that is a series 448 00:27:49,200 --> 00:27:51,970 Speaker 5: called Jesus the Greater. We are going to be showing 449 00:27:52,050 --> 00:27:56,170 Speaker 5: how Jesus is greater than any other character in Scripture. 450 00:27:56,630 --> 00:28:00,470 Speaker 5: Jesus is greater than Joshua. The walls that he topples 451 00:28:00,520 --> 00:28:04,300 Speaker 5: down are greater than the walls that Joshua faced. Jesus 452 00:28:04,359 --> 00:28:07,220 Speaker 5: is the greater Adam. Where Adam gave in to temptation, 453 00:28:07,580 --> 00:28:10,760 Speaker 5: Jesus didn't falter. We're going to be taking the next 454 00:28:10,840 --> 00:28:14,160 Speaker 5: month to really showcase the greatness of Jesus by highlighting 455 00:28:14,300 --> 00:28:17,390 Speaker 5: Old Testament stories, New Testament stories, and binding them all 456 00:28:17,450 --> 00:28:20,369 Speaker 5: together in perfect synergy. I can't wait for you to 457 00:28:20,430 --> 00:28:20,859 Speaker 5: join us.