1 00:00:00,270 --> 00:00:03,370 Speaker 1: Blessed are those who have been persecuted for righteousness' sake, 2 00:00:04,250 --> 00:00:09,379 Speaker 1: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Matthew 5.10 Heavenly Father, 3 00:00:10,000 --> 00:00:13,039 Speaker 1: we come to you with hearts full of trust in 4 00:00:13,119 --> 00:00:17,580 Speaker 1: Jesus our Savior. Your words remind us that those who 5 00:00:17,620 --> 00:00:22,549 Speaker 1: are persecuted for righteousness' sake are blessed, for theirs is 6 00:00:22,590 --> 00:00:25,450 Speaker 1: the kingdom of heaven. We thank you for the strength 7 00:00:25,510 --> 00:00:29,670 Speaker 1: you give us to stand firm in our faith. even 8 00:00:30,090 --> 00:00:33,270 Speaker 1: when we face trials. Help us to trust in your 9 00:00:33,330 --> 00:00:38,309 Speaker 1: promises and to remain faithful, knowing that you are with us. 10 00:00:39,130 --> 00:00:42,490 Speaker 1: When we face opposition for following Jesus, fill us with 11 00:00:42,610 --> 00:00:48,089 Speaker 1: courage and peace. Let our lives reflect his love and truth, 12 00:00:48,750 --> 00:00:53,610 Speaker 1: and may we always find refuge in your presence. In Jesus' 13 00:00:53,690 --> 00:00:54,690 Speaker 1: name we pray. 14 00:00:55,410 --> 00:00:55,610 Speaker 2: Amen. 15 00:00:57,900 --> 00:01:00,920 Speaker 1: Thank you for praying with me today. You're listening to 16 00:01:00,940 --> 00:01:06,569 Speaker 1: the Jesus Podcast. Remain here for another dramatized story inspired 17 00:01:06,610 --> 00:01:09,709 Speaker 1: by the book of Acts and the birth of the church. 18 00:01:10,650 --> 00:01:14,030 Speaker 1: If this podcast has blessed you, make sure to follow 19 00:01:14,510 --> 00:01:16,890 Speaker 1: so you never have to miss an episode. 20 00:01:18,610 --> 00:01:21,110 Speaker 3: Click the link in the description to grow closer to God. 21 00:01:21,640 --> 00:01:25,319 Speaker 3: There you'll find daily prayers, Bible plans, sleep stories, and 22 00:01:25,400 --> 00:01:28,819 Speaker 3: so much more. all on the Prey.com app. Click the 23 00:01:28,860 --> 00:01:30,440 Speaker 3: link in the description to get started. 24 00:01:33,900 --> 00:01:37,819 Speaker 1: James trudged forward under the watchful eye of King Herod's soldiers. 25 00:01:38,760 --> 00:01:43,589 Speaker 1: Their armor clanged with each forceful pull of the chains. James' 26 00:01:43,709 --> 00:01:48,090 Speaker 1: bloodied hands twisted beneath his shackles. To the soldiers, his 27 00:01:48,190 --> 00:01:52,930 Speaker 1: chains ensured he couldn't escape. But to James, they were 28 00:01:52,990 --> 00:01:57,000 Speaker 1: a reminder that he would always... be free. 29 00:01:57,860 --> 00:02:02,680 Speaker 4: Great are you, O Lord, for even in man's chains 30 00:02:03,720 --> 00:02:07,030 Speaker 4: I will forever be set free by your grace. 31 00:02:07,650 --> 00:02:08,970 Speaker 2: Quiet down, dog! 32 00:02:09,590 --> 00:02:12,910 Speaker 1: The soldier behind the apostle blared at him, kicking him 33 00:02:13,050 --> 00:02:17,480 Speaker 1: forward with his boot. With the Roman influence, Herod's men 34 00:02:17,540 --> 00:02:21,220 Speaker 1: had mastered the art of torture, not just of the body, 35 00:02:21,740 --> 00:02:25,649 Speaker 1: but of the mind. James stumbled, but had learned through 36 00:02:25,710 --> 00:02:30,150 Speaker 1: experience that falling over did little to slow down their march. 37 00:02:30,950 --> 00:02:34,169 Speaker 1: The only thing worse than walking in this current state 38 00:02:34,750 --> 00:02:39,079 Speaker 1: was being dragged along the stone walkway. James could hear 39 00:02:39,120 --> 00:02:44,120 Speaker 1: the ominous caw of vultures as their broad wingspans cast 40 00:02:44,220 --> 00:02:48,139 Speaker 1: swirling shadows. The scavengers had learned the signs of when 41 00:02:48,160 --> 00:02:51,800 Speaker 1: their next meal was coming. James and the soldiers marched 42 00:02:51,840 --> 00:02:56,160 Speaker 1: toward a belligerent crowd. They encircled an open dirt patch. 43 00:02:56,860 --> 00:03:00,359 Speaker 1: At the center stood a large wooden platform, only a 44 00:03:00,419 --> 00:03:04,750 Speaker 1: few inches high. A large wooden throne sat on the 45 00:03:04,780 --> 00:03:09,090 Speaker 1: far end, where King Herod sat, wholly satisfied with the 46 00:03:09,130 --> 00:03:13,090 Speaker 1: scene before him. The soldiers led James to the platform 47 00:03:13,590 --> 00:03:17,970 Speaker 1: and forced him to take a stand. Once stable, James 48 00:03:18,070 --> 00:03:22,290 Speaker 1: locked eyes with Herod. He was a confident king, to 49 00:03:22,330 --> 00:03:25,330 Speaker 1: be sure. His recent persecutions of the people of the 50 00:03:25,389 --> 00:03:31,430 Speaker 1: way had brought unwavering support from the Jews. Despite the believers' resilience, 51 00:03:32,150 --> 00:03:36,200 Speaker 1: King Herod was doing his part to topple them over 52 00:03:36,480 --> 00:03:37,760 Speaker 1: stone by stone. 53 00:03:38,460 --> 00:03:43,060 Speaker 5: James, son of Zebedee, you are guilty of crimes against 54 00:03:43,120 --> 00:03:47,820 Speaker 5: the Jews. Your penalty is death by sword. 55 00:03:48,460 --> 00:03:53,150 Speaker 1: The crowd erupted in thunderous applause. The only sound James 56 00:03:53,170 --> 00:03:56,650 Speaker 1: heard was the sliding of metal against metal as the 57 00:03:56,710 --> 00:03:59,750 Speaker 1: soldier behind him drew his sword from its sheath. 58 00:04:02,790 --> 00:04:05,270 Speaker 6: The apostles all knew it was coming. They all knew 59 00:04:05,350 --> 00:04:07,370 Speaker 6: that it was only a matter of time before one 60 00:04:07,550 --> 00:04:10,470 Speaker 6: or all of them faced the same fate that Jesus faced. 61 00:04:11,150 --> 00:04:13,850 Speaker 6: But they did so with joy in their hearts. Yes, 62 00:04:14,110 --> 00:04:17,950 Speaker 6: it was hard. Yes, it caused anguish and despair. But 63 00:04:17,970 --> 00:04:20,500 Speaker 6: that despair always gave way to hope in the end. 64 00:04:21,180 --> 00:04:24,700 Speaker 6: Welcome to the Jesus Podcast. Today, we're rounding out our 65 00:04:24,760 --> 00:04:27,779 Speaker 6: mini-series through the birth of the church. We're diving into 66 00:04:27,820 --> 00:04:31,440 Speaker 6: a story inspired by Acts 12, verses one through 23, 67 00:04:31,440 --> 00:04:34,900 Speaker 6: a passage that reads like an epic drama with villains, heroes, suspense, 68 00:04:35,279 --> 00:04:38,000 Speaker 6: and a plot twist that would make Hollywood jealous. We're 69 00:04:38,040 --> 00:04:40,640 Speaker 6: talking about kings who think they're gods, prisons that can't 70 00:04:40,690 --> 00:04:43,990 Speaker 6: hold apostles, and a praying church that shakes the heavens. 71 00:04:44,570 --> 00:04:44,990 Speaker 2: Let's go. 72 00:04:47,990 --> 00:04:51,990 Speaker 1: John wept in the dining room. dragging his fingernails through 73 00:04:52,010 --> 00:04:56,169 Speaker 1: the table. Marks in the wood, pulled with blood from 74 00:04:56,210 --> 00:05:00,310 Speaker 1: his mangled hands. John barely noticed the pain he was 75 00:05:00,390 --> 00:05:05,420 Speaker 1: causing himself. The grieving brother released his inner turmoil. He 76 00:05:05,560 --> 00:05:10,060 Speaker 1: pounded the table before pressing his palms hard against the surface. 77 00:05:10,680 --> 00:05:13,940 Speaker 1: He leaned over the table and kicked his chair back 78 00:05:14,279 --> 00:05:15,000 Speaker 1: against the wall. 79 00:05:15,680 --> 00:05:16,760 Speaker 7: It's not fair! 80 00:05:17,320 --> 00:05:20,320 Speaker 4: Saul went around murdering us and he's given a second chance? 81 00:05:20,960 --> 00:05:22,120 Speaker 8: James never hurt a fly. 82 00:05:22,140 --> 00:05:27,320 Speaker 1: And now he's... John's anger quickly turned to sobs of despondency. 83 00:05:27,940 --> 00:05:31,180 Speaker 1: His forehead thudded in the puddle of blood as it 84 00:05:31,300 --> 00:05:32,880 Speaker 1: mixed with his pouring tears. 85 00:05:34,200 --> 00:05:38,460 Speaker 8: Why couldn't it have been me? I don't know what 86 00:05:39,000 --> 00:05:42,980 Speaker 8: to do without him. It's always been James and John. 87 00:05:43,940 --> 00:05:47,210 Speaker 8: Sons of thunder. But now it feels like I'm a 88 00:05:47,290 --> 00:05:49,390 Speaker 8: wisp of a cloud being burnt by the sun. 89 00:05:50,310 --> 00:05:53,490 Speaker 1: Losing his brother was like losing a part of himself. 90 00:05:54,370 --> 00:05:56,950 Speaker 1: The other apostles did their best to console him, but 91 00:05:57,470 --> 00:06:01,760 Speaker 1: found themselves short on words. They knew that nothing they 92 00:06:01,860 --> 00:06:06,400 Speaker 1: could say would bring James back. Instead, they flocked around 93 00:06:06,460 --> 00:06:10,280 Speaker 1: him and cried. Sometimes the best thing to do for 94 00:06:10,320 --> 00:06:13,830 Speaker 1: a mourning loved one is to mourn with them. Deep 95 00:06:14,270 --> 00:06:18,450 Speaker 1: called to deep as the storm of John's emotions rocked 96 00:06:18,490 --> 00:06:23,510 Speaker 1: his spirits like a rickety vessel tossed at sea. But 97 00:06:23,570 --> 00:06:28,580 Speaker 1: in time, the breakers would send him careening against the 98 00:06:28,740 --> 00:06:30,060 Speaker 1: rock of ages. 99 00:06:30,900 --> 00:06:35,580 Speaker 4: John, we know you are hurting. We just want you 100 00:06:35,620 --> 00:06:41,369 Speaker 4: to know we are here for you. And more importantly... 101 00:06:41,600 --> 00:06:43,279 Speaker 4: The Lord is here with you. 102 00:06:43,960 --> 00:06:47,420 Speaker 1: Peter couldn't help but feel awkward, trying to comfort his 103 00:06:47,500 --> 00:06:51,349 Speaker 1: longtime friend. He knew he had no reason to, but 104 00:06:51,830 --> 00:06:56,510 Speaker 1: in a way he felt guilty, offering consolation, knowing full 105 00:06:56,550 --> 00:06:59,990 Speaker 1: well that his own brother was standing just on the 106 00:07:00,029 --> 00:07:03,349 Speaker 1: other side of the room. Not wanting to press too hard, 107 00:07:04,010 --> 00:07:07,110 Speaker 1: Peter took a step back from John and allowed others 108 00:07:07,450 --> 00:07:11,990 Speaker 1: to fill the gap. Matthew stepped forward, his eyes reflecting 109 00:07:12,010 --> 00:07:16,400 Speaker 1: a deep well of pain. He couldn't match John's sorrow, 110 00:07:16,940 --> 00:07:20,340 Speaker 1: but he could remind him of the hope that lay within. 111 00:07:20,840 --> 00:07:24,780 Speaker 9: John, say it with me. Blessed are those who are 112 00:07:24,840 --> 00:07:27,280 Speaker 9: persecuted for righteousness' sake. 113 00:07:27,900 --> 00:07:29,020 Speaker 2: For theirs is. 114 00:07:29,580 --> 00:07:30,470 Speaker 7: For theirs is. 115 00:07:31,150 --> 00:07:32,790 Speaker 8: The kingdom of heaven. 116 00:07:34,210 --> 00:07:37,830 Speaker 1: Back in his palace, King Herod dined with his trusted advisors. 117 00:07:38,580 --> 00:07:41,640 Speaker 1: The martyrdom of James had given him another victory among 118 00:07:41,660 --> 00:07:45,120 Speaker 1: the Jews, and he had no intention of losing traction 119 00:07:45,640 --> 00:07:49,860 Speaker 1: in gaining their favor. His table was eloquently set with 120 00:07:49,880 --> 00:07:55,050 Speaker 1: the finest delicacies, roasted lamb with fig glaze, perfectly ripe 121 00:07:55,170 --> 00:07:59,080 Speaker 1: fruit from his orchards, and baked bread from the country's 122 00:07:59,250 --> 00:08:03,390 Speaker 1: purest flour. He stuffed his mouth with his dinner, as 123 00:08:03,430 --> 00:08:08,050 Speaker 1: his advisors stuffed his mind with plans for further persecutions, 124 00:08:08,420 --> 00:08:09,460 Speaker 1: of the people of the way. 125 00:08:10,060 --> 00:08:13,610 Speaker 2: My lord, it appears you've won the hearts of the people. 126 00:08:14,070 --> 00:08:17,150 Speaker 2: Yet our efforts are doing very little to slow down 127 00:08:17,210 --> 00:08:21,910 Speaker 2: the followers of Jesus of Nazareth. They gain traction by 128 00:08:21,970 --> 00:08:25,830 Speaker 2: the day. Even Saul of Tarsus has turned to them. 129 00:08:26,410 --> 00:08:31,780 Speaker 2: Perhaps they need another stark reminder of your unmatched authority. 130 00:08:32,440 --> 00:08:34,980 Speaker 2: At the very least, it's sure to earn you more 131 00:08:35,040 --> 00:08:36,160 Speaker 2: praise from the people. 132 00:08:36,870 --> 00:08:40,679 Speaker 1: Elias had served in Herod's courts for several years, devoting 133 00:08:40,760 --> 00:08:43,780 Speaker 1: all of his margin to climbing the ranks. He had 134 00:08:43,840 --> 00:08:47,180 Speaker 1: finally earned the right to tickle the king's ears, and 135 00:08:47,220 --> 00:08:50,960 Speaker 1: from Herod's sly smile, he was doing a fine job. 136 00:08:51,800 --> 00:08:53,640 Speaker 5: Oh, yes. 137 00:08:54,760 --> 00:08:56,120 Speaker 4: A good thought, young. 138 00:08:58,179 --> 00:08:59,819 Speaker 2: Elias, my lord. 139 00:09:00,400 --> 00:09:04,370 Speaker 1: Elias bowed his head, not letting the king's ignorance bruise 140 00:09:04,490 --> 00:09:04,990 Speaker 1: his pride. 141 00:09:05,630 --> 00:09:07,050 Speaker 5: Yes, yes, Elias. 142 00:09:08,590 --> 00:09:11,290 Speaker 4: It suits me to put your plan into action. 143 00:09:13,390 --> 00:09:16,520 Speaker 5: What do you recommend as the next steps? 144 00:09:17,080 --> 00:09:20,540 Speaker 1: Elias did his best to remain dignified, though he wanted 145 00:09:20,559 --> 00:09:24,699 Speaker 1: to dance through the streets as his professional aspirations. 146 00:09:24,380 --> 00:09:28,079 Speaker 2: Came to life. It appears that one Peter of Galilee 147 00:09:28,100 --> 00:09:32,110 Speaker 2: has become a foundational part of this little movement. I 148 00:09:32,150 --> 00:09:35,670 Speaker 2: would recommend we seize him. Now would be the perfect time, 149 00:09:36,150 --> 00:09:39,670 Speaker 2: as the festival of unleavened bread will undoubtedly have the 150 00:09:39,710 --> 00:09:43,720 Speaker 2: city swarming with people. If we play our cards just right, 151 00:09:44,280 --> 00:09:47,579 Speaker 2: the size of the audience at his trial will be unprecedented. 152 00:09:48,280 --> 00:09:52,260 Speaker 2: Every Jew in the land will know your strong hand. 153 00:09:55,260 --> 00:09:59,569 Speaker 1: King Herod remained absorbed in thought, strategizing his next move. 154 00:10:00,360 --> 00:10:04,400 Speaker 1: his drunken meandering thoughts faded in and out of a 155 00:10:04,440 --> 00:10:07,360 Speaker 1: desire for bloodshed and political. 156 00:10:07,000 --> 00:10:13,910 Speaker 5: Tenets Elias on the day of the festival you will 157 00:10:13,950 --> 00:10:17,950 Speaker 5: take a small platoon of soldiers into the lower parts 158 00:10:17,990 --> 00:10:21,840 Speaker 5: of the city My men have scouted the area and 159 00:10:21,900 --> 00:10:24,120 Speaker 5: have confirmed the whereabouts of the. 160 00:10:25,740 --> 00:10:27,160 Speaker 5: What do they call themselves? 161 00:10:27,200 --> 00:10:32,319 Speaker 2: Aposties? Apostles? Apostles! 162 00:10:33,179 --> 00:10:36,390 Speaker 5: I'll have a spy go out before you to confirm 163 00:10:36,429 --> 00:10:38,770 Speaker 5: that Peter is among them. 164 00:10:39,790 --> 00:10:43,490 Speaker 1: Elias was ecstatic at the opportunity. Little did he know, 165 00:10:44,030 --> 00:10:48,250 Speaker 1: King Herod's move was calculated and tipped the scales in 166 00:10:48,290 --> 00:10:53,319 Speaker 1: his favor. Should things go according to plan, Herod only 167 00:10:53,440 --> 00:10:57,000 Speaker 1: bolstered his status further. But putting Elias at the front 168 00:10:57,020 --> 00:11:01,020 Speaker 1: of the charge meant that should things go south, all 169 00:11:01,080 --> 00:11:05,060 Speaker 1: the blame would be easily shifted to him. But the 170 00:11:05,100 --> 00:11:09,329 Speaker 1: young man's vigor and vim provided him with the same 171 00:11:09,490 --> 00:11:14,250 Speaker 1: kind of foresight. He greedily accepted the offer to lead 172 00:11:14,309 --> 00:11:23,910 Speaker 1: the king's soldiers as visions of grandeur filled his head. Meanwhile, 173 00:11:23,970 --> 00:11:28,050 Speaker 1: the apostles were busily preparing for the Passover meal, the 174 00:11:28,090 --> 00:11:32,740 Speaker 1: long-awaited start of the festival of unleavened bread. The holiday 175 00:11:32,780 --> 00:11:36,640 Speaker 1: had become bittersweet to many of the believers, but it 176 00:11:36,700 --> 00:11:41,420 Speaker 1: was that same bittersweet taste that made its significance all 177 00:11:41,500 --> 00:11:45,740 Speaker 1: the more greater. For the people of the way, Passover 178 00:11:45,860 --> 00:11:50,290 Speaker 1: not only symbolized God's faithfulness to Israel during their flee 179 00:11:50,330 --> 00:11:54,410 Speaker 1: from Egypt, but now It had become a reminder of 180 00:11:54,470 --> 00:11:59,270 Speaker 1: the tender love of Christ. He was their Passover lamb 181 00:11:59,830 --> 00:12:03,860 Speaker 1: that saved them from the throes of death. While the 182 00:12:03,910 --> 00:12:06,560 Speaker 1: rest of the apostles had gone to the marketplace for 183 00:12:06,620 --> 00:12:10,800 Speaker 1: some forgotten ingredients, Peter and Andrew had convinced John to 184 00:12:11,120 --> 00:12:14,580 Speaker 1: stay back and help them prepare the meal. They had 185 00:12:14,660 --> 00:12:17,480 Speaker 1: hoped that some time alone would be a relief to 186 00:12:17,540 --> 00:12:21,150 Speaker 1: John and his grieving. They thought that perhaps the sharing 187 00:12:21,190 --> 00:12:25,410 Speaker 1: of memories... and time with childhood friends would be therapeutic. 188 00:12:25,929 --> 00:12:27,810 Speaker 7: John, can you pass me what's left of the cinnamon? 189 00:12:28,450 --> 00:12:30,090 Speaker 7: We can have the rest when the others get back. 190 00:12:30,910 --> 00:12:33,439 Speaker 7: I find the cheroset's flavor to be much more balanced 191 00:12:33,480 --> 00:12:34,819 Speaker 7: when it's had time to sit. 192 00:12:36,200 --> 00:12:40,339 Speaker 4: Oh, look at my brother, the chef. You know, John, 193 00:12:40,700 --> 00:12:43,620 Speaker 4: when we were boys, Andrew didn't even know how to 194 00:12:43,700 --> 00:12:46,810 Speaker 4: hold a knife right. Ema had to hold his hands 195 00:12:47,350 --> 00:12:49,630 Speaker 4: the first time we helped prepare for Passover. 196 00:12:50,210 --> 00:12:53,579 Speaker 1: John chuckled at the brothers. As he reminisced about his home, 197 00:12:54,580 --> 00:12:59,020 Speaker 1: his heart felt the sharp pangs of mourning intermingled with 198 00:12:59,059 --> 00:13:03,580 Speaker 1: the warmth of nostalgia. A tear slipped around the corner 199 00:13:03,640 --> 00:13:07,790 Speaker 1: of his smile. As they continued to cook, the friends 200 00:13:07,870 --> 00:13:10,110 Speaker 1: could hear muffled voices outside. 201 00:13:10,690 --> 00:13:13,070 Speaker 2: It sounds like the others are back. Hurry up with 202 00:13:13,110 --> 00:13:14,930 Speaker 2: that cinnamon before Andrew goes mad! 203 00:13:15,370 --> 00:13:20,110 Speaker 1: Suddenly, the door burst open, sending splinters into every corner 204 00:13:20,150 --> 00:13:23,980 Speaker 1: of the room. Dust billowed into the small house, followed 205 00:13:24,100 --> 00:13:29,860 Speaker 1: closely by four armored men carrying swords and shields. They 206 00:13:29,920 --> 00:13:34,520 Speaker 1: stepped aside, creating a gap between them, through which a 207 00:13:34,600 --> 00:13:38,679 Speaker 1: much younger man walked. Peter, Andrew, and John pivoted their 208 00:13:38,720 --> 00:13:42,120 Speaker 1: feet back to run, but remained still when they realized 209 00:13:42,620 --> 00:13:45,960 Speaker 1: there was nowhere to turn. Peter stepped in front of them, 210 00:13:46,540 --> 00:13:49,640 Speaker 1: the biggest and burliest of them. He no longer lived 211 00:13:49,840 --> 00:13:53,600 Speaker 1: by the sword. but he was by no means a coward. 212 00:13:54,380 --> 00:13:57,059 Speaker 1: The leader of the group carried an air of naive 213 00:13:57,240 --> 00:14:00,540 Speaker 1: arrogance as he entered. It hadn't taken long for him 214 00:14:00,580 --> 00:14:03,370 Speaker 1: to grow comfortable with his newfound authority. 215 00:14:03,950 --> 00:14:07,270 Speaker 2: On behalf of King Herod, we are looking for the 216 00:14:07,309 --> 00:14:11,950 Speaker 2: man called Simon Bar-Jonah. You may know him as Peter. 217 00:14:12,530 --> 00:14:16,120 Speaker 1: The apostles stared straight ahead, not wanting to give away 218 00:14:16,220 --> 00:14:21,770 Speaker 1: Peter's identity. But Elias' cold stare directly at Peter indicated 219 00:14:21,810 --> 00:14:26,030 Speaker 1: his question was more rhetorical. He knew exactly who he 220 00:14:26,070 --> 00:14:30,570 Speaker 1: was after. Andrew's instincts took control as he stepped forward, 221 00:14:31,190 --> 00:14:32,620 Speaker 1: much to Elias' surprise. 222 00:14:33,100 --> 00:14:35,260 Speaker 7: And what does King Herod want with Peter? 223 00:14:35,840 --> 00:14:39,740 Speaker 1: Elias snarled at Andrew's boldness, but was determined to keep 224 00:14:39,780 --> 00:14:42,980 Speaker 1: his appearance of absolute control over the situation. 225 00:14:43,360 --> 00:14:45,920 Speaker 2: He is to be put on trial for threats to 226 00:14:45,940 --> 00:14:48,300 Speaker 2: the crown and to the people of Israel. 227 00:14:49,890 --> 00:14:52,370 Speaker 7: Threats against the crown? Are you mad? 228 00:14:53,070 --> 00:14:56,030 Speaker 1: Andrew couldn't stand the thought of Peter's life being at 229 00:14:56,150 --> 00:14:59,650 Speaker 1: risk again. After Peter had spent the night in prison 230 00:14:59,710 --> 00:15:03,000 Speaker 1: with John, Andrew had been mortified by the thought of 231 00:15:03,080 --> 00:15:07,979 Speaker 1: losing him. And now that John was living Andrew's worst nightmare, 232 00:15:08,640 --> 00:15:11,720 Speaker 1: he was set on protecting Peter at all cost. 233 00:15:12,080 --> 00:15:14,859 Speaker 2: The only one who is mad here is you. Now 234 00:15:14,920 --> 00:15:17,940 Speaker 2: step aside so we can apprehend the accused. 235 00:15:18,380 --> 00:15:21,710 Speaker 1: Peter took a large step forward with his arms stretched 236 00:15:21,850 --> 00:15:25,710 Speaker 1: out in front of him. His face was resolute. He 237 00:15:25,750 --> 00:15:28,990 Speaker 1: didn't dare look at Andrew for fear of breaking down. 238 00:15:29,570 --> 00:15:32,610 Speaker 1: He knew that the safest option for his brother and 239 00:15:32,650 --> 00:15:36,890 Speaker 1: the other believers was to go without quarreling. He had 240 00:15:36,960 --> 00:15:41,300 Speaker 1: been through this before and trusted in the Lord's sovereignty. 241 00:15:42,200 --> 00:15:46,460 Speaker 1: The soldiers strode forward in unison and promptly bound Peter's hands, 242 00:15:47,200 --> 00:15:50,660 Speaker 1: cinching them tighter than was necessary for a man who 243 00:15:50,700 --> 00:15:55,470 Speaker 1: wasn't fighting back. With a smirk, Elias turned his back 244 00:15:55,530 --> 00:15:59,890 Speaker 1: to the stunned Andrew and John. Elias' eyes flickered with 245 00:15:59,950 --> 00:16:04,690 Speaker 1: satisfaction as they marched out the door. He was already 246 00:16:04,790 --> 00:16:08,980 Speaker 1: basking in the glory of his successful race. When the 247 00:16:09,060 --> 00:16:13,040 Speaker 1: others returned, Andrew and John explained what had happened. With 248 00:16:13,120 --> 00:16:16,770 Speaker 1: heavy hearts, they began to earnestly pray to the only 249 00:16:16,870 --> 00:16:20,990 Speaker 1: one who could save Peter now. Word quickly spread to 250 00:16:21,030 --> 00:16:24,870 Speaker 1: the believers throughout the city, and in one harmonious voice, 251 00:16:25,410 --> 00:16:31,320 Speaker 1: thousands of people throughout Jerusalem made petitions for the imprisoned apostle. 252 00:16:32,040 --> 00:16:35,920 Speaker 1: The people would find comfort and strength in their God. 253 00:16:38,970 --> 00:16:41,570 Speaker 1: Peter yawned as drips of water trickled down the wall 254 00:16:41,650 --> 00:16:46,030 Speaker 1: of his cell. The cold, damp floor was playing its 255 00:16:46,130 --> 00:16:50,350 Speaker 1: part in keeping him awake, but the rhythmic drops had 256 00:16:50,430 --> 00:16:54,340 Speaker 1: fought hard to lull him to sleep with relative success. 257 00:16:55,420 --> 00:16:58,880 Speaker 1: On either side of Peter sat two soldiers. They were 258 00:16:58,940 --> 00:17:02,440 Speaker 1: chained to Peter, and by the sound of their steady 259 00:17:02,480 --> 00:17:06,580 Speaker 1: breathing and slow dragging of chains against wood, they were 260 00:17:06,660 --> 00:17:12,820 Speaker 1: fast asleep. Just then, Piercing the darkness, a bright light appeared. 261 00:17:13,480 --> 00:17:18,260 Speaker 1: The radiance burned behind Peter, rousing him from his half-sleep state. 262 00:17:19,060 --> 00:17:21,520 Speaker 1: Peter rolled over and covered his eyes with his arm. 263 00:17:22,380 --> 00:17:25,409 Speaker 1: He closed his eyes tighter but was startled by a 264 00:17:25,590 --> 00:17:29,210 Speaker 1: kick in his side. Worried he had awakened the guards 265 00:17:29,630 --> 00:17:33,729 Speaker 1: and with them, their anger, he sat up abruptly. But 266 00:17:33,750 --> 00:17:38,490 Speaker 1: to his surprise, the two men were still sound asleep. Then, 267 00:17:39,320 --> 00:17:41,919 Speaker 1: Someone shouted from outside the cell door. 268 00:17:42,260 --> 00:17:43,659 Speaker 2: Quickly, get up. 269 00:17:44,420 --> 00:17:47,520 Speaker 1: In alarm, Peter pushed himself to his feet. As he 270 00:17:47,560 --> 00:17:50,399 Speaker 1: wheeled around to find the source of the voice, he 271 00:17:50,440 --> 00:17:54,590 Speaker 1: felt his shackles loosen from around his wrists. Looking down, 272 00:17:55,230 --> 00:17:58,609 Speaker 1: the pins had cracked apart. He shook them to the 273 00:17:58,650 --> 00:18:02,410 Speaker 1: ground with a loud clang. The cell door swiveled open 274 00:18:02,490 --> 00:18:06,619 Speaker 1: slowly with a whine. Peter waited for guards to come in, 275 00:18:06,700 --> 00:18:11,040 Speaker 1: but the doorway remained empty. He heard the voice again, 276 00:18:11,560 --> 00:18:14,140 Speaker 1: coming from the direction of the light that had awoken 277 00:18:14,180 --> 00:18:15,440 Speaker 1: him outside the cell. 278 00:18:15,780 --> 00:18:17,899 Speaker 2: Put on your clothes and sandals. 279 00:18:18,480 --> 00:18:22,459 Speaker 1: Without thinking, Peter obeyed the command. He quickly dressed and 280 00:18:22,530 --> 00:18:26,310 Speaker 1: stepped out of his cell. Before him stood a man 281 00:18:26,810 --> 00:18:30,750 Speaker 1: in white robes. Peter looked at him, then at the 282 00:18:30,790 --> 00:18:35,810 Speaker 1: sleeping guards. Peter wondered if he should be afraid. But 283 00:18:35,850 --> 00:18:39,970 Speaker 1: of whom? He couldn't say. But before he could decide... 284 00:18:40,030 --> 00:18:43,010 Speaker 1: he was given another command. Do not worry about them. 285 00:18:43,690 --> 00:18:48,369 Speaker 1: They won't stir. Quickly, wrap your cloak around yourself and 286 00:18:48,470 --> 00:18:52,600 Speaker 1: follow me. Peter followed the man, wondering if he was 287 00:18:52,630 --> 00:18:56,100 Speaker 1: still asleep and caught in a dream. Whether it was 288 00:18:56,220 --> 00:19:00,640 Speaker 1: real or a figment of his imagination, Peter figured anything 289 00:19:00,700 --> 00:19:03,639 Speaker 1: was better than another night on the dirty floor of 290 00:19:03,700 --> 00:19:06,960 Speaker 1: his cell. He pulled his cloak tightly around his face 291 00:19:07,300 --> 00:19:11,040 Speaker 1: and followed the man. Peter felt like Time had frozen. 292 00:19:11,800 --> 00:19:15,020 Speaker 1: They walked past the two outer guards and seemed to 293 00:19:15,060 --> 00:19:18,800 Speaker 1: be bothered from their deep slumber, despite the commotion Peter 294 00:19:18,859 --> 00:19:22,680 Speaker 1: and the angel were causing. The angel led Peter out 295 00:19:22,700 --> 00:19:26,330 Speaker 1: of the prison corridors, straight to the immense iron gates 296 00:19:26,710 --> 00:19:30,570 Speaker 1: that led into the city. Peter marveled when the angel 297 00:19:30,650 --> 00:19:34,389 Speaker 1: waved his hand and the gates opened in obedience. 298 00:19:34,770 --> 00:19:36,090 Speaker 2: This way. Hurry now. 299 00:19:36,690 --> 00:19:40,699 Speaker 1: We're almost out. The angel moved with ease. Though he 300 00:19:40,780 --> 00:19:44,119 Speaker 1: walked like any other man, his elegant motion made it 301 00:19:44,220 --> 00:19:48,330 Speaker 1: seem like he was floating through the air. Peter struggled 302 00:19:48,369 --> 00:19:52,179 Speaker 1: to keep up. Halfway down a street, Peter raised his 303 00:19:52,300 --> 00:19:55,300 Speaker 1: arm to ask his rescuer to wait. But before he 304 00:19:55,359 --> 00:20:00,960 Speaker 1: could say anything, the man disappeared. Peter stopped abruptly. He 305 00:20:00,980 --> 00:20:04,150 Speaker 1: looked around but could find no trace of the man. 306 00:20:04,950 --> 00:20:08,610 Speaker 1: Peter smiled, feeling silly that it had taken him so 307 00:20:08,670 --> 00:20:09,670 Speaker 1: long to realize. 308 00:20:10,080 --> 00:20:10,710 Speaker 2: What had happened. 309 00:20:11,300 --> 00:20:13,840 Speaker 4: Now I know without a doubt that the Lord has 310 00:20:13,880 --> 00:20:17,419 Speaker 4: done it again. He sent his angel and rescued me 311 00:20:17,460 --> 00:20:20,800 Speaker 4: from Herod's clutches and from everything the Jewish people were 312 00:20:20,840 --> 00:20:23,500 Speaker 4: hoping would happen. Praise you, O Lord. 313 00:20:24,160 --> 00:20:27,179 Speaker 1: Peter glanced up and down the empty street. He knew 314 00:20:27,240 --> 00:20:29,920 Speaker 1: it wouldn't be long before the guards learned of his escape. 315 00:20:30,520 --> 00:20:33,780 Speaker 1: He had to devise a plan. He recognized a few 316 00:20:33,880 --> 00:20:37,520 Speaker 1: shops and remembered he was near the house of one 317 00:20:37,540 --> 00:20:38,140 Speaker 1: of the believers. 318 00:20:38,930 --> 00:20:41,710 Speaker 4: If I head north from here, it should take me 319 00:20:41,760 --> 00:20:44,950 Speaker 4: to John Mark's mother's house. I can lay low there 320 00:20:45,080 --> 00:20:46,260 Speaker 4: until morning breaks. 321 00:20:46,840 --> 00:20:49,619 Speaker 1: Under the cover of night, Peter made his way to 322 00:20:49,660 --> 00:20:53,240 Speaker 1: the house. When he arrived, he saw the light trickling 323 00:20:53,359 --> 00:20:56,199 Speaker 1: out of the door's cracks. He pulled his cloak down 324 00:20:56,220 --> 00:21:00,200 Speaker 1: around his shoulders and knocked softly. He waited a few 325 00:21:00,240 --> 00:21:04,480 Speaker 1: minutes and knocked again. He heard shuffling inside and saw 326 00:21:04,520 --> 00:21:07,680 Speaker 1: the shadow of two feet stopping on the other side 327 00:21:07,720 --> 00:21:08,120 Speaker 1: of the door. 328 00:21:08,550 --> 00:21:12,189 Speaker 4: Rhoda, is that you? I'm sorry to intrude in the 329 00:21:12,230 --> 00:21:16,190 Speaker 4: middle of the night. It's just, your master's house was closest, 330 00:21:16,590 --> 00:21:17,270 Speaker 4: and I thought. 331 00:21:17,790 --> 00:21:24,530 Speaker 10: My word, Peter, is that you? Oh, praise Adonai, you're safe. 332 00:21:25,150 --> 00:21:28,609 Speaker 10: The others won't believe it. They've been up praying all night. 333 00:21:29,290 --> 00:21:33,030 Speaker 1: Peter heard the servant's footsteps race away. He knocked again, 334 00:21:33,670 --> 00:21:36,990 Speaker 1: but there was no response. Rhonda ran to the largest 335 00:21:37,090 --> 00:21:40,929 Speaker 1: room of the house. where others were gathered in incessant prayers. 336 00:21:41,609 --> 00:21:44,350 Speaker 1: Without hesitation, the servant interrupted them. 337 00:21:44,810 --> 00:21:47,250 Speaker 10: Peter is here. He's right outside the door. 338 00:21:47,270 --> 00:21:52,109 Speaker 9: Rhoda, please, this isn't funny. Now come, join us again. 339 00:21:52,990 --> 00:21:55,270 Speaker 10: I'm not joking. He's really here. 340 00:21:55,890 --> 00:21:58,850 Speaker 9: Please don't take offense to this, but I think you're tired. 341 00:21:59,410 --> 00:22:00,689 Speaker 2: I mean, we all are. 342 00:22:01,430 --> 00:22:03,050 Speaker 9: Why don't you close your eyes for a bit, and 343 00:22:03,090 --> 00:22:04,709 Speaker 9: then you can pray with us in the morning. 344 00:22:05,270 --> 00:22:07,710 Speaker 1: The man was trying to be as tender as possible. 345 00:22:08,470 --> 00:22:09,570 Speaker 1: But Rhonda pressed on. 346 00:22:10,470 --> 00:22:13,490 Speaker 10: You don't understand. He really is here. 347 00:22:13,510 --> 00:22:15,750 Speaker 2: And did you see Peter? 348 00:22:15,770 --> 00:22:21,869 Speaker 10: Well, technically, no. But I heard him. I know it's 349 00:22:21,930 --> 00:22:22,510 Speaker 10: his voice. 350 00:22:23,310 --> 00:22:27,130 Speaker 9: Perhaps what you were hearing was his angel. Peter's in prison, 351 00:22:27,590 --> 00:22:30,530 Speaker 9: and there's no escape from Harrod's ironclad grips. 352 00:22:31,070 --> 00:22:34,590 Speaker 1: Peter could hear snippets of the conversation. He pressed his 353 00:22:34,630 --> 00:22:37,389 Speaker 1: head against the door with a laugh. He had to 354 00:22:37,470 --> 00:22:42,129 Speaker 1: admit everything Rhonda was saying sounded absurd. He knocked hard 355 00:22:42,210 --> 00:22:45,210 Speaker 1: against the door, hoping to rescue the poor girl from 356 00:22:45,270 --> 00:22:46,070 Speaker 1: appearing mad. 357 00:22:46,730 --> 00:22:50,230 Speaker 10: Listen, do you not hear that knocking? When was the 358 00:22:50,270 --> 00:22:52,619 Speaker 10: last time you had an angel knock at your door, hmm? 359 00:22:53,359 --> 00:22:56,460 Speaker 1: The others in the room sat motionless, with ears perked. 360 00:22:56,960 --> 00:23:00,379 Speaker 1: For the first time, they could hear the knocking. They 361 00:23:00,420 --> 00:23:03,480 Speaker 1: clambered to their feet and hurried to the door. Peter 362 00:23:03,640 --> 00:23:06,530 Speaker 1: heard the latch click. and stepped back just as the 363 00:23:06,570 --> 00:23:10,730 Speaker 1: door flung open. The group stared in amazement, wondering if 364 00:23:10,770 --> 00:23:14,560 Speaker 1: their eyes were deceiving them. Peter held up his arms 365 00:23:15,230 --> 00:23:19,060 Speaker 1: as though to prove he was indeed with them. The 366 00:23:19,080 --> 00:23:24,280 Speaker 1: believers ran outside and embraced Peter with excited shouts. Peter 367 00:23:24,359 --> 00:23:25,440 Speaker 1: laughed at the gaggle. 368 00:23:25,960 --> 00:23:29,540 Speaker 4: Shh, unless you want the whole of Jerusalem to know 369 00:23:29,560 --> 00:23:30,240 Speaker 4: where I am. 370 00:23:30,260 --> 00:23:30,330 Speaker 8: Huh? 371 00:23:32,950 --> 00:23:36,639 Speaker 1: Everyone sat at the table and listened with fascination as 372 00:23:36,720 --> 00:23:41,560 Speaker 1: Peter shared about his midnight escape with the angel. Everyone 373 00:23:41,640 --> 00:23:47,379 Speaker 1: could hardly believe it, but the evidence was undeniable. Come morning, 374 00:23:48,040 --> 00:23:50,800 Speaker 1: Herod and his guards would have their own problems on 375 00:23:50,840 --> 00:23:54,720 Speaker 1: their hands. But as for the people of God, they 376 00:23:54,790 --> 00:24:00,129 Speaker 1: would have a story that would resonate throughout history. God's 377 00:24:00,190 --> 00:24:05,540 Speaker 1: spirit was moving. with unstoppable might, and the name of 378 00:24:05,780 --> 00:24:11,359 Speaker 1: Jesus would continue to spread to every corner of the world. 379 00:24:19,550 --> 00:24:22,909 Speaker 6: Our story begins with Herod Agrippa I, a king who 380 00:24:22,950 --> 00:24:25,990 Speaker 6: cared more about his approval ratings than justice or righteousness. 381 00:24:26,430 --> 00:24:29,590 Speaker 6: Seeing that persecuting Christians pleased the people, he had James, 382 00:24:29,630 --> 00:24:33,260 Speaker 6: the brother of John, executed. This was the first apostle 383 00:24:33,520 --> 00:24:36,919 Speaker 6: to be killed. But Herod wasn't satisfied. He arrested Peter, 384 00:24:37,080 --> 00:24:39,780 Speaker 6: intending to make a public spectacle of his trial after 385 00:24:39,820 --> 00:24:43,680 Speaker 6: the Passover. Isn't it interesting how things never change? Leaders 386 00:24:43,720 --> 00:24:46,550 Speaker 6: still pander to the masses, often at the expense of 387 00:24:46,630 --> 00:24:50,790 Speaker 6: truth and morality. Herod's actions were driven by politics, not principles. 388 00:24:51,350 --> 00:24:54,469 Speaker 6: But here's the kicker. Earthly power is no match for 389 00:24:54,510 --> 00:24:59,100 Speaker 6: divine purpose. Peter's in prison, guarded by 16 soldiers. Herod 390 00:24:59,160 --> 00:25:02,899 Speaker 6: wasn't taking any chances after Peter's previous jailbreak in Acts 391 00:25:02,940 --> 00:25:06,220 Speaker 6: chapter 5. But what is Peter doing on what would 392 00:25:06,260 --> 00:25:09,940 Speaker 6: be the eve of his execution? He's sleeping. Not pacing, 393 00:25:10,080 --> 00:25:13,200 Speaker 6: not plotting an escape. Sleeping so soundly that an angel 394 00:25:13,260 --> 00:25:15,260 Speaker 6: has to whack him on the side to wake him up. 395 00:25:15,940 --> 00:25:20,560 Speaker 6: Talk about peace that surpasses all understanding. Just like Jesus 396 00:25:20,740 --> 00:25:23,020 Speaker 6: slept on a boat in the midst of a storm, 397 00:25:23,340 --> 00:25:25,939 Speaker 6: Peter's sleeping in a prison cell as he awaits his 398 00:25:26,020 --> 00:25:29,580 Speaker 6: trial and execution. Peter's trust in God was so profound 399 00:25:29,619 --> 00:25:32,000 Speaker 6: that the chains and the guards didn't faze him at all. 400 00:25:32,560 --> 00:25:35,260 Speaker 6: It challenges us to consider, how do we respond when 401 00:25:35,300 --> 00:25:38,470 Speaker 6: we are imprisoned by our circumstances? Do we panic, or 402 00:25:38,490 --> 00:25:41,869 Speaker 6: do we rest in God's sovereignty? Meanwhile, the church was 403 00:25:42,070 --> 00:25:46,649 Speaker 6: earnestly praying for Peter. The original Greek implies intense, fervent prayer, 404 00:25:46,850 --> 00:25:50,910 Speaker 6: stretching themselves out before God. They didn't have political influence, wealth, 405 00:25:51,060 --> 00:25:53,980 Speaker 6: or weapons. All they had was prayer, and they wielded 406 00:25:54,020 --> 00:25:57,900 Speaker 6: it mightily. Here's where it gets amusing. Despite their earnest prayers, 407 00:25:58,000 --> 00:26:00,020 Speaker 6: when Peter shows up at the door, they don't actually 408 00:26:00,060 --> 00:26:03,460 Speaker 6: believe it's him. Rhoda, the servant girl, is so excited 409 00:26:03,510 --> 00:26:05,850 Speaker 6: that she forgets to even open the door. She opens 410 00:26:05,890 --> 00:26:07,929 Speaker 6: the door, hears that it's Peter, and then goes to 411 00:26:08,010 --> 00:26:10,850 Speaker 6: run and tell everybody, not even thinking to let him in. 412 00:26:11,290 --> 00:26:13,929 Speaker 6: The others think she's out of her mind or that 413 00:26:13,990 --> 00:26:17,359 Speaker 6: Peter might be an angel. It seems even the early 414 00:26:17,440 --> 00:26:20,240 Speaker 6: church had moments of doubt. Yes, they were praying for 415 00:26:20,280 --> 00:26:22,399 Speaker 6: his safety. They were praying for him to be freed. 416 00:26:22,760 --> 00:26:25,420 Speaker 6: But when it actually happened, it was really hard to believe. 417 00:26:25,859 --> 00:26:27,960 Speaker 6: And that should tell you about the humanity of prayer, 418 00:26:28,010 --> 00:26:30,850 Speaker 6: shouldn't it? We pray for these things earnestly. We pray 419 00:26:30,890 --> 00:26:32,929 Speaker 6: them in trust that God's going to do what he 420 00:26:32,970 --> 00:26:35,270 Speaker 6: says he's going to do. But that doesn't make miracles 421 00:26:35,350 --> 00:26:38,150 Speaker 6: any less surprising to us. You see, they were praying 422 00:26:38,210 --> 00:26:40,600 Speaker 6: for a miracle, but were surprised when it happened. It's 423 00:26:40,640 --> 00:26:44,160 Speaker 6: humorous yet humbling reminder that sometimes we pray without fully 424 00:26:44,240 --> 00:26:45,379 Speaker 6: expecting God to answer. 425 00:26:46,350 --> 00:26:46,990 Speaker 2: Now back to Peter. 426 00:26:47,270 --> 00:26:50,129 Speaker 6: The angel led him past the guards. They led him 427 00:26:50,170 --> 00:26:53,750 Speaker 6: through the gates and into the city streets. Only then 428 00:26:53,790 --> 00:26:55,649 Speaker 6: does Peter realize that it's not a vision. 429 00:26:55,810 --> 00:26:56,290 Speaker 2: It's real. 430 00:26:56,670 --> 00:26:59,730 Speaker 6: God had delivered him from Herod's clutches. On the flip side, 431 00:26:59,820 --> 00:27:03,199 Speaker 6: Herod faces a different fate. After Peter's escape, Herod is 432 00:27:03,440 --> 00:27:07,560 Speaker 6: furious and has the guards executed. Later, during a public address, 433 00:27:07,580 --> 00:27:09,800 Speaker 6: the people shout, this is the voice of God, not 434 00:27:09,840 --> 00:27:12,550 Speaker 6: of a man. And instead of correcting them, Herod revels 435 00:27:12,590 --> 00:27:15,970 Speaker 6: in the undulation. Immediately, an angel strikes him down and 436 00:27:16,030 --> 00:27:21,359 Speaker 6: he dies a gruesome death. You see, Peter's deliverance and 437 00:27:21,540 --> 00:27:25,619 Speaker 6: Herod's gruesome death are actually images of the future of 438 00:27:25,680 --> 00:27:28,560 Speaker 6: someone who is working against the kingdom of God and 439 00:27:28,580 --> 00:27:31,840 Speaker 6: someone who's working for the kingdom of God. It's actually 440 00:27:31,859 --> 00:27:35,940 Speaker 6: an image and a metaphor for their eternities. Pride comes 441 00:27:36,000 --> 00:27:39,500 Speaker 6: before the fall, doesn't it? Herod's demise contrasts sharply with 442 00:27:39,560 --> 00:27:43,179 Speaker 6: Peter's deliverance. One man's arrogance leads to his downfall, while 443 00:27:43,220 --> 00:27:46,980 Speaker 6: the other man's humility leads to his salvation. Acts 12 444 00:27:46,980 --> 00:27:50,639 Speaker 6: reminds us that while believers may face persecution, God's mission 445 00:27:50,800 --> 00:27:56,270 Speaker 6: is unshackled and unstoppable. Jesus is greater than any circumstance 446 00:27:56,290 --> 00:27:59,389 Speaker 6: you find yourself in, which leads me to introduce our 447 00:27:59,490 --> 00:28:03,430 Speaker 6: next mini-series after this one. And that is a series 448 00:28:03,490 --> 00:28:06,290 Speaker 6: called Jesus the Greater. We are going to be showing 449 00:28:06,350 --> 00:28:10,410 Speaker 6: how Jesus is greater than any other character in Scripture. 450 00:28:10,930 --> 00:28:14,770 Speaker 6: Jesus is greater than Joshua. The walls that he topples 451 00:28:14,810 --> 00:28:18,590 Speaker 6: down are greater than the walls that Joshua faced. Jesus 452 00:28:18,650 --> 00:28:21,510 Speaker 6: is the greater Adam. Where Adam gave in to temptation, 453 00:28:21,869 --> 00:28:25,060 Speaker 6: Jesus didn't falter. We're going to be taking the next 454 00:28:25,160 --> 00:28:28,480 Speaker 6: month to really showcase the greatness of Jesus by highlighting 455 00:28:28,619 --> 00:28:31,700 Speaker 6: Old Testament stories, New Testament stories, and binding them all 456 00:28:31,740 --> 00:28:34,679 Speaker 6: together in perfect synergy. I can't wait for you to 457 00:28:34,740 --> 00:28:35,159 Speaker 6: join us.