Episode 957
Discernment in Times of Crisis Matthew 24:15-28
Discernment in times of crisis emerges as the central theme of our discourse today. We delve into a profound examination of Matthew 24:15-28, wherein apocalyptic imagery serves not merely as a harbinger of doom but as a metaphorical lens through which we may navigate contemporary social upheaval. This scripture compels us to engage in critical discernment, particularly in an era inundated with misinformation and false messiahs, urging us to ground our efforts in authentic community action rather than charismatic individualism. Furthermore, we emphasize the imperative of solidarity, highlighting the need to prioritize the welfare of the most vulnerable in our response to crises, thus embodying true liberation movements. As we reflect on these poignant lessons, we invite listeners to embrace actionable steps that foster justice and community resilience amidst adversity.
The discourse presented within the episode delves into the profound theme of discernment amidst periods of crisis, drawing extensively from the biblical text found in Matthew 24:15-28. The speaker, Dr. Brad Miller, articulates a progressive interpretation of this scriptural passage, elucidating its relevance to contemporary societal upheavals. He posits that the apocalyptic imagery employed in the text serves not merely as a prophetic warning but as a metaphorical framework through which one can navigate the social crises that afflict our world. Dr. Miller emphasizes the necessity of discernment in distinguishing between authentic leadership and the myriad of false messiahs that proliferate during tumultuous times, urging listeners to cultivate a critical consciousness in the face of misinformation and charismatic figures that may lead them astray.
Furthermore, the episode underscores the imperative of solidarity, particularly with those most vulnerable during crises. Dr. Miller draws attention to the plight of pregnant women, nursing mothers, and others lacking the resources to escape perilous situations, arguing that true liberation movements must prioritize the welfare of the most marginalized rather than compromising their needs for the sake of convenience. He invites listeners to reflect upon their own communities, encouraging them to engage in research and discourse that centers around urgent social issues, such as climate change and economic injustice, thereby fostering a collective wisdom that informs actionable steps toward justice.
The episode culminates in a closing prayer that seeks divine guidance in navigating the complexities of crisis, emphasizing the importance of community, wisdom, and a commitment to authentic transformation over superficial solutions. This holistic approach encapsulates the essence of the discussion, providing a rich tapestry of insights that resonate with the listener's own experiences and challenges in the modern world.
Takeaways:
- In times of crisis, discernment is essential to navigate through social upheaval effectively.
- The passage from Matthew 24 serves as a profound metaphor for recognizing false solutions.
- Communities of discernment must focus on the needs of the most vulnerable individuals.
- True liberation movements prioritize the protection of those at risk during crises.
- We must engage in research to understand how crises impact marginalized communities.
- The call to practice crisis discernment is crucial for fostering authentic transformation.
Links referenced in this episode:
Companies mentioned in this episode:
- voiceofgodddaily.com
The "Daily Bible Refresh" is presented each day by Rev. Dr. Brad Miller who has a goal of speaking a bit of the bible into two million ears (one million people) in three years (2025-2028).
He is the author of "The A, B, C-1,2,3 Bible Study Guide" Free to you by clicking HERE.
Brad served as a local church pastor for forty years and has a background in radio and podcasting. Moreover, he is a life-long student of The Bible.
He believes in the words of Jesus that “scripture is fulfilled in your hearing” (Luke 4:21)
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Transcript
Discernment in times of crisis.
Speaker A: A reading from Matthew: Speaker A:Hello my friend Dr. Brad Miller here with the Daily Bible Refresh.
Speaker A:This is your daily reading of the Bible from a progressive point of view.
Speaker A:In a bit I will read the New Testament lessons selected from the Revised Common Lectionary for this very day.
Speaker A:The reading is understandable.
Speaker A:I use the message version Relatable.
Speaker A:Please listen to the points to ponder and applicable with action steps you can take.
Speaker A:We pray and are done in less than 10 minutes.
Speaker A:It's all brought to you by voiceofgodddaily.com which is the home of your free personal Bible Study Guide, the ABC1, 23 Bible Study Method.
Speaker A: lionaires a million people by: Speaker A:You can help by saving and subscribing to the podcast and tagging your friends.
Speaker A: today's reading from Matthew: Speaker A:The prophet Daniel described this if you've read Daniel, you know what I'm talking about.
Speaker A:If you're living in Judea at the time, run for the hills.
Speaker A:If you're working in the yard, don't return to the house to get anything.
Speaker A:If you're out in the field, don't go back and get your coat.
Speaker A:Pregnant and nursing mothers will have it especially hard.
Speaker A:Hope and pray this won't happen during the winter or on a Sabbath.
Speaker A:This is going to be trouble on a scale beyond what the world has ever seen.
Speaker A:But or we'll see again.
Speaker A:If these days of trouble were left to run their course, nobody would make it.
Speaker A:But on account of God's chosen people, the trouble will be cut short.
Speaker A:The Arrival of the Son of Man if anyone tries to flag you down, calling out here's the Messiah, or points out, there he is, don't fall for it.
Speaker A:Fake messiahs and lying preachers are going to pop up everywhere.
Speaker A:Their impressive credentials and bewitching performances will pull the wool over the eyes of even those who ought to know better.
Speaker A:But I've given you fair warning.
Speaker A:So if they say run to the country and see him arrive, or quick, get downtown, see him come, don't give them the time of day.
Speaker A:The arrival of the Son of Man isn't something you go to see.
Speaker A:He comes like a swift lightning to you.
Speaker A:Whenever you see the crowds gathering.
Speaker A:Think of carrion vultures circling, moving in, hovering over a rotting carcass.
Speaker A:You can be quite sure that it's not the living son of man pulling in those crowds.
Speaker A:Wow, what a powerful passage of scripture.
Speaker A:And let's reflect on a little bit here where this is what we call an apocalyptic text that is read now through a progressive lens is what we do and offers wisdom on navigating times of great social upheaval and help us to discern what is authentic and what is not, especially with regards to matters of justice.
Speaker A:Let's think about this from some points to ponder.
Speaker A:So we're going here talking.
Speaker A:The first point is about going beyond literal apocalypse.
Speaker A:And this passage here uses apocalyptic imagery.
Speaker A:Progressive theology invites us to see it as a powerful metaphor for times of social crises and transformation.
Speaker A:The monster of desecration might represent systems of oppression that violate human dignity, whether through environmental destruction, economic exploitation or state violence.
Speaker A:Another point to ponder is about communities of discernment.
Speaker A:Jesus warnings about false messiahs speaks to our need for careful discernment in times of crisis.
Speaker A:In our era of misinformation, personality cults and quick fix solutions, this reminds us that authentic transformation rarely comes through charismatic individuals, but through grounded communities working for justice.
Speaker A:One more point.
Speaker A:It's about solidarity in crisis.
Speaker A:Notice Jesus.
Speaker A:Particular concern for vulnerable populations.
Speaker A:Pregnant women, nursing mothers, those without the resources to flee.
Speaker A:This suggests that our response to crisis should center on those most at risk.
Speaker A:True liberation movements protect the vulnerable rather than sacrificing them for the convenience of the privilege.
Speaker A:Let's take a look at our action step.
Speaker A:Practice crisis discernment.
Speaker A:That is choose an urgent issue facing your community.
Speaker A:Climate change, housing crisis, racial injustice, economic pressures.
Speaker A:Research how this crisis affects the most vulnerable among us.
Speaker A:Then evaluate proposed solutions based on whether they center on those communities needs or not.
Speaker A:And maybe share your findings with others and build kind of a library of collective wisdom for action.
Speaker A:We're going to come back with a prayer, a closing prayer here in just a moment.
Speaker A:Did want you to know that we have a great resource just for you to help you with your at home Bible study.
Speaker A:You use it in coordination with what we do here at the Daily Bible Refresh.
Speaker A:But you take this study which we call the ABC 1, 2, 3 Bible study method and you pick it up for free@voiceofgoddaily.com it will help you with your at home Bible study.
Speaker A:Let's pray.
Speaker A:Oh God, you're the source of wisdom and truth in times that feel apocalyptic.
Speaker A:When crisis surrounds us, when false solutions tempt us.
Speaker A:Grant us clarity of wisdom, of vision and wisdom to discern true paths to justice.
Speaker A:Help us center the vulnerable, build authentic community and resist the lure of quick fixes.
Speaker A:May we be people who choose the slow work of true transformation over the flash of a false promise.
Speaker A:In determination and hope we pray.
Speaker A:Amen.
Speaker A:My friend, I am delighted you chose to join me for today's reading.
Speaker A:The Daily Bible Refresh is completely listener supported.
Speaker A: on years, a million people by: Speaker A:I would be so grateful if you would go to voiceofgodddaily.com and share your gift of any amount.
Speaker A:Thanks much.
Speaker A:My name is Dr. Brad Miller and I'll be right here tomorrow with your Daily Bible Refresh.
Speaker A:Please subscribe and tag your friends until tomorrow.
Speaker A:Remember, God's loyal love doesn't run out.
Speaker A:His merciful love hasn't dried up, it's created new every morning.
