Welcome to ?Finding Christ in the Old Testament.? To view the resources connected with this episode, visit https://johnhiltoniii.com/findingchrist.

Please like and comment on this episode and subscribe @scripturecentralofficial so you can more easily see the rest of the videos and resources in this course.

Whether you're using this course for personal enrichment or to help with "Come, Follow Me," we hope it will be valuable in your studies.

In this episode of Handmaidens, Harems & Heroines, Dr. Lynne Hilton Wilson begins an inspiring journey through Psalms 1?48, exploring the beauty, poetry, and profound faith found in the Bible's greatest collection of sacred songs. The Book of Psalms contains 150 ancient Hebrew poems, prayers, and hymns that have comforted, strengthened, and inspired believers for thousands of years. More than a hymnbook, the Psalms give voice to the full range of human emotion?from sorrow and fear to gratitude, hope, and joyful praise?while continually pointing readers toward God's sovereignty, mercy, and unwavering faithfulness.Lynne examines the historical setting of these beloved psalms, the artistry of Hebrew poetry, and the voices behind many of these sacred compositions, including David and other inspired authors. She also highlights the women who appear within the Psalms and the feminine imagery used to teach profound truths about God's covenant relationship with His children. Through these poetic masterpieces, viewers will discover timeless lessons about prayer, worship, repentance, trust, and finding peace in every season of life.This episode also explores why the Psalms held such a central place in the ministry of Jesus Christ. Of all the books in the Old Testament, Jesus quoted or referred to the Psalms more than any other, drawing upon their powerful prophecies and testimony of the Messiah. As Lynne traces these connections, she reveals how the Psalms deepen our understanding of the Savior's mission and invite each of us to worship Him with greater faith and devotion.Join Dr. Lynne Hilton Wilson as she uncovers the rich spiritual treasures of Psalms 1?48, helping modern readers discover why these inspired songs have become one of the most cherished and enduring books of scripture.Please leave a comment below with your thoughts and insights regarding this video, and please consider subscribing to this channel and visiting our website for more content like this: https://scripturecentral.org/*Donate to Scripture Central:https://form-renderer-app.donorperfect.io/give/scripture-central/donations*Sign up for our email list:https://forms.aweber.com/form/87/2078810487.htm*Download our free scripture study tool, the ScripturePlus app: https://www.scriptureplus.org/

People at times criticize the Church, claiming it unreasonably restricts lifestyle and free choice. This point of view, while understandable, is truth turned upside-down. There is no freedom without choice and there is no choice without knowledge.

Agency is expanded, not restricted by knowledge of truth. The greater the knowledge, the broader the agency and the greater the freedom. One cannot, for example, choose an eternal family, to be sealed to one?s spouse and children without the knowledge of sealing ordinances, priesthood, and the Restoration. One cannot choose to live the law of chastity without understanding the law and the consequences of obedience and disobedience. Many people do not understand and, therefore, they are not free to choose.

The Lord reveals knowledge, line upon line, precept upon precept gently expanding agency commensurate with one?s capacity to understand and obey.

Only by gaining knowledge are people ?placed in a state to act according to their wills.? Otherwise, there is no decision to be made, no choice, no agency, no freedom?only the bondage of ignorance.

Welcome to ?Finding Christ in the Old Testament.? To view the resources connected with this episode, visit https://johnhiltoniii.com/findingchrist.

Please like and comment on this episode and subscribe @scripturecentralofficial so you can more easily see the rest of the videos and resources in this course.

Whether you're using this course for personal enrichment or to help with "Come, Follow Me," we hope it will be valuable in your studies.

Lynne's Handouts: https://scripturecentral.org/archive/books/book-chapter/job-1?searchId=a8dd520af9cccb105ecead9705857c1e2d90a7fcec95388137b247b4cc8521c8-en-v=fadf3b9 In this episode of Handmaidens, Harems & Heroines, Dr. Lynne Hilton Wilson explores the often-overlooked women of the book of Job, revealing powerful lessons about family, faith, loss, and God's abundant blessings. While the book is best known for Job's unwavering faith through immense suffering, Lynne highlights the important role of Job's daughters and what their story teaches about women's value in the Old Testament.

Before Job's trials, his three daughters regularly joined their seven brothers in joyful family feasts, demonstrating a close-knit family where the daughters were fully included in family life. Their happiness was tragically cut short when a great wind destroyed the eldest brother's house, claiming the lives of all ten children in one heartbreaking moment. Lynne discusses how this devastating loss deepens our understanding of Job's grief and steadfast trust in God despite unimaginable sorrow.

The episode also focuses on Job's remarkable restoration. After the Lord blessed Job once again, he became the father of three daughters?Jemima, Kezia, and Keren-happuch?whose beauty was renowned throughout the land. More significantly, Job granted his daughters an inheritance alongside their brothers, a rare and extraordinary act in the ancient biblical world. Lynne examines how this unusual decision reflects Job's righteousness, integrity, and generosity, while illustrating the abundant blessings God poured out upon him in the latter part of his life. Join Dr. Lynne Hilton Wilson as she uncovers the rich historical, cultural, and spiritual insights surrounding the women of Job.

Discover how these faithful daughters illuminate themes of covenant family, equality before God, hope after tragedy, and the Lord's power to heal, restore, and bless those who remain faithful through life's greatest trials.

When someone leaves the Church, especially when many leave, people wonder, ?What do they know that I don?t?? 

A better question to ask is ?What do I know that they don?t?? 

Some claim Church culture is driving people away, that members feel unseen, disconnected, empty, unheard, unnourished, and unfulfilled by their involvement, and the solution they say is a transformation to a more open, inclusive, transparent, loving, and tolerant culture wherein more people can comfortably gather.

The ultimate question is not: ?Do I fit in, feel loved, accepted, and comfortable?? The ultimate question is: ?Is the Church true??

None of this is to say we should stand idly by as people walk out the door with broken and lonely hearts thinking, ?there is no place for me here.? But belief trumps doubt.  

If you view the church from the institutional perspective, then the arguments for leaving make sense. If you view it from the kingdom of God perspective, they fall apart.  

From the institutional point of view, reason would suggest leaving or stepping back if, as an institution, it does not meet your criteria, your expectations, and your judgment of what the Church should be. 

But if you see the Church as the kingdom of God on earth with sole authority to administer the ordinances of salvation to God?s children on both sides of the veil, endow them with power to engage in His work and thereby bring them back to Him, then you will stay come what may. 

 

Welcome to ?Finding Christ in the Old Testament.? To view the resources connected with this episode, visit https://johnhiltoniii.com/findingchrist.

Please like and comment on this episode and subscribe @scripturecentralofficial so you can more easily see the rest of the videos and resources in this course.

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Lynne's Handouts: https://scripturecentral.org/archive/books/book-chapter/esther-1?searchId=0eb3e36bfb24dcd9bb1d1bece1531216b59539a8fde17ee80224af0653c92aa3-en-v=fadf3b9

The book of Esther is one of the most inspiring stories of courage, faith, and divine providence in the Old Testament. In this episode of Handmaidens, Harems & Heroines, Dr. Lynne Hilton Wilson explores the remarkable life of Esther, a young Jewish woman who rose from obscurity to become queen of the Persian Empire. Set within a culture where women were often treated as political possessions and valued primarily for their beauty, Esther's story reveals extraordinary strength, wisdom, and conviction. Lynne examines how Esther refused to let her identity be defined as merely a trophy wife and instead embraced her divine calling to protect her people. This episode also explores the difficult realities faced by women in the ancient Persian court, including the expectations placed upon queens and concubines, and contrasts Esther's faithful courage with the actions of Queen Vashti. Together, their stories shed light on the limited agency women often possessed while highlighting the remarkable ways faithful women exercised influence despite those constraints. A central focus of the discussion is Esther's invitation for the Jewish people to fast with her for three days before she risked her life by approaching the king uninvited. Lynne explains the spiritual significance of this collective fast and how Esther's unwavering faith in God gave her the courage to declare, "If I perish, I perish." Her willingness to sacrifice everything for her covenant people stands as one of scripture's greatest examples of faith, leadership, and trusting in God's unseen hand. Join Dr. Lynne Hilton Wilson as she uncovers the historical background, cultural context, and powerful gospel lessons found in the book of Esther, revealing why this courageous queen continues to inspire believers to stand for truth, defend God's people, and exercise faith in moments when the future seems uncertain.

Enduring to the end is about getting to the end.  It is about finishing.  

It is not gritting your teeth, gutting it out, biting the bullet, looking forward to a brighter, happier day, and it?s not just not smoking until you die.  It is to do whatever is necessary to receive and follow the Holy Ghost, building up the kingdom of God as an active, contributing member of the Church of Jesus Christ beginning in your home, making a difference and never, ever, ever quit.  

Enduring to the end is to stay the course and finish.  It is dogged faithfulness.  

Yesterday?s accomplishments, good deeds and triumphs should be remembered and cherished, but they are in the past.  Yesterday?s mistakes should be remembered long enough to not repeat them, but they are in the past.  Some people mistakenly live there, in the past either reliving, rethinking mistakes or coasting on past successes or labors.  

What you did in the past, good or bad is not nearly as important as what you do today. 

Welcome to ?Finding Christ in the Old Testament.? To view the resources connected with this episode, visit https://johnhiltoniii.com/findingchrist.

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Lynne's Handouts can be found here:https://scripturecentral.org/archive/books/book-chapter/ezra-and-nehemiah?searchId=0eb3e36bfb24dcd9bb1d1bece1531216b59539a8fde17ee80224af0653c92aa3-en-v=fadf3b9 What can we learn about the faithful women who helped preserve covenant identity during one of Israel's most important periods of restoration? In this episode of Handmaidens, Harems, and Heroines, Bible scholar Lynne Hilton Wilson explores the Old Testament books of Ezra and Nehemiah, focusing on the often-overlooked women who lived during the return from Babylonian exile and the rebuilding of Jerusalem. Although these books primarily highlight the leadership of Ezra and Nehemiah, careful readers will discover women whose faith, family influence, and covenant commitment played a vital role in the restoration of God's people. Join us as we examine the lists of returning families, the significance of women in preserving Israel's lineage and religious identity, the challenges faced by wives and mothers during a time of social and spiritual reform, and the covenant renewal that united the community. Lynne also discusses the difficult passages concerning intermarriage, the status of women in post-exilic Judah, and what these stories reveal about faithfulness, sacrifice, and covenant belonging.

Nothing is as all-encompassing and all-inclusive as the gift of the Holy Ghost. The Comforter is the truth of all things, quickens all things, makes alive all things, knows all things, and has all power. Christ began and concluded His mortal ministry teaching about the gift of the Holy Ghost. Ask almost anyone what they most want in life and love, joy and peace in some combination will surface in the discussion. Paul taught the ?fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace?.? He also said, ?Now the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that ye may abound in hope, through the power of the Holy Ghost.? The best of all human conditions in this life is to be endowed with heavenly power, to be born again, to have the gift and companionship of the Holy Ghost. Nothing is worth the loss of the spirit. This world is too difficult to traverse alone.

Welcome to ?Finding Christ in the Old Testament.? To view the resources connected with this episode, visit https://johnhiltoniii.com/findingchrist. Please like and comment on this episode and subscribe @scripturecentralofficial so you can more easily see the rest of the videos and resources in this course. Whether you're using this course for personal enrichment or to help with "Come, Follow Me," we hope it will be valuable in your studies.

In this episode of Handmaidens, Harems, and Heroines, renowned Old Testament scholar Lynne Hilton Wilson explores 2 Chronicles 14?30 through the stories of the remarkable women who influenced the destiny of ancient Judah. From royal queens and princesses who shaped dynastic history to powerful women whose actions led nations toward righteousness or wickedness, this discussion uncovers the often-overlooked female voices behind the biblical narrative. Lynne examines the legacy of Queen Maacah, whose idolatrous influence led to her removal by King Asa, the courageous royal women connected to the preservation of David?s covenant lineage, and the important role of unnamed women whose faithfulness?or rebellion?affected generations. She also highlights the touching account of the nurse who helped care for and preserve royal heirs during times of political upheaval. Through historical insights, cultural context, and careful scripture study, this episode reveals how women in 2 Chronicles were far more than background figures?they were leaders, influencers, caretakers, and witnesses whose stories deepen our understanding of God?s work among His covenant people. Join Lynne as she uncovers these fascinating women and the lessons their lives offer modern readers of the Bible.

Why are ordinances and covenants necessary, and what does it mean to take upon oneself the name of Christ? When Jesus went to John the Baptist for baptism, John naturally resisted saying, ?I have need to be baptized of thee, and comest thou to me?? Jesus replied, ?Suffer it to be so now: for thus it becometh us to fulfill all righteousness. To Nicodemus the Lord said, ?Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born of water and of the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God.? Baptism is for the remission of sins to qualify one to receive the gift of the Holy Ghost and enter God?s kingdom. The last charge Christ left with His disciples was to ?teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost.? God?s plan for His children is not haphazard righteousness. There can be no fulfillment without commitment first. You must commit. It is this commitment that scares people off. Everyone wants the benefits offered. Every sane person wants fulfillment, redemption, joy, knowledge, peace, strength, love and power, but not everyone is willing to make the commitment to pay the price necessary to receive them. ?Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven.?

The Lord has said, ?Say nothing but repentance unto this generation; keep my commandments, and assist to bring forth my work, according to my commandments, and you shall be blessed.? What does that mean, say nothing but repentance? Synonyms for repentance might include sanctifying change or improvement. And if so, we might take the Lord?s admonition to ?say nothing but repentance unto this generation? as meaning ?say nothing but continual improvement to become more like the Lord.? Repentance is a subset of that more comprehensive, universal, divine drive to improve we call ambition. Repentance is the drive to specifically become more like the Lord. It is not autonomic as breathing or the beat of your heart, but it is as natural as eating and sleeping. Yes, what we otherwise call ?the natural man? and Satan resist change, but your divine nature is stronger and urges you to continually improve to realize the full measure of your potential. That process of refinement is repentance. If faith in Christ is to look to Him, learn of Him and trust Him, repentance is to apply what you learn. It?s that simple.

Welcome to ?Finding Christ in the Old Testament.? To view the resources connected with this episode, visit https://johnhiltoniii.com/findingchrist. Please like and comment on this episode and subscribe @scripturecentralofficial so you can more easily see the rest of the videos and resources in this course. Whether you're using this course for personal enrichment or to help with "Come, Follow Me," we hope it will be valuable in your studies.

Lynne's handouts: https://scripturecentral.org/archive/books/book-chapter/2-kings-14-25?searchId=0eb3e36bfb24dcd9bb1d1bece1531216b59539a8fde17ee80224af0653c92aa3-en-v=fadf3b9 In this episode of Handmaidens, Harems, and Heroines, scholar Lynne Hilton Wilson explores 2 Kings 15?25 through the often-overlooked experiences of women in the Old Testament. Set during the turbulent final years of the kingdoms of Israel and Judah, these chapters tell a story of political upheaval, prophetic warnings, and the destruction of Jerusalem?but they also reveal the influence, courage, and suffering of women living through these events. Lynne highlights the roles of royal women, mothers of kings, prophetesses, and ordinary women whose lives were shaped by covenant faithfulness and national crisis. She examines how women participated in religious life, preserved family and covenant traditions, and responded to the spiritual decline of their societies. The episode also considers the reforms of righteous kings such as Hezekiah and Josiah, the ministry of the prophetess Huldah, and the devastating consequences of Judah?s exile to Babylon. Throughout the discussion, Lynne invites listeners to see these familiar chapters with fresh eyes: not only as political history, but as sacred history that includes women?s voices, choices, and testimonies. Their stories illuminate themes of covenant loyalty, repentance, resilience, and hope in times of collapse.

Welcome to ?Finding Christ in the Old Testament.? To view the resources connected with this episode, visit https://johnhiltoniii.com/findingchrist. Please like and comment on this episode and subscribe @scripturecentralofficial so you can more easily see the rest of the videos and resources in this course. Whether you're using this course for personal enrichment or to help with "Come, Follow Me," we hope it will be valuable in your studies.

Lynne's Handouts: https://scripturecentral.org/archive/books/book-chapter/2-kings-2-7-8-11?searchId=0eb3e36bfb24dcd9bb1d1bece1531216b59539a8fde17ee80224af0653c92aa3-en-v=fadf3b9 In this episode of Women in the Old Testament, Lynne Hilton Wilson explores the faith, courage, and influence of often-overlooked women whose actions changed lives and strengthened God?s work. The discussion highlights Naaman?s wife, the faithful Hebrew handmaiden whose testimony led to a miraculous healing, and the remarkable Shunammite woman whose hospitality, faith, and perseverance brought blessings to her family. Through their stories, viewers gain fresh insights into discipleship, service, and the powerful impact of righteous women in the Old Testament.

"Stand Forever" Ep. 21 | The Truth?Faith in Christ | Elder Lawrence E. Corbridge by Scripture Central

Welcome to ?Finding Christ in the Old Testament.? To view the resources connected with this episode, visit https://johnhiltoniii.com/findingchrist. Please like and comment on this episode and subscribe @scripturecentralofficial so you can more easily see the rest of the videos and resources in this course. Whether you're using this course for personal enrichment or to help with "Come, Follow Me," we hope it will be valuable in your studies.

Join Lynne Hilton Wilson as she explores the powerful and complex stories of the Old Testament women in 1 Kings 12?22, including the wife of Jeroboam, the infamous Queen Jezebel, and the faithful widow of Zarephath. In this study, we examine how these women influenced kings, confronted prophets, and revealed themes of faith, idolatry, power, and God?s provision during one of Israel?s most divided eras. Join us as we uncover the lessons and spiritual insights hidden within these remarkable Old Testament accounts.

There only two places in the world, the path of the gospel of Jesus Christ, and everywhere else. You are either on the path or you?re not. The question should be, ?are you on the path?? It doesn?t matter so much where you are on the path, if you are on it and moving forward?that?s the question. If you are, then you are good enough despite your weaknesses, mistakes, and imperfections. It?s that simple. One common belief is all roads lead to heaven. It is a prevalent belief that has done great harm to mankind throughout time. It is as old as the world. Nehor falsely taught ??all mankind should be saved at the last day, and that they need not fear nor tremble,? Moroni saw our day and said ?? there shall be many who will say, Do this, or do that, and it mattereth not, for the Lord will uphold such as the last day. But wo unto such, for they are in the gall of bitterness and in the bonds of iniquity.? Obviously, all churches cannot be true because, although there is some common ground among them, they differ greatly in fundamental doctrine. The only other conclusion is no church is the true church, which means they are all in error. God created all of this, the cosmos, the universe, our solar system, the earth, and every form of life, just to stick us here and let us muddle through? How much sense does that make? Why would He do that? Why create this world for us and then leave us in confusion to stumble along? Why would He not show us the Way and then allow us to choose? If God wants us to return to His presence, if He loves us and wants us to succeed in this life, then would He not make the way clear from the beginning? Yes, He would, and He has.

Welcome to ?Finding Christ in the Old Testament.? To view the resources connected with this episode, visit https://johnhiltoniii.com/findingchrist. Please like and comment on this episode and subscribe @scripturecentralofficial so you can more easily see the rest of the videos and resources in this course. Whether you're using this course for personal enrichment or to help with "Come, Follow Me," we hope it will be valuable in your studies.

Join Lynne Hilton Wilson for an insightful discussion on the women of Samuel and 1 Kings, including Bathsheba?s story of seduction, abuse of power, and tragedy surrounding David?s actions. This episode also explores the difficult questions surrounding plural marriage in the lives of David and Solomon, examining the historical, cultural, and spiritual context of these Old Testament accounts. Discover deeper perspectives on faith, agency, leadership, and the consequences of choices in the lives of Israel?s kings and the women affected by them.

How do you define yourself? How do you see yourself? We all live in boxes. Inside your box is the stuff and circumstances of your life. All you know and believe, all your experiences, your community and neighborhood, city, town, and country, your church, titles and education, the relationships of your life, and you are all inside that box. From the outside, most boxes look alike, but when you see what is inside, no two boxes are the same. They are all quite similar and yet very different. They are all boxes, but they all hold different stuff. Your box is your world. But it is not the whole world. How you see yourself is monumentally important, but almost always, you see yourself within your box, and that is a mistake. Occasionally, someone stands up and looks outside his box. He looks up and beyond his box. He sees more; he catches a glimpse of another Way, the only Way to fulfill his divine potential, the only true standard, the One Thing. ?What manner of men (and women) ought ye to be?? Christ is the model. That is the paradigm. Think outside the box. Otherwise, you will rise no higher than the best of your box, which is far less than your true potential.

Welcome to ?Finding Christ in the Old Testament.? To view the resources connected with this episode, visit https://johnhiltoniii.com/findingchrist. Please like and comment on this episode and subscribe @scripturecentralofficial so you can more easily see the rest of the videos and resources in this course. Whether you're using this course for personal enrichment or to help with "Come, Follow Me," we hope it will be valuable in your studies.

Step into one of the most dramatic and transformative periods in the Old Testament as Lynne Hilton Wilson explores 1 Samuel 17 through 2 Samuel 7. In this episode, we examine the legendary confrontation between David and Goliath, the fall of Saul, and the rise of David from shepherd boy to king of Israel. What can we learn from the women who shaped these events?often quietly, courageously, and faithfully behind the scenes? Dr. Wilson highlights the influence of figures such as Michal, Abigail, Bathsheba, and other women whose stories illuminate covenant faithfulness, wisdom, political courage, and spiritual strength during a turbulent era in Israel?s history. This episode also explores: ? David?s faith in confronting Goliath ? The contrast between Saul and David?s leadership ? Covenant relationships and kingship in ancient Israel ? The role of women in preserving families, kingdoms, and Faith ? Messianic themes and covenant promises in 2 Samuel 7 ? Insights from Hebrew culture, history, and scripture scholarship

In the last episode, we partially answered the question we should all answer from time to time, ?Who am I?? Today, we will consider additional aspects of your identity, particularly who you were before this life. To whatever extent good and evil were present in our first estate, one thing is clear, nothing then and there compares to the prevalence and extremes of good and evil here. For the first time ever, we are out of the presence of God, on our own, without memory of Him. For the first time ever, we are clothed with a physical body. Satan and his minions roam freely and are having their way with the world. While great wickedness is scattered across the face of the earth, this is also where God sent the ?noble and great ones? from among His children. Abraham said: ?Now, the Lord had shown unto me, Abraham, the intelligences that were organized before the world was; and among all these there were many of the noble and great ones; Are you among those noble and great ones to be the Lord?s rulers?

Welcome to ?Finding Christ in the Old Testament.? To view the resources connected with this episode, visit https://johnhiltoniii.com/findingchrist. Please like and comment on this episode and subscribe @scripturecentralofficial so you can more easily see the rest of the videos and resources in this course. Whether you're using this course for personal enrichment or to help with "Come, Follow Me," we hope it will be valuable in your studies.

What happens when God?s people trade prophetic guidance for political power? In this thought-provoking episode of Handmaidens, Harems, and Heroines, Lynne Hilton Wilson dives into 1 Samuel 8?16 to explore Israel?s pivotal?and perilous?shift from prophets to kings. As the Israelites demand a king ?like all the nations,? the prophet Samuel delivers a sobering warning about what monarchy will bring: oppression, inequality, and a distancing from God. Lynne unpacks Samuel?s prophetic counsel and examines why the desire for a king represented more than a political change?it was a spiritual turning point rooted in fear, comparison, and misplaced trust. The episode then follows the rise and fall of King Saul, whose early promise gives way to insecurity, disobedience, and jealousy. As Saul begins to forget God, his fixation on power leads him to see young David as a threat rather than the Lord?s anointed. Lynne explores Saul?s tragic descent and the tension between divine will and human ambition, highlighting the consequences of choosing earthly authority over spiritual guidance.

There is a valuable question we should all answer from time to time. The question is simply, ?Who am I?? ?Who am I?? should be addressed from time to time because the complete answer changes as you change, and one way or the other, you are always changing. Getting a fix on who you and where you are is essential to staying on course. How you view yourself and getting a fix on who you really are, may be more important than where you are. Those few who have a clear definition and vision of who they are, are more settled and usually accomplish more. If you see yourself as you really are, you will be humble. Humility is the condition of the human spirit when presently aware of who you are and who God is. It is to recognize the gap, recognize your weakness and absolute dependence on God for every good thing, including breath and the beat of your heart. Joseph Smith said: ?There are but a very few beings in the world who understand rightly the character of God?If men do not comprehend the character of God, they do not comprehend themselves.?

Welcome to ?Finding Christ in the Old Testament.? To view the resources connected with this episode, visit https://johnhiltoniii.com/findingchrist. Please like and comment on this episode and subscribe @scripturecentralofficial so you can more easily see the rest of the videos and resources in this course. Whether you're using this course for personal enrichment or to help with "Come, Follow Me," we hope it will be valuable in your studies.

Journey into some of the most tender and powerful stories of faith in this moving episode of Handmaidens, Harems, and Heroines with Lynne Hilton Wilson. Focusing on the Book of Ruth and the opening chapters of 1 Samuel, Lynne explores the lives of extraordinary covenant women whose loyalty, sacrifice, and trust in God changed the course of Israel?s history. At the heart of the episode is Ruth?a Moabite widow whose devotion to her mother-in-law Naomi stands as one of the most beautiful expressions of covenant loyalty in scripture. Lynne unpacks Ruth?s courageous choice to leave everything behind, her humble faith as she gleans in the fields, and her eventual redemption through Boaz, the kinsman-redeemer. Together, their story becomes a powerful symbol of belonging, divine providence, and the inclusive reach of God?s covenant. The episode also turns to Hannah, a woman of deep sorrow and even deeper faith. Through her heartfelt prayers and unwavering devotion, Hannah becomes the mother of Samuel, one of Israel?s greatest prophets. Lynne explores Hannah?s covenant with God, her willingness to consecrate her long-awaited son, and the spiritual foundation she provides for Samuel?s prophetic calling. With insight and compassion, Lynne weaves these stories together to highlight how women?often overlooked?play central roles in God?s unfolding plan. This episode offers a rich, inspiring look at faith, family, redemption, and the quiet strength of covenant discipleship.

We?ve considered Christ as the Way to the gifts of God?s Spirit and God?s life. In this and the coming episodes, we turn our attention to Christ as the Truth offsetting darkness. Without intervention, without light, darkness reigns. It is the natural state of things. God offsets the natural state of things. The common tendency is blend in with the crowd. Most of us are uncomfortable with attention. Most of us would rather go somewhat unnoticed. If you can blend in, less may be expected of you. Safety is thought to be found in numbers blending in with the crowd which gives rise to a silent accord of low expectations, an unconscious consensus of mediocrity. The Lord promised that if we care for the poor and provide help for those in need, ?Then shall thy light break forth as the morning?? If you follow the Lord, you will be a light shining in the darkness. Your light will shine, which will be Him, His light, and whether you choose it or want it, you will be a city set on a hill.

Welcome to ?Finding Christ in the Old Testament.? To view the resources connected with this episode, visit https://johnhiltoniii.com/findingchrist. Please like and comment on this episode and subscribe @scripturecentralofficial so you can more easily see the rest of the videos and resources in this course. Whether you're using this course for personal enrichment or to help with "Come, Follow Me," we hope it will be valuable in your studies.

Step into one of the most dramatic and complex books of the Old Testament in this powerful episode of Handmaidens, Harems, and Heroines with Lynne Hilton Wilson. Exploring the Book of Judges, Lynne shines a spotlight on the remarkable?and often misunderstood?women who shaped Israel?s turbulent journey between conquest and kingship. This episode highlights the extraordinary story of Deborah, a prophetess and the only female judge in the biblical record, whose leadership, wisdom, and faith guided Israel to victory. Lynne unpacks what Deborah?s role reveals about women, authority, and covenant relationships with God in ancient Israel. The discussion then turns to one of the most famous?and tragic?stories in scripture: Samson and Delilah. Was Delilah simply a villain, or is there more beneath the surface? Lynne examines the cultural, political, and personal dynamics at play, offering fresh insights into this complex narrative. With her signature depth and clarity, Lynne invites viewers to reconsider familiar stories and discover how women in the Book of Judges navigated power, faith, and survival in a chaotic world. This episode is a must-watch for anyone interested in the role of women in scripture and the deeper meanings behind these unforgettable biblical accounts. Thank you for joining us at Scripture Central! We hope that you have enjoyed this content.

God?s plan for us is not only for us to be cleansed of sin through the blood of Christ, but also to be fruitful, make a difference, and do good by the power and gifts of God. People say, ?Life is a journey; enjoy the journey,? but life is also about getting to the end, reunion with God, receiving the gift of God?s Son, God?s Spirit and God?s life by engaging in God?s work and helping others do the same. One of the overarching purposes of life is to become fruitful. To make a difference in the lives of others is not only part of the journey but also part of the destination. It isn?t just about faithfulness, but making a difference. And what is the highest expression of fruitfulness? Feeding the starving masses, finding a cure for cancer, ?cheering up the sad and making someone feel glad?? No, as noble as those things are. The highest expression of fruitfulness is to help others close the gap of separation from God by receiving God?s greatest gifts, His Son, His Spirit, and His life.

Is there something you can do that will make everything else better without an opportunity cost? And if so, what is The One Thing? With discipline and sustained effort, you can master one thing over time and maybe learn to do a few things well, but you can?t become a master of many things because of ?opportunity cost.? We can only do one thing at a time. Talents, energy, resources, and time are limited. A dollar spent on one thing is a dollar not spent on everything else. An hour of swimming, watching television, or studying scripture is at the expense of everything else that could have been done with that same time and energy. When you say yes to one thing, you say no to everything else. Yes, there is One Thing that can be done not at the expense of everything else, but while doing everything else, that will also enhance, instruct, and make everything else better. To discover that One Thing, we ask another question: What has the Lord said we should always do? The answer to that question will reveal the One Thing.

Welcome to ?Finding Christ in the Old Testament.? To view the resources connected with this episode, visit https://johnhiltoniii.com/findingchrist. Please like and comment on this episode and subscribe @scripturecentralofficial so you can more easily see the rest of the videos and resources in this course. Whether you're using this course for personal enrichment or to help with "Come, Follow Me," we hope it will be valuable in your studies.

In this episode of Handmaidens, Harems, and Heroines, Dr. Lynne Hilton Wilson explores the powerful women and pivotal covenant moments found in the book of Joshua. As the children of Israel finally cross the Jordan River and enter the Promised Land under Joshua?s leadership, we witness the fulfillment of promises made generations earlier. From the miraculous crossing of the Jordan to the dramatic fall of Jericho?s walls, this episode highlights how faith, obedience, and covenant loyalty shaped Israel?s destiny. A special focus is placed on Rahab, one of the most surprising and courageous women in the Old Testament. Though known as Rahab the harlot, her story becomes one of redemption, faith, and divine protection as she risks everything to shelter Israelite spies and align herself with the God of Israel. Dr. Wilson examines Rahab?s remarkable transformation from outsider to covenant participant and discusses her lasting legacy in scripture. Join us as we uncover how women like Rahab played essential roles in God?s unfolding covenant story and what their examples teach us today.

Welcome to ?Finding Christ in the Old Testament.? To view the resources connected with this episode, visit https://johnhiltoniii.com/findingchrist. Please like and comment on this episode and subscribe @scripturecentralofficial so you can more easily see the rest of the videos and resources in this course. Whether you're using this course for personal enrichment or to help with "Come, Follow Me," we hope it will be valuable in your studies.

Step into the world of the Old Testament with Lynne Hilton Wilson as she uncovers the powerful, complex, and often overlooked stories of women during one of Israel?s most transformative eras. In this episode, we follow the Israelites as they prepare to enter the Promised Land?a moment filled with hope, covenant renewal, and profound social restructuring. But beneath the surface, what did this transition mean for women? From wives and mothers to servants and slaves, Lynne explores how women navigated a shifting religious and cultural landscape, revealing both their resilience and the limitations placed upon them. This episode also takes a thoughtful look at the theological tone of Deuteronomy compared to the earlier Books of Moses. Why does Deuteronomy seem to centralize worship and, in some ways, move away from earlier temple-oriented practices? How might these shifts have impacted women?s roles in covenant life and sacred spaces? With insight and clarity, Lynne highlights how scriptural developments can both elevate and restrict, offering a nuanced perspective on faith, law, and the lived experiences of women in ancient Israel. This is a conversation that will deepen your understanding of scripture?and challenge you to see it in a whole new way.

"Stand Forever" Ep. 13 | The Way?Choose Christ | Elder Lawrence E. Corbridge by Scripture Central

Welcome to ?Finding Christ in the Old Testament.? To view the resources connected with this episode, visit https://johnhiltoniii.com/findingchrist. Please like and comment on this episode and subscribe @scripturecentralofficial so you can more easily see the rest of the videos and resources in this course. Whether you're using this course for personal enrichment or to help with "Come, Follow Me," we hope it will be valuable in your studies.

You are the product of your choices. The purpose of God?s plan for you is to learn to choose wisely, to make increasingly better choices until you learn to make the best choices, the choices God would make. It?s that simple. There is a God who is the Creator of all things. You are His child. Offspring may become like their parents in each of life?s many divisions and you may become like yours. As His child and in His likeness, you have the innate potential and capacity to advance from one degree of light and intelligence to the next, and from there on to the next beyond that and on and on until, in the process of a very long time and with the right conditions and choices, you become like Him. What else could be the natural conclusion of the evolution of a child, if not to that of the parents? The full realization of your divine potential, however, is not inevitable. It is no more inevitable than a child in this life matching either the superb character or excellent achievements of an outstanding father or mother. One may be born into greatness, but greatness achieved must be won by each individually. Greatness actualized and greatness internalized comes neither by birth nor environment, rather by choice.

In this episode of Handmaidens, Harems, and Heroines, Lynne Hilton Wilson explores the book of Numbers through the often-overlooked experiences of women in the wilderness journey of Israel. Set against a backdrop of wandering, testing, and covenant renewal, this episode highlights how women were not only present but deeply woven into the spiritual life of the covenant community. From moments of devotion and faith to instances of struggle and consequence, their stories reveal how God?s promises and expectations extended to all His children. Listeners will gain fresh insight into how women participated in sacred rituals, upheld family and communal faith, and experienced both the blessings and responsibilities of living in covenant with God. At the same time, this episode does not shy away from the challenges these women faced?uncertainty, displacement, societal limitations, and the consequences of disobedience. Through careful scriptural analysis, Lynne examines how these experiences reflect broader themes of trust, obedience, and divine mercy. Ultimately, the episode invites viewers to see the book of Numbers not just as a record of wandering, but as a powerful testament to God?s enduring relationship with His people?including the faithful women whose lives exemplify both the struggles and the sacred blessings of covenant discipleship.

Welcome to ?Finding Christ in the Old Testament.? To view the resources connected with this episode, visit https://johnhiltoniii.com/findingchrist. Please like and comment on this episode and subscribe @scripturecentralofficial so you can more easily see the rest of the videos and resources in this course. Whether you're using this course for personal enrichment or to help with "Come, Follow Me," we hope it will be valuable in your studies.

In this episode of Handmaidens, Harems, and Heroines, host Lynne Hilton Wilson explores the powerful and often overlooked contributions of women during one of the most sacred building projects in scripture?the construction of the Tabernacle. Focusing on Exodus chapters 35?40 and key passages in Leviticus, this episode highlights how covenant communities are built not only through priesthood leadership, but through the faithful offerings, craftsmanship, and devotion of both men and women. From spinning fine linen to offering precious materials, the women of Israel played a vital role in creating a holy space where God could dwell among His people. Dr. Wilson also dives into the meaning behind the Tabernacle?s sacred design, the holiness of the spaces within it, and how these patterns point to deeper spiritual truths found in temple worship. With thoughtful insight, she connects the ancient world to modern discipleship, emphasizing how women?s service, sacrifice, and spiritual power have always been central to God?s work. This episode invites viewers to see the Tabernacle not just as a structure, but as a symbol of unity, holiness, and the divine potential within each of us.