Biblical Foundations Academy International Podcast with Keith Johnson

This week’s Prophet reading—traditionally called the Haftorah—is Malachi 1:1–2:7. It accompanies the Torah portion Toldot (Genesis 25:19–28:9).

Through the prophet Malachi God admonishes those who are in positions of leading and teaching His people. He indicts them for turning the worship of God into hollow rituals and disrespecting Him in ways that even human rulers would not tolerate. He then declares His plan to restore virtuous leaders and teachers, whose lips will preserve knowledge and impart righteous instruction. Listen to Keith Johnson and Nehemia Gordon as they discover priceless gems in this installment of Prophet Pearls:Exploring...

This week’s Prophet reading—traditionally called the Haftorah—is 1 Kings 1:1-31. It accompanies the Torah portion Chayei Sarah (Genesis 23:1–25:18).

With Israel’s King David on his deathbed, the king’s eldest living son Adonijah devised an elaborate coup to wrest the kingdom from his half-brother Solomon, whom David had designated as his successor. Although the plot was foiled, it was the culmination of a series of tragic events in David’s family, brought on by his adultery with Bathsheba and the indirect murder of her husband to cover up his sin. Listen to Keith Johnson and Nehemia Gordon...

This week’s Prophet reading—traditionally called the Haftorah—is 2 Kings 4:1-37. It accompanies the Torah portion Vayeria (Genesis 18:1–22:24).

This passage relates the moving accounts of two women in great personal distress whose needs are met through divine miracles. Lessons about the powerful effects humility, perseverance, and obedience offer encouragement for God’s faithful children of all ages. Listen to Keith Johnson and Nehemia Gordon as they discover priceless gems in this installment of Prophet Pearls: Exploring Biblical Prophecy for Yesterday, Today, and Tomorrow.

If you would like to listen to Keith and Nehemia discuss the Torah...

This week’s Prophet reading—traditionally called the Haftorah—is Isaiah 40:27–41:16. It accompanies the Torah portion Lech Lecha (Genesis 12:1–17:27).

In this passage God declares his tireless care and protection for His people. He assures the fearful that He will strengthen, help, and uphold them with His righteous right hand. Listen to Keith Johnson and Nehemia Gordon as they discover priceless gems in this installment of Prophet Pearls: Exploring Biblical Prophecy for Yesterday, Today, and Tomorrow.

If you would like to listen to Keith and Nehemia discuss the Torah portions that correlate to the Prophet portions here are t...

This is the second Prophet section of what is traditionally called the Haftorah reading that accompanies the Torah portion of Noach (Genesis 6:1–6:8). This weeks reading is Isaiah 54:1-55:5 .

In this passage God draws on the imagery of the waters of Noah to assure His people that His love and compassion will never be removed from them. And to those who heed His admonition and turn to Him He promises to make an everlasting covenant. Listen to Keith Johnson and Nehemia Gordon as they discover priceless gems in this installment of Prophet Pearls: Exploring Biblical Prophecy fo...

The Prophet section, or what is traditionally called the Haftorah reading that accompanies the Torah portion of Bereshit (Genesis 1:1–6:8), is Isaiah 42:5–43:10.

In this dramatic passage the Creator identifies Himself and describes one of the roles of His chosen servant. He also assures the servant of His mercy and ultimate redemption, and calls upon him to witness to the nations. Listen to Keith Johnson and Nehemia Gordon as they discover priceless pearls in this first of many audio blog recordings of Prophet Pearls: Exploring Biblical Prophecy for Yesterday, Today, and Tomorrow.

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This week’s Prophet reading—traditionally called the Haftorah—is 2 Samuel 22:1–51. It accompanies the Torah portion Ha’azinu (Deuteronomy 32:1–52).

This passage is King David’s lengthy song or psalm of praise to God for saving him from all his enemies. Among the many expressions of praise and thanks for His protection and providence is the rhetorical question: “For who is God besides the LORD? And who is a rock, besides our God?” Listen to Keith Johnson and Nehemia Gordon as they discover priceless gems in this installment of Prophet Pearls: Exploring Biblical Prophecy for Yesterday, Today, and Tomorrow.

This week’s Prophet reading—traditionally called the Haftorah—is Isaiah 55:6–56:8. It accompanies the Torah portion Vayeilech (Deuteronomy 31:1–30).

This week’s passage begins with a remarkable affirmation of God’s readiness to forgive repentant sinners—personally, directly, and completely. He goes on to speak of His coming salvation for those who keep the Sabbath, who serve Him, and who hold fast to His covenant. God also declares that His House will be called a house of prayer for all peoples. Listen to Keith Johnson and Nehemia Gordon as they discover priceless gems in this installment of Prophet Pearls: Explorin...

This week’s Prophet reading—traditionally called the Haftorah—is Isaiah 61:10–63:9. It accompanies the Torah portion Nitzavim (Deuteronomy 29:9–30:20).

In this passage Isaiah proclaims that God will make righteousness spring up in the presence of all the nations, as plants spring up in a garden. Never again will Jerusalem be called Forsaken or Desolate, but will be God’s delight. In great love and mercy He will deliver His people. Listen to Keith Johnson and Nehemia Gordon as they discover priceless gems in this installment of Prophet Pearls: Exploring Biblical Prophecy for Yesterday, Today, and Tomorrow.

If you would...

This week’s Prophets portion is a repeat of an earlier portion. The portion for Noach covering Isaiah 54:1-55:5 is read a second time on two subsequent Sabbaths: Isaiah 54:11-55:5 for the portion of Re’eh and Isaiah 54:1-10 for the portion of Ki Teitzei. Rather than record three separate programs on the same section of the Prophets, we decided to re-post the discussion from earlier in the year covering this week’s Prophets portion. Enjoy!

This week’s Prophet Pearls repeat reading—traditionally called the Haftorah—is Isaiah 54:1–10. It accompanies the Torah portion Ki Teitzei (Deuteronomy 21:10–25:19).

Employing t...

This week's Prophets portion is a repeat of an earlier portion. The portion for Noach covering Isaiah 54:1-55:5 is read a second time on two subsequent Sabbaths: Isaiah 54:11-55:5 for the portion of Re'eh and Isaiah 54:1-10 for the portion of Ki Teitzei. Rather than record three separate programs on the same section of the Prophets, we decided to re-post the discussion from earlier in the year covering this week's Prophets portion. Enjoy!

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This week’s Prophet reading—traditionally called the Haftorah—is Isaiah 49:14–51:3. It accompanies the Torah portion Eikev (Deuteronomy 7:12–11:25).

In this passage the prophet Isaiah gives reassurance of God’s unfailing love. To a personified Jerusalem He says, “I never could forget you.” Those who pursue righteousness and seek God are admonished to consider God’s faithfulness to Abraham. Listen to Keith Johnson and Nehemia Gordon as they discover priceless gems in this installment of Prophet Pearls: Exploring Biblical Prophecy for Yesterday, Today, and Tomorrow.

If you would like to listen to Keith and Nehemia discuss the Torah portions...

This week’s Prophet reading—traditionally called the Haftorah—is Isaiah 40:1–26. It accompanies the Torah portion Vaetchanan (Deuteronomy 3:23–7:11).

In this Haftorah Isaiah conveys powerful promises of God’s restored blessings and presence among His people. He will come in might and care for His people as a shepherd cares for his flock. The passage concludes with a declaration of the incomparable power and majesty of the Almighty. Listen to Keith Johnson and Nehemia Gordon as they discover priceless gems in this installment of Prophet Pearls: Exploring Biblical Prophecy for Yesterday, Today, and Tomorrow.

If you would like t...

This week’s Prophet reading—traditionally called the Haftorah—is Isaiah 1:1–27. It accompanies the Torah portion Devarim (Deuteronomy 1:1–3:22).

This opening passage from the book of Isaiah catalogs many of God’s complaints against Judah and Jerusalem for their betrayal of His covenant. Despite the persistent sins of the national leaders and the general populace, God admonishes them to “cease to do evil” and “learn to do good.” The result will be complete cleansing, the removal of their sins. Listen to Keith Johnson and Nehemia Gordon as they discover priceless gems in this installment of Prophet Pearls: Exploring Biblical Prophecy fo...

This week’s Prophet reading—traditionally called the Haftorah—combines two passages and covers Jeremiah 1:1–2:28 and 3:4. These Prophet readings accompany the Torah portions Matot (Numbers 30:2–32:42) and Masei (Numbers 33:1–36:13).

These passages begin with the calling and commission of the prophet Jeremiah, and God’s assurance that He will strengthen and defend Jeremiah against the contempt and vengeance of his countrymen. God then proceeds to indict the nation of Judah for its abject idolatry, characterized as spiritual harlotry. One of God’s accusations is that His people had turned their backs to Him in order to worship false gods, even to the poin...

This week’s Prophet reading—traditionally called the Haftorah—combines two passages and covers Jeremiah 1:1–2:28 and 3:4. These Prophet readings accompany the Torah portions Matot (Numbers 30:2–32:42) and Masei (Numbers 33:1–36:13).

These passages begin with the calling and commission of the prophet Jeremiah, and God’s assurance that He will strengthen and defend Jeremiah against the contempt and vengeance of his countrymen. God then proceeds to indict the nation of Judah for its abject idolatry, characterized as spiritual harlotry. One of God’s accusations is that His people had turned their backs to Him in order to worship false gods, even to the poin...

This week’s Prophet reading—traditionally called the Haftorah—is Judges 11:1–33. It accompanies the Torah portion Chukat (Numbers 19:1–22:1).

This Haftorah is the story of Jephthah, a renegade warrior who is recruited to defend a portion of Israel against an invasion by the neighboring Ammonites. After failing to dissuade the Ammonites, Jephthah leads a successful campaign against them, freeing Israel from their threat. Jephthah is best known for a rash vow he makes before embarking on the military campaign.Listen to Keith Johnson and Nehemia Gordon as they discover priceless gems in this installment of Prophet Pearls: Exploring Biblical P...

This week’s Prophet reading—traditionally called the Haftorah—is 1 Samuel 11:14–12:22. It accompanies the Torah portion Korach (Numbers 16:1–18:32).

This week’s Haftorah begins with the coronation of Saul, the first king of Israel. During the inauguration celebration the prophet Samuel castigates the people for having rejected God as their king in favor of a human monarch. Nevertheless, Samuel assures them that if the people and the king will faithfully obey God it will go well for them. The passage concludes with Samuel’s assurance that God will never abandon His chosen people. Listen to Keith Johnson and Nehemia Gordon...

This week’s Prophet reading—traditionally called the Haftorah—is Joshua 2:1–24. It accompanies the Torah portion Sh’lach (Numbers 13:1–15:41).

This Haftorah relates the story of the two spies who go to Jericho in advance of Israel’s entrance into the land of Canaan. They are protected by a woman named Rahab, who confesses, “The LORD your God is the only God in heaven above and on earth below.” In turn, the spies promise to protect her and her family when the Israelites invade Jericho. Listen to Keith Johnson and Nehemia Gordon as they discover priceless gems in this installment o...

This week’s Prophet reading—traditionally called the Haftorah—is Judges 13:2–25. It accompanies the Torah portion Nasso (Numbers 4:21–7:89).

This Haftorah begins the famous story of Samson. After 40 years of Philistine oppression, God promises to raise up a deliverer. A divine messenger announces the birth and mission of Samson and instructs his parents about certain special requirements concerning their son. Samson is to be a Nazirite from the time of his conception to the end of his life. Listen to Keith Johnson and Nehemia Gordon as they discover priceless gems in this installment of Prophet Pearls: Exploring Biblical Prophecy f...

This week’s Prophet reading—traditionally called the Haftorah—is Jeremiah 16:19–17:14. It accompanies the Torah portion Bechukotai (Leviticus 26:3–27:34).

This week’s reading speaks of the futility of false gods, religious lies, and trusting in man, followed by God’s promise to teach people about Himself. God speaks of searching men’s hearts and dealing with them according to their deeds. The passage ends with Jeremiah’s request to be healed and saved. Listen to Keith Johnson and Nehemia Gordon as they discover priceless gems in this installment of Prophet Pearls: Exploring Biblical Prophecy for Yesterday, Today, and Tomorrow.

This week’s Prophet reading—traditionally called the Haftorah—is Jeremiah 32:6–27. It accompanies the Torah portion Behar (Leviticus 25:1–26:2).

The context of this passage is the impending destruction of Jerusalem by the Babylonians. It recounts God’s instruction to Jeremiah to purchase a parcel of land, an act that presages the eventual restoration and rebuilding of the city. Before the nation went into captivity God said, “Houses and fields and vineyards shall yet again be bought in this land.” Listen to Keith Johnson and Nehemia Gordon as they discover priceless gems in this installment of Prophet Pearls: Exploring Biblical Prophec...

Watch the first encounter Rich had with Rabbi Eliezer Ben-Yehuda that inspired us to bring them to our Return to the Book Conference. Listen to 12 follow-up audio episodes!

Watch here: https://bfainternational.com/lp-rich-rabbi-revisited/

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This week’s Prophet reading—traditionally called the Haftorah—is Ezekiel 44:15–31. It accompanies the Torah portion Emor (Leviticus 21:1–24:23). This Haftorah looks forward to the restoration of a faithful priesthood, whose principal responsibility can be summed up as teaching the people “what is sacred and what is profane, and what is clean and unclean.” Listen to Keith Johnson and Nehemia Gordon as they discover priceless gems in this installment of Prophet Pearls: Exploring Biblical Prophecy for Yesterday, Today, and Tomorrow.

If you would like to listen to Keith and Nehemia discuss the Torah portions that correlate to the Prophet portio...

This week’s Prophet reading—traditionally called the Haftorah—combines two passages and covers Ezekiel 22: 1–19 and Amos 9:7–15. These Prophet readings accompany the Torah portions Achrei Mot (Leviticus 16:1–18:30) and Kedoshim (Leviticus 19:1–20:27).

In the first of these two passages Ezekiel is commissioned to sit as a judge over the city of Jerusalem. He enumerates the crimes that have led to God’s displeasure, but also explains that His punishment will ultimately bring about the purification of His people. The second passage echoes the theme of sin and punishment, also ending with a striking promise of restoration, peace, and abundance. Listen to Keith...

This week’s Prophet reading—traditionally called the Haftorah—combines two passages and covers 2 Kings 4:42–5:19 and 7:3–20. These Prophet readings accompany the Torah portions Tazria (Leviticus 12:1–13:59) and Metzora (Leviticus 14:1–15:33).

These Haftorahs relate the history of two miracles. The first caused the Syrian general Naaman to declare: “Now I know that there is no God in the whole world except in Israel!” The second was the supernatural rescue of the city of Samaria from a Syrian invasion. Listen to Keith Johnson and Nehemia Gordon as they discover priceless gems in this installment of Prophet Pearls: Exploring Biblical Prophecy for Yesterday, Today...

This week’s Prophet reading—traditionally called the Haftorah—combines two passages and covers 2 Kings 4:42–5:19 and 7:3–20. These Prophet readings accompany the Torah portions Tazria (Leviticus 12:1–13:59) and Metzora (Leviticus 14:1–15:33).

These Haftorahs relate the history of two miracles. The first caused the Syrian general Naaman to declare: “Now I know that there is no God in the whole world except in Israel!” The second was the supernatural rescue of the city of Samaria from a Syrian invasion. Listen to Keith Johnson and Nehemia Gordon as they discover priceless gems in this installment of Prophet Pearls: Exploring Biblical Prophecy for Yesterday, Today...

This week’s Prophet reading—traditionally called the Haftorah—is 2 Samuel 6:1–7:17. It accompanies the Torah portion Shemini (Leviticus 9:1–11:47).

This passage relates the story of moving the Ark of God to the City of David. David wanted to build a temple or house for God, but was not permitted to do so. In fact, God promised that He would be the one to build a “house” for David, and that David’s royal line would be perpetuated through his son Solomon. Listen to Keith Johnson and Nehemia Gordon as they discover priceless gems in this installment of Prophet Pearls: Explorin...

This week’s Prophet reading—traditionally called the Haftorah—is Jeremiah 7:21–8:3 and 9:22–23. It accompanies the Torah portion Tzav (Leviticus 6:1–8:36).

This Haftorah contains Jeremiah’s scathing rebuke of the nation of Judah for its desecration of the temple called by God’s name. He also announces the coming punishment. The reading concludes with a familiar passage in which God admonishes us not to trust in our own wisdom, strength, or riches, but to walk in harmony with Him by adopting His character attributes of faithfulness, justice, and righteousness. Listen to Keith Johnson and Nehemia Gordon as they discover priceless gems i...

This week’s Prophet reading—traditionally called the Haftorah—is Isaiah 43:21–44:23. It accompanies the Torah portion Vayikra (Leviticus 1:1–5:26).

In this Haftorah the prophet castigates Israel for its idolatry and unfaithfulness, at the same time offering encouragement by assuring the people of God’s willingness to forgive their sins. This passage contains some of God’s powerful monotheistic declarations, along with marvelous promises about the redemption of His servant nation.Listen to Keith Johnson and Nehemia Gordon as they discover priceless gems in this installment of Prophet Pearls: Exploring Biblical Prophecy for Yesterday,

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This week’s Prophet reading—traditionally called the Haftorah—combines two passages and covers 1 Kings 7:40–8:21. These Prophet readings accompany the Torah portions Vayakhel (Exodus 35:1–38:20) and Pekudei (Exodus 38:21–40:38).

This Haftorah begins by mentioning a number of items that Solomon had contracted with Hiram, king of Tyre, to make for the temple in Jerusalem. The passage goes on to relate how Solomon oversaw the placement of the Ark of the Covenant into the temple, followed by his blessing over the nation. The king declared that day how God had made it possible for him to build a house where the name of...

This week’s Prophet reading—traditionally called the Haftorah—is 1 Kings 18:1–39. It accompanies the Torah portion Ki Tisa (Exodus 30:11–34:35).

The Torah reading relates the famous incident of the golden calf. This Haftorah deals with Israel’s worship of the false deity Baal. The prophet Elijah challenges his people to decide, once and for all, who they will follow: Baal or Yehovah. Seeing God’s dramatic answer to Elijah’s prayer, the people proclaim, “Yehovah, he is God; Yehovah, he is God.” Listen to Keith Johnson and Nehemia Gordon as they discover priceless gems in this installment of Prophet Pearls: Expl...

This week’s Prophet reading—traditionally called the Haftorah—is Ezekiel 43:10–27. It accompanies the Torah portion Tetzaveh (Exodus 27:20–30:10).

The context of this passage is the future restored temple in Jerusalem, giving instructions for the building and dedication of the altar of burnt offerings. The prophet emphasizes the need to carefully avoid the errors and unfaithfulness that led to the destruction of the previous temples. God assures his people that when the Levitical priests faithfully offer burnt offering on the altar he will accept his people. Listen to Keith Johnson and Nehemia Gordon as they discover priceless gems in this in...

This week’s Prophet reading—traditionally called the Haftorah—is 1 Kings 5:26–6:13 (5:12–6:13 in English). It accompanies the Torah portion Terumah (Exodus 25:1–27:19).

This Haftorah provides an overview of King Solomon’s construction of the temple in Jerusalem. God promises Solomon that if he faithfully keeps the divine statutes and commandments God will fulfill all the promises made to David and will dwell among his people Israel. This passage also includes a vital detail of biblical chronology, a benchmark for dating the exodus from Egypt as well as other important events. Listen to Keith Johnson and Nehemia Gordon as they discover price...

This week’s Prophet reading—traditionally called the Haftorah—is Jeremiah 34:8–22; 33:25–26. It accompanies the Torah portion Mishpatim (Exodus 21:1–24:18).

Jeremiah announces God’s impending punishment on the kingdom of Judah as a result of its persistent violation of his covenant. Despite a brief reform led by King Zedekiah, the nation turns its back on the righteous requirements of the covenant. The passage concludes with the reassurance that God’s faithfulness to Israel is as sure as the rising and setting of the sun. Listen to Keith Johnson and Nehemia Gordon as they discover priceless gems in this installment of Prophet Pearl...

This week’s Prophet reading—traditionally called the Haftorah—is Isaiah 6:1–7:6; 9:5–6. It accompanies the Torah portion Yitro (Exodus 18:1–20:23).

This passage records Isaiah’s calling and commission as a prophet, which begins with a dramatic revelation of the throne of God. The prophet then reassures King Ahaz of Judah that a hostile coalition of Syria and Israel will not succeed in dethroning him. The Haftorah concludes with the promise of a righteous king who will occupy the throne of David. Listen to Keith Johnson and Nehemia Gordon as they discover priceless gems in this installment of Prophet Pearls: Exploring Bibl...

This week’s Prophet reading—traditionally called the Haftorah—is Judges 4:4–5:31. It accompanies the Torah portion Beshalach (Exodus 13:17–17:16).

This week’s passage relates the history of the prophetess Deborah, who rallied a coalition of Israelite tribes to fight for their freedom from the harsh oppression of Jabin, a Canaanite king. Responding to the pleas of his people, God led them to a decisive victory over a far-superior Canaanite force. The defeat of Jabin was the beginning of a 40-year period of peace. Listen to Keith Johnson and Nehemia Gordon as they discover priceless gems in this installment of Prophet P...

This week’s Prophet reading—traditionally called the Haftorah—is Ezekiel 28:25–29:21. It accompanies the Torah portion Va’era’ (Exodus 6:2–9:35).

Echoing the theme of the Torah portion, this passage speaks of the punishment of Egypt, this time at the hands of the Babylonians. The punishment is attributed to the Pharaoh’s extreme arrogance and self-deification, as well as Egypt’s unreliable support of Israel. This Haftorah also reiterates God’s promise to regather his scattered people and restore the kingdom of Israel. Listen to Keith Johnson and Nehemia Gordon as they discover priceless gems in this installment of Prophet Pearls: Expl...

This week’s Prophet reading—traditionally called the Haftorah—is Ezekiel 37:15–28. It accompanies the Torah portion Vayigash (Genesis 44:18–47:27).

Relating a vision from God, the prophet Ezekiel foretells how the scattered peoples of Israel and Judah will ultimately be brought back to their ancestral land and be reunited as a single nation. They will come to recognize their sin and God will cleanse them. They will forever be His people and He will be their God. Listen to Keith Johnson and Nehemia Gordon as they discover priceless gems in this installment of Prophet Pearls: Exploring Biblical Prophecy for Yesterday...

This week’s Prophet reading—traditionally called the Haftorah—is 1 Kings 3:15–4:1. It accompanies the Torah portion Mikeitz (Genesis 41:1–44:17).

In this passage we read a famous example of the God-given wisdom of King Solomon. The king’s life-saving solution to a bitter dispute inspired his people and demonstrated his special ability to administer divine justice. Listen to Keith Johnson and Nehemia Gordon as they discover priceless gems in this installment of Prophet Pearls: Exploring Biblical Prophecy for Yesterday, Today, and Tomorrow.

If you would like to listen to Keith and Nehemia discuss the Torah portions that correlate to...