Join The Journey

What’s the significance of the repeated question, “What do you see?” in Zechariah’s visions? How are the visions in Zechariah 1–5 different from or similar to other prophetic visions in the Old Testament? In today's episode, Emma Dotter and Watermark member, Nate Roberts talk about Zechariah and helps us understand the context, audience, and themes of this prophetic book. Nate reminds us that the prophetic books are worth us slowing down to read and study because they point to Jesus and the promises that are fulfilled through Jesus. 

You can also check out the Join Th...

"Why does Haggai date his prophecies so precisely—with references to the reign of Darius and specific days? And in Haggai 2, God says the future glory of the temple will be greater than the former. How would Zerubbabel’s audience have understood that promise? In today’s episode, Emma Dotter is joined by faithful Watermark Member Karis Smith to talk all things Haggai. You can also check out the Join The Journey Jr. Podcast: Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/join-the-journey-junior/id1660089898 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6SG7aaE1ZjjFkgB34G8zp3?si=c960a63736904665 Check out the Jo...

"Why is does Zephaniah use a strong tone at the beginning of the book, and how would the original audience have heard that? How does the concept of ""a remnant"" function in Zephaniah's prophecy, and how might it have given hope to his listeners? In today's episode, Emma Dotter and Watermark member, Matt Hein, set up the book of Zephaniah and talk how the Israelites were being called back to God's heart out of a place of complacency. You can also check out the Join The Journey Jr. Podcast: Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/join-the-journey-junior/id1660089898 Spotify...

"Why does Habakkuk begin with a complaint rather than a call to repentance or judgment like other prophets? In Habakkuk 2:4, what does it mean that “the righteous shall live by faith,” and how would a sixth-century Israelite have understood that phrase? In today's episode, Emma Dotter and Watermark member, Seth Master talk about the lament that is seen in this book. Habakkuk reminds us that faith does not remove suffering, but it transforms our response to it. Additional References: Romans 1:17; Galatians 3:11; Hebrews 10:38 You can also check out the Join The Journey Jr. Podcast: Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podc...

"Why does Nahum focus so heavily on Nineveh’s downfall when Jonah showed its repentance? In Nahum 1:2–3, God is described as both avenging and slow to anger. How should we interpret this tension in God’s character? In today's episode, Emma Dotter gives more historical background for the book of Nahum and unpacks how God's mercy is wise, but this justice is also sure. Emma helps us think about how God's character can display both patience and judgment against sin. Additional references: Jonah 3:5-10 Exodus 34:6-7 To apply to serve as an Editor or Resource Writer with Join The Journey, go to...

"In Micah 6:6–8, what’s the historical or covenantal background that helps us understand why “do justice, love mercy, and walk humbly” was such a striking call? Why does Micah alternate between judgment and hope so often? In today's episode, Emma Dotter and Watermark member, Jonathan Linder, set up the book of Micah and talk about the character of God that is seen in both his judgment and mercy. Additional references: Psalm 19:7; Psalm 51:16; You can also check out the Join The Journey Jr. Podcast: Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/join-the-journey-junior/id1660089898 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6SG7aaE1ZjjF...

In Obadiah, why is Edom singled out for such strong judgment? In Jonah 4, why is Jonah so angry about Nineveh’s repentance—and what does that reaction reveal about his understanding of God? In today's episode, Emma Dotter talks with Watermark student, Paige Fowler, and discuss why God speaks to the nations who are not Israel. They discuss how we ought to handle anger we might feel toward the Lord and others.                                                                 

Additional references: Romans 7:15-20; Ephesians 2:13

Students! Check out Shoreline on Wednesday nights! https://www.watermark.org/ministries/shoreline

If you're...

Why does Amos call out those who feel “secure on Mount Samaria”? What does this reveal about the cultural and political climate in Israel at the time? How should we understand the promise to “raise up the booth of David” in Amos 9:11-15? In today's episode, Director of Equipping, Chris Sherrod, and Watermark member Cassidy Webber answer these questions from Amos 6-9 and discuss the consequences that God's people were experiencing in this passage.

Check out Great Questions if you have any questions about faith and theology. 

https://www.watermark.org/ministries/great-que...

Amos begins by indicting surrounding nations before turning to Israel—why might he structure his message this way, and how would that have impacted his original audience? How does God's rejection of Israel's worship in Amos 5 help us understand the relationship between justice and worship in the Old Testament? In today's episode, Director of Equipping, Chris Sherrod, talks with Watermark member, Cassidy Webber about Amos 1-5. Cassidy sets up the book of Amos for listeners and help answer these questions from the first 5 chapters. 

Check out Great Questions if you have any questions about fai...

In Joel 1, the locust plague is described in vivid, poetic language. Is this a metaphor for a future army—or a literal natural disaster? How does apocalyptic imagery function in prophetic literature like this? Join Emma Dotter today in a deep dive into the book of Joel and see how God is sovereign and just throughout this book. 

Additional references: Genesis 41-47; Exodus 7-12; Proverbs 9:10; Galatians 6:7-9; Hebrews 2:1

To read an article on the book of Joel, check out https://www.gotquestions.org/Book-of-Joel.html

T...

How should we understand New Testament usage of Old Testament texts?

What makes Hosea 13:14 so difficult to translate, and what are the implications of reading it one way or the other? In today's episode, Emma Dotter and Great Questions host, Alan Beam talk about Hosea 8-14 and answer these tough questions. 

Additional references: Genesis 19; Exodus 12; Judges 19; 2 Samuel 7; Matthew 2:15; 1 Corinthians 15

Check out Great Questions if you have any questions about faith and theology. 

https://www.watermark.org/ministries/great-questions

You can al...

What’s the significance of the names God gives Hosea’s children—and how do they connect to Israel’s spiritual condition? 2. Why does Hosea buy his wife back in chapter 3—and what does that reveal about covenant love in the context of betrayal?

Additional references: 2 Corinthians 3:18; 2 Kings 9; Romans 3:23-25

If you're a single adult, check out Gather that meets on Wednesday nights! https://www.watermark.org/ministries/single-adults

Check out the book referenced in today's episode! Christ from Beginning to End by Trent Hunter htt...

God’s sovereignty, “abomination of desolation”, and prophecy, oh my! Emma Dotter and faithful Watermark member Kathy Hempel Cox discuss Daniel 8-12, observing how God faithfully fulfills His promises and our calling to respond in prayer, obedience, and trust.

Additional Scripture:

Matthew 24:15-28

2 Thessalonians 2:3-4 – “Let no one deceive you in any way. For that day will not come, unless the rebellion comes first, and the man of lawlessness is revealed, the son of destruction, who opposes and exalts himself against every so-called god or object of worship, so that he takes h...

How should we understand the kingdoms in Daniel's visions-and what do they teach us about God's control over human history? What does Daniel teach us about living faithfully in a culture that doesn't follow God? Who is the "Son of Man" in Daniel 7, and why is that title so important to understanding Jesus? In today's episode, Emma Dotter and Watermark member Bobby Crotty break down each chapter in Daniel 4-7 and help us understand the theological truths within these passages. 

To access great commentary recommendations, check out www.bestcommentaries.com 

...

In today's episode, Emma Dotter talks with Watermark Great Questions host Marc Rose about the set up of the book of Daniel. Marc helps us understand the genres that are seen in Daniel and walks us through the themes of the first 4 chapters. 

To ask a question to our Great Questions hosts, scroll to the bottom of the Great Questions website to find the form to submit your questions! https://www.watermark.org/ministries/great-questions 

You can also check out the Join The Journey Jr. Podcast: 

https://pod...

What is the river of life in Ezekiel 47? In today's episode, Emma Dotter and Watermark member Mandy Sisco talk about what the river of life teach us about healing or God's presence. They also discuss the priestly roles, purity laws, and worship regulations in Ezekiel 44-46 in light of the new covenant. 

John 7:37-39; 1 Peter 2; Ezekiel 36:26

To hear more from Mandy! https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/s2-059-exodus-17-18/id1600151923?i=1000605527493

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/s2-060-exodus-19/id1600151923?i=1000605698727

In today's episode, Emma Dotter talks with Join The Journey volunteer, Matt Olson about Ezekiel 39-43. In this passage, Ezekiel and the Israelites are experiencing a separation from God. Matt reminds us that God's character is, and always be redemptive. They also explore the different views on Ezekiel's vision of the temple and what it means, both at that time and for us today. 

Additional references: Hebrews 10:14; Romans 12:1

Apply to be on the Join The Journey Resource Team! https://www.watermark.org/search/serve?query=Join%20the%20journey

What is the Valley of Dry Bones and Gog and Magog? In today’s episode, Emma Dotter and faithful Watermark member Matt Moss discuss God’s works of renewal observed in Ezekiel 35-38 and how He breathes life into the Israelites as they enter the Promised Land once again.

Additional Scripture:

John 15:5 – “I am the vine; you are the branches. Whoever abides in me and I in him, he it is that bears much fruit, for apart from me you can do nothing.”

1 Thessalonians 5:19 – “Do not quench the Spirit.”

Add...

In today's episode, Emma Dotter and Annie Blocker focus on Ezekiel 34:11-24, but come prepared to briefly address God's judgement against Egypt.

Additional References: John 10:11

You can also check out the Join The Journey Jr. Podcast: 

Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/join-the-journey-junior/id1660089898

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6SG7aaE1ZjjFkgB34G8zp3?si=c960a63736904665

Check out the Join The Journey Website for today's devotional and more resources!

https://www.jointhejourney.com/

Why are the nations outside the covenant accountable to God for their response to His people? What's significant about the fall of Tyre? What do we learn about Egypt? In today's episode, Emma Dotter and Watermark member Ryan Clark answer these questions as they dive into Ezekiel 25-29. 

Additional references:

Matthew 6:24

Check out our Middle School ministry, Wake! https://www.watermark.org/ministries/wake

You can also check out the Join The Journey Jr. Podcast: 

Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.co...

In today's episode, Jermaine Harrison and Watermark member Sarah Ewing talk about Ezekiel's response to God in the midst of hard circumstances and how Ezekiel trusts God's ultimate plan, even when the grief and pain is hard to walk through.

You can also check out the Join The Journey Jr. Podcast: 

Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/join-the-journey-junior/id1660089898

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6SG7aaE1ZjjFkgB34G8zp3?si=c960a63736904665

Check out the Join The Journey Website for today's devotional a...

What do we know about the lioness and her cubs mentioned in Ezekiel 19?  

What does the imagery of the vine allude to throughout Scripture? In today's episode, Will McIlroy talks with Watermark member Ethan Howard about Ezekiel 19-21 and helps us understand the imagery presented in these chapters of Ezekiel and how they tie into Christ. 

Additional references: Genesis 49:8-10

You can also check out the Join The Journey Jr. Podcast: 

Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/join-the-journey-junior/id1660089898

Spotify: https://ope...

In Ezekiel 16-18, what is all the imagery talking about? What does it mean that "the soul who sins shall die?" and "Does God take pleasure in the death of the wicked? In today's episode, Emma Dotter and Watermark member Brett Bruster answer these questions and discuss best Bible study practices for challenges passages, like here in Ezekiel. 

Additional references: Exodus 20

Check out the Ezekiel commentaries by Daniel Block: https://a.co/d/an7FOse

To dig in deeper, check out: www.bestcommentaries.com

In the milestone 200th episode of Year of the Word, host Emma Dotter sits down with Watermark Associate Pastor David Penuel to unpack three powerful warnings from Ezekiel 13-15. Dive into this thought-provoking discussion as they explore: first, how God's Word should not only comfort but also convict us; second, why our hearts alone cannot be trusted as the ultimate source of truth; and third, how past faithfulness doesn't guarantee future favor. Join us for a compelling conversation that challenges and inspires!

2 Timothy 4:3; Jeremiah 17:9; Psalm 139:23-24; Hebrews 12:1

You can...

How does this passage point forward to the New Covenant and spiritual transformation through Christ? In today's episode, Emma Dotter talks with Watermark college student, Ridge Thomas, about Ezekiel 11:17-21. Together they discuss how Ezekiel points to the New Testament and the salvation we receive through Christ and how the Holy Spirit helps change our heart posture to be more sensitive to his leading. 

Check out all that's available for college students here at Watermark! https://www.watermark.org/ministries/college

You can also check out the Join The J...

Why is Ezekiel doing these strange actions that the Lord is directing him to do? What is the message God is trying to communicate? In today's episode, Emma Dotter and Nathan Wagnon continue setting up the book of Ezekiel and talk about God's wrath against the Israelites. Nathan challenges us to think about how we might have a life that is resistant to the Holy Spirit and reflect on the hope we find in Jesus Christ. 

What is the setup the book of Ezekiel? Why does it seem to be a strange book? In today's episode, Emma Dotter talks with Watermark member, Nathan Wagnon, about Ezekiel 1-4. Nathan gives us the historical background of the book and helps us understand what God is communicating through the imagery at the beginning of this book.

Check out Nathan's previous episode to hear about the ancient near east zones of the cosmos:  https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/s4-168-isaiah-6-9/id1600151923?i=1000717344455

What does Lamentations 3 teach us about hope in the middle of suffering-not after it's over? How do chapters 4-5 model confession and dependence on God when restoration still feels far away? In today's episode, Emma Dotter and Watermark Men's Care Ministry Director, Brad Pollock, discuss Lamentations 3-5. Brad walks us through the chapters, highlighting how we can continue have hope in the midst of lamenting.

Additional References: Isaiah 55:8-9

Check out Brad's story of grace, check out his former episode from the book of Job! https://podcasts.apple.com...

Lamentations is a book expressing grief and lament. In today's episode, Emma Dotter talks with Watermark member, Brigiette Waldier about Lamentations 1-2. Brigiette sets up the book of Lamentations and answers the questions, "how does Lamentations portray the grief of God's people--and what can we learn about expressing sorrow biblically?" They also talk about Lamentations 2 and what it reveals about God's justice and compassion. 

If you are in a season of lament, check out our care ministries here: https://www.watermark.org/ministries/care

After the fall of Jerusalem and exile to Babylon, why does Jehoiachin's release from prison matter? In this captivating episode, Emma Dotter dives into Jeremiah 50-52, exploring the profound significance of King Jehoiachin's release from prison after the fall of Jerusalem and the Babylonian exile. With insightful commentary, Emma unpacks how this pivotal moment reveals the unwavering faithfulness of God’s promises, even in the face of uncertainty and upheaval. Join us as Emma illuminates God’s enduring sovereignty and offers encouragement for navigating life’s unknown paths with hope and trust.

Why such specific judgments? In today's episode, Emma Dotter talks with Watermark high school senior, Peri Howell about Jeremiah 48-49. These judgments can remind us of our own sin and our need for a savior. Peri reminds us that while we deserved separation for us, God in his mercy, provides a way back into relationship with him.

Additional references: Hebrews 11:1

If you're a high school student, check out Shoreline! https://www.watermark.org/ministries/shoreline

What was Jeremiah's warning to Baruch in Jeremiah 45? In today's episode, Emma Dotter and Watermark member, Brittany Stair, talk about God's providence over his people, even in the midst of sorrow and rebellion. Brittany reminds us that in the same way God called Jeremiah and Baruch, we are called to submit humbly to God's will. 

Additional references: Deuteronomy 4:6; Habakkuk 3; Romans 2:4; Romans 6:1-4

Check out Wake for Middle Schoolers! https://www.watermark.org/ministries/wake

What does Jeremiah 42-44 reveal about human nature, the tension between fear and faith, and the consequences of disobedience to God’s word? In today's episode, Emma Dotter talks with Watermark member, Tyler Moffett about Jeremiah 42-44 and answer the question "how does the remnant’s return to Egypt reflect a reversal of the Exodus story?" They discuss what lessons we can draw for trusting divine guidance in times of crisis.

Additional references: Jeremiah 6:16

Check out the Porch! https://www.watermark.org/ministries/the-porch

What do we do when we experience opposition when we are obeying God? In today’s episode, Emma Dotter and Watermark member, Andrew Templeton, discuss Jeremiah 38 and God’s faithfulness even in persecution. Andrew reminds us that faithfulness to the call of God is more important than successfulness.

Additional Scripture:

Jeremiah 2:13 – “for my people have committed two evils: they have forsaken me, the fountain of living waters, and hewed out cisterns for themselves, broken cisterns that can hold no water.”

Lamentations 3:53-55 – “they flung me alive into the pit and ca...

Why did Jehoiakim burn Jeremiah's scroll in Jeremiah 36? In today's episode, Emma Dotter talks with Watermark member, Edna Sanchez about the rejection of God that Jehoiakim shows in his burning of the scroll. Emma and Edna encourage listeners to live righteously before men and God, even when rejection may come and to heed the Word of God with reverence. 

Check out how you can live missionally in your community! https://www.watermark.org/engage/outreach

All about the new covenant! In today's episode, Emma Dotter talks about Jeremiah 31 and helps us understand the differences between the old covenant and the new covenant. Emma reminds us that the covenants were always about relationship between God and his people.

Additional references:

Genesis 1-3; Genesis 9, 12, 15-17; Exodus 19-24; Leviticus 17:11; Leviticus 26; Deuteronomy 4:6-8; Deuteronomy 28; 2 Samuel 7; Ezekiel 36:26-27; Hosea 6:7; Matthew 5:17; Luke 22:20; Romans 3:20; Romans 4:3; Romans 8:15-16; Galatians 3:6-9; Galatians 5:16; 1 Timothy 2:5; Hebrews 8-11

How does God respond to false prophets? In today's episode, Emma Dotter and Jentri Cornelius discuss Jeremiah 28-30. Jentri walks us through the story of Hananiah and why God's response to Hananiah's false teaching was necessary for the good of his people. We are reminded that we too can be easily led astray from God's teachings and how to avoid that happening in our lives.  

Additional references: Deuteronomy 28; Acts 17:11

Check out our middle school ministry, Wake! https://www.watermark.org/ministries/wake

What is the yoke of Nebuchadnezzar? In today's episode, Emma Dotter and Watermark member, Will Gullette, talk about Jeremiah 27 and define what is a yoke and explores God's sovereignty over his people and the earthly rulers. God's justice and mercy is on display in these chapters and reminds us that the Gospel is seen all throughout the Bible. 

Additional References: Romans 9:20-21

Check out today's Join The Journey devotional: https://www.jointhejourney.com/7179-jeremiah-s-faithfulness-hezekiah-s-response

Who is the Righteous Branch, and what does the answer to that question mean for us? In today’s episode, Emma Dotter discusses Jeremiah 22-24, highlighting the truths that God faithfully keeps his promises and that Jesus is the only righteous king.

Additional references: 2 Samuel 7; Isaiah 11:1; 1 Corinthians 1:30

AI was used in the creation of the script for this episode.

What’s important about the broken flask, and how do we think about the burning fire in Jeremiah’s bones? In today’s episode, Emma Dotter explores Jeremiah 19-21, emphasizing that God’s Word remains true, even when it’s painful, and that God’s servants are called to faithfulness, even when it’s costly.