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This Episode was originally recorded and made available as exclusive bonus content on Patreon on the 17th June 2023 - Hope you enjoy.

Original Episode Notes.

Welcome to "Mencius - Are People Naturally Good?"

In this bonus episode, I look at the life and teachings of Mencius, a highly influential Chinese philosopher who lived during the Warring States period of ancient China. Mencius, also known as Mengzi or Meng Tzu, is considered one of the most prominent disciples of Confucius, and his ideas have had a lasting impact on Chinese philosophy, Taoism, ethics, and eastern political thought in general.

This is a bonus episode using the musings and thoughts I pulled together as an attempt to offer a Christian perspective on the teaching of ‘Mencius’ prior to participating in a discussion group on the 13th June 2023.

In this short episode I try and demonstrates the significant differences between Mencius’ spiritual framework and his different approach to moral and spiritual matters from a Christian perspective.

Mencius emphasizes the cultivation of moral virtues and the innate goodness of human nature, believing that individuals can develop these qualities through self-cultivation and education. In contrast, Christianity acknowledges the fallen nature of humanity due to original sin, emphasizing the need for redemption through faith in Jesus Christ. Christian ethics revolve around obedience to divine commandments, love of God and neighbour, and the pursuit of holiness. Christian thinking recognizes the inherent moral limitations of humans and places greater emphasis on divine grace and redemption.

I try here to show Mencius' teachings in contrast to Christian thinking and try and show the significant differences in their views on human nature, the nature of the Divine and the ‘outrageous grace’ and nature of God's revelation, along with the transformative significance of the Christian faith. Understanding these differences provides valuable insights into the contrasting an eastern spiritual perspectives with biblical Christianity.

An amateur attempt but I hope you find it offers some useful insights.

Jeremy (June 2023)

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Jeremy McCandless is creating podcasts and devotional resources | Patreon

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https://thebibleproject.buzzsprout.com

Send us a text

For an ad-free version of the podcast plus the opportunity to enjoy hours of exclusive content and two bonus episodes a month and also help keep the Bible Project Daily Podcast free for listeners everywhere at;
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Subscribe here to receive my new church history podcast every few weeks at.
Episode Title: The Death of Moses

Scripture Reading: Deuteronomy 34:1-12

Episode Notes:

In this episode, we explore the final chapter of Deuteronomy, where Moses climbs Mount Nebo and receives a vision of the Promised Land. Despite his longing, he is reminded that he will not enter it. We delve into the following key points:

1. The Vision from Mount Nebo:
   • Moses sees the expanse of the Promised Land, with God's help, seeing areas far beyond natural sight.
2. God’s Promise and Moses' Fate:
   • God reaffirms His promise to the patriarchs, while reminding Moses of his fate due to his previous disobedience.
3. Moses' Death and Burial:
   • Moses dies in Moab, and God buries him in an unknown grave to prevent idolatry. Despite his age, Moses remains vigorous until the end.
4. Joshua’s Leadership:
   • Joshua is filled with wisdom and seamlessly transitions into leadership, with the Israelites accepting him as Moses' successor.
5. Moses' Unique Relationship with God:
   • Moses' face-to-face relationship with God and his unmatched prophetic role are highlighted, along with the anticipation of a future prophet.
6. Conclusion and Reflection:
   • We reflect on the key messages from the Pentateuch, emphasizing faith, redemption, fellowship, obedience, and love. Moses' legacy as a servant of the Lord inspires us to leave a lasting impact on future generations.

https://thehistoryofthechristianchurch.buzzsprout.com

Support the show

Jeremy McCandless is creating podcasts and devotional resources | Patreon

Help us continue making great content for listeners everywhere.
https://thebibleproject.buzzsprout.com

Send us a text

For an ad-free version of the podcast plus the opportunity to enjoy hours of exclusive content and two bonus episodes a month and also help keep the Bible Project Daily Podcast free for listeners everywhere at;
patreon.com/JeremyMcCandless

Subscribe here to receive my new church history podcast every few weeks at.
https://thehistoryofthechristianchurch.buzzsprout.com

Welcome:

In this episode, we look at the blessings Moses pronounced over the twelve tribes of Israel at the end of his life. Each tribe received a unique blessing tailored to their roles and circumstances, providing special insights into God's character and His plans for His people. By examining these blessings, we uncover truths about God’s provision, purpose, and promise for us today.

Key Themes:

• Individual Blessings for Collective Unity: Explore how Moses' blessings to each tribe reflect God's unique plans for His people.
• God’s Character Revealed: Learn about God’s intentions, care, and provision through the blessings.
• Application of Ancient Blessings Today: Understand the relevance of these blessings in our own unique circumstances.

Reflection Questions:

• How do the individual blessings to each tribe reflect God’s care for diverse roles and circumstances within a community?
• What aspects of God’s character are revealed through these blessings?
• How can we apply the principles of these blessings to our own lives today?

Prayer Points:

• Pray for an understanding of God's unique blessings in your life.
• Ask for the wisdom to appreciate and utilize your individual gifts for the greater good.
• Thank God for His continuous provision and presence in your life.

Action Steps:

• Read and Reflect: Spend time reading Deuteronomy 33:1-29, focusing on how each blessing reflects God's character and care.
• Journal: Write down the blessings you see in your own life and how they might be uniquely suited to your circumstances.
• Share: Discuss this episode with friends or family, reflecting on how God’s individual blessings create a unified community.

Thank you for joining me today. May you find encouragement in God’s individualized care and provision, and may His blessings guide you in your daily walk.

Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify

Support the show

Jeremy McCandless is creating podcasts and devotional resources | Patreon

Help us continue making great content for listeners everywhere.
https://thebibleproject.buzzsprout.com