Bible & Bourbon with Pastor Ben

In this study we sit with Abraham in a moment of fear and uncertainty as God meets him with a promise bigger than he can imagine. Abraham’s quiet act of trust becomes a defining picture of faith as he believes God’s word before he sees its fulfillment.

Noah’s story reveals both the depth of human corruption and the steadfast mercy of God, who chooses renewal over abandonment. Through the flood, the covenant, and the promise that follows, we see a God committed to preserving life and inviting humanity into a new beginning.

In this episode, we explore humanity’s first act of disobedience and the far‑reaching consequences that follow, revealing how trust is fractured and relationship with God is altered. Even in judgment, we also see the first signs of God’s persistent grace, setting the stage for the long story of redemption that unfolds through the rest of Scripture.

This first episode begins our yearlong journey through the entire story of Scripture. We start where the Bible starts, with the sweeping account of creation. In Genesis 1 and 2, God brings light out of darkness, order out of chaos, and life into a world that did not yet exist. These opening chapters reveal not only how the world began but who God is: powerful, purposeful, generous, and deeply relational.As we explore the creation story, we will consider what it means to be made in God’s image, to live within God’s good design, and to receive creation itself as a gift. This study lays the foundation for everything that follows in the biblical narrative, giving us a picture of the world as God intended it before the story takes its dramatic turns.

What does the empty tomb mean for us in our lives?

In this study, Jesus exposes the difference between physical sight and spiritual blindness, inviting us to recognize Him with open hearts.

 The Israelites wanted to return to Egypt the moment they felt the pressure of thirst. When they faced a lack of water, they were ready to go back to the very place God had already delivered them from. We often do the same. When life gets difficult, we’re tempted to retreat to old patterns, old comforts, and even old forms of bondage instead of trusting the God who is leading us forward. 

Paul contrasts Adam’s trespass with Christ’s gift, showing that while sin brought death, the grace of God overflows even more to bring life. This study reflects on how Christ’s obedience establishes a new way of living shaped not by condemnation but by the abundant grace that restores and transforms.

This study explores the contrast between the Tree of Life, which represents God’s invitation into trust, dependence, and flourishing, and the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, which symbolizes the human impulse to define life on our own terms. In the garden, God places humanity before both trees, not as a trap, but as a choice. One path leads to life received; the other to life grasped.We’ll reflect on what it means to turn toward the Tree of Life today: choosing God’s wisdom over self‑reliance, God’s boundaries over our own impulses, and God’s way of life over the illusion of control. This passage invites us to consider where we are feeding our souls, and how returning to the Tree of Life restores us to the life God intended from the beginning.

In this session, we explore the story of the risen Jesus walking with two discouraged disciples on the road to Emmaus. Though they do not recognize Him at first, Jesus draws near, listens to their grief, and opens the Scriptures to them. This study invites us to see Jesus as the Friend who meets us in confusion and disappointment, walks beside us with patience, and reveals Himself in ways that rekindle hope.

 In the Gospel story of Jesus’ birth, the magi bring gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh, with myrrh foreshadowing suffering and death. At the cross, Jesus is again offered wine mixed with myrrh, a numbing drink meant to dull pain, and he refuses it, choosing to face suffering with full awareness and faithfulness. Together, these moments point to a Messiah who will not let death or pain have the final word, but instead embraces the cross to transform suffering into life. 

 This study explores how the birth of Christ was first announced to a community of ordinary shepherds, showing that God’s greatest work is revealed and shared within community. Together, Luke 2:8–14 invites us to see how hope, courage, and joy are nurtured when God’s good news is experienced and lived out together. 

Discover how Jesus redefined heroism, not through power or pride, but through humility and obedience. Join us as we explore what it means to follow His example and live with a mindset that lifts others up. 

This study explores Isaiah 9:2–7, highlighting God’s promise of a coming Savior who brings light into darkness and peace to a weary world. Together we’ll reflect on how Christ fulfills this hope as the true hero who reigns with justice and righteousness forever.

 This Bible study invites participants into the ancient practice of Lectio Divina, a slow, prayerful reading of Scripture that opens space for divine encounter. Through Christian contemplation, we learn to listen deeply, reflect spiritually, and respond with attentive hearts.

In this contemplative study, we explore the ancient Christian practice of the Examen—a prayerful reflection that invites us to notice God’s movements in our daily lives. Through guided questions and quiet listening, we’ll learn to discern moments of grace, recognize areas for growth, and deepen our spiritual attentiveness. Whether you're new to contemplative prayer or seeking a fresh rhythm of reflection, this study offers a gentle yet transformative way to encounter God in the ordinary.

Theoria is the Greek word often associated with contemplative prayer. It literally means “seeing the divine,” which beautifully captures the heart of contemplation: attentively beholding God and listening to the Holy Spirit. If contemplative prayer is about this kind of spiritual vision, then how do we cultivate the kind of inner stillness that allows us to truly hear the Spirit’s voice in prayer?

Explore the spiritual discipline of fasting as a pathway to deeper communion with God, reflecting on its biblical roots and transformative purpose. This study invites participants to contemplate how abstaining from physical nourishment can awaken spiritual hunger and clarity in their walk with Christ.

 Explore the biblical and theological framework surrounding demons: who they are, what they do, and how Scripture calls us to respond. This study invites thoughtful reflection rooted in sound doctrine, not sensationalism. 

What is Heaven Really Like According to the Bible? How does the biblical vision of heaven differ from the one portrayed in Hollywood? 

 In Christianity, God is understood as the Trinity, Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. But how can we cultivate a personal relationship with each person of the Trinity? 

 This study explores the meaning of salvation in the Christian faith, looking at how Scripture, tradition, and personal experience shape our understanding of God’s saving work in Jesus Christ. Together, we will reflect on what it means to be saved and how salvation transforms our lives today.

 This Bible study examines the nature, origin, and consequences of sin through Scripture, inviting participants to reflect on humanity’s need for redemption and the transformative power of grace. 

This study explores the biblical understanding of human nature, beginning with the Genesis account of creation, where man is formed in the image of God.

 In this study, we explore Jesus’ healing of the bent-over woman on the Sabbath, a powerful reminder that mercy transcends rules and rituals. Together we will reflect on how God’s mercy restores dignity, challenges rigid traditions, and calls us to embody compassion in our daily lives. 

This episode explores how trusting God frees us from fear and anxiety, allowing us to live with open hands and ready hearts. Jesus calls us to place our confidence in the Father’s care, to invest in what truly lasts, and to remain watchful for His presence in our daily lives. 

In this Bible study, we explore Jesus' parable of the rich fool to reflect on what it means to live with true purpose. In a world focused on wealth and possessions, Jesus challenges us to consider what really matters. 

 In this study, we’ll explore how Jesus teaches us to pray with trust, persistence, and boldness. Rooted in Luke 11:1–13, we’ll reflect on the Lord’s Prayer and what it means to be deeply connected to God through prayer. Together, we’ll discover how prayer grounds our faith and opens us to the gifts of the Spirit. 

 This Bible study invites us to reflect on Isaiah’s vision of Jerusalem as a place of comfort, restoration, and divine nurturing. Through poetic imagery, we’ll explore how God’s love for God’s people is expressed like a mother’s care, and how the Holy City symbolizes the promise of peace, joy, and renewal for all who trust in God’s purposes. Join us as we discover the hope and healing found in God’s holy presence. 

 In this study, we explore The Velveteen Rabbit and its powerful message about becoming "real" through love. Just as the rabbit is transformed by the love of the boy, we reflect on how God's love makes us truly alive. Through scripture and story, we’ll consider what it means to be loved into wholeness by a God who calls us beloved. 

This study explores The Giving Tree alongside Scripture to reflect on the nature of giving, sacrifice, and the gifts we receive from God. Through thoughtful discussion, we’ll consider how God gives to us freely and how we are called to share our gifts with others in love and service. 

 In this episode, we reflect on the classic children’s book Corduroy and its message of longing, love, and belonging. Through Corduroy’s search for a home, we explore how God meets us in our imperfections and calls us beloved just as we are. 

In this episode, we’ll explore the beloved children’s book Where the Wild Things Are alongside scripture to reflect on the theme of coming home. Just as Max journeys through wild emotions and finds his way back to love, we’ll consider how God meets us in our mess and always welcomes us back with open arms. Join us as we discover the spiritual truths hidden in this powerful story. 

 In this podcast, we explore the powerful story of friends who lowered a paralyzed man through a roof to reach Jesus. Their bold faith and determination remind us that hope often requires action and community. Together, we will reflect on how we can help remove barriers, whether physical, emotional, or spiritual, that keep people from experiencing healing and grace. 

Matthew 21:33–41 that reflects on the barriers we face and the walls God helps us break down. Through this passage, we’ll explore how Jesus responds with compassion, restores vision, and builds hope where there was once division. 

This Bible study explores how God's gift of grace empowers us to shine with courage and purpose. Drawing from Paul's encouragement to Timothy, we reflect on rekindling our faith, standing firm in hope, and boldly living out the calling we’ve received through Christ Jesus. 

This Bible study invites us to reflect on the foundation of our lives. In Luke 6:46–49, Jesus tells a story about wise and foolish builders. We’ll explore what it means to build our lives on the solid foundation of Christ, finding real hope that holds firm through life’s storms. 

 In Samson's final act, he not only found redemption but also reclaimed his place among his people. His story reminds us that even in our failures, God's love remains unwavering. Through Samson’s redemption, we discover the depth of God’s unconditional love—a love that meets us where we are and offers us a new beginning. 

 Dive into the tumultuous story of Samson, the enigmatic judge of Israel. In this episode, we explore the darker aspects of his life, from his tumultuous relationship with Delilah to his pain from the death of his first wife. Discover the complexities of Samson's character and the lessons that can be drawn from his journey as we examine the shadows that shaped his fate. 

This special episode delves into my personal journey as a father, explores iconic American sitcom dads, and examines fatherhood in the Bible. It's a unique episode, and we'll return to our traditional format next week.

How can a change of point of view influence our relationship with God?

Why not start this New Year with a resolution to grow in your faith?

This Christmas Eve, let us choose to rejoice in the Savior and not be distracted by the things that pull us away from our Lord during this holiday season.

Don't Be A Grinch this Christmas!

The Christimas season is about the birth of Christ and the birth of joy into our world. Yet, still sometimes this season makes us turn into a Grinch!

 Jesus instructs us to give to "the least of these," but what does that truly mean? 

The holiday season can be a stressful time for many, but this scripture passage reminds us to embrace gratitude and find thankfulness during this season of Thanksgiving.

Why should you Take Up the Cross?

When do we Take Up Our Cross?

What is the cross you are called to bear? What unique burdens or responsibilities has God entrusted to you for the sake of His Kingdom?