Bible Geeks Podcast

295 | Seven Sermon Summer Surfin’ Spectacular | Stand With Your HelperSurf's up for another entry in our Seven Sermon Summer Surfin' Spectacular! Between cross-country moving logistics, hauling heavy furniture, and nursing sore backs, Bryan steps up to the pulpit to deliver a powerful lesson all about what it truly means to be a "helper." Starting in the Upper Room with Jesus' promise of "another Helper," Bryan unpacks four Old Testament and New Testament snapshots of God stepping into impossible situations when His people are outmatched and outgunned. But the lesson takes a dramatic turn back to Genesis 2. Exploring the Hebrew roots of Ezer(rescuer, strength) and Kenegdo (corresponding, eye-to-eye puzzle piece), alongside God's fierce, womb-like compassion (Rahamim), this Mother's Day sermon dismantles cultural misconceptions about biblical womanhood and calls us to honor the life-saving strength of the helpers in our lives.The Big Idea: Biblical help is never about subordinate assistance or fetching coffee, but mighty, life-saving, and strong.Show NotesAn Ezer Fit for Him (PASSAGE)The God of My Father Was My Help (PASSAGE)My Help Comes from the Lord (PASSAGE)A Mother's Compassion and God's Unfailing Love (PASSAGE)The Lord is My Helper (PASSAGE)Support the Show

294 | Seven Sermon Summer Surfin’ Spectacular | Pray With Confidence to a Loving Father Wax up your boards — the Seven Sermon Summer Surfin' Spectacular rolls on! This week, guest speaker Michael Eldridge (widely known across the internet as Acapeldridge) joins the show to tackle a vulnerable and searching question: Does God actually care? Starting with the historical background of Enlightenment Deism and Thomas Jefferson's famous "scissor-snipped" Bible, Michael examines how easily a practical deism can creep into our own prayer lives. When our worries feel small, temporary, or insignificant compared to the vastness of the cosmos, does the Creator of the universe really stoop down to listen? From Jesus' gut-level compassion (splanchnizomai) toward grieving widows and suffering lepers to the powerful assurance given to Daniel that his prayers were heard from the very first day, this lesson will renew your confidence in a Father who desires true camaraderie and actively inclines His ear when you speak. The Big Idea: God isn’t an aloof, distant clockmaker deity, but an attentive, compassionate Father who inclines His ear to hear our prayers. Show Notes Acapeldridge (WEBSITE) The Lord Inclines His Ear (PASSAGE) Daily Bread and God's Care (PASSAGE) Moved with Compassion for a Leper (PASSAGE) Jesus Weeps with the Widow (PASSAGE) Heard from the First Day (PASSAGE) Support the Show

293 | Seven Sermon Summer Surfin’ Spectacular | Choose Lifelong Servitude to the Master Grab your surfboards and pack up your moving pods — the Seven Sermon Summer Surfin' Spectacular continues! This week, podcast fan-favorite Allen Greeley returns to unpack one of the most bizarre and ancient laws in the Torah: the ear-piercing ceremony of Deuteronomy 15. Why would a released slave in ancient Israel voluntarily choose to remain a servant forever? By examining the historical context of debt slavery versus human trafficking, Allen shows how an awl driven into a wooden doorpost reveals the overwhelming goodness of a master. We'll trace this ancient ceremony straight into Paul's argument in Romans 6 to discover what it means to present our bodies as voluntary, lifelong "slaves to righteousness." If you're tired of serving God out of cold duty or fear, this sermon is a refreshing call to declare: "Pierce my ear, Lord — I want to stay in Your house forever!" The Big Idea: Believers choose lifelong, wholehearted servitude to Christ not out of fear or obligation, but as a joyful response of love to a Master who paid their impossible debt. Show Notes Plainfield church of Christ (WEBSITE) Sabbath Years and Voluntary Slaves (PASSAGE) Slaves to Righteousness (PASSAGE) The Living and Active Word (PASSAGE) Choose Whom You Will Serve (PASSAGE) Support the Show  

292 | Seven Sermon Summer Surfin’ Spectacular | Stand Firm on the Word of God Surf's up for another installment of our Seven Sermon Summer Surfin' Spectacular! This week, our buddy Jeff O'Rear returns to take us back to Sunday School basics with a fresh look at a classic VBS childhood song: The B-I-B-L-E. In a digital age where the Scriptures sit on our smartphones right alongside social media, games, and house-hunting apps, Jeff asks a searching question: Do we treat the Bible as just another self-help book or convenience app, or do we revere it as the living Word of God? Moving from the delight of the blessed man in Psalm 1 to Ezra's three-step blueprint for spiritual leadership (study, do, teach), this sermon challenges us to rediscover the gritty depth of Bible stories, move past "first and second opinions," and stand firmly on the sufficient, inspired scriptures. The Big Idea: The Bible is not merely a self-help manual or one app among many on our screens, but God's inspired, complete, and sufficient Word. Show Notes Judson Road Church of Christ (WEBSITE) The Law of the Lord is Perfect (PASSAGE) Delighting in the Law (PASSAGE) Ezra Set His Heart (PASSAGE) Inspired and Sufficient Scripture (PASSAGE) Preach the Word in Season and Out (PASSAGE) Support the Show  

291 | Seven Sermon Summer Surfin’ Spectacular | Find Hope and Refreshment Surf's up for another entry in our Seven Sermon Summer Surfin' Spectacular! This week, guest speaker Emerson Brown joins us to tackle a deeply relatable reality every Christian faces: seasons of spiritual drought. When prayer feels like a routine, worship lacks spark, and Sunday mornings feel exhausting rather than refreshing, it’s easy to worry that our faith is slipping away. Drawing from the raw emotional landscape of Psalm 42, Emerson shows why feeling dry isn't a sign of lost faith — it's an invitation to honest lament. From learning how to speak truth back to our own downcast hearts to discovering spiritual survival tips from backyard squirrels navigating ten inches of snow, this lesson equips us to stay anchored in faithful routines until the rain returns. The Big Idea: Spiritual droughts are a natural part of walking with God, and experiencing them is not a sign of failed faith. Show Notes Westfield church of Christ (WEBSITE) Panting for the Living God (PASSAGE) Thirsting in a Dry and Weary Land (PASSAGE) Walking by Faith, Not by Sight (PASSAGE) Streams of Living Water (PASSAGE) Support the Show

290 | Seven Sermon Summer Surfin’ Spectacular | Peel Back the Layers of God's Grace Grab your sunscreen and a cold glass of homemade watermelon agua fresca — the Seven Sermon Summer Surfin' Spectacular is rolling on! This week, guest speaker Ryan Goodwin joins us to unpack a fascinating question: Why does James 1:17 make a distinction between "every good thing given" and "every perfect gift"? Through a beautifully illustrated lesson with Grandpa's baseball mitt, a hand-forged Roman iron spike, and a set of custom Russian nesting dolls, Ryan breaks down "the gift behind the gift." We'll explore how our human craving for sentiment, beauty, and relational depth completely dismantles pure materialism and serves as an undeniable, built-in proof of God's existence. Get ready to peel back the layers of God's perfect gifts! The Big Idea: While "good things" satisfy our immediate physical needs, "perfect gifts" point directly back to our Creator. Show Notes Glen Springs Church (WEBSITE) Every Good and Perfect Gift (PASSAGE) How to Give Good Gifts (PASSAGE) The Free Gift of God (PASSAGE) Saved by Grace Through Faith (PASSAGE) Think on These Lovely Things (PASSAGE) Support the Show

289 | Build a Whole Faith What if faith isn’t mainly about what you know or what you say, but what’s happening inside you that inevitably works its way out into your everyday life? To close out the season, we’re diving into the book of James for a deep look at “blue-collar,” inside-out Christianity. With a high-stakes lightning round of “Jesus or James,” we see how heavily James borrows from the Sermon on the Mount. Then, we pull back the hood on all five chapters to map out how a wholehearted faith radically reframes our trials, transforms our words, and exposes the inner wars driving our outer conflicts. From practical tracking strategies in the brutal heat of life to using the tongue as a mechanical steering lever, this episode is a diagnostic check for the soul. Plus, stick around for a quick look at the road ahead as the show gears up for the Seven Sermon Summer Surfing Spectacular and a major cross-country studio relocation! The Big Idea: Real faith transforms the whole person from the inside out, producing practical obedience. This Week's Challenge: When relational friction or personal irritation bubbles up this week, pause and trace the outer conflict back to its inner root. Show Notes Watch Episode 289 (VIDEO) Reframing Trials and Temptations (PASSAGE) Active Faith and Living Works (PASSAGE) The Lever of the Tongue (PASSAGE) Community, Confession, and Prayer (PASSAGE) Resisting the Devil and Drawing Near (PASSAGE) Support the Show

288 | Think of Your Eternal Home When you close your eyes and imagine eternity, does it feel a little fuzzy, blurry, or — dare we say — boring? Too many of us treat our final destination like a vague cloud-land instead of the vibrant home it’s actually designed to be. Inspired by a late-night question from Ryan’s daughter and a beautiful womb analogy, this mini-episode takes a sledgehammer to the misconceptions of the afterlife. We’re kicking open the door to Revelation 21 and 22 to look at the powerful “negatives” that reveal a beautiful positive. From the erasure of the chaotic sea and restrictive temples to the end of night, pain, and death, we explore how our eternal reality is filled with absolute access, deep relationships, and the ultimate joy of seeing Christ face-to-face. It’s time to stop settling for a blurry hope and start daydreaming about our true forever home! The Big Idea: The Bible gives a clearer picture of the world to come than we might realize, letting us envision our future with happy hope. This Week's Challenge: Take time to daydream about your “forever home” with the Lord. Show Notes Watch Episode 288 (VIDEO) Carried by Angels (PASSAGE) Departing to Be with Christ (PASSAGE) Always with the Lord (PASSAGE) The New Creation and the Holy City (PASSAGE) The River of Life and No More Night (PASSAGE) We Shall See Him as He Is (PASSAGE) Support the Show

287 | Live the Upside-Down Life What does real strength look like in the kingdom of God? We live in a world obsessed with a scorecard of independence, power, polish, and visible success. But in this episode, we dive into 2 Corinthians to look at Paul’s completely inverted, upside-down life. From the shocking historical context of a Roman triumphal procession — where we discover we are actually the captured slaves walking behind the Conqueror — to the fragile reality of being a literal “shoebox” holding a priceless treasure, Paul flips our ideas of success completely on their head. We explore how to stop obsessing over “fixing the jar” and learn to embrace our thorns, our cracks, and our weaknesses so that Christ’s power can fill all things. The Big Idea: Grace turns our lives upside-down by freeing us to embrace weakness, sacrifice, and self-giving so that Christ’s power and glory can shine through us. This Week's Challenge: Identify a current weakness, physical limitation, or frustrating trial in your life, and explicitly hand it over to God in prayer — shifting your focus away from trying to make yourself look invincible and toward letting His grace be sufficient. Show Notes Watch Episode 287 (VIDEO) The Triumphal Procession (PASSAGE) Treasures in Jars of Clay (PASSAGE) Paul's Foolish Boast (PASSAGE) A Thorn in the Flesh (PASSAGE) Crucified in Weakness (PASSAGE) Support the Show

286 | Build the Body We’ve all been part of a nightmare group project — whether it’s pulling an all-nighter sleeping on a lab floor or surviving a high-stress church event that tests your marriage. But while human collaborations constantly break down, Ephesians 4 gives us a flawless, practical blueprint for spiritual unity. This week, we’re diving into Jesus’ high priestly prayer to see what a “Trinitarian union” actually looks like in everyday church life. We talk about the difference between creating unity and maintaining what the Spirit already built, how to tell a load-bearing truth from a personal opinion, and why church leaders are more like sports coaches equipping a team. Finally, we look at what it means to “truth in love” so you can stop behaving like a relational wrecking ball. Strip off the masks, pull up a chair, and let’s find out where our churches need to grow! The Big Idea: Christ provides the guidance and gifts we need to maintain unity. This Week's Challenge: Identify the specific grace and spiritual gift Christ has given you, and take one practical action to use it for the vulnerability, communication, or building up of your local congregation this week. Show Notes Watch Episode 286 (VIDEO) Jesus' Prayer for Oneness (PASSAGE) The Blueprint for Unity (PASSAGE) Unlocking Church Growth Through Leadership (PASSAGE) Attitudes and Reactions to Congregational Problems (BOOK) Support the Show

285 | Reclassify Strangers Through Shared Grace We naturally drift toward people who look, think, and vote like us because echo chambers are comfortable. But the gospel does not find a community that fits; it creates a family out of people who do not. In this mini-episode, we play the “Galatians 3:28 Sledgehammer Game” to see how God's grace smashes through first-century status and identity walls. From the radical social reclassification of Philemon and Onesimus to the barrier-breaking dinner tables of Peter and Cornelius, we look at how grace functions as the ultimate social leveler. We also discuss historical insights from Pliny the Younger, an ancient prayer turned completely on its head, and what it practically means to be a “face receiver” in our modern, divided culture. Grab your sledgehammer and let's pull up a chair to grace's unlikely community! The Big Idea: Grace doesn't just forgive isolated individuals — it reclassifies enemies and strangers into an uncommon family. This Week's Challenge: Audit your relationships this week for any "scorecards" you’re keeping on someone and consciously "burn the list" by finding one way to receive from them as an equal contributor in Christ. Show Notes Watch Episode 285 (VIDEO) The Epiphany of Grace (PASSAGE) One in Christ Jesus (PASSAGE) No Longer a Slave (PASSAGE) God Shows No Partiality (PASSAGE) Breaking the Dividing Wall (PASSAGE) Support the Show

284 | Experience the Grace of the Old Testament Think the Old Testament God is all thunder, lightning, and judgment while the New Testament God is all gracious and loving? Think again! This week, we're diving into the exact moment God defined Himself right after Israel's absolute worst failure — the golden calf incident. It turns out Exodus 34:6–7 is essentially the "John 3:16 of the Old Testament." We pull apart deep Hebrew concepts like “rachum” (visceral, gut-level compassion) and “hesed” (loyal, covenant love), explore why Jonah tried to weaponize God's goodness as a complaint, and discover that Jesus isn't a shift from the Father — He's the perfect, face-to-face reflection of who God has always been. The Big Idea: God’s grace isn't a New Testament update, it is the heartbeat of his character from the beginning. This Week's Challenge: Before you check your phone in the morning, let the God of Sinai define his heart toward you: merciful, gracious, and abounding in steadfast love. Show Notes Watch Episode 284 (VIDEO) God Declares His Character (PASSAGE) Jonah's Complaint About Mercy (PASSAGE) Draw Near for More Grace (PASSAGE) Full of Grace and Truth (PASSAGE) He Will Rejoice Over You With Singing (PASSAGE) Support the Show  

283 | Walk by Faith Not Sight Our Bible bracket has a winner, and it's none other than the cinematic, high-stakes Queen of Persia — Esther! But why is God's name totally missing from the script? This week, we're geeking out on the "shadow cabinet" of the Persian court, looking for the fingerprints of a God who works through insomnia, coincidences, and "reverse cards" to save His people. Whether you're dealing with your own Haman or feeling stuck in exile, Esther’s story reminds us that silence doesn’t mean absence. Ready to see how God's hidden hand is at work in your own "for such a time as this" moment? Tune in study with us! The Big Idea: God’s providence is often hidden, but his character is certain, and that’s enough as we walk in faith. This Week's Challenge: Look back at your own life and identify the "dominoes" where God’s hidden providence worked through seemingly random circumstances to bring about a good outcome. Show Notes Watch Episode 283 (VIDEO) Bible Bracket Results (LINK) The Hidden Providence of Esther (PASSAGE) For Such a Time as This (PASSAGE) A Sleepless Night and a Reversal (PASSAGE) Confidence Before the Throne of Grace (PASSAGE) Hannah’s Song of Reversal (PASSAGE) Support the Show

282 | Find Hope in the Struggle Ever feel like you’re stuck in a loop of doing the very things you hate? This week, we’re joined by our friend Allen Greeley to tackle what some call the “Mount Everest of Pauline issues”: Romans 7. From a debate that started on a ski lift to a deep dive into the “already, not yet” of our adoption as sons, we’re looking at how to navigate the very real struggle with sin without losing our hope in Christ. Whether you see Paul as a struggling Christian or a Jew under the law, one thing is clear: chapter 7 only makes sense when you flip the page to the "no condemnation" victory of chapter 8. The Big Idea: Christians don’t lead a life of sinless perfection, but of Spirit-led hope, power, and grace amid the struggle. This Week's Challenge: Read Romans 7 and 8 back-to-back this week, noting how every "wretched" moment in chapter seven finds its resolution in the "no condemnation" of chapter eight. Show Notes Watch Episode 282 (VIDEO) The Struggle of the Two Laws (PASSAGE) Life in the Spirit and No Condemnation (PASSAGE) Our Dual Adoption (PASSAGE) Plainfield Ponderings Podcast (PODCAST) Support the Show

281 | Reclaim the Holiness of Your Table Are you feeling more lonely than ever, even with all those digital connections? Why is it that God seems to do His best work when there’s food involved? This week, we’re exploring why “pulling up a chair” is a radical act of spiritual warfare against the isolation of our age. We’re diving into the “bread of presence,” Jesus’ scandalous dinner parties, and that incredible moment on the road to Emmaus where the breaking of bread changed everything. Whether it’s a “stinker” of a wedding or a cozy, imperfect “pitch-in,” the table is where we move from performance to presence. It’s time to drop the digital veil and get back to the “baked bean supper“ connection! The Big Idea: God uses shared meals to break loneliness, build community, and reveal His presence in our lives. This Week's Challenge: Invite someone you only know digitally to share a simple meal in your home this week. Show Notes Watch Episode 281 (VIDEO) "The Breaking of Bread" by Bryan Schiele (SERMON) "Food — Ordinary Holiness"”" by Ryan Joy (SERMON) “Who Shall Ascend the Mountain of the Lord?: A Biblical Theology of the Book of Leviticus” by L. Michale Morales (BOOK) Fellowship Offerings (PASSAGE) The Bread of Presence (PASSAGE) Dining with Jesus (PASSAGE) Fellowship in the Early Church (PASSAGE) Eyes Opened at the Table (PASSAGE) Marriage Supper of the Lamb (PASSAGE) Support the Show

280 | Trade Your Asterisks for Confidence Do you find yourself believing God’s promises, but always with an asterisk attached? This week, we're diving into those common "Yeah, but" moments — like wondering if you can really know you're saved, feeling like you don't deserve grace, or worrying that God is still angry about your latest struggle. We'll walk through why your "faith-o-meter" isn't the point and why the "tingle" of struggling with sin might actually be a sign of growth. Join us as we stop trying to manage the conditions of God’s gifts and start resting in a grace that is, quite literally, too good to be earned. The Big Idea: We find freedom and peace when we trust the Bible’s words about God’s grace. This Week's Challenge: Identify a personal "Yeah, but" about grace and replace it with a specific scripture truth this week. Show Notes Watch Episode 280 (VIDEO) Knowing You Have Eternal Life (PASSAGE) Grace While We Were Sinners (PASSAGE) Saved by Grace through Faith (PASSAGE) No Condemnation in Christ (PASSAGE) God's Character of Mercy (PASSAGE) Support the Show

279 | Behold the Lord and Be Changed Ever feel like your spiritual life is just a never-ending construction site full of sweat and long to-do lists? What if the Bible's real model for change isn't a renovation project, but a mirror? This week, Ryan’s playing “Diane Sawyer” and interviewing Bryan about his recent “Unveiled” preaching series in Plainfield, Indiana. We’re digging into why we're so obsessed with “image management” and why we keep snacking on the world's junk food when we’re spiritually bored. It turns out, we don't have to knuckle down to grow — we just have to take the veil off, stop pretending, and become what we behold. The Big Idea: Transformation isn't a project we’ll complete, it’s the image we reflect as we keep turning our faces toward Jesus. This Week's Challenge: Identify an area where you are performing or wearing a “mask” and take the veil off by being honest with God about that struggle. Show Notes Watch Episode 279 (VIDEO) The "Unveiled" Series in Plainfield (SERMONS) The Unveiled Face (PASSAGE) Satisfied with Rich Food (PASSAGE) Darth Vader’s "Master" Mistake (VIDEO) Support the Show

278 | Value Every Role in God's Kingdom What if the most important person in your favorite Bible story didn't even have a name? We’re wrapping up our regional deep dives by celebrating the "Nameless Notables" — the background actors and extras who ended up stealing the show. From a little girl pointing a powerful general toward healing to wise women saving entire cities just by speaking up, we’re seeing how small acts of faith create massive domino effects. We even dive into the "Hot Seat" to ask why Jesus used the word "dog" with a Canaanite mother and what really happened with Jephthah’s daughter. Grab your bracket and let’s remember that in God’s story, there really are no small parts! The Big Idea: In God’s kingdom, there are no insignificant roles, as even anonymous acts of faith can trigger a life-changing domino effect. This Week's Challenge: Look for an opportunity this week to speak up or step into the gap like the nameless heroes of Scripture. Show Notes Watch Episode 278 (VIDEO) Vote in the Bible Bracket (LINK) Naaman and the Young Hebrew Maid (PASSAGE) The Canaanite Woman's Faith (PASSAGE) Jephthah's Vow and His Daughter (PASSAGE) The Wise Woman of Tekoa (PASSAGE) The Wise Woman of Abel (PASSAGE) The Widow of Nain (PASSAGE) Support the Show

277 | Invest in the Kingdom With Joanna Ever wonder how thirteen guys without jobs traveled around for three years without starving? We’re diving into the "shadow cabinet" of Jesus’ ministry to meet Joanna, the wife of Herod’s own household manager. It’s a story of "The Spy Who Funded Me," where we see God’s brilliant irony at work — using Herod’s resources to sustain the very Gospel he tried to suppress. But as we’ll see, Joanna wasn’t just a distant donor. She was a devoted disciple who stood by the cross and was among the first at the empty tomb. Let’s explore what it looks like to leverage our status for the Savior and find our true identity in following Him. The Big Idea: Joanna’s story reveals how God uses even the most unlikely political and financial connections to sustain and advance the work of the gospel. This Week's Challenge: Identify and reach out to an "unseen MVP" in your community whose behind-the-scenes service makes the mission possible. Show Notes Watch Episode 277 (VIDEO) Vote in the Bible Bracket (LINK) Joanna and the Supporting Women (PASSAGE) Joanna at the Empty Tomb (PASSAGE) Women at the Crucifixion (PASSAGE) Plainfield Ponderings: Women in 1 Timothy (PODCAST) Support the Show

276 | Encounter the God Who Truly Sees Ever felt like a background character in your own life, reduced to a role or pushed to the edges by someone else’s choices? This week, we’re looking at Hagar — the servant and foreigner who was treated like a shortcut but became the first person in the Bible to encounter the "Angel of the Lord". We explore how God calls us by name when others only see our status, and what it means that He "sees to provide" even in our driest wilderness seasons. From the meaning of Ishmael ("God hears") to the comfort of El Roi ("the God who sees"), we’re finding hope in the truth that God isn't just watching us — He’s looking after us. The Big Idea: The God who saw Hagar in the wilderness sees and hears us in our wilderness seasons. This Week's Challenge: Sing “I Am His Child” (link) and enjoy the assurance of his presence. Show Notes Watch Episode 276 (VIDEO) Vote in the Bible Bracket (LINK) Hagar’s First Wilderness Encounter (PASSAGE) Hagar and the Well of Life (PASSAGE) The God Who Searches and Knows (PASSAGE) Emmanuel: God With Us (PASSAGE) I Am His Child (SONG) Support the Show  

275 | Reclaim the Valor of Proverbs 31 We're coming to on location (and a little disoriented) from the Pondering Studio in Plainfield, Indiana! Ever felt like Proverbs 31 was just a crushing checklist of impossible standards? We’re reclaiming that famous passage and looking at the "valiant warrior" heart behind the "excellent wife" persona. We also dive into the high-stakes drama of Exodus 1-2, where God used a bunch of courageous daughters to totally flip the script on Pharaoh’s murderous plot. Since when does a tyrant get outmaneuvered by a few midwives and a baby in a basket? Join us as we celebrate how daily diligence and quiet strength are actually God’s chosen weapons. The Big Idea: Scripture celebrates “women of valor” whose daily diligence and quiet strength become God’s chosen weapons to transform their communities. This Week's Challenge: Find a way to honor a woman in your life that reminds you of the Proverbs 31 woman. Show Notes Watch Episode 275 (VIDEO) Ryan’s Sermon “Woman of Valor” (SERMON) Ryan’s Sermon “Providence & Parenting” (SERMON) Vote in the Bible Bracket (LINK) The Valiant Woman (PASSAGE) God's Deliverance Through Daughters (PASSAGE) Plainfield Ponderings: Women in 1 Timothy (PODCAST) Support the Show

274 | Draft Your Favorite Bible Women Voting is officially open! Before you cast your ballots in the Favorite Bible Women Bible Bracket, we're' wrapping up our draft with the final two regions. In Part 2, we tackle the "Friends and Followers" (the devoted inner circle of the early church) and the "Nameless Notables" (the anonymous women whose faith left a permanent mark on Scripture). We debate whether Mary Magdalene or Mary of Bethany deserves the overall #1 seed, and we marvel at how many of our most frequently preached sermons feature women whose names we don't even know. We finalize the bracket, share a few honorable mentions who almost made the cut (sorry, Gomer and Mary of Clopas!), and invite you to join the fun. The Big Idea: The stories of biblical women — from famous matriarchs to unnamed women of valor — are foundational examples of courage, leadership, and faith that still shape us today. This Week's Challenge: Pick one woman from the bracket whose story you aren't familiar with and read about her this week. Show Notes Watch Episode 274 (VIDEO) Vote in the Tournament: Bible Bracket: Women of Faith Mary Magdalene at the Empty Tomb (PASSAGE) Mary of Bethany Chooses the Better Part (PASSAGE) Martha's Confession of Faith (PASSAGE) The Woman at the Well (PASSAGE) The Sinful Woman Anoints Jesus (PASSAGE) The Widow's Two Mites (PASSAGE) Support the Show  

273 | Draft Your Favorite Bible Women Happy Anniversary to us! We’re kicking off Year Eight of the Bible Geeks podcast with March Bracketology. This year’s 64-seed bracket honors our Favorite Bible Women. Before official voting opens on March 12th, we're drafting our ultimate squads. In Part 1, we tackle the "Women of Valor" (brave tacticians like Rahab and Abigail) and the "Matriarchs and Leaders" (foundational voices like Mary and Esther — and don't worry, we didn't pit sisters Rachel and Leah against each other!). We debate the seeding and challenge you to read up on a biblical woman you aren't familiar with this week! The Big Idea: The stories of biblical women — from famous matriarchs to unnamed women of valor — are foundational examples of courage, leadership, and faith that still shape us today. This Week's Challenge: Pick one woman from the bracket whose story you aren't familiar with and read about her this week. Show Notes Watch Episode 273 (VIDEO) Vote in the Tournament: Bible Bracket: Favorite Bible Women (Voting begins March 12, 2026!) Rahab the Courgaeous (PASSAGE) Abigail's Wisdom (PASSAGE) Deborah the Judge (PASSAGE) Mary, Mother of Jesus (PASSAGE) Queen Esther (PASSAGE) Sarah and the Promise (PASSAGE) Support the Show

272 | Winter Watch Party | Enjoy Season 2, Episode 8 of The Chosen It’s time to roll out the red carpet! In the grand finale of our Winter Watch Party, we’re wrapping up The Chosen Season 2 with the ultimate season review. Before Jesus steps up to deliver the greatest sermon ever preached, we dive into the art of His sermon prep. Did Jesus use His disciples as thinking partners? How did He perfectly balance the hard, abrasive truths with profound comfort? Next, we put our Bible Geek knowledge to the test with a rapid-fire trivia challenge all about the newly completed roster of the 12 Disciples. Finally, we hand out the prestigious Golden Sandal Awards! We're celebrating our favorite newly appreciated characters, crowning our Best Supporting Actors, and sharing the "I'm Not Crying, You're Crying" moments that absolutely wrecked us. Grab your golden spreadsheet (we're looking at you, Matthew) and join us as we close out the season and look ahead to March's upcoming Bible Bracket! The Big Idea: How we listen to Jesus determines how we follow him. Show Notes Watch Episode 272 (VIDEO) The Chosen: Season 2, Episode 8 - "Beyond Mountains" (VIDEO) The Sermon on the Mount (PASSAGE) Jesus Calls the Twelve Apostles (PASSAGE) Nathanael Under the Fig Tree (PASSAGE) Philip Asks to See the Father (PASSAGE) Judas and the Moneybag (PASSAGE) Support the Show  

271 | Winter Watch Party | Enjoy Season 2, Episode 7 of The Chosen Dun dun! In the criminal justice system of first-century Israel, the people are represented by two separate yet equally important groups: the Romans who enforce the laws, and the disciples who accidentally break them. These are their stories. Welcome back to the Winter Watch Party! In this episode, we’re opening the case file on The Chosen Season 2, Episode 7 ("The Reckoning"). The show turns into a full-blown police procedural when Jesus and the disciples are detained by Roman authorities. We review the "suspect lineup" to see who cracks under the pressure. Peter is spiraling, Andrew is ready to start a riot, but Matthew and Mary step up to keep the crew level-headed. We also break down the surprisingly complex Roman characters (shoutout to Atticus and Quintus) playing good cop/bad cop with a perfectly calm Jesus. Finally, we look at how Jesus prepares the Beatitudes amidst the chaos, ending with the ultimate mic drop: teaching His stressed-out followers the Lord's Prayer. The Big Idea: Peace isn't the absence of conflict; it's the presence of Jesus in the middle of the interrogation room. Show Notes Watch Episode 271 (VIDEO) The Chosen: Season 2, Episode 7 - "The Reckoning" (VIDEO) The Lord's Prayer (PASSAGE) The Beatitudes (PASSAGE) Jesus Teaches His Disciples to Pray (PASSAGE) Support the Show

270 | Winter Watch Party | Enjoy Season 2, Episode 6 of The ChosenSwap out the HR cardigans for your favorite professorial Letterman sweater (or just stay in your sweatpants) — we're diving into some heavy theology! In this installment of the Winter Watch Party, we're breaking down The Chosen Season 2, Episode 6, where two massive themes collide head-on: God's law and God's grace. Ryan puts Bryan in the "Hot Seat" to untangle a messy question about ethics: what's the difference between just doing whatever feels right in the moment and actually discerning God's will? We're talking King David eating the forbidden showbread, Jesus healing on the Sabbath, and the ancient rabbinic throwdown between the schools of Shammai and Hillel. (Yep, we went full Bible Geek on this one!) But it's not all high-level debates. We also get real about Mary Magdalene’s emotional return to the camp and tackle a tough "Reach Out" question: Why is grace so hard to accept? Spoiler alert: learning to dish out a little more grace to the people around us might just be the secret to finally accepting it for ourselves.The Big Idea: Following Jesus means learning how to discern rightly — and learning how to live forgiven when we fall.Show NotesWatch Episode 270 (VIDEO)The Chosen: Season 2, Episode 6 (VIDEO)David Eats the Showbread (PASSAGE)Lord of the Sabbath / Plucking Grain (PASSAGE)The Two Great Commandments (PASSAGE)I Desire Mercy, and Not Sacrifice (PASSAGE)Houses of Hillel and Shammai (ARTICLE)Support the Show

269 | Winter Watch Party | Enjoy Season 2, Episode 5 of The ChosenThe wheels have officially fallen off the bus. In this episode of our Winter Watch Party, we break down The Chosen Season 2, Episode 5 ("Spirit"). It’s a "spiritual thriller" full of chaos: a demon-possessed man terrorizing the camp, Roman spies in the bushes, and John the Baptist causing a PR nightmare. We put on our cardigans to act as the "HR Department for Galilee," reviewing the incident reports — from John's "scorched earth" policy to Mary Magdalene's heartbreaking relapse. We discuss the realism of backsliding, the terror of the demonic, and the powerful moment Jesus delegates the rescue mission to Peter and Matthew — forcing enemies to become partners in grace. Finally, we challenge you to be the one who makes the call to bring someone back to the Lord.The Big Idea: When a believer falls, our job isn't to judge the failure — it's to go into the dark and find them.Show NotesWatch Episode 269 (VIDEO)The Chosen: Season 2, Episode 5 - "Spirit" (VIDEO)John the Baptist's "Brood of Vipers" Speech (PASSAGE)Jesus on John the Baptist (PASSAGE)The Return of an Unclean Spirit (PASSAGE)Sending Them Out Two by Two (PASSAGE)Where Can I Flee From Your Spirit? (PASSAGE)Support the Show

268 | Winter Watch Party | Enjoy Season 2, Episode 4 of The ChosenDoes God want to heal you, or do you want to be healed? In this episode of our Winter Watch Party, we explore The Chosen Season 2, Episode 4 ("The Perfect Opportunity"), where Jesus asks a paralytic who's been waiting 38 years for a miracle one of the strangest questions in the gospels: "Do you want to be healed?" We start with a "Bible Fact Check" to see what’s fact (the pool of Bethesda, 38 years) and what’s fiction (Simon the Zealot’s brother, the name Jesse). Then, we dive into four profound questions Jesus asks in the Gospel of John — questions designed not to gather information, but to act as a mirror for our souls. Finally, we challenge you to pick one of these questions to sit with this week as if Jesus were asking you directly.The Big Idea: Jesus doesn't ask questions to get answers; He asks them to act as mirrors that reveal our true desires and awaken our faith.Show NotesWatch Episode 268 (VIDEO)The Chosen: Season 2, Episode 4 - "The Perfect Opportunity" (VIDEO)The Healing at the Pool of Bethesda (PASSAGE)Jesus Asks: "What Are You Seeking?" (PASSAGE)Jesus Asks: "Do You Believe This?" (PASSAGE)Jesus Asks: "Do You Not Know Me?" (PASSAGE)The Zealots (ARTICLE)Support the Show

267 | Winter Watch Party | Enjoy Season 2, Episode 3 of The ChosenGrab a marshmallow and pull up a log — it's time for The Breakfast Club with swords and sandals. In this episode of our Winter Watch Party, we break down The Chosen Season 2, Episode 3 ("Matthew 4:24"). It’s a classic "bottle episode," meaning no set changes, no travel montages, and 100% character development as the disciples sit around a campfire waiting for Jesus. We play a game of "Bad Teams," debating who would be the worst pair to build IKEA furniture (looking at you, Peter and Matthew) or run a three-legged race. But amidst the bickering, we explore the hard work of unity — realizing that unity isn't about "sameness," but about choosing to love despite our different files on each other. Finally, we look at the creative choice to show an exhausted Jesus, reminding us that He "emptied Himself" for us — and that it’s okay to need a nap.The Big Idea: Jesus didn't just take on a human body, he took on human limitations — proving that exhaustion isn't a sin and needing rest is part of being human.This Week's Challenge: The "Nap Challenge" — If Jesus needed help taking off his sandals after a long day of ministry, you’re allowed to stop. Find one moment this week to admit you are at your limit and simply rest.Show NotesWatch Episode 267 (VIDEO)The Chosen: Season 2, Episode 3 - "Matthew 4:24" (VIDEO)Healed by Jesus (PASSAGE)Maintaining the Unity of the Spirit (PASSAGE)He Emptied Himself (PASSAGE)He Gives His Beloved Sleep (PASSAGE)Support the Show

266 | Winter Watch Party | Enjoy Season 2, Episode 2 of The ChosenWhen was the last time you felt truly seen? In this episode of our Winter Watch Party, we explore Season 2, Episode 2 of The Chosen, where we meet Nathanael — a man feeling completely unseen until Jesus meets him with three simple words: "I saw you." We dive into the subplots, including Matthew and Mary’s struggle to catch up on their Torah learning and Peter’s jockeying for leadership. But the heart of this discussion is evangelism. We break down how Philip’s simple invitation — "Come and see" — might be the best model for sharing Jesus in the entire Bible. Plus, we play a game of "Three Degrees to Jesus" to trace who connected us to the Lord (spoiler: it usually starts with a grandma or a friend at a KFC table).The Big Idea: We don't need a theology degree to share our faith — just a simple invitation to "Come and see."Show NotesWatch Episode 266 (VIDEO)The Chosen: Season 2, Episode 2 - "I Saw You" (VIDEO)Jesus Calls Philip and Nathanael (PASSAGE)Jacob’s Ladder (PASSAGE)Behold the Lamb of God (PASSAGE)Mary Listening at Jesus' Feet (PASSAGE)Come and See (PASSAGE)Support the Show

265 | Winter Watch Party | Enjoy Season 2, Episode 1 of the ChosenWelcome to the Winter Watch Party! We're filling the gap between seasons with a low-stress rewatch of The Chosen Season 2. Today, we're discussing Episode 1, "Thunder," where we encounter road rage in Samaria, cranky disciples, and the "Sons of Thunder" trying to call down fire from heaven. We introduce the "Golden Sandals Awards" to honor the best (and most unbiblical) moments, including the "Simon Peter Award" for putting your foot in your mouth. From Jesus' patience with prejudice to John's writing process, we explore how Christ redirects our zeal from destruction to love.The Big Idea: Jesus meets our impatience and judgment not with rejection, but with a patience that transforms our "thunder" into living water.Show NotesWatch Episode 265 (VIDEO)The Chosen: Season 2, Episode 1 - "Thunder" (VIDEO)James and John Call Down Fire (PASSAGE)The Good Samaritan (PASSAGE)Jesus Talks with the Samaritan Woman (PASSAGE)Sons of Thunder (PASSAGE)Support the Show

264 | Understand God’s Heavenly HelpersEvery time a bell rings, does an angel get his wings? Probably not. In this season finale, we're' separating the Hallmark movie myths from the biblical reality of angels. We kick things off with a round of "Angel Jeopardy," debunking chubby cherubs and shoulder angels, before diving into the "Hot Seat" to answer the big questions. Do angels still work in the world today? Do we actually have "guardian angels," or is that just a nice thought? And what does it really mean to "entertain angels unawares" — are we dealing with celestial "secret shoppers"? Join us as we look behind the curtain at the invisible armies encamped around us.The Big Idea: Angels are God’s powerful servants, carrying out his purposes and ministering to us!Show NotesWatch Episode 264 (VIDEO)It's a Wonderful Life - "Teacher says..." (VIDEO)Ministering Spirits (PASSAGE)The Angels of the "Little Ones" (PASSAGE)Peter's "Angel" (PASSAGE)Entertaining Angels Unawares (PASSAGE)Abraham's Visitors (PASSAGE)Elisha's Invisible Army (PASSAGE)The Angel Encamped Around Us (PASSAGE)Shepherd of Hermas (WEBSITE)Support the Show 

263 | Find the Secret to Real ContentmentIs Philippians 4:13 the ultimate spiritual cheat code for winning football games and acing math tests? In this Bible Geeks Mini, we’re rescuing one of the most famous verses in the Bible from the locker room and putting it back where it belongs. We explore why Paul wasn't looking for a "Sylvester Stallone-style" triumph, but rather the strength to endure prison with peace. We dive into the "secret of contentment" — learning to be okay whether we're full or hungry, rich or poor. It turns out the true power of this verse isn't about achieving our dreams, but finding the otherworldly strength to choose joy in whatever situation we face.The Big Idea: The "secret" of contentment isn't a superpower to achieve all our dreams, it's learning to find Christ's strength sufficient in all our circumstances — whether we have plenty or are in need.Show NotesWatch Episode 263 (VIDEO)The Secret of Contentment (PASSAGE)Rejoice in the Lord Always (PASSAGE)Do All Things Without Grumbling (PASSAGE)Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego's "But If Not" Faith (PASSAGE)Tim Tebow's eye black Bible verses: A guide (ARTICLE)Support the Show 

262 | Rewrite Your Family Story in ChristHave you ever opened your mouth and heard your parents come out? It happens to the best of us! This week, we’re looking at the "base operating system" of our families to see if there are any glitches we need to fix. We dive into the "copy and paste" drama of biblical families, asking why Abraham’s deceit and Isaac’s favoritism kept showing up in the next generation. Is it nature, nurture, or just a lack of updates? Thankfully, we don't have to stay stuck in a loop. We explore how Joseph "flipped the script" and how Jesus — the ultimate pattern breaker — offers us a total reboot as a "new creation". It’s time to identify the baggage we’ve inherited and let God start "reparenting" us for the better.The Big Idea: The gospel empowers us to break bad patterns and pass on better ones.This Week's Challenge: Identify one unhealthy family pattern and one positive pattern. Pray about them and take one step this week to break the bad and reinforce the good.Show NotesWatch Episode 262 (VIDEO)1 Peter 1:18 (PASSAGE)Abraham’s Deception (PASSAGE)Isaac and Jacob’s Favoritism (PASSAGE)Nathan Rebukes David (PASSAGE)Ezekiel 18 (PASSAGE)2 Corinthians 5:17 (PASSAGE)As For Me and My House (PASSAGE)Peter Scazzero (WEBSITE)Support the Show

261 | Trust God’s Unseen HandThis week, we’re hitting "peak Bible Geeks" territory. Is God actually at work in your life, or did He just set the world spinning and walk away? We tackle the heavyweights — providence, miracles, and the mystery of God's will — without getting bogged down in the philosophy. We explore the meaning of "providence," the "salami sandwich" of Proverbs 16 (where man plans but God establishes the steps), and the story of Joseph to see how the Lord governs the world. We also ask: Are miracles still happening today, or is there a distinction between apostolic signs and God’s mighty works in response to prayer? Join us as we look at Romans 8:28 and the power of the word "perhaps" to guide us through uncertainty.The Big Idea: God still personally and purposefully works to quietly direct ordinary events toward his good and eternal purposes.This Week's Challenge: This week, pause once each day to name one “ordinary” event and thank God for how he might be using it for good — whether or not you can see the outcome yet.Show NotesWatch Episode 261 (VIDEO)The "Salami Sandwich" of Planning (PASSAGE)God Meant It for Good (PASSAGE)The Secret Things Belong to God (PASSAGE)Working Together for Good (PASSAGE)The "Perhaps" of Providence (PASSAGE)Praying for the Sick (PASSAGE)Support the Show

260 | Train Your Heart to Be ThankfulHappy Thanksgiving, Bible Geeks! In this special holiday Mini, we're taking a break from the turkey and pie to play a game we call the "Gratitude Gauntlet." The rules are simple: we throw disaster scenarios at each other — from dry turkeys and family drama to crushing sports defeats — and challenge each other to find the hidden blessing in the mess.Can you find gratitude when your favorite team gets obliterated or you're stuck working on the holiday? We also get real about the deeper things we're thankful for this year, like the "no" answers from God that turned into blessings and the joy of watching our kids grow up. Join us for a bite-sized dose of encouragement to help you "give thanks in all circumstances".The Big Idea: True, biblical gratitude isn't just a feeling reserved for big blessings — it's a spiritual muscle we can train to find God's grace and goodness even in the middle of everyday frustrations.Show NotesWatch Episode 260 (VIDEO)Give Thanks in All Circumstances (PASSAGE)Rejoice Always (PASSAGE)Christmas Vacation Turkey Scene (VIDEO)Support the Show 

259 | Love Well Within God’s LimitsBoundaries can feel like barriers, but they're actually God's way of teaching us how to love and live more freely. We explore the spiritual tightrope between sacrificial service and self-destruction, asking: How can we take up our cross without letting it lead to burnout? We dive into Galatians 6 to distinguish between bearing our own "rucksack" (personal load) and carrying a brother's crushing "burden". We cover discernment, the idol of approval, and why saying "no" out of love is necessary to avoid falling into co-dependence or resentment. Let's find the freedom God offers within his established limits.The Big Idea: Healthy boundaries are love in action — honoring God’s design so we can love others wisely and live within our limits.This Week's Challenge: Ask yourself: “What am I truly responsible for — and what am I simply trying to control?” Watch for an unwise “yes” that should be a gentle “no.”Show NotesWatch Episode 259 (VIDEO)Galatians 6:2-5 (The Two Burdens) (PASSAGE)Philippians 2:4 (Look to Others' Interests) (PASSAGE)God Sets the First Boundary (Genesis 2:16-17) (PASSAGE)Our Discussion on Burnout (EPISODE)Jules Renard Quote on Freedom (ARTICLE)Support the Show 

258 | Pray with Freedom and HonestyWelcome to our first-ever Bible Geeks Mini — a new, bite-sized episode for your busy week! We're kicking things off with a rapid-fire conversation on Prayer: Hacks and Hot Takes. First, we share practical tips to keep your prayer life fresh, from a simple app that helps you remember your prayer list to using the Lord's Prayer as a powerful daily template. Then, we serve up some "mildly microwaved" hot takes: Does your physical posture in prayer actually matter? And why do we really end every prayer with "in Jesus' name, amen"? (Spoiler: it's not a magic password).The Big Idea: A healthy prayer life is less about following a rigid set of rules and more about finding a creative, honest rhythm of conversation with God.This Week's Challenge: Pray through the Lord’s Prayer along with us.Show NotesWatch Episode 258 (VIDEO)Prayer Apps and Prayer Lists (BLOG)PrayMinder App (WEBSITE)The Lord's Prayer (PASSAGE)Lifting Up Holy Hands (PASSAGE)Ask In My Name (PASSAGE)The "Amen" Through Him (PASSAGE)Do Not Heap Up Empty Phrases (PASSAGE)Support the Show 

257 | Follow God with Your Whole HeartWelcome, ladies and gentlemen, to the ultimate Old Testament face-off! In this corner: Joshua, the iconic leader who brought down the walls of Jericho. And in this corner: Caleb, the rugged warrior who waited 45 years to claim his mountain. These two titans of faith were the only spies who believed God's promise, but their paths were very different. Is it harder to be Joshua, the "front of house" leader stepping into Moses's massive sandals, or Caleb, the "back of house" mountain man who had to patiently wait 40 years in the wilderness? Join our friendly debate as we explore their unique strengths, their vital partnership, and why the very essence of faith might just be learning how to wait.The Big Idea: The complementary faithfulness of Joshua (the leader) and Caleb (the loyal warrior) provides a powerful, two-part model for how to follow God wholeheartedly, both in seasons of action and seasons of waiting.This Week's Challenge: This week, ask yourself: In my current season of life, is God calling me to a "Joshua moment" (to step up, lead, and take new ground), or a "Caleb moment" (to be patiently faithful, trust God's promises in a season of waiting, and finish strong)?Show NotesWatch Episode 257 (VIDEO)Give Me This Mountain (BLOG)Priscilla and Aquila (PASSAGE)The Story of Ruth and Naomi (PASSAGE)The 12 Spies & Caleb's "Different Spirit" (PASSAGE)Joshua Crosses the Jordan (PASSAGE)The Commander of the Lord's Army (PASSAGE)Caleb Claims His Mountain (PASSAGE)Joshua's Final Challenge (PASSAGE)Support the Show 

256 | Geektober | Slay the Giant QuestionsNephilim, Rephim, Anakim! Oh, my! For our Geektober finale, we're grabbing our nerd glasses and going on a "crypto-biblical expedition" to track down the Bible's giants. Where did the mysterious Nephilim of Genesis 6 come from? How did they lead to the "grasshopper syndrome" of Numbers 13? And how does Goliath, the final boss, tie into the Bible's ultimate story of Christ defeating the enemy? Join us for a fun dive into one of Scripture's weirdest rabbit trails (with a healthy dose of The Princess Bride).The Big Idea: The Bible’s giants highlight God’s power as his people overcome colossal obstacles.This Week's Challenge: This week, identify a "giant" in your own life — an insurmountable obstacle, a persistent sin, or an overwhelming fear and meditate on God’s power to protect you.Show NotesWatch Episode 256 (VIDEO)The Princess Bride: "Anybody want a peanut?" (VIDEO)The Six-Fingered Giant (ARTICLE)Who Were the Nephilim? (ARTICLE)Og's Iron Bed (ARTICLE)They Might Be Giants (WEBSITE)Support the Show

255 | Geektober | Trust the Process That Protected the BibleDid the Bible just drop from heaven as a set of golden tablets? Nope! This Geektober, we're pulling back the curtain on the original Bible geeks: the Scribes! These unsung heroes were the "original programmers" of Scripture, meticulously counting every single word and letter to preserve the text. We debunk the "game of telephone" myth and explore how the painstaking work of groups like the Masoretes — confirmed by the discovery of the Dead Sea Scrolls — is one of the most powerful arguments for the Bible's reliability.The Big Idea: The surprisingly meticulous and worshipful work of ancient scribes is one of the most powerful arguments for the Bible's preservation and reliability.This Week's Challenge: This week, when you read your Bible, take an extra 30 seconds to simply be thankful for the physical book in your hands (or on your screen).Show NotesWatch Episode 255 (VIDEO)It Wasn’t Magic ... It Was Better (BLOG)Our "Square One" Series (SERIES)"Meet Your Bible" Sermon (EPISODE)The Masoretes (ARTICLE)The Dead Sea Scrolls (WEBSITE)The Oxyrhynchus Papyri (Ancient Libraries) (ARTICLE)They Might Be Giants (WEBSITE)Support the Show

Pray Honestly and Trust God’s JusticeGeektober is getting weird! This week, we're exploring the Bible's "ancient rage tracks"—the imprecatory psalms. How can followers of Jesus, who are called to bless their enemies, also pray these Spirit-inspired psalms that call for judgment? Are these just "flyover psalms" we should skip, or do they give us a powerful way to be brutally honest with God, process our pain, and trust His justice without becoming vindictive villains ourselves? Join us for a deep dive into the Bible's dark corner to find out!The Big Idea: Honest prayer trusts God with our pain.This Week's Challenge: Pray one imprecatory psalm this week (Ps. 58, 94, or 109). Bring your anger, grief, or injustice to God. Pray honestly — and then watch for the pivot into trust and praise.Show NotesWatch Episode 254 (VIDEO)"Today" by The Smashing Pumpkins (SONG)"Hurt" by Johnny Cash (SONG)Dark Clouds, Deep Mercy: Discovering the Grace of Lament by Mark Vroegop (BOOK)The Message of the Psalms by Walter Brueggemann (BOOK)Original Sin by P.D. James (BOOK)Support the Show

Unmask the Dragon253 | Geektober | Unmask the DragonGeektober continues! If the Bible were a fantasy novel, it'd have it all: a talking serpent, a multi-headed sea monster, and a great dragon at the end. But this isn't fiction, so what's with all the hissing and fire-breathing? How did biblical writers "flip the script" on ancient myths to tell the true story of chaos? And how is the entire Bible one epic dragonslayer story pointing to Christ's ultimate victory over evil? Grab your sword of the Spirit and join our quest to understand one of Scripture's most powerful symbols.The Big Idea: The Bible uses snakes and dragons to help us see God's epic victory over evil.This Week's Challenge: Memorize Romans 16:20.Show NotesWatch Episode 253 (VIDEO)The Fantasmic! Dragon at Disneyland (VIDEO)The Serpent and the Serpent Slayer by Andrew Naselli (BOOK)Leviathan in Mythology and the Bible (WEBSITE)The Babylonian Creation Epic (Enuma Elish) (WEBSITE)The "Christus Victor" View of Atonement (ARTICLE)The Challenge: Romans 16:20 (VERSE)Support the Show

Put AI to Work for the Kingdom252 | Geektober | Put AI to Work for the KingdomGrab your nerd glasses — our monthlong Geektober deep-dive is officially here! First up we head to the workshop to explore Artificial Intelligence. Is AI a faithful "digital servant" for your Bible study, or a rogue robot that hallucinates answers? We're giving you the guardrails to use this powerful tool wisely, showing you why it's a great research assistant but a terrible rabbi. Join us for a fun, nerdy, and practical guide to making AI your servant, not your master, in your walk with God!The Big Idea: Artificial intelligence is a powerful tool that Christians can leverage for kingdom work, but it should be treated like a helpful servant, not a replacement for critical thinking.This Week's Challenge: This week, put an AI to work as your Digital servant. Then, evaluate the result. Ask yourself: "How did this information help me to think more deeply and personally about the text?"Show NotesWatch Episode 252 (VIDEO)Welcome to GEEKTOBER! (WEBSITE)The New Yankee Workshop with Norm Abrams (WEBSITE)The Plinko Game from The Price is Right (VIDEO)Google's NotebookLM (WEBSITE)Steve Jobs: A Bicycle for the Mind (VIDEO)Support the Show

251 | Find God's Grace in Your BurnoutEver feel completely gassed, even after a huge win? The prophet Elijah sure did. Fresh off his spiritual Super Bowl on Mount Carmel, he crashed so hard he was ready to quit for good. But God's response wasn't a pep talk — it was a hot meal and an invitation to take a nap. What does this story teach us about the anatomy of burnout and the problem with "hustle culture"? Join us for a surprisingly practical and personal look at finding God's grace — and maybe a good nap — when you've hit the wall.The Big Idea: When you're spiritually and emotionally exhausted, God's first response isn't a demand for more strength, but an invitation to receive His gentle, practical care.This Week's Challenge: Identify one thing you can do to address physical or emotional exhaustion — take a nap, go for a quiet walk, have a restorative meal.Show NotesWatch Episode 251 (VIDEO)Finding Jesus: Matthew 11:28-30 (VERSE)Can't Hurt Me by David Goggins (BOOK)The Biblical City of Ai (WEBSITE)Support the Show

250 | Unlock the Message of EzekielEver felt like Ezekiel is a locked door? In this workshop episode, Ryan takes us on his journey teaching through this bizarre and beautiful "flyover book". What can we learn from a prophet who ate a scroll and whose wife's death became a sign? How does this book balance God's terrifying judgment with his patient grace? What do the gyroscopic wheels of eyes look like? And what are the practical keys — from immersion to asking the right questions — that unlock its message about Jesus? Get your toolkit ready to confidently tackle one of the Bible's most rewarding books!The Big Idea: Unlocking an intimidating book like Ezekiel reveals a powerful and accessible message about God's relentless faithfulness.This Week's Challenge: Read the one chapter Ryan recommended — Ezekiel 37. As you read, don't worry about understanding every detail. Instead, ask one question: "What does this story show me about the power of God?"Show NotesWatch Episode 250 (VIDEO)Eat the Scroll (BLOG)Ryan’s Top Chapter: Ezekiel 37 (VERSE)The Book of Ezekiel, Chapters 1-24 by Daniel I. Block (COMMENTARY)The Message of Ezekiel by Christopher J.H. Wright (COMMENTARY)The Bible Project: Ezekiel Classroom (VIDEO COURSE)Ezekiel by Robert Harkrider (WORKBOOK)Ezekiel, NIVAC by Iain Duguid (BOOK)The Book Of Ezekiel by Jim McGuiggan (BOOK)Episode 4: Fully Infused (PODCAST)Image #1 - Line Art Drawing (IMAGE)Image #2 - Prog Rock UFO (IMAGE)Image #3 - AI Generated Art (IMAGE)Support the Show

249 | Redeem Your TimeFire up the DeLorean! In this time travel episode, we explore the time traps we all fall into. How does Jesus redeem our past, freeing us from the magnetic pull of regret and nostalgia? What's the difference between tactical concern and getting stuck in a state of worry about the future? And what does it really mean to "redeem the time" — not just managing our schedule, but wisely and gratefully living in the present moment? Join us for a conversation that helps us escape the loops of yesterday and tomorrow to live fully in today!The Big Idea: Christ redeems our past, secures our future, and fills our present with purpose.This Week's Challenge: Bring whatever’s snagging you, your past, present, or future to God in prayer. Then pay attention to what he does as he works in your life going forward.Show NotesWatch Episode 249 (VIDEO)Trapped in Time? (BLOG)Jesus Said: Matthew 6:34 (VERSE)Frequency (MOVIE)Groundhog Day (MOVIE)The Riddle of Experience vs. Memory (TED TALK)Support the Show

248 | Foster Joy and Happiness in Your LifeRejoice! We're back for a new season with "Happy Days Ahead"! First up, we're untangling the relationship between joy and happiness. Is it okay for Christians to just be happy, or is happiness a shallow goal we should avoid? How can joy be a choice we make, yet also a fruit of the Spirit we receive? And what does it mean to "abide in the vine" to find the full joy that Jesus promises — the kind that can coexist with sadness? Join us as we explore appreciating happiness while building a life on unshakable joy!The Big Idea: We can appreciate happiness as a gift, but we must foster joy to carry us through.This Week's Challenge: This week, instead of chasing a feeling of joy, abide in Christ and gratefully notice his blessings throughout your day.Show NotesWatch Episode 248 (VIDEO)More Geek, More Joy! (BLOG)Jesus Said: John 15:11 (VERSE)Finishing Each Other's Sandwiches (VIDEO)Rate and Review the Show (APPLE PODCASTS)Support the Show

247 | Seven Sermon Summer Surfin’ Spectacular | Go Back to the BookWe're closing our "Seven Sermon Summer Surfin' Spectacular" by opening the vault! This episode is a time capsule: our very first recording together from an old radio show — our "naked baby pictures" episode. Inspired by "National Back to Church Sunday," we ask a bigger question: What does it mean to go back to the church of the Bible? How does the New Testament's pattern for work, worship, and organization compare to today? And why is unity under Christ's authority so crucial? Join us for a foundational discussion that's still relevant today!The Big Idea: Rather than choosing a church based on preference, we are called to find and be a part of a local body that faithfully follows the New Testament's pattern.Show NotesBack to Church (BLOG)Our About Page (with a photo from this recording!) (WEBSITE)National Back to Church Sunday (WEBSITE)Seven Sermon Summer Surfin’ Spectacular (WEBSITE)Square One Guided Study (GUIDED STUDY)Support the Show

246 | Seven Sermon Summer Surfin’ Spectacular | See the Prophecy in the PainWe welcome our friend Allen Greeley back for his final sermon in our "Seven Sermon Summer Surfin' Spectacular"! This week's lesson, "Betrayal of a Close Friend," gets personal. How did King David's psalms give voice to Jesus's heartbreak over Judas hundreds of years before it happened? In what ways did the betrayal of David by his own trusted advisor serve as a haunting prequel to the gospel story? And what does it mean that in the moment of betrayal, Jesus still called Judas "Friend"? Join us for a powerful look at the human cost of betrayal.The Big Idea: The psalms foretold not just the event of the betrayal, but the real, human pain Jesus would feel as a friend.Show NotesFriend, Do What You Came to Do (BLOG)Plainfield Ponderings Podcast (PODCAST)Allen Greeley (GUEST)Macbeth (WIKI)Hamilton (MUSICAL)Seven Sermon Summer Surfin’ Spectacular (WEBSITE)Square One Guided Study (GUIDED STUDY)Support the Show