Footnotes and Witness

After finishing the entire book of Mark, I sat down with a friend to discuss. I hope this conversation is helpful! 

Here is the end of the book of Mark. Depending on your translation, there may be a large footnote in your bible about this chapter. It originally had a very abrupt ending. While that may not have been satisfying to us, it posed a challenge to the reader. As the reader, what would you do next?I also asked you to take note of a couple questions as you reflect back on your time in the book of Mark:Would other people describe you as a servant? yes or noHow do you feel about that?Do you want to change that?Do you think of Jesus Christ as a servant? why or why notHow do you describe Jesus?What does it mean to be a disciple of Jesus?Resources:Ending of Mark commentaries:https://www.biblicalarchaeology.org/daily/biblical-topics/new-testament/the-strange-ending-of-the-gospel-of-mark-and-why-it-makes-all-the-difference/https://ca.thegospelcoalition.org/columns/ad-fontes/what-do-you-do-with-the-end-of-marks-gospel/https://youtu.be/HGHqu9-DtXk?si=abk2BecFKqLxQlFjmy website: https://www.deborahjmckenzie.com/

Mark chapter 15- The death of Jesus Christ. It has been quite a journey to get here. You may notice that this episode is formatted a little differently. It ends rather abruptly for instance. It is in an effort to highlight the spiritual practice that I get from a Good Friday Service and indeed most of Holy Week (the week prior to Easter). Easter is amazing, don't get me wrong but we really need the week that comes before it. The meaning and weight of Easter comes from the severity of sin and the enormity of the sacrificed that was required. It would certainly do us well to slow down, meditate on the meaning of the events in this chapter. Resources:the Bible ReCap (chronological reading resource and podcast): https://www.thebiblerecap.com/My God My God Why Have You Forsaken Me - Psalm 22https://www.blueletterbible.org/esv/psa/22/1/s_500001My Website: https://www.deborahjmckenzie.com/

Jesus gets arrested and endures the trials of the religious leaders. Peter denies Jesus 3 times in a courtyard to strangers. The perfect humanity in Jesus shows one reaction to fear and the imperfect humanity in Peter shows another. We have this opportunity to hold the mirror to ourselves. What is our reaction in the day to day?My website: https://www.deborahjmckenzie.com/

Chapter 14 is immense! I am breaking it into 2 episodes. Even as we read through these chapters at such a high view, there is just way too much going on for one week. Make sure you are reading through the chapter before you get to the podcast. If you have the time, I highly suggest listening to the chapter in 3 different versions. I typically use NIV, ESV, and NASB. Pick whatever translations are best for you. We are getting into Holy Week. Try not to get bogged down in logistics and timing. That can seriously draw your attention away from the miraculous events that are happening. In case you need a little visual aid though, here are some links to Easter Timelines:https://understandingfaith.edu.au/the-events-of-easter-part-one/https://www.christianity.com/wiki/holidays/a-time-line-of-the-passion-week.htmlMy Website:https://www.deborahjmckenzie.com/

I sit down with Footnotes and Witness regular contributor, April Whalen to talk about these disciples. Jesus tells them 3 different times in 3 different places that the Son of Man will die. Why don't they get it? What is it with the extremely varied responses to Jesus?Links to Son of Man episode:https://www.buzzsprout.com/2045573/13515172-bonus-son-of-man.mp3?download=trueMy website:https://www.deborahjmckenzie.com/podcast

Sometimes this chapter is referred to as the "Markan Apocalypse". We need to pay attention to the first 2 verses to help us set the context for how to read this chapter. The image humanity has for "forever" is just not quite in line with the view God and His Son have. The mightiest stones will eventually pass away, but the words of Jesus Christ will not. My website: https://www.deborahjmckenzie.com/

Hopefully you are able to spend some time doing all the inductive study methods with his chapter, it is worth it! Here are the section titles laid out:parable of the tenets.          cautionary tale taxes.                                      pharisees/herodiansresurrection                           sadduceesgreatest commandment.   lawChrist, son and Lord?           prophecy and interpretation warning of idolatry.              scribeswidow's offering.                  encouraging taleSadducees and Pharisees  S- strict interpretation very literalpolitically savvy and involvedSanhedrin participantreject ideas of unseen (heaven, hell, spiritual world)P- oral interpretationimportance of tradition over time interpretation is equal to the lawSanhedrin participant accepted ideas of unseen Resources:s vs p article: https://www.jewishvirtuallibrary.org/pharisees-sadducees-and-essenesLaw of marrying your brother in law: Deuteronomy 25:5-6Blue Letter Bible Commentary: https://www.blueletterbible.org/comm/guzik_david/study-guide/mark/mark-12.cfm?a=969001my website: https://www.deborahjmckenzie.com/

Jesus is going to ride into Jerusalem on a donkey to people shouting praises and waving palm branches. This is the last high point until the resurrection in chapter 16. Let's take note of the differences in responses that Jesus elicits in people. References of OT prophecyMalachi 3:1-3Zechariah 9:9 My website:https://www.deborahjmckenzie.com/

Divorce, children, wealth, status, authority, Jesus is get to it all in this one chapter and it isn't what you expect. While some of these things can be difficult, the disciples didn't get it either at the time, it is worth talking about. We can confront these difficulties because God is big enough for it all and merciful throughout. Hopefully you are in or are seeking a body of believers to commune with. Scripture is a tool just like the church is. We all need a safe place to have spiritual direction and community. With God all things are possible so make sure those speaking into your life about divorce, wealth, status, legacy and children are followers of God. my website:https://www.deborahjmckenzie.com/

Happy New Year and Happy Holiday Season! The in-between is hard right? What day is it, what time is it, how are we out of food?! Any day is a good day to read a little scripture and spend some time with the Lord. Chapter 9! Things are starting to move at a quicker pace. Jesus is on His way to His death and resurrection. Instead of having senior-itis, He is getting things done. Transfiguration: a complete change of form or appearance into a more beautiful or spiritual stateLink to Bonus Episode: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2045573/episodes/16337269-711-bonus-back-to-liturgy.mp3?download=trueMy website: https://www.deborahjmckenzie.com/

As we dive into the holiday season, prepare for the new year, and take a break from the book of Mark, I want to talk about liturgy. If you have no idea what I mean, please take a listen. If your only experience with liturgy is that it is old and irrelevant words, please take a listen. I adore liturgy and have found it to be a consistent source of hope and renewal. Gallup Poll:https://news.gallup.com/poll/642548/church-attendance-declined-religious-groups.aspx#:~:text=Three%20in%2010%20Americans%20say,or%20never%20(31%25)%20attend.Here are some resources:Lord's Prayer: Matthew 6:9-13Article on Liturgy: https://www.faithandworship.com/liturgy.htm#gsc.tab=0Source for daily and occasional prayers: https://commonprayer.net/Physical book with common prayers: https://www.amazon.com/Book-Common-Prayer-Penguin-Classics/dp/0143106562/ref=sr_1_2?crid=1WHVT2N8Y19KQ&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.WTfoETULMCufrEQooGVe4Q9YQhLuvBWIzad4B1x2_WUjHy30uc9Mqpu0W2YvBGcHmnLsYuNf-7PIghdWIC0AANf_LLOhSwxwujAkCaTJTFJT8TbZpuWQ-mAUva83rdvQCxwWs5WBPM-DnlTqaMHisOF4gDD05GdU2w9xCVs1xf06Nywx8zoP_iJIafeV_DcgSF3S2Whs6suFuGDZD8P9BBRel4m7ZhCyEN2v-P5Pehw._9yhlXp7BUXEqtoMw1XhQijwkVG3zfN7eec2YBJz2z8&dib_tag=se&keywords=liturgical+prayer+book&qid=1735082435&s=books&sprefix=liturgical+prayer+book%2Cstripbooks%2C136&sr=1-2my website: https://www.deborahjmckenzie.com/

We are halfway through the book of Mark! 

Here is a review of Mark chapter 7. Remember to read the entire text first. It is too difficult to do a deep dive in these short episodes so it will help enormously if you have some familiarity with the text. My website:https://www.deborahjmckenzie.com/

Here we go! Let's continue our look at the book of Mark. Resources:Herod's family treehttps://www.biblicalarchaeology.org/daily/people-cultures-in-the-bible/people-in-the-bible/herod-the-great-herodian-family-tree/https://www.biblestudyplus.info/uploads/4/5/6/9/45695927/herods_family--simplified--color.pdfMy Websitehttps://www.deborahjmckenzie.com/

This chapter has 3 wonderful stories of desperation and need of Jesus. Jesus displays a lot of authority in these stories. Make sure you take note of the responses, there is a lot to contrast and compare.my website:https://www.deborahjmckenzie.com/

We are continuing our study of Mark chapter 4. Today is all about parables! As always, I hope you are reading (or listening to) the chapter in its entirety before diving into the podcast. If you can, look at each parable separately. Write down your observations. Then line them up. What do they have in common, how are they different? What is Jesus telling us about the kingdom of God based on these parables? You may know the "right" answer, but I challenge you to answer based solely on your reading in this chapter. My website:https://www.deborahjmckenzie.com/

We are going to take a look at chapter 3 and get an overview of what is going on here. I hope you are listening to or reading each chapter in its entirety before listening to the episode. I will give particular verse references but this will make more sense and be more fruitful if you know the chapter ahead of time. Don't forget to email questions or anything else you want addressed in the listeners episode coming up! References:Bible Project podcast series on the family of God:  https://bibleproject.com/podcast/series/family-of-god/My website:https://www.deborahjmckenzie.com/

Chapter 2 has a great theme of looking at the why. Why do we do certain rituals? Why do faith traditions matter? What is the point and why is that the point we decided?Jesus heals a man brought through the ceiling by his friends, forgives his sins and sends him home. Scribes question the authority Jesus claims in forgiving sin and Jesus answers by claiming the title "Son of Man".Matthew = Levi (don't worry too much about it)Fasting and Sabbath are given to humanity, they are not lord over humanity. Resources:Season 5 bonus episode: Son of Manhttps://www.buzzsprout.com/2045573/13515172-bonus-son-of-man.mp3?download=trueMy website:https://www.deborahjmckenzie.com/

This week we are finishing our discussion on Mark Chapter 1. With each miracle, we are observing 3 things (CPR): the category, the people present, and the result. Try to remember that Mark is the first gospel written and therefore should be read without the influence of the other gospel accounts if possible. First story today is in vs 29Jesus heals Peter's (Simon) Mother In Lawcategory: authority of health and diseasepeople: Jesus, Peter and Andrew, most likely James and John and the MIL (a case can easily be made for Peter's wife to be in attendance as well)result: MIL is so completely healed that she is up and fussing over her guestsvs 32-34 Crowds come to the door and Jesus heals manycategory: authority over spiritual and physical people: townspeople, Jesus and crewresult: nothing explicit vs 40-45 A leper approaches Jesus on the road for healingcategory: authority over physical and shows reverence for the lawpeople: leper, Jesus and his traveling companionsresult: leper tells everyone and Jesus can no longer enter towns without causing a fuss3 mentions of desolate placesvs 12-13 tempted in the wildernessvs 35 Jesus goes to pray in a desolate placevs 45 Now relegated to desolate places because of fame, Jesus is approached from every people coming from every directionScripture ReferencesJesus comes to preach: Isaiah 61:1Leprosy: Leviticus 13:45-46 (both chapters 13 and 14 speak many customs and laws dealing with leprosy and skin diseases)my website: https://www.deborahjmckenzie.com/

We are going to start digging into Mark chapter 1. This week we are going to start by building some skills on how to read this gospel well with the intentionality of the author's intent. First is a little background on the book itself. Mark was most likely written around 50-60 AD (CE). This means it was the first gospel account written and distributed. It was most likely written by the companion of Peter (Acts 12:12 and 1 Peter 5:13) and Paul (Colossians 4:10), John Mark. His beginning uses the word "gospel". This was a loaded work to the original hearers of this word. It was commonly used to announce the birthday of Cesar, the leader of Rome. Here is the link for a couple resources on the topic:https://bibleproject.com/podcast/what-does-word-gospel-mean/Tim Mackie and NT Wrighthttps://bibleproject.com/explore/video/euangelion-gospel/Video on the word study done by the Bible ProjectRoad Map for MarkChapters 1-8 the case building-lots of individual stories (look for "immediately" Geographically, in rural part of country known as GalileeChapters 8-16 Party moves to Jerusalem where everything slows down for the week of Jesus' arrest, trial, torture, death and resurrectionMake note of contrasts between God's kingdom and that kingdom of earthUse CPR on each storycategory - miracle or event is showing the authority of the Son of God, which authority is being displayed?people - who is present, who are the witnessesresult - what are the responses of the people there and is there a result caused by the event Try to read the book in light of the original audience. They did not have 3 other gospels to compare and contrast with. End your time with prayer! Even a quick shout out invitation in the car counts. Invite God in to this conversation about Him. Audience Participation!I want you to let me know your questions, thoughts, concerns. Please email of DM for upcoming audience shows. I cannot get to all the layers of a chapter in one podcast episode so I hope to get to some of those things you want addressed during this season. You can email at [email protected] or check the website for social media accounts also! Thanks https://www.deborahjmckenzie.com/

Welcome to season 7 of Footnotes and Witness. We will be going through the entire book of Mark this season chapter by chapter. This week I want to share some information about how to read this gospel well. Mark is one of 4 gospel accounts of the life, arrest, torture, death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. Each gospel has a particular focus in its writing. Gospels are narratives but the authors give us the stories in different ways. Mark is a fast paced story full of the miracles and works of the servant of God, Jesus the Christ. The miracles can fall into a few categories and we should take note of that. authority over natureauthority over health/disease (even to the point of death)authority over spirituality (exorcisms)How do we read miracles in today's context? How can we relate or understand the miracles? What place do they have in our journey to know Jesus more rightly? As we continue this season, here are some things to set you up for success:invite a friend to listen and discuss each week. Inviting someone to church can be intimidating or maybe you don't have a traditional church anyway. You can listen on a catcher or download the mp3 from my website. Listen together or separately then discuss! Easiest bible study there is and you might build some community from ittake note of the miracles listedhow do the witnesses respondwho is involvedwhat are the ramifications what category does it fall under ask every week: what does this show me about the character of God the Father and Jesus the Son?resources:illuminated scripture journal: https://www.illuminatedbible.org/buy(you can get it on amazon as well)my website: https://www.deborahjmckenzie.com/

Study Methods and Resources Season 6 Finale Show resources:Biblical literature- season 2 Bible Study Methods Intro- season 2 episode 10Bible Reading Methods:https://www.biblegateway.com/blog/2023/03/6-bible-study-methods-you-need-to-know-and-try/SOAP: scripture - observation - application - prayerREAP: read - examine - apply - prayTEXT: talk to God - encounter God - examine your own heart - thank GodEach method is an acronym to help you be intentional in your reading time. They all follow the same basic structure. Go to the text without trying to read into it. Just read it for what it is without preconceived notions. See what is there. Talk to God (prayer) about what is going on, good or bad. Try to keep in mind a couple questions whenever you read scripture:What does this tell me about God?Where is Jesus in this?How is the Holy Spirit at work here?Bible Translations Chart (infographic)https://chapter3min.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/types-of-bible-translations.jpgBiblical Language Resourceshttps://www.blueletterbible.org/resources/biblical-languages.cfmDefinitions of study terms:interlinear: inter (between) linear (lines) translation shown line by line next to the original language/textconcordance: alphabetical list of words that are present in a given textcross references: record of links between scriptures including concepts, locations, phrases, or quotescommentary: an expression of opinions or explanatory notes on a text Interlinear is a type of translation that is a word by word, literal translation shown line by line. Concordance is more like a dictionary, recording each word used and every location used. Cross references connect scriptures across the whole bible. Commentaries are people's opinions (hopefully well researched and thought out) on a text. next season: Book of MarkIlluminated Scripture Journal: https://www.illuminatedbible.org/My website: https://www.deborahjmckenzie.com/

We continue by looking at individual words that can have a huge impact on our ideas of who Jesus is and what our faith looks like with "Sober-minded"Here are some observations: Shows up in epistles. (An epistle is a letter, written by someone for someone. It has a particular reason to be written. Our instinct is to directly apply these words to our lives but we need to be cautious in that. The words can’t take on new meaning that they didn’t have originally to the original author and first receiver.) It is usually listed in places talking about leaders or Christ followers, not the unbeliever. Scripture References:1 Peter 1:13Titus 2:21 Thessalonians 5:6Biblical Defintion:blue letter bible: https://www.blueletterbible.org/lexicon/g3525/esv/mgnt/0-1/Modern Definition:dictionary. com: https://www.dictionary.com/browse/sober-mindedBible Project-website: https://bibleproject.com/YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@bibleprojectMy website: https://www.deborahjmckenzie.com/

Big Word Series: savedThis word is used a lot in Christian culture. Do we really know what it means to be saved though? How does this apply today? What are we actually being saved FROM?Scriptures and ResourcesFirst occurrence: genesis 19Deuteronomy 33:29 saved as a people group2 Kings 14:27 God saves a remnant Psalm 18:3 / 80:3Matthew 19: rich young rulerLuke 7:36-50 woman saved by her faithJohn 3:16-17 God saves the world Day of the Lord: Acts 2Bible Project Link: https://bibleproject.com/articles/what-is-pentecost-and-why-is-it-important/Isaiah 13- John 5:24Romans 5 (print it out and highlight every time the words “life” and “death” are used)2 Corinthians 5:17-21My Website: https://www.deborahjmckenzie.com/

Big Word Series continues with another little word: dwell. Not a word used often in day to day vocabulary. Let's take a look at the word in one specific verse and what it shows us about the character of God.2 Samuel 7:1-16My 3 take aways- Action, Dwell, DelightPray for God to take action, Dwell with Him during and after, then Delight in what the Lord has done. Dwell with Him! my website: https://www.deborahjmckenzie.com/

This week on the Big Word Series: Sanctification!Maybe you have never heard this word but it matters. Resources:Gospel Coalition Quote: https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/essay/the-doctrine-of-sanctification/sanctification as a phrase in NT: https://www.blueletterbible.org/lexicon/g37/kjv/tr/0-1/scripturesfirst use of sanctification - Genesis 2:3God's presence sanctifies - Exodus 29:43God's name is sanctified by us - Leviticus 22:32-33Jesus asks the Father to sanctify - John 17:17first use in NT - Matthew 6:9Paul says get along! Romans 15:16Jesus sanctifies us by death and resurrection - Hebrews 10 (7-14)my website: https://www.deborahjmckenzie.com/

Big Word Series continues with "faith"References:Mark Wrathhall quote: https://hum.byu.edu/difference-between-faith-and-belief#:~:text=Faith%20involves%20reliance%20and%20trust,faith%20in%2C%E2%80%9D%20he%20said.Faith biblical definition: https://www.blueletterbible.org/lexicon/g4102/kjv/tr/0-1/Scriptures:Hebrews 11- Hall of Fame of FaithGenesis 17- God's promise to Abraham and SarahMatthew 8- Jesus takes a nap in a stormMark 2- paralytic friend is saved by their faithLuke 7- woman with many sins anoints Jesus' feetMy Website:https://www.deborahjmckenzie.com/

Our next word in the Big Word Series is "idol". Isn't that just an OT problem? Let's take a look and see.Scripture References:10 Commandments: Exodus 20golden calf: Exodus (24:17-18 presence on the mountain) 32First divine image: Genesis 1:26-27Sermon on the mount: Matthew 5-7Rich Young Ruler Story: Matthew 19:16-22Colossians 3:5 Put to Death IdolatryDefinitions:idols: https://www.blueletterbible.org/search/search.cfm?Criteria=idols&t=ESV#s=s_primary_0_1idolatry: https://www.blueletterbible.org/search/search.cfm?Criteria=idolatry&t=ESV#s=s_primary_0_1jealousy (divine): an intolerance of rivalsMy Website: contact me and suggest your own word for our BWS!https://www.deborahjmckenzie.com/

Next stop on the Big Word Series: reconciliation!Reconciliation: to bring back into harmony to exchange or changeColossians 1:19-22 -- reconciliation on the crossMatthew 5:23-24 -- be reconciled to your fellow believerWord Look Upreconciliation- https://www.blueletterbible.org/search/search.cfm?Criteria=reconciliation&t=ESV#s=s_primary_0_1reconciled - https://www.blueletterbible.org/search/search.cfm?Criteria=reconciled&t=ESV#s=s_primary_0_1reconcile - https://www.blueletterbible.org/search/search.cfm?Criteria=reconcile&t=ESV#s=s_primary_0_1How to reconcile with another believer: Matthew 18:15-17Reconciliation through Jesus ChristRomans 5:10-112 Corinthians 5:14-21My website (with contact info) https://www.deborahjmckenzie.com/

What do you think of when you hear the word angell? Is it a chubby baby with a bow and arrow on Valentine's Day? Maybe the Christmas angel coming to spread good news and cheer?  What does the Bible actually say about angels? It is probably not what you might picture...To use a word study to research a particular word or phrase:bible gateway : https://www.biblegateway.com/quicksearch/?quicksearch=angel&version=NKJVbible hub: https://biblescan.com/search.php?q=angelblue letter bible: https://www.blueletterbible.org/search/search.cfm?Criteria=angel&t=ESV#s=s_primary_0_1Use the search bar. Your results can differ depending on the translation so searching in King James Version might be a good place to start. For my own study, I usually use the ESV version or CSB. The list will be every scripture that uses that word. These are links to the search for "angel"Named Angels:Gabriel: Daniel chapters 8 & 9 and Luke chapter 1Michael: Jude chapter 1 and Revelation chapter 12Description of angels:1 Corinthians 15:39-40 (heavenly bodies)do they eat? Genesis 18:8 and Psalm 78:25do they fly? Psalm 18:10, Daniel 9:2, Revelation 14:6cherubim: Exodus 25, Ezekiel 10seraphim: Numbers 21, Isaiah 6:2,6 14:29, 30:6angels place vs place of people: Hebrews 1 angel of the Lord: Hagar- Genesis 16:6-13Stops sacrifice of Isaac- Genesis 22:10-18Burning bush- Exodus 3:1-5Gideon- Judges 6:11-23Dragons in the Bible?  https://bibleproject.com/guides/dragons-in-the-bible/Definitions:apocrypha- related biblical writings that are not included in modern biblical canonbiblical canon- accepted books in modern evangelical biblesheresy- idea or belief in contradiction How To Read Biblical Narrative can be found in Footnotes and Witness season 2 (episodes 201, 202, 203) https://footnesandwitness.buzzsprout.com/2045573/11800455-201-biblical-narrative-charactersMy website:https://www.deborahjmckenzie.com/

Big Word Series! It is time for Lent. We are talking about what lent is, how it is practiced and why. Here are some highlights:Lent is a season of preparation and reflection prior to the celebration of Christ's resurrection at Easter. It is generally 40 (ish) days as a reflection of Christ's time in the wilderness being tempted. Lent can give us consistency, dependency, and humility. My 101, first year starting to observe lent recommendations are (if you are unable to participate in a service observing lent local to you):Start by writing down what about your faith you are grateful for. What did Jesus do for you? in your life? Read through the temptation and holy weeks scriptures. Each week, look at your grateful list and pray about the cost. You can say these aloud, to yourself, or even write them down. It would be a great place to start next year... Finally read the prayer Jesus speaks on behalf of those who hear His words in John 17.  What does Jesus say about the world? His place in it? the place for believers in the world?Scripture References: Temptation: Matthew 4:1-11 / Luke 4:1-13 / Mark 1:12-13 Holy Week: Palm Sunday - Matthew 21:1-11 / John 12:12-16 / Mark 11:1-11Maundy Thursday - John 13 / Matthew 26: 17-30 / Luke 22:7-23 / Mark 14:12-31Good Friday - John 18 & 19 / Matthew 26: 47-27:1-61 / Luke 22:47-23:1-56 / Mark 14:43-15:1-47Easter - Matthew 27:62- 28:1-15 / John 20 / Luke 24To hear about Ash Wednesday, check out my videos on my social media pages throughout Wednesday. You can find all the link on my website:https://www.deborahjmckenzie.com/

Welcome to Season 6! I am going to highlight some big words from church faith traditions. Some are literally big words and some are big in meaning or value. Have you ever felt like everyone else understands what is being talked about and you don't? Have you wanted to ask questions but felt like you should already know the answer? I think a lot of us have sat in a sermon or bible study and felt this way. I want to highlight some of these words and concepts that are used a lot and rarely actually defined or explained. Episode 1-PrayerWhat is prayer? What is the purpose and function? There are so many different faith traditions and practices of prayer. What does that tell us that such a fundamental part of our faith can be so widely interpreted?Resources:A Praying Life by Paul E Millerhttps://www.amazon.com/Praying-Life-Connecting-Distracting-World/dp/1631466836/ref=asc_df_1631466836/?tag=hyprod-20&linkCode=df0&hvadid=312543040920&hvpos=&hvnetw=g&hvrand=5534266592413827901&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=&hvdev=c&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=1014221&hvtargid=pla-495440923345&psc=1&mcid=f438795be44c300096acdd88dfcfb862&gclid=CjwKCAiA2pyuBhBKEiwApLaIO1UD8EjBYxQ9Lz6Xko4k0C4jzHc4nzgkctrmniAd43GO443tsufDdhoCffwQAvD_BwEHow to Pray CS Lewishttps://www.amazon.com/How-Pray-Reflections-C-Lewis/dp/0062847139/ref=sr_1_4?crid=EX0IFUENI57Y&keywords=how+to+pray+cs+lewis&qid=1707610312&s=books&sprefix=how+to+pray+cs%2Cstripbooks%2C214&sr=1-4My website:https://www.deborahjmckenzie.com/

What an amazing season of walking through the entire book of John, one chapter at a time! I have had some amazing guests hosts with me this season and I asked 3 particular ones to join me in a conversation about what the book of John says about Jesus and how to apply that to our own lives. I even asked them a few random questions to help you get to know them a little better. April Whalen, Mary Austin, and Alisha Woodall are some of the most influential people in my own walk with Jesus and learning to read the Bible. I hope you enjoy our conversation and find something worth hanging on to! Resources:Article about the book of John:https://www.crossway.org/articles/why-study-the-book-of-john/Sermon samples and articles from Desiring God on Johnhttps://www.desiringgod.org/series/the-gospel-of-john/messagesFavorite Songs:This Little Light: https://youtu.be/cKkbIZtqhyQ?si=b-8o7cNYDXDkGrqyCome Thou Fount: https://youtu.be/3bvYJL6WhuY?si=-Ad4BLAK43y8CdBzBe Thou My Vision: https://youtu.be/76_XJmvnNVE?si=ZJlfWx2PGDeVpvsomy website:  https://www.deborahjmckenzie.com/

We made it! The last chapter of the book of John. Chapter 21 feels a little odd and misplaced in the sequence of events. It is here for a reason though. For one reason at least is we see the redemption of Peter and his 3 times betrayal from chapter 18. Jesus, resurrected and having breakfast, asks Peter 3x if he loves Him. Feel free to make notes about the pronouns if you tend to get a little lost. Also, just a reminder that commentaries and biblical definitions are used from https://www.blueletterbible.org/my website: https://www.deborahjmckenzie.com/

The gospel of John chapter 21 read from the ESV Illuminated Scripture Journal   Links:  Illuminated Scripture Journal https://www.amazon.com/ESV-Illuminated-Scripture-Journal-John/dp/1433564858/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1GDVIX6M7DJ5A&keywords=esv+illuminated+scripture+journal+john&qid=1690514468&sprefix=esv+illuminated+scripture+journal+john%2Caps%2C157&sr=8-1 my website: https://www.deborahjmckenzie.com/

Y'all, I am so excited to get this out there. I had some family emergencies so it is SO late but just in time. Christmas is a week away so listen today about Christmas traditions. Here is my question to Lindsay: Why is Christmas the most selfish holiday in the church? Why do we have traditions? How can we do it better?Highlights:Advent: (literal definition from the webster dictionary) the arrival of a notable person, thing, or eventin a church season context: Advent is a four-week season of reflective preparation for Christ's Nativity at Christmas and Christ's expected return in the Second Coming.Purposes of  tradition- doing a right thing with a wrong heart: Matthew 15Ideas for invitation:be awarepray before entering stores for a holy awareness comment on the christmas carols everyone is listening toIdeas for faith traditions:advent free resource that Lindsay wrote for Stonegate Church: https://stonegate.church/world vision catalogdinner and praiseHeart of God’s character in faith traditionsrememberworshipcelebrate Lindsay's advice when confronted with a tradition or faith practice that you don't agree with or understand: ask a question! Can you tell me more about that?Additional Resources:Lindsay's watercolor shop: https://lindsayschott.com/storeMy website: https://www.deborahjmckenzie.com/

John chapter 20 is the story of the first witness to Jesus' resurrection. Walk through the chapter with April and I as we discuss this familiar and yet wonderfully detailed story.Resources:Colleen Searcy (gardener) : https://www.colleensearcy.com/Article about doubting Thomas and unbelief: https://www.desiringgod.org/articles/jesus-helps-our-unbeliefmy website: https://www.deborahjmckenzie.com/

The gospel of John chapter 20 read from the ESV Illuminated Scripture Journal   Links:  Illuminated Scripture Journal https://www.amazon.com/ESV-Illuminated-Scripture-Journal-John/dp/1433564858/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1GDVIX6M7DJ5A&keywords=esv+illuminated+scripture+journal+john&qid=1690514468&sprefix=esv+illuminated+scripture+journal+john%2Caps%2C157&sr=8-1 my website: https://www.deborahjmckenzie.com/

Join me with guest host April Whalen as we go through the narrative documenting the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. The hour has come, scripture is being fulfilled and Jesus is in control the entire time. Through pain and torment, Jesus takes care of others and then the world. Here is our reason for hope but this moment seems anything but hopeful. I have left 5 minutes at the end for reflection. I urge you to take that time, be still, sit in the moment. The resurrection and ascension are to come, it isn't over. This moment though, is worth sitting in. Reflect on it.  

The gospel of John chapter 19 read from the ESV New Inductive Study Bible  Links: https://www.amazon.com/New-Inductive-Study-Bible-ESV/dp/0736947000/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1NA1INXU5EUX7&keywords=esv+new+inductive+study+bible&qid=1701244059&sprefix=esv+new+ind%2Caps%2C144&sr=8-1my website: https://www.deborahjmckenzie.com/

John 18! Arrests, trials, violence, questions, betrayals, this narrative is jam packed. You may be familiar with it but by now you should know that being familiar is not the same as knowing what the scripture says. Join me with guest host Alisha Woodall as we talk through this narrative. 

The book of John chapter 18 read from the English Standard Version

This chapter is sometimes called "The High Priestly Prayer". Jesus has been chatting with his disciples before He goes to his arrest and crucifixion. It is a densely packed prayer that Jesus makes to the Father. He prays for His crew and for all those that will hear their words and believe; that's you! There is a lot to unpack here. Like Clayton and April recommend, this is one to take slowly. Read it a few times, come back to it, read it again. This is a particularly good chapter to have read to you. Episode 533 is just that for you. It may seem like Jesus is just repeating Himself but each of these statements are unique and important. References:Biblical definitions (from interlinear of blueletterbible.com):justification: the act of God declaring men free from guilt and acceptable to himto render righteous or such he ought to besanctification:consecration, purificationto separate from profane things and dedicate to Godto purifyarticle exploring further- https://www.desiringgod.org/articles/sanctification-so-why-the-long-wordTim Keller quoted from Meaning of Marriage  (https://timothykeller.com/books/the-meaning-of-marriage) The study that April and Clayton did was a home church study written by Stonegate Church in Midlothian, Texas. They used reference material from the Gospel Coalition(https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/blogs/justin-taylor/how-jesus-prayed-for-you/)Here is an excerpt from that document: APPENDIX C: HOW JESUS PRAYED FOR YOUBY JUSTIN TAYLORJesus’s “high priestly prayer” in John 17 is worth a lifetime of reflection as we get to “listen in” to the Son’s prayers to his Father. I once tried to break down the petitions and organize them a bit:The Father Gave the Son... | John 17authority to give eternal life | v. 2people out of this world | vv. 2, 6, 9, 24work to accomplish | v. 4words | v. 8his name | vv. 11, 12glory | vv. 22, 24The Son Gives Believers... | John 17eternal life | v. 2Father’s word | vv. 8, 14manifestation of Father’s name | vv. 6, 22glory | v. 22The Son Asks the Father to... | John 17glorify him | vv. 1, 5keep believers in the Father’s name | v. 11keep believers from the evil one | v. 15sanctify believers in the truth | v. 17make believers one | v. 21Jesus’s Followers | John 17are sent into the world | v. 18are in the world | v. 11are not of the world | v. 16are hated by the world | v. 14have unity with each other and union with God —which may cause the world to believe that the Father sent the Son | v. 21If you would like more information about that study or how to dive deeper into John or just this chapter, please contact me through my website!my website:  https://www.deborahjmckenzie.com/

The gospel of John chapter 17 read from the ESV Illuminated Scripture Journal   Links:  Illuminated Scripture Journal https://www.amazon.com/ESV-Illuminated-Scripture-Journal-John/dp/1433564858/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1GDVIX6M7DJ5A&keywords=esv+illuminated+scripture+journal+john&qid=1690514468&sprefix=esv+illuminated+scripture+journal+john%2Caps%2C157&sr=8-1 my website: https://www.deborahjmckenzie.com/

Join me with guest host Mary Austin as we read through chapter 16. This chapter is a continuation of the conversation Jesus is having with His disciples after the last supper. There are even more wonderful promises in this dialogue. What brings you joy?my website:  https://www.deborahjmckenzie.com/

The gospel of John chapter 16 read from the ESV Illuminated Scripture Journal   Links:  Illuminated Scripture Journal https://www.amazon.com/ESV-Illuminated-Scripture-Journal-John/dp/1433564858/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1GDVIX6M7DJ5A&keywords=esv+illuminated+scripture+journal+john&qid=1690514468&sprefix=esv+illuminated+scripture+journal+john%2Caps%2C157&sr=8-1 my website: https://www.deborahjmckenzie.com/

Join me with guest hosts Cameron and Alisha Woodall as we get into a well known metaphor of the New Testament. Grapes, vines, pruning. It can sound like a wonderful day for a picnic but what is really going on here? References:Anonymous: Jesus' Hidden Years by Alicia Britt Cole: https://www.amazon.com/Jesus-Hidden-Years-Yours/dp/1591454212/ref=asc_df_1591454212/?tag=hyprod-20&linkCode=df0&hvadid=333072128347&hvpos=&hvnetw=g&hvrand=8200918586854148715&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=&hvdev=c&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=9032002&hvtargid=pla-651774110086&psc=1Scriptures mentioned:Acts 4:13 "courage of unschooled men"2 Samuel 23:6-7 last words of David (vine)Hebrews 12 & Proverbs 3 - disciplinemy website: https://www.deborahjmckenzie.com/

The gospel of John chapter 15 read from the ESV Illuminated Scripture Journal   Links:  Illuminated Scripture Journal https://www.amazon.com/ESV-Illuminated-Scripture-Journal-John/dp/1433564858/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1GDVIX6M7DJ5A&keywords=esv+illuminated+scripture+journal+john&qid=1690514468&sprefix=esv+illuminated+scripture+journal+john%2Caps%2C157&sr=8-1 my website: https://www.deborahjmckenzie.com/

Guest Host April Whalen takes over the podcast today! She is interviewing myself and my husband Mike McKenzie. Jesus talks a lot about being sent by the Father. What does that look like in a practical way in our day to day lives?my website:  https://www.deborahjmckenzie.com/