For Better, For Verse

In this episode on Judges and Ruth, Justin and Jewelle explore how the Biblical writers are gradually becoming aware that God works in the world in many varied and complicated ways. In Judges, we see God rewarding holiness and punishing wrongdoing, but we also see God partnering with flawed people, striving to rack up little wins even in the midst of big failures, and conspiring to help good people to whom bad things happen. At one point, God clearly has nothing to do with something the characters in the story think God has everything to do with. By the end, Israel has failed in its attempt to govern itself through judges, setting up the story of monarchy. But there's no easy triumphalism: Israel needs a king to keep going, but only because they've shown they don't want God himself to be their king.

Justin Crisp and Jewelle Bickel explore the depths of Deuteronomy and Joshua, examining biblical history, theology, and moral questions surrounding divine revelation, the conquest of Canaan, and how justly to organize a whole civilization. Together they try to discern what the divine author, the Holy Spirit, is telling us through the conflicting, confusing (and maybe even confused!) testimonies of the human authors of these Biblical books. This episode offers a nuanced look at Scripture, the idea of divine retribution and punishment, social justice in ancient Israel, and what God thinks of war, violence, and human struggle.

In this episode, Justin Crisp and Jewelle Bickel explore the rich narratives and theological themes of the Book of Numbers, including its realistic account of human nature, the contradiction between God's love and God's justice, the nature of God, and the surprising ways God reveals Himself beyond the people and practices of His covenant with Israel. Discover insights into biblical leadership, human doubt, and God's providence in unexpected places and people.

In this episode, Justin and Jewelle explore the conclusion of Exodus and the whole book of Leviticus, focusing on the Golden Calf episode, God's loving determination to keep his covenant with Israel in spite of their wrongdoing, the nature of idolatry, the significance of sacrifice, and how we must distinguish between what's universal and contingent, applicable and inapplicable, in the Scriptures. Exodus and Leviticus say God and humanity have a common goal—for humanity to behold the glory of the Lord in God's personal company—and that the complex sacrificial system of Leviticus is a way God provides for humanity to clean up its act (literally!) so that goal can be reached. God's love and God's justice are a difficult circle to square when people like us and a world like this are concerned. Sacrifice and atonement are the solution—one that points us, in the fullness of time, to what God accomplishes for us in Jesus Christ.

In this episode, Justin and Jewelle explore Exodus 13–31, discussing the exodus of the Israelites from Egypt, the significance of the Ten Plagues, the Passover, the giving of the Law at Mount Sinai, the establishment of the priesthood, and the construction of the Tabernacle. They delve into themes like the relationship between God's mercy and God's justice, the hardening of Pharaoh's heart (and hearts more generally), the importance of the covenant, and the intricate details of the laws given to the Israelites, emphasizing God's care for both the grand narrative and the minutiae of life.

In this episode, Justin Crisp and Jewelle Bickel explore the narratives from Genesis 43 to Exodus 12, focusing on the stories of Joseph and Moses. Whereas the book of Genesis begins with Cain betraying Abel, it ends with Joseph forgiving his brothers, and then launches into the narrative of Exodus, whose protagonist feels unqualified to play the role God's asked him to play. Inspired by these rich stories, Justin and Jewelle discuss the themes of reconciliation, redemption, divine calling, and the nature of God. Their conversation also delves into the moral implications of Psalm 14, underlining the power of God's being and the objective nature of morality.

In this episode, Justin and Jewelle explore Genesis chapters 22 to 42, discussing the themes of sacrifice, deceit, and God's faithfulness. They delve into the story of Abraham's near-sacrifice of Isaac, the prosperity of Isaac and Jacob, and the complex relationships within Jacob's family, including his deceitful dealings with his father-in-law, Laban. Weaving together a close reading of the psychodrama of Abraham's family, the philosophy of Søren Kierkegaard, and the history of religions, Justin and Jewelle emphasize the importance of trusting in God's character and promises—and in His overriding, merciful purpose for each one of us and our world.

SummaryIn this episode, Justin Crisp and Jewelle Bickel launch their yearlong read through the Bible by exploring the first chapters of Genesis. They focus on the creation stories, the fall of humanity, the story of the flood, and God's covenants with Noah and Abram. They emphasize the way Genesis highlights the personal nature of God, the complexities of human relationships, and the overarching theme of God's faithfulness despite unrelenting human failures.

In this episode, Justin Crisp and Jewelle Bickel explore the final chapters of the Gospel of Luke, discussing the events leading up to Jesus' crucifixion and resurrection. They delve into the significance of the Last Supper, the agony in the garden, the betrayal by Judas, the trials before various authorities, and the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus on the cross. The conversation highlights the theological implications of these events and their relevance to our faith, particularly the understanding of Jesus as the "suffering servant." Jesus' death and resurrection harness acts of great evil and turn them into the means by which God forgave and saved the world. Yet Jesus' earliest followers can't get their heads around the idea of a God who works in this way—at least, not until the very last moment. They were called to witness these events and be changed, and so are we.

In this episode, Justin Crisp and Jewelle Bickel explore the significant events surrounding Jesus’ triumphal entry into Jerusalem, the prophetic implications of his actions, and the reactions of the religious and political leaders of his day. They discuss the cleansing of the temple, the parable of the wicked tenants, and Jesus’ teachings on authority before launching into a rich discussion of the “end times,” or last things. Jesus says everything will come to an end—from the temple in Jerusalem to the world itself—but through the unexpected redemption he is about to accomplish, every end is a beginning.

In this episode, Justin Crisp and Jewelle Bickel delve into several parables from the Gospel of Luke, exploring themes of ethics, wealth, and the nature of God's kingdom. They discuss the complexities of the parable of the dishonest manager, the contrasting fates of the rich man and Lazarus, and the transformative encounter of Zacchaeus with Jesus. The conversation emphasizes the importance of understanding how Jesus taught as much as what Jesus taught, as well as the urgency of recognizing the kingdom of God in our lives.

In this episode, Justin Crisp and Jewelle Bickel explore Luke chapters 14 and 15, discussing more of Jesus' journey to Jerusalem, the true nature of humility, the potential cost of discipleship, and the parables of grace: the parables of the lost sheep, the lost coin, and the prodigal son. They emphasize themes of unconditional love and the irreducible dignity of every individual in God's eyes. The God of the Bible is prodigal too: He spends everything He has (and is) on bringing each and every one of us home.

In this episode, Justin and Jewelle explore the teachings of Jesus from Luke 12 and 13, focusing on themes of fearless confession, God's provision, the dangers of greed, the nature of suffering, and the importance of patience. They discuss the parable of the rich fool, the call to not worry about earthly life, and the cost of discipleship, emphasizing God's patience and grace in the face of human struggle.

In this episode, Justin Crisp and Jewelle Bickel explore Luke chapters 10 and 11, focusing on the parable of the Good Samaritan, the story of Mary and Martha, and the teachings of Jesus on prayer, including the Lord's Prayer. They discuss the significance of loving one's neighbor, the importance of prioritizing worship over busyness, and the depth of Jesus' teachings in relation to the Pharisees and the law.

In this episode of For Better, for Verse, Justin Crisp and Jewelle Bickel delve into Luke chapters 9 and 10, exploring the themes of Jesus' teachings, how his disciples act after he gives them power over nature and the spiritual world (poorly!), and the true nature of Jesus' saving power. Responding to listener feedback, they discuss the significance of turning the other cheek. They also look at the feeding of the 5,000 and the Transfiguration, while highlighting the disciples' misunderstandings of Jesus' power and authority. The conversation emphasizes the subversive nature of Jesus' message and the call to follow him in humility.

In this episode, Justin Crisp and Jewelle Bickel delve into Luke chapters 7 and 8, exploring the profound miracles of Jesus, the role of women in his ministry, the purpose of his parables, and his expansive view of family. Each of these stories emphasizes how crucial it is to understand who Jesus is, his divine identity, and the lavish forgiveness he offers. Justin and Jewelle's conversation also highlights the diverse responses Jesus evoked in his earthly tenure—and the unique ways we each, today, experience and express our faith in him.

In this episode of For Better, For Verse, Justin Crisp and Jewelle Bickel delve into Luke's account of the Sermon on the Plain, exploring its key themes such as the Blessings and Woes, the call to love one's enemies, and the nature of God's mercy. They discuss the significance of Jesus' teachings, the context of his miracles, and the unique aspects of Luke's Gospel that highlight the great reversal and God's compassion for the marginalized. Through their conversation, they emphasize the radical nature of Jesus' teachings and the fact that, in His case anyway, Jesus took Himself literally!

In this episode, Justin and Jewelle explore Luke 5-6:11, focusing on the calling of the first disciples, Jesus' proclamation of God's forgiveness, and Jesus' tense interactions with the Pharisees. Justin and Jewelle discuss the significance of faith, the social implications of Jesus' actions, and the deeper meanings behind his teachings, particularly Jesus' focus on intentions versus outcomes. The conversation highlights the radical nature of Jesus' ministry and the challenges he faced from religious authorities as he sought to focus the spiritual life on the heart rather than external rituals or actions.

In this episode, Justin Crisp and Jewelle Bickel explore Luke chapters 3 and 4, discussing the significant themes of John the Baptist's role, Jesus' temptation in the wilderness, the nature of Jesus' ministry, and the concept of the Messianic secret. They delve into the complexities of Jesus' identity and mission, contrasting it with John the Baptist's expectations, and reflect on the healing miracles and exorcisms that mark the beginning of Jesus' public ministry.

In this episode, Justin and Jewelle explore Luke chapter two, discussing the virgin birth, the significance of Mary's experience, and the theophany of angels announcing Jesus' birth to shepherds. They delve into the themes of treasuring memories, the prophecies of Simeon and Anna, and the connection between Mary and Jesus' destiny. The conversation also touches on the silent years of Jesus' life and the importance of finding God in difficult times, emphasizing the need for faith amidst uncertainty.

Justin and Jewelle introduce their quest to read the whole Bible, and take a deep dive into the first chapter of the gospel of Luke to make a start. Together, they discuss God's miraculous intervention in the lives of Zechariah and Elizabeth, giving them a child in their old age after many years of longing and praying. This rich story about faith, trust, doubt, and disbelief will inspire and challenge you as it did Justin and Jewelle.