Bible Study Besties

PODCAST · religion

Bible Study Besties

If you’ve ever felt insecure, overwhelmed, or unsure about how to study God’s Word, you’re in the right place!! Bible Study Besties help women grow in confidence and consistency as they engage with Scripture. Each episode equips you with a clear plan for your quiet time. Because Bible study isn’t just about gaining more information—it’s about experiencing true transformation.

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    Colossians Recap: Key Takeaways from Our Bible Study Journey

    We’ve reached the finish line of our Colossians Bible study journey! In this special recap episode, Heather and Kristina walk back through the powerful themes and key takeaways from the book of Colossians—highlighting what it means to live a Christ-centered life rooted in truth.From the supremacy of Jesus to practical encouragement for everyday faith, this episode brings together everything we’ve learned about spiritual growth, identity in Christ, and standing firm in God’s Word. Colossians reminds us that Jesus is not only sufficient—He is over all and in all, calling us to deeper faith and transformation. ()Join us as we reflect, celebrate how far we’ve come, and lift our eyes to the great and powerful God we serve. Whether you’ve followed along from the beginning or are looking for a meaningful Christian podcast recap, this episode will encourage and strengthen your walk with Christ.

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    Episode 29: Unity and Oneness in Christ in Colossians 4:7-18

    At the close of Colossians, Paul lists a remarkable community of names—leaders, servants, friends, and fellow laborers who embodied the beauty of Christ’s kingdom. Jews and Greeks, slave and free, men and women stood side by side in the work of the gospel, each honored and valued by Paul. In a divided world, the early church displayed a new kind of family where status, ethnicity, and social rank no longer defined status. As Paul declared, “There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free, there is neither male nor female; for you are all one in Christ Jesus.” These names are more than a closing greeting—they are a testimony that the church of Jesus Christ was built through kingdom diversity, shared mission, and unity in Him.Call to Action:1) Reread Colossians.2) Write a summary of Colossians and compare with the first summary you wrote.

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    Episode 28: The Urgency of Prayer, The Calling of Salt in Colossians 4: 2-6 -

    In this episode, we dive into Ephesians 4 and explore two powerful, everyday realities of the Christian life: prayer and salt. What does it mean to pray with urgency—not as a routine, but as a lifeline? And how are we called to live as “salt” in a world that desperately needs preservation, flavor, and fertilization?Together, we unpack how a life anchored in intentional prayer shapes the way we show up in our relationships, our communities, and our calling. As we walk through Paul’s words, we’ll wrestle with the challenge of living distinctively—bringing grace, truth, and influence into the spaces we inhabit.This conversation is both a reminder and a challenge: prayer isn’t passive, and being salt isn’t optional. It’s time to wake up, lean in, and live with purpose.Call to Action:1) Read Colossians 4:7-182) Make a list of everyone Paul mentions, and his descriptions of them.3) Use Bible Hub to learn more about these people. 4) Read more about Nympha, and what it meant that a church was in her home.

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    Episode 27: Rethinking Submission: A Better Story in Colossians 3:18

    Is submission a dirty word?In today’s episode, we wrestle with one of the most debated passages in Scripture—Colossians 3:18–4:1. Why does Paul call wives to submit to their husbands? What does that actually mean—and just as importantly, what does it not mean?We dig deeper into the bigger story unfolding in this text: a radical, countercultural vision of relationships shaped by Christ. As husbands are called to love sacrificially and wives to submit faithfully, we explore how both reflect the gospel in powerful, often misunderstood ways.Join us as we challenge assumptions, uncover better stories, and discover how these instructions point beyond themselves to something far greater—Christ’s love for His people.Listen now and be part of the conversation.Resources:Join Dr. Cynthia Hester's Theology of Women Academy! Since we didn't have chance to talk about slavery in the Bible, here is a great discussion on The Urban Perspective with Dr. Mason. Call to Action:Read Colossians 4:2-6. These are Paul's final words to the church in Colossae!Write it out on an index card and carry it around with you in your purse or wallet. Let's memorize it together 

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    Episode 26: Rooted, Not Restricted - Those Times When You Need a Bible Dictionary

    In this episode, we dive into a powerful passage that challenges earthly philosophies and outward appearances. Exploring themes of freedom and who we are in Christ, we unpack what it means to live in Him rather than in human traditions. The conversation confronts the illusion of control through strict practices, revealing how these can distract from true spiritual growth. Instead, we reflect on a deeper connection—one that nourishes and sustains from within—inviting listeners to reconsider where real transformation begins and what it looks like to grow in a faith that is alive, not performative.Call to Action:1. Read Col 3:18  - 4:1. Mark keywords and use your Bible Study Tools2. Read 1 Peter 2: 13-3: 6; Ephesians 5:22-333. Read these two articles: CBE International and The Gospel Coalition

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    Episode 25: That Your Hearts May Be Encouraged: Colossians 2:1-15 with Dr. Ingrid Faro

    In today’s powerful episode of the Bible Study Besties Podcast, we dive deep into Colossians 2:1–15 with our special guest, Dr. Ingrid Faro—biblical scholar, author of several books, including her newest, Redeeming Eden, and a passionate teacher of God’s Word.Together we explore the heart of Paul’s message to the church in Colossae and uncover the life-changing truth of what it means to be filled to the fullness of Christ and more. Dr. Faro shares the inspiring story of what first sparked her love for studying the Bible, and how believers today can grow in a deeper relationship with Jesus Christ.If you’re looking for deep Bible study, Christian discipleship, and practical ways to grow in faith, this conversation will encourage and challenge you.Call to action:1) Read Colossians 2:16-232) Mark the keywords and use the other tools in your Bible Study toolkit! 

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    Episode 24: What to Do When the Bible Is Hard to Understand: Lessons from Colossians 1:15–29

    In this episode, we dive into Colossians 1:15–29. Together, we unpack the meaning of the supremacy of Christ in Colossians. We also discuss how understanding Christ’s supremacy transforms believers today.Yet, what do we do when we encounter difficult-to-understand Bible passages or verses that seem complex? Join us as we explore practical Bible study methods and learn how to approach challenging Scripture passages with increasing clarity and confidence.If you’ve ever wondered how to handle hard-to-understand Bible verses, this episode will help you see how thoughtful study reveals the beauty of Scripture.Tune in as we explore Colossians 1:15–29, the preeminence of Christ, and how recognizing Jesus as supreme changes everything—from how we read the Bible to how we live out our lives.Call to Action:1) Read Colossians 2:1-15 and mark keywords.2) Write down any questions you have about the text.3) In your own words, summarize those tricky questions as best as you can. 4) Because scripture interprets scriptures, put into practice using cross references. You can use The Blue Letter Bible, The Bible Hub, or your Study Bible, if you have one. 5) If needed, use a Commentary at the resources listed above to help you understand the passage. 

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    Episode 23: Color-Coding Colossians: Faith, Thankfulness & Prayer

    Grab your Bible, your BSB notebooks, and your favorite color pencils—this episode of Bible Study Besties is all about slowing down and studying together. Today we’re walking through the epistle to the Colossians 1:1–14, looking closely at the words and themes that show up again and again in the passage.As we read, we’ll practice marking keywords to help the message stand out on the page. A great place to start:Put faith / faithfulness in a blue boxMark thanks / thankful with an orange boxHighlight God the Father with a triangleCircle pray / prayer with a red circleYou don’t have to mark them exactly this way—this is simply a helpful starting point as we notice patterns in the text and let Scripture interpret Scripture. Together we’ll talk about what Paul is encouraging the church with, how gratitude and faith are woven throughout the passage, and how prayer shapes the life of believers.So settle in, open your Bible, and study along with us. Let’s read, mark, and grow in the Word—together.Call to Action:1) Read and mark keywords from Colossians 1:15-292) Make a list about what you learn about Christ3) Make a list about what you learn about 

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    Episode 22: How to Read an Epistle

    Epistles make up the majority of the New Testament, and they’re packed with rich theology, real people from the early church, and responses to misunderstandings and false teachings that arose in those communities. In this episode, we explore how to read an epistle in a way that helps the message truly settle in our hearts.We walk through the typical structure and outline of an epistle, talk about why historical context matters, and show practical ways to understand what the original readers would have heard. Finally, we discuss how to faithfully apply these letters today—so we don’t just read them well, but live them well too.Call to Action::1) Watch:  ​Reading an Epistle LiterarilyyReading an Epistle Historically2) Read the entire book of Colossians again in one sitting. As you read find every reference to the finished work of Christ. How does this change the way you live?3) Write an outline for the book of Colossians. 

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    Episode 21: Colossians in Context

    In this episode, we take the next step on our biblical roadmap by exploring the historical, cultural, and theological context of the book of Colossians. Understanding Colossians in context is essential for interpreting Paul’s message as it was first heard. We’re joined by Dr. Cynthia Hester, who helps us unpack Colossians at the time of Paul’s writing. Together, we discuss who the Colossians were, why Paul wrote the letter, and how understanding the first-century Greco-Roman world sharpens our reading of Scripture today.Call to Action:1) Read Acts 21:17 through the end of chapter 28. What was Paul willing to risk in order to preach the Word of God?2) Look up Colossae on a map. If you are able, print out the map and put it in your journal. Resources:Click here to see updates about excavations at Colossae. New Testament in Color: A multiethnic Bible Commentary

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    Episode 20: Overview of Colossians

    In this episode of Bible Study Besties, we zoom out for a big-picture overview of Colossians. After reading the entire book straight through in multiple translations, we take a bird's eye view of the letter, explore its main themes, and share our personal takeaways. This episode is the first stop on our Colossians roadmap and sets the foundation for deeper Bible study.Call to Action:Answer the 5 W's1) Who is the Author? Who is the audience? What do you learn about both the author and the audience.2) What is the big picture of the book? Write your overview of Colossians. 3) When was Colossians written?4) Where did it take place? What can you learn about Colossae?5) Why did the author pen these words? Resources:Bible Project overview of ColossiansESV Introduction to ColossiansBible Hub

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    Episode 19: START HERE FOR COLOSSIANS - Drum Roll Please - Announcing our Bible Book for this semester!

    Drum roll please—we’re studying the Book of Colossians this semester! 🎉 Join us on this Bible study podcast as we dive deep into Scripture, exploring Colossians verse by verse with practical tools for studying the Word of God. Grab your Bible, journal, and colored pencils and follow along as we create a clear, engaging roadmap for meaningful Bible study methods. This podcast is designed to help beginners and seasoned believers alike grow in biblical literacy and confidence. You’ll learn how to study the Bible for yourself, understand context, and apply God’s truth to everyday life. If you’re looking for a Christ-centered, practical Christian podcast focused on Scripture, Colossians is the perfect place to start.Call to Action: If you are new to Bible Study Besties, listen to Episode 2 before you begin Colossians: Click HereRead through the book of Colossians in one sittingListen through Colossians in one sittingRead again in at least two different translations. Read more from Heather at Where Riches Dwell. 

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    Advent: Jesus as King

    For all times there has been a great battle between two Kingdoms: the Kingdom of God and the kingdoms of this earth. Jesus came to secure complete and final victory. Join us today as we talk about Herod, the earthly king who rages against Jesus, the true King. 

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    Advent: Jesus as High Priest

    In today’s episode, we turn our attention to Jesus as our Great High Priest—the one who makes atonement and intercedes, asking forgiveness on behalf of the people. Our scripture comes from Luke 2:22-30, where Mary and Joseph faithfully bring the infant Jesus to the temple, just as the Law in Leviticus required. What seems like a simple act of obedience becomes a powerful moment of revelation. There, Simeon and Anna—led by the Holy Spirit—recognize Jesus, bless God, and proclaim that salvation has now come.Previously, we explored Jesus as the true Prophet, who speaks the Word of God and is the Word, and as the Good Shepherd, who lovingly cares for His flock. Today, we see how even in His infancy, Jesus is presented in the place where priests minister—foreshadowing His ultimate role as the High Priest who would one day offer not an animal sacrifice, but Himself, for the forgiveness of sins. This episode invites us to see how God’s redemptive plan is already unfolding in the temple, through obedience, worship, and the quiet faith of those who recognize who Jesus truly is.

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    Advent: Jesus as Shepherd

    In today’s episode, we turn our attention to Jesus as our Shepherd. Reading Luke 2:1–20, we reflect on the wonder that God chose shepherds, men in a lowly and often overlooked occupation, to be the first witnesses of Christ’s birth. These humble shepherds hurried to the manger and bowed before the newborn King, foreshadowing the way Jesus would one day call Himself the Good Shepherd who knows His sheep and lays down His life for them. Join us as we trace the beauty, humility, and promise woven through this part of the Christmas story and see how Jesus continues to shepherd His people with tenderness and strength.

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    Advent: Jesus as Prophet

    In this episode, we explore how the birth narrative of Jesus reveals Him as the fulfillment of Israel’s deepest longings. Reading Luke 1:67–80, we trace the prophetic words of Zechariah and look back to several Old Testament prophets to understand how Jesus is the true prophet God promised throughout the ages. Together, we discover how Jesus is the true and better Prophet—He not only speaks the words of God, He is the Word of God. For the rest of our Advent series, we will consider how Jesus embodies the roles of Shepherd, Priest, and King, bringing comfort, intercession, and righteous rule to His people. Join us as we see how every part of the Christmas story points to the One who came to rescue, redeem, and reign forever.Subscribe to read more from Heather: 

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    Episode 18: Covenant Keeper

    In today's episode we take an inspiring look at the covenants of the Bible — the sacred vows made and upheld by God. A covenant is more than a contract; it’s a divine promise that reveals God’s unchanging faithfulness to His people. From the covenants with Adam and Eve, Noah, Abraham, and David to the New Covenant fulfilled through Jesus Christ, each one points to the ultimate redemption found at the cross.As Bible students, understanding these covenants helps us see the story of Scripture as one seamless thread of God’s love — showing our need for Him, His steadfast character, and His unbreakable promises. Join us as we trace the covenants through the Bible and discover how they deepen our trust in the One who always keeps His word.Homework:Choose one covenant and read the scripture passage. Summarize it in your own words.Edenic Covenant: Genesis 1:26–28Adamic Covenant: Genesis 3:14–19Noahic Covenant: Genesis 9:8–17Abrahamic Covenant: Genesis 12:1–3, 15:1–21, 17Mosaic Covenant: Exodus 19–24, 20:1–31:18Davidic Covenant: 2 Samuel 7:5–16, 1 Chronicles 17:4–15

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    Episode 17: Anchored in Every Season: Studying God’s Word Through Life’s Changes

    In this episode, we talk about how and why to study God’s Word through every season of life—whether you’re a young mother in a busy chapter, walking through a season of grief, or entering a time of quiet abundance and reflection. God’s Word is not just a book—it’s our life, our sustenance, and our anchor when the waves of life rise high or the days feel long.We’ll share practical Bible study tips for different life seasons, encouragement for studying Scripture when grief runs deep, and reminders that God meets us right where we are—in joy, sorrow, or stillness. If you’ve ever wondered how to stay connected to the truth of Scripture through life’s ups and downs, this episode will help you find stability and hope in the One who never changes.Find more writings at Heather's Substack, Where Riches Dwell.

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    Episode 16: Bible Genres 101: How to Read God’s Word Like It Was Written

    When you open your Bible, do you know what kind of writing you’re reading? In this episode we dive into the genres of the Bible—from poetry and prophecy to narrative, wisdom literature, law, and letters—and why recognizing them is essential for accurate Bible study and interpretation. Understanding the literary genres in Scripture helps us read God’s Word as it was intended, uncovering deeper meaning, cultural context, and timeless truth. Join us as we explore how knowing the different genres of the Bible transforms the way we study, understand, and apply Scripture in our everyday lives.HOMEWORK: In your own Bible mark the different genres we discussed today. You can use brackets to delineate the different genres, or perhaps different colored pencils. If you have space, write a few words next to each genre to help you remember the basic information of that particular genre. RESOURCES:Literarily by Kristie Anyabwile  Find more of Heather's writings at her Substack, Where Riches Dwell.

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    Episode 15: Through Her Eyes: Reading the Bible as Women

    In this episode we talk about the lens through which women can study Scripture and how to approach hard Bible passages about women. We discuss how to interpret Paul’s writings on women in the church, explore resources for women studying the Bible, and take a closer look at Ruth in the Bible as a model of faith and courage. If you’ve ever wrestled with understanding difficult verses about women in Scripture, this conversation will help you find clarity, confidence, and deeper connection to God’s Word.RESOURCES:Warren Wiersbe Bible Commentary The New Testament In Color Cultural Study Bible Blue Letter Bible Vindicating the Vixen

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    Episode 14 - Recap of Ruth - Ruth’s Ending Is Our Beginning: The Lineage of Redemption

    In this heart-to-heart wrap-up of our Bible Study Besties journey through Ruth, we reminisce on the powerful lessons we’ve gathered along the way. From rich analogies of the seed of hope and the beauty of a spiritual harvest, to the breathtaking love of God revealed on Boaz’s threshing floor, we celebrate God’s faithfulness on every page. We also unpack the fascinating history of the sandal exchange, explore the joyful ending of Ruth, and—most importantly—trace the lineage of Ruth and Boaz’s son all the way to King David, pointing directly to Jesus, our Redeemer. (Hot Tip: Don't skip those genealogies! They are proof of the faithfulness of God.) Join us as we rejoice in the God who weaves redemption into every generation.HOMEWORK:As we close the final chapter of Ruth, open Matthew 1 and trace the genealogy of Jesus. Seeing Boaz’s name there might spark an unexpected aha! of God’s perfect plan.Email us your top of head and top of heart! We look forward to reading them on the podcast next week! [email protected] Also, send us any of your Bible Study questions! We have another Q&A coming up soon!Want to hear more from Heather and Kristina?https://substack.com/@heatherjjonsson

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    Episode 13 - Ruth 4 Recap - Boaz and Christ: Understanding the Redeemer in Scripture

    In this episode, we explore how Boaz became the redeemer for Naomi and Ruth, and how this points us directly to Jesus Christ, our ultimate Redeemer. Just as Boaz paid the price to rescue Ruth, Christ shed His blood on the cross to buy us back from sin and death. We’ll dig into the biblical definition of a “redeemer” and trace the Hebrew word go’el through the Old Testament, uncovering its rich layers of meaning. Join us as we see how God’s redemption story weaves from Ruth all the way to the cross of Christ.HOMEWORK:1) In your Bible Study Besties journal, take time to pray and consider the impact of God's redemption in your life. Reflect on seasons and circumstances God has already redeemed.2) Recap the book of Ruth with "lessons learned." Ask yourself, what is the heart of the matter in this book? Note this in your Bible Study Besties journal, or in your Bible at the beginning of Ruth. These are the things you want to remember top of your head and top of your heart. Subscribe to Heather's Substack, Where Riches Dwell 

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    Episode 12 - Ruth 3 Recap: Seeing Jesus in the Old Testament

    Step onto the threshing floor in Ruth 3 and discover the powerful moment when Ruth asked Boaz to cover her with his “wings.” This biblical image of protection, provision, and covenant love points us beyond the story itself and toward the redeeming work of Jesus Christ. In this episode, we’ll explore what Ruth’s bold request meant in her culture, why Boaz’s response mattered, and how this passage deepens our understanding of God’s faithful care.Learning to see Jesus in the Old Testament transforms how we read Scripture, and the book of Ruth gives us layer upon layer of foreshadowing in Boaz, the kinsman redeemer. Join us as we uncover how this short chapter carries a timeless invitation to rest under the wings of our true Redeemer.HOMEWORK:1) Read Ruth 4 in it's entirety2) Read Ruth 4 slowly. Mark keywords.3) Pay attention to how Boaz is a foreshadowing of Christ. Take notes in your Bible Study Bestie journal about what you are learning.4) Look up the definition for Redeemer in a dictionary.5) Using Bible Hub or Bible Gateway, look up other references for Redeemer from Genesis to Ruth. Read more of Heather's writing at Where Riches Dwell on Substack

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    Episode 11 - Ruth 2 Recap - Finding the Gospel in Ruth: Boaz as a Type of Christ

    In Ruth 2, we meet Boaz—the kinsman redeemer who points us forward to Jesus. In the Bible, this is called a “type,” where a person or event foreshadows Christ.  This episode explores how Boaz is a type of Christ, helping us see the gospel in Ruth and how the Old Testament consistently points to Jesus. Join us for a Christ-centered Bible study overview of Ruth 2 that reveals the Redeemer’s heart and deepens our understanding of biblical types.HOMEWORK:Read Ruth 3.First read the entire book in one sitting.Then slow down your reading 1) Mark you Keywords 2) Read with your Holy Imagination. 3) Read with your 5 sensesRead with an eye for how Boaz foreshadows Jesus.Mark and meditate on the words REST and REDEEMER. Look up their definition in a Bible Dictionary. 

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    Episode 10 - Naming God in Our Pain: Naomi, Holy Imagination, and the Almighty

    In this episode, we step into the story of Naomi through the lens of holy imagination. When Naomi returned home empty, she didn’t hide her grief—she named her pain, called God “the Almighty,” and revealed a raw, honest faith in the midst of loss. Her story invites us to wrestle with the theology of suffering—holding together the reality of a painful world with the truth of an all-powerful God. By engaging our holy imagination, we can see Naomi’s tears, feel her holy angst, and better understand how Scripture gives us permission to lament while still trusting God. This episode will encourage you to deepen your Bible study, explore biblical suffering, and grow in faith as you learn how holy imagination opens the door to knowing God in both joy and sorrow.HOMEWORK:Read Ruth 2 using all the tools we have previously talked about!-Pray first.-Mark keywords; (Click HERE or HERE for an example)-Read with 5 Senses and Holy Imagination-Make a list of everything you learn about Boaz.

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    Ask Anything - Bonus Episode!

    In this interactive Bible Study podcast, we tackle your real questions about God’s Word—big or small, beginner or advanced. Whether you want to know how fight with the sword of the spirit, understand difficult verses, or what to do if you are bored , we dig into the truth with practical tools, solid theology, and encouraging insight. Join us in this bonus episode as we help you grow in confidence, deepen your understanding, and fall more in love with God’s Word. No question is too simple. No topic is off limits. It’s Bible Study, made personal.Want to see a link of how we mark our keywords in Ruth? Click HERE or HERE!Hugs,Kristina and Heather

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    Episode 9 - Holy Imagination: Seeing Scripture in Living Color

    Bring your Bible study to life with holy imagination! Learn how engaging your five senses can help you visualize Scripture—without changing its meaning. This episode shows you how to add sensory depth to your Bible study while staying true to the text. Bible study isn’t just reading—it’s experiencing. Learn to use holy imagination and your five senses to slow down, see the story, and let God’s Word sink deeper into your heart.HOMEWORK:1) Read Ruth 1 again using your Holy Imagination and 5 senses, especially related to Namoi’s emotions. 2) Write the word STOP when you take a pause to use your holy imagination. 3) Using your Holy Imagination and 5 senses, write down in your journal what Naomi may have been feeling. 4) Read Psalm 23 using your Holy Imagination and 5 senses. How does reading this way impact your heart and your soul?Be in touch! Questions? Email: [email protected] out more visit Heather or Kristina! 

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    Episode 8 - Read Slow: Unlocking Bible Themes Through Keyword Marking

    In two weeks we'll answer your Bible Study questions! Email us at [email protected] Want to uncover threads that weave the Bible together? In this episode of Bible Study Besties, we explore the powerful study method of marking repeated keywords. Highlighting keywords slows down your reading, helping you notice important details you may have previously missed. These repeated words often point to key themes—truths that appear in a single book and echo across the entire Word of God. These themes reveal God’s unified story from beginning to end. Grab your Bible pens or colored pencils, and join us as we gain confidence to study God's Word.HOMEWORK:1) Find where the town Bethlehem is mentioned beginning in Genesis and then throughout the Bible.2) Trace Moab and Moabites throughout the Bible.Reference your Study Bible, Bible Hub, Bible GatewayOnce you have completed your own study, read this article from Ligonier Ministries.

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    Episode 7 - Watch the Words: Marking Keywords

    Ever notice certain words popping up again and again in Scripture? That’s no accident. In this episode, we explore the power of repeated keywords—how they reveal major themes in a single book and connect to the greater story of the entire Bible. You’ll learn how to spot these key words, why they matter, and how marking them (yes, break out your Bible pens or colored pencils!) can help you see God’s message with greater clarity. Get ready to trace God’s heart through His words, one repeated phrase at a time.HOMEWORK:Read Ruth Chapter 1. Using Bible pens, colored pencils, or highlighters and mark any repeated keywords. (Secret tip: If a word is repeated, it is a keyword!) You will want to keep your marking consistent throughout the entire book, so grab an index card if you would like to keep track of the words you are marking. For example, "kindness" can be marked with an orange box, and "Bethlehem" could have a light green line through it. Mark every reference to God, Jesus or the Holy Spirit. If you have margins in your Bible, note what you learn about God in the margin.

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    Episode 6 - Setting the Scene for Ruth

    Before we dive deep into the book of Ruth, it’s essential that we step back and review the context—because context is king! In this episode, we walk through the 4 W’s and the H: Who wrote it and who are the main characters, When it was written, Where it takes place, What was happening at the time, Why it written, and How it fits into the bigger story of the Bible. This episode builds on last week’s homework, helping you anchor Ruth in its historical and spiritual setting. By understanding the overview, we’re reminded that our faith is rooted in something real—tangible history and God’s unfolding plan. And we see that even the smallest stories (like Ruth’s—and ours!) are woven into the grand story of redemption.HOMEWORK:Find Bethlehem and Moab on this map. Take note of the route Elimelech and Naomi took going from Bethlehem to Moab.During the week read Deuteronomy 16, Judges 3 and Numbers 25 to give you more background information of the book of Ruth. Take notes in your notebook about what you learn.What this video overview of Ruth, as well as this overview of Judges from the Bible Project.  

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    Episode 5 - Context is King

    When we study God’s Word, context isn’t optional—it’s essential. As we say in Bible Study, Context is King. In this episode, we explore why placing each book of the Bible in its historical and spiritual context matters deeply. Understanding the original audience, setting, author and purpose protects us from misinterpretation and helps us grasp the true meaning behind the text. Whether you're reading the prophets or the epistles, context will open your eyes to the truth, richness and depth of Scripture. Let’s learn how to study the Bible with clarity, wisdom, and confidence.HOMEWORK:WHO: Who are the characters in the story? Who wrote the book?WHAT: What is happening in the story? Write a short summary.WHEN: When did this story take place?WHERE: Where did this story take place? Get out a Bible map and find these places on the map.WHY: Why is this story happening?HOW: How is God revealing Himself in this story?Resources:Study BibleBible Project Crossway: Christ in All of ScripturesThe Bible Hub

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    Episode 4 - Read Big - Start with the Big Picture

    When you open your Bible to study God's Word, where do you begin? In this episode, we’re talking about the essential first step: Reading Big. Before diving into the details of a verse or chapter, you need to read through the entire book of the Bible to grasp the big picture. Understanding the full context transforms your Bible, and are the building blocks of your future studies. Because Bible study isn’t just about gathering details—it’s about knowing God more deeply through His Word. Homework: Read through the book of Ruth. 

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    Episode 3 - First, We Pray: Preparing Our Hearts for God’s Word

    Before you open your Bible, pause. In this episode, we explore why prayer is the essential first step in any meaningful Bible study. Whether you're new to Scripture or a seasoned student of God’s Word, inviting the Holy Spirit to guide, teach, and soften your heart can transform how you read and respond to the truth of Scripture.We’ll talk about how prayer aligns our hearts with God’s, quiets distractions, opens our spiritual eyes, and creates space for deep connection with the Living Word. You'll hear practical tips for praying before Bible study, scriptural examples of those who sought God in prayer before gaining insight, and a sample prayer to help you begin your time in the Word with intention.If you long to hear God more clearly, understand the Bible more deeply, and grow in intimacy with Him—start here. Before we study, we pray.Be in touch!You can find the link to Kristina's study on prayer HERE. https://heatherjjonsson.com/

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    Episode 2 - The Big Story of the Bible

    In this episode, we dive into the big story of the Bible — a unified narrative of creation, fall, redemption, and restoration. From Genesis to Revelation, the Bible tells the sweeping story of God's love. Whether you're new to Scripture or a longtime believer, this episode will help you trace the Bible's central message and understand how Jesus is at the heart of it all.📝 Homework: After listening, try writing a short paragraph that summarizes the big story of the Bible. Send us your summary for a chance to win a Starbucks giftcard!Heather:https://www.instagram.com/heatherjjonsson/https://heatherjjonsson.substack.com/Kristina: https://www.instagram.com/kristinareneexo/?hl=enhttps://www.facebook.com/kristina.r.wise

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    START HERE FOR RUTH - Welcome to Bible Study Besties!

    Welcome! We are so glad you are here! Bible Study Besties is here to help you gain confidence in studying God's Word so you can love God by knowing God. If you have wanted to study God's Word, but aren't sure where you start, then you are in the right place!Join the conversation:Heather:http://heatherjjonsson.com/https://heatherjjonsson.substack.com/Kristina:https://www.instagram.com/kristinareneexo/?hl=en

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ABOUT THIS SHOW

If you’ve ever felt insecure, overwhelmed, or unsure about how to study God’s Word, you’re in the right place!! Bible Study Besties help women grow in confidence and consistency as they engage with Scripture. Each episode equips you with a clear plan for your quiet time. Because Bible study isn’t just about gaining more information—it’s about experiencing true transformation.

HOSTED BY

Heather and Kristina

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