Invisible String Podcast

We’re continuing our childhood trio this week by looking at the flipside of motherhood in another Taylor tear-jerker, The Best Day. Ashley leads the conversation as we point out the biblical characteristics of mothers and how they point to the character of God. Come to hear spicy thoughts from the Middle Ages on God as Mother, stay to hear of the true Love that will never forget His children.Undeceptions podcast on Medieval JesusRevelations of Divine Love by Julian of NorwichScripture Referenced: Proverbs 31, 1 Samuel 2, Matthew 23:37, John 3:3, Deuteronomy 32:11, Isaiah 42:14, Isaiah 49:14-15

Because no one captures the beauty and whimsy of childhood quite like Taylor, we’re starting a new trio, and we’re kicking it off with Never Grow Up (our first deep dive into Speak Now- WHAT?). Rebekah leads the discussion as we cover the characteristics of self forgetfulness and naivety and how they ultimately point us beyond our own childhood. Come to hear why this song takes us all back to senior year, stay to hear of the Savior who values the child-like as greatest in His kingdom.Shameless plug for Nolan’s musicThe Freedom of Self Forgetfulness by Tim KellerRisen Motherhood by Emily Jensen and Laura Wifler Scripture Referenced: Matthew 18:1-5

This week we’re keeping it 100 as we talk about The Life of a Showgirl’s first single, The Fate of Ophelia. Sarah leads the discussion as we draw out similarities between Shakespeare’s classic character, Taylor 's interpretive twist, and all of humanity’s status of being dead in sin. Come to play the “Who Wrote It: Shakespeare or Taylor Swift?” game, stay to hear of the Rescuer who truly does pull us from the grave.The Fate of Ophelia Folger EdThe Shakespeare StudentVanity Fair Article Scripture Referenced: Ephesians 2 , 1 John 4

This week we’re simultaneously digging into Track 2 of TLOAS, Elizabeth Taylor, and John 4. Ashley leads the conversation as we discuss the craving of our souls and the One who ultimately satisfies. Come to hear our slightly unhinged Our Songs, stay to hear how the living water of the Spirit quenches our deepest thirst. Scripture Referenced: John 4:7-26, John 7:36-39

We’re here to discuss what may be the most polarizing Track 5 to date: Eldest Daughter. Rebekah leads the conversation as we dive into what Taylor claims she’s a victim of and what ultimately rescues her in this reflective track. Come to hear the proper context for that cringey first verse, stay to hear how Christ gives us new life that truly “shimmers that innocent light back.The word “victimhood” is a big theme in culture. Just check out this CHART!Scripture Referenced: John 3

We’re back and so excited to talk about the docuseries on the Eras Tour! From what made us cry to what we’re rebuking and redeeming, our conversation hits the high points (and low points) of these 6 episodes. Come to hear how a friend of the show has a cameo, stay to hear how both the excellence and limitations of humanity are on display.

This super special episode hits everything on our Wi$h Li$t! Not only are we celebrating 50 episodes, but we’re doing it with a spectacular guest, Eleanor Politzer. Eleanor works with Speak Life in the UK and we’re thrilled to have her as our first ever guest for a song breakdown. Come to hear the crazy Reddit comments (they said WHAT?), stay to hear about the Giver of all good gifts who can rightly order our affections.Check out Speak Life and The Reformed MythologistStay (ft. Hannah Cheshire) by Liberty Live WorshipScripture Referenced: Psalm 27, Mark 10

Is it the least popular TLOAS track? Maybe. Do we have lots of thoughts about it? Absolutely. This week we’re discussing Honey. Ashley leads the conversation as we take you back to rhetoric class to discuss the power of ethos. Come to hear whether or not we agree with that pagan Aristotle, stay to hear about the good sense, good moral character, and goodwill of our Savior.John 6 Sermon (Thank you, Pastor Chandler)Aristotle’s RhetoricScripture Referenced: 1 Timothy 3:1-7, John 1:1-13, Luke 10:38-32, John 15:13, Mark 2:1-12, John 6:66-69, 1 John 3:1

This week we’re breaking down our first TLOAS track: Father Figure. Rebekah leads the discussion as we take a look at how the power of this father figure is a shadow of the ultimate Father. Come to hear our takes on THE infamous line, stay to hear about the rescue, protection, and provision of the Heavenly Father. Reformed Classicalist Article The Spirituality of the Cross by Gene Veith Scripture Referenced: Isaiah 64:8, Hosea 2:8-9, Rev. 21:4

The Life of a Showgirl is here and we have THOUGHTS! Come to hear our favorite songs and lines, stay to hear the potential theological threads we’re looking forward to discussing.

How should we as Christians view the idea of celebrity? On this week’s episode, we’re talking about why we should or shouldn’t be resistant to the idea of fame and how we’re starting to see a potential shift in popular culture. Come to hear the wide range of Sarah’s celebrity crushes growing up, stay to hear why the Gospel makes our ordinary lives extraordinary.

We’re tackling one of the biggest objections that we hear when it comes to Taylor: what about kids? Come to hear our girls’ personal favorite bops, stay to hear what Scripture says is our true call in parenting.

We’re back and ready to discuss all that’s been going on this past month! You’ll hear our hot takes on the New Heights podcast, the announcement of The Life of a Showgirl, and Taylor and Travis’ engagement.

We are THRILLED to close this season with a conversation with Nate Morgan Locke, the Reformed Mythologist. Nate has a passion for growing believers’ love for Christ, particularly through storytelling. And of course, he just so happens to be a Swiftie too. Come to hear Nate’s remarkable impression of Sinclair Ferguson, stay to hear why he thinks the Gospel is the ultimate story we all long for. Links: Reformed Mythologist YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@ReformedMythologistSpeak Life Ministry YouTube Channel:https://www.youtube.com/@SpeakLifeMediaSpeak Life Website: https://www.youtube.com/@ReformedMythologistMatt Chandler “Jesus Wants the Rose”: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bLgIecL1IdY

There was simply too much to discuss with Taylor’s first album! Join us as we talk through three songs and their corresponding big questions, rapid-fire style. Come to hear the secret message for every song, stay to hear a helpful paradigm shift when it comes to marriage. The iconic Should’ve Said No performanceEarly Marriage Article: https://ifstudies.org/blog/marry-early-and-flourish-together

Our deep dive into Taylor’s self-titled album continues with Invisible! Rebekah leads our discussion this week as we talk about how we as believers should think about desires that are never fulfilled. Come to hear us break down Taylor’s seemingly ridiculous teenage assumptions, stay to hear how Jesus’ own unanswered prayer offers us the ultimate hope. Tim Keller on the pride of worryScripture Referenced: Matthew 22:30, Matthew 26:39, Romans 8:26-28

We’re continuing with our Debut trio this week with Tied Together with a Smile. Sarah leads the discussion as we talk about the concept of the Imago Dei and how it seeps into so many areas of our modern culture. Come to hear why we think the second verse of this song is a masterpiece, stay to hear the right and true view of ourselves that we find in God’s Word.

We’re throwing it way back to Taylor Swift’s self-titled album with I’m Only Me When I’m With You! Ashley leads the discussion this week as we unpack the significance of vulnerability in Christian friendships. Come to hear which CCM artist’s tour we’ll be protesting (joking… sort of…), stay to hear how the imperfect community of the Church points us back to our truest Friend.

In this Topical Tuesday, we take a look at some of Taylor’s most famous beefs and discuss some of the underlying principles from a biblical worldview. Overview of the Justin/Blake controversy Overview of the Olivia Rodrigo controversyOverview of the Kim/Kanye controversy

Get ready for a super spicy episode as we tackle the Lover track that might be the most sacrilegious of them all, False God. Rebekah leads the discussion this week as we dissect Taylor’s Eucharist language and talk about the true nature of sacraments. Come for a Catholic theology pop quiz, stay to hear the good news of the One whose body was broken and blood was shed for us. Covenants Video from The Bible ProjectCovenant Theology Class from RTSNT Wright on Communion Scripture Referenced: Romans 1:21-25

The sacrilegious trio continues with Karma! Sarah leads our discussion this week as we talk about whether or not the concept of karma aligns with Scripture. Come to hear all the thoughts on the Grammy Awards and the Super Bowl, stay to hear the Gospel, which is actually a relaxing thought.

Eric George from Popcorn Theology joins us in this Season 3 opener to discuss why Christians must become more than “mindless consumers.” Come to hear why Wildest Dreams is Eric’s favorite Taylor song, stay to hear why he thinks engaging with pop culture is a worthwhile endeavor. Go check out Popcorn Theology!

We’re wrapping up Season 2 with a spicy one as we ask if Would’ve Could’ve Should’ve is really Taylor’s deconstruction song. Ashley leads the discussion as we talk about why deconstruction is such a popular idea today and how the doctrine of perseverance of the saints gives us hope. Come for the full-fledged John Mayer rebuke, stay for the good news Jude offers to those who doubt. Scripture Referenced: 1 Kings 13, Jude 17-25Check out our playlists: Invisible String Podcast Songs and Christian Chorus Line

Tolerate It & Legalism

This week we’re going all the way back to the Fearless days as we discuss our next track 5, White Horse. Ashley leads the conversation as we look at the image of Jesus on the white horse in the book of Revelation and talk about its implications. Come to hear the fan theory regarding the cover art of Fearless (Taylor’s Version), stay to hear why the Church needs Jesus as both Husband and King. This week we’re going all the way back to the Fearless days as we discuss our next track 5, White Horse. Ashley leads the conversation as we look at the image of Jesus on the white horse in the book of Revelation and talk about its implications. Come to hear the fan theory regarding the cover art of Fearless (Taylor’s Version), stay to hear why the Church needs Jesus as both Husband and King. Fan theory about Fearless (TV) cover artLigonier Ministries on Jesus in Revelation 19Charles Spurgeon on the White Horse RiderScripture Referenced: Revelation 9:9-16Check out our playlists: Invisible String Podcast Songs and Christian Chorus Line 

We’re starting our Track 5 series with Lover’s The Archer! Rebekah leads our discussion this week as we reflect on what it means to trust others and whether or not we can trust ourselves. Come to hear why Taylor may have intentionally made this song sound unsettling, stay to hear the good news that, in Jesus, our fears of losing love are quieted. Scripture Referenced: Romans 7:15-24, Romans 8:1Check out our playlists: Invisible String Podcast Songs and Christian Chorus Line

This week we wrap up our death trio with Taylor’s tribute song for her grandmother, Marjorie. Ashley leads the discussion as we talk about how we honor the dead and why communication with the dead is out of bounds for the Christian. Come to hear how Sarah and Ashley ended up in a cadaver lab together, stay to hear how the hope of resurrection gives us the ultimate picture of “what died didn’t stay dead.” Rolling Stones Article on Marjorie What’s Wrong With Consulting the Dead from TGC AfricaN.T. Wright on Cremation vs. Burial Scripture Referenced: Deuteronomy 18:9, Leviticus 20:27, 1 Samuel 28, 1 Corinthians 15:12-26Check out our playlists: Invisible String Podcast Songs and Christian Chorus Line

The death trio continues as we talk about Midnights’ 3 AM track, Bigger Than the Whole Sky. Sarah leads our discussion as we try to  unpack what happens between death and resurrection and God’s sovereignty over death. Come to hear what that rascal Pawley has been up to this week, stay to hear how the death of our Savior ironically secures our eternal life. Scripture Referenced: Acts 7:60, Matthew 9:24, 2 Corinthians 5:7-8, Luke 23:43, Revelation 7:9, Lamentations 3:38, Matthew 10:29-31, Genesis 50:20, Philippians 1:21, Job 1, John 19:9-10Check out our playlists: Invisible String Podcast Songs and Christian Chorus Line

Buckle up and grab your tissues. This week we’re diving into arguably the most emotional Taylor song, Ronan. Rebekah leads our discussion as we reflect on the curse of death and the promise of heaven. Come to hear why Rebekah was so drawn to this song for a season, stay to hear the good news that offers hope in the face of such tragedy. The story behind RonanWhat Age Will I Appear In Heaven? Article Scripture Referenced: Genesis 5, John 11:25-26, Revelation 21:4Check out our playlists: Invisible String Podcast Songs and Christian Chorus Line

This week we’re joined by pastor, author, and Ashley’s favorite former Bible teacher, Jim Thompson. As a lifelong music lover, Jim walks us through the importance of singing in the Christian life from an emotional, neurological, and theological perspective. Come to hear why Jim thinks about Bad Blood on a weekly basis, stay to hear how singing brings prayer and Scripture together in a practical way.  Go buy Jim’s book! Sing Loud, Die Happy

What does Ashley do when she can’t pick a favorite Taylor song? She picks three! This week we’re exploring the Folklore love triangle and how it’s interestingly similar to (and in some ways, even more interestingly different from) the parable of The Prodigal Son. Come to hear why James is the WORST, stay to hear about a Father who initiates relationships with both sons. Do you need your own purple guy??Taylor’s thoughts on Betty and AugustTim Keller’s sermon and video on the Two SonsScripture Referenced: Luke 15: 11-32Check out our playlists: Invisible String Podcast Songs and Christian Chorus Line

Is it objectively the best Taylor Swift song of all time? Sarah thinks so! This week we’re discussing All Too Well and the role of reminders in relationships. Come to hear us debate 5 minute version vs. 10 minute version, stay to hear why God gives us signs of His covenant. Scripture Referenced: Psalm 119:11, Revelation 21:3-5, Isaiah 65:16-17, Luke 23:42-43, Genesis 9:12-17, Isaiah 49:15, 1 Corinthians 11:23-26, Hebrews 10:15-18Check out our playlists: Invisible String Podcast Songs and Christian Chorus Line

We’re starting to unpack our all-time favorite Taylor songs! We begin this week with Rebekah’s favorite, Daylight, discussing how love acts as a clarifying and purifying force in our lives. Come to hear Rebekah’s creative thought exercise, stay to hear how light and love have always been connected.Scripture Referenced: 1 John 2:9-11, Psalm 119:105,  Revelation 21:23-25, John 8:12, Isaiah 9:6Check out our playlists: Invisible String Podcast Songs and Christian Chorus Line

This week we’re discussing the shortest track on TTPD, I Can Fix Him (No Really I Can). Ashley facilitates the conversation as we contrast the purifying work of the Spirit with Taylor’s claim that she can tame the wild stallion. Come to hear what we think about when we don’t think, stay to hear how Christ Himself is our sanctification.  Can Taylor fix this man? I Can See You music video5 Things You Should Know About Sanctification Scripture Referenced: Romans 6:19, Philippians 3:3-11, 1 Corinthians 1:26-31Check out our playlists: Invisible String Podcast Songs and Christian Chorus Line

Come one! Come all! We’re talking How Did It End? this week. Sarah leads our conversation as we talk about the biblical definition of empathy and how it might differ from the way our culture uses it. Come to hear why we think this is truly a track 5, stay to hear how Jesus’ perfect compassion meets us right where we’re at. Terry and Kaniyia’s reaction to How Did It End?Moonlight Sonata Brené Brown on Empathy vs SympathyLandon Talks on Unspoken Prayer Requests Scripture Referenced: Hebrews 4:15, Hebrews 10:34,Romans 8:17, 1 Corinthians 12:26, Romans 12:15Check out our playlists on Spotify and Apple Music

We’re back to analyzing TTPD songs, and we’re starting with some real truth bombs this week with Cassandra. Rebekah facilitates our conversation as we discuss the definition of truth and the risks of telling vs. not telling the truth. Come for the brief mythology lesson, stay for the example of the lying and cowardly Peter that points us to the Truth Incarnate. Hidden Brain podcast on the Cassandra curseTaylor’s thoughts on the Kim/Kanye feudSteven Lawson on the nature of truth Scripture Referenced: Exodus 20:16, John 14:6, John 18:37-38, John 17:17, John 8:31-32, Romans 1:18-20, Psalm 19:1, Psalm 51:1-2, 2 Thessalonians 2:10, John 8:43-47, Luke 22:54-62Check out our playlists on Spotify and Apple Music

Our conversation with Haden continues this week as we dive into why poetic language has theological significance. Come to hear which Taylor song holds a special place in Haden’s heart, stay to hear which Psalm is particularly meaningful to her.

We’re kicking off Season 2 with a guest that we’ve officially deemed an honorary fourth member of the pod, Haden Bell. Haden is a PhD student at Cambridge University who works to bring her love of theology and poetry together. And did we mention she’s a huge Swiftie? Come to have the way that you listen to The Black Dog forever changed, stay to hear how Aristotle’s definition of poetry has massive theological implications.

In this very special Season 1 Finale, we’re joined by J.P. Stephens, philosopher, musician, and educator of two of the three of us. And he’s bringing some spicy Taylor opinions! Come to hear whether or not we’ve converted this Swiftie skeptic, stay to hear his thoughts on enjoying things we love with fellow believers. Taylor Swift Starter Pack by RebekahThe Princess and the Goblin

Another controversial song? Of course! We’re discussing I Hate It Here this week. Sarah leads the conversation as we talk around theological threads of longing and contentment. Come to hear which past decade we’d choose to live in, stay to hear how we learn contentment by God’s grace. The Dead Poets Society ClipMere Christianity by C.S. LewisAlien Slugs and Bugs SongThe Rare Jewel of Christian Contentment by Jeremiah BurroughsChrist is Mine Forevermore by CityAlightOn Jordan's Stormy Banks by Keith and Kristyn GettyAs weary pilgrim now at rest by Anne BradstreetScripture Referenced: Hebrews 11:13-16, Joshua 4:20-24, 1 Samuel 7:12, Matthew 6:21, Philippians 4:10-13, Jeremiah 29:4-7, Matthew 5:13-16, Philippians 2:4-8Check out our playlists on Spotify and Apple Music

This week we’re breaking down another song that’s filled to the brim with spiritual references, The Prophecy. Ashley leads the conversation as we pull out themes of curses and prayer. Come to help us interpret Sarah’s eye blinking Morse code, stay to hear how curses and prayer come together in the Garden of Gethsemane. The Architect by Kacey Musgraves Covenant curses podcast from The Bible Project Galatians 3 sermonN.T. Wright on prayerLigonier Ministries on the cursed tree“Plain milk’s fine…” Scripture Referenced: Genesis 3:14-19, Mark 10:20-22, Deuteronomy 28:15-22, Galatians 3:10-14, 1 Samuel 1, Matthew 7:7-8, Luke 18:1-8, Matthew 26:36-46 Check out our playlists on Spotify and Apple Music

We’re jumping back into TTPD tracks with the iconic (and maybe terrifying) Who’s Afraid Of Little Old Me? Rebekah leads our discussion this week as we unpack the theological threads of blame and self-preservation. Come for our attempts at pronouncing this acronym, stay for the great reversal of the blameless One taking the blame. Habits of the Household by Justin Whitmel Earley Taylor’s speech about how the industry has shaped herThe Gospel Coalition’s article on blameScripture Referenced: Genesis 3:13, Proverbs 22:6, Deuteronomy 6:4-9, Matthew 18:6, Ephesians 6:4, Matthew 10:16, Ephesians 4:26, John 2:15-17, Jeremiah 17:9, Genesis 34, Romans 2:8, Romans 5:8-9 Check out our playlists on Spotify and Apple Music

This week we’re joined by our first guest! We’re thrilled. We’re humbled. Quite frankly, we’re shocked. Dr. Jonathan Pennington is an author, a pastor, and a New Testament scholar who also happens to be a Swiftie. Come to hear why Dr. Pennington recently dressed as Post Malone from the Fortnight music video, stay to hear how he searches for beauty in all areas of life. Episode Links:Dr. Pennington’s websiteDr. Pennington’s InstagramTGC’s debate between Dr. Pennington and Jen Wilkin

This week we’re breaking down the final track of The Anthology, The Manuscript. Rebekah leads our discussion and highlights how we should reflect on our past as believers. Come for all the All Too Well connections, stay for the paradox of suffering ultimately leading to life.Episode LinksAll Too Well Short FilmSinclair Ferfuson’s sermon on Joseph Trusting God by Jerry Bridges The Songs of Jesus by Tim KellerScripture Referenced: Psalm 106, Psalm 13, Genesis 37-50, 2 Corinthians 1:3-7, Psalm 105, 2 Corinthians 4:16-18 Check out our playlists on Spotify and Apple Music

We’re tackling another TTPD track that’s caused quite a stir, But Daddy I Love Him. Ashley leads the discussion as we contrast right judgment with hypocritical judgment. Come to hear our thoughts on all the changes made to the Eras Tour, stay to hear the remedy for the planks in our eyes. The travesty of the new Lover bodysuitIn case your 90s/00s country knowledge isn’t up to Ashley’s standards: She’s in Love With the Boy and Suds in the BucketThe balloon interpretive danceTim Mackie’s sermon on judgment New Morning Mercies by Paul David TrippScripture Referenced: James 5:16, Matthew 12:34, Matthew 7:15, Matthew 7:1-5, James 4:11-12, Check out our playlists on Spotify and Apple Music

We’re diving right into TTPD tracks with perhaps the most controversial of them all, Guilty as Sin? Sarah leads our conversation as we discuss whether or not what happens in our minds truly makes us guilty. Come to hear why we think the Christian community might be approaching this song all wrong, stay to hear the hope that Jesus offers to guilty sinners. Episode Notes and LinksPlugged In’s review of TTPDThe Mortification of Sin by John OwenThoughts to Make Your Heart Sing by Sally Lloyd-JonesSing Loud, Die Happy by Jim ThompsonScripture Referenced: James 2:8-12, Matthew 5:17-28, Psalm 51:4, Luke 6:45, Colossians 3:1-17, 1 Corinthians 3:11-15, 2 Corinthians 10:5, Isaiah 53:6Check out our playlists on Spotify and Apple Music

The Tortured Poets Department is here and we have THOUGHTS! Join us as we discuss the themes, the sound, and all the theological threads that we can’t wait to pull out. Episode Notes Alex Clark’s review of TTPD

It’s another topical Tuesday! Has Taylor had a change of heart on marriage? Come to hear our one word first impressions of The Tortured Poets Department, stay to hear how idolizing marriage can take multiple forms.Episode Notes and LinksThe Meaning of Marriage by Tim KellerScripture Referenced: Genesis 2:18, 1 Corinthians 7:6-8, Ephesians 5:31-32Check out our playlists on Spotify and Apple Music

Ashley leads the conversation this week as we break down our first Reputation track, I Did Something Bad, pulling out threads of the fleeting pleasures of sin and guilt. Come for the Salem Witch Trials discussion, stay for our thoughts on how to stir our affections for Jesus. Show Notes and LinksJohn Piper on Christian HedonismAn overview of Jonathan Edwards’ Religious Affections Allie Beth Stuckey’s podcast with Mike RoweSinclair Ferguson on Peter’s Denial Come Behold the Wondrous Mystery Scripture Referenced: Mark 6:17-29, Hebrews 11:24-25, Proverbs 14:12, James 1:17, Matthew 15:11,  2 Corinthians 7:10, Hebrews 4:15, Matthew 4:1-11, Philippians 3:7-9Check out our playlists on Spotify and Apple Music

Sarah facilitates the discussion this week as we tackle the self-reflective #1 hit, Anti-Hero, and its theme of total depravity. Come for a list of our favorite pop culture anti-heroes, stay to contemplate whether we are actually anti-heroes or if we are villains. Show Notes and LinksAnti-Hero Music VideoAJR Way Less SadAJR Netflix TripRC Sproul on Total DepravityAdam4D CartoonState Farm Neighbaaa CommercialDwight on /r/Man of SorrowsMy Worth is Not in What I OwnScripture Referenced:Isaiah 64:6, Jeremiah 17:9, John 3:19, Proverbs 13:22, Romans 3:23, Psalm 51, James 1:22-25,Romans 5:6-8 Check out our playlists on Spotify and Apple Music