Bible Geeks Podcast

Grow Closer to JesusWhat's so great about Jesus? Here in Square One session 6, we reflect on Matthew 27-28, share our thoughts on the characteristics of true friendship, and unpack the story of Lazarus from John 11. From Jesus' compassion, unwavering commitment, and wise counsel, join us as we uncover why Jesus is the ultimate friend we all need. Plus, we discuss our favorite friendship stories, chat about how Jesus' love changes our lives, and pose a thought-provoking question: If you could ask a friend to help with something important in your life, what would it be? Let's grow closer to Jesus together!The Big Idea: Once you know Jesus and his love, your life will never be the same.This Week's Challenge: Reflect on this question: If you could ask a friend to help you with something important in your life, what would it be?Show NotesFinding Jesus: John 15:13-15 (VERSE)Square One Guided Study (GUIDED STUDY)Square One - Session 6 (GUIDED STUDY)Plainfield Pondering by Allen Greeley (PODCAST)Support the Show

Rejoice at Jesus' Incredible SalvationWould you rather hear the good news or bad news first? Good news — we're into session 5 of our Square One series, tackling a massive question: How does Jesus change things? Understanding the bad news of our sin helps us appreciate the incredibly good news of Jesus! He’s the center of everything and we watch what his suffering accomplished in Isaiah 53. Are you starting to see how Jesus’ story can change yours? Check out Matthew 27:32 to 28:20 this week and visit our website for more resources!The Big Idea: Jesus has conquered sin and death to bring hope, peace, and joy to our lives.This Week's Challenge: Read Matthew 27:32-28:20.Show NotesFinding Jesus: Luke 2:10-12 (VERSE)Square One Guided Study (GUIDED STUDY)Square One - Session 5 (GUIDED STUDY)The School of Christ: Learning Character from Jesus by Jacob Hudgins (BOOK)Support the Show

Believe Jesus is God's SonWe’re back for Session 4 of our Square One series. We tackled the huge question: "Why believe in Jesus?" How does the historical evidence for Jesus' resurrection, like the empty tomb and the disciples' transformed lives, provide a solid foundation for faith? Is blind faith a thing? We dug into 1 Corinthians 15, where Paul details eyewitness accounts, including over 500 people seeing Jesus alive, and shared how skeptics often agree on key historical facts surrounding these events. If Jesus really rose from the dead, what does that mean for you?The Big Idea: We can trust in Jesus because of the historical fact that he rose from the dead.This Week's Challenge: Take some time to write down your thoughts to the question, "What does it mean if Jesus raised from the dead?"Show NotesJesus Said: John 20:29 (VERSE)Square One Guided Study (GUIDED STUDY)Square One - Session 4 (GUIDED STUDY)Support the Show

Know Jesus Through ScriptureReady to dive into our third conversation in the Square One series? This week, we're tackling the question: What's the Bible all about? Looking at the overarching story of the Bible, SPOILER ALERT — the focus is on Jesus! What’s the best Bible translation? How does John 1 expand our understanding as we piece together the Bible's grand narrative? Mind-blowing revelations ahead — tune in as we unravel the scriptural mysteries that all point to Jesus. And don't forget to check out the links for more resources and follow along with our Square One series!The Big Idea: All of Scripture points to Jesus.This Week's Challenge: Read Luke 24:1-35.Show NotesJesus Said: John 5:39-40 (VERSE)Square One Guided Study (GUIDED STUDY)Square One - Session 3 (GUIDED STUDY)Support the Show

Look to the Bible for AnswersGet excited, we’re into the second session of our Square One guided study! It’s the Bible Geeks talking about ... the Bible! What it is, why it matters, and how it answers life's biggest questions. How’d this amazing guidebook for our lives come to exist, and why is it still relevant today? Plus, we provide “definitive evidence” (or not?) for all those mysterious topics like the Bermuda Triangle and the Loch Ness Monster. Join us on this journey to better understand the Bible and its significance to our lives. Let's get into it!The Big Idea: The Bible answers our biggest questions about who we are and why we're here.This Week's Challenge: If you haven't already, get a Bible or download a Bible app, and orient yourself to how it’s organized.Show NotesLike the Teacher: Matthew 4:1-11 (VERSE)Square One Guided Study (GUIDED STUDY)Square One - Session 2 (GUIDED STUDY)Hidden in Plain Sight by Ryan Joy (SERMON)Support the Show

Reflect on What’s Not Working in LifeWelcome to the “extended version” of our back-to-basics Square One guided study, starting with session one, “Why are things so messed up?”' We reflect on personal struggles, the brokenness we see around us, and the need for spiritual healing. We also discuss the powerful imagery in Isaiah 59 and how it relates to some heavy words like iniquity, transgression, and sin. Plus, we share our thoughts on leading and participating in these soul-searching conversations. Join us as we administer a spiritual physical and explore our need for Jesus' healing together.The Big Idea: Humanity has slipped into some terribly unhealthy patterns — and if we’re honest, we can see that brokenness in ourselves.This Week's Challenge: Let’s watch this week for both healthy and unhealthy things in the world.Show NotesJesus Said: Matthew 9:12 (VERSE)Square One Guided Study (GUIDED STUDY)Square One - Session 1 (GUIDED STUDY)Getting to Square One (GUIDED STUDY)Getting to Square One Study Guide (PDF)Support the Show

Celebrate the Bible’s Impactful VersesThe voting is over and the people have spoken! We’re diving into the surprising results from this year's Bible Bracket. We cover the upsets, nail-biters, and the ultimate winner that stood tall from all the Favorite Bible Verse matchups. How does the Bible's imagery from Romans 12:2, Revelation 21:4, Psalm 118:6, and the grand champion — John 14:6 impact you? Plus, we share some heartfelt thoughts on the verses that have deeply impacted our lives. Join us for a March Madness recap of biblical proportions.The Big Idea: The Bible is living and active, changing our hearts in new ways and in new circumstances every day.Show NotesWatch Episode 227 (VIDEO)Meditating on Four Favorite Verses (BLOG)Bible Geeks Bracket - Draft ResultsRomans 12:2 (VERSE)Revelation 21:4 (VERSE)Psalm 118:6 (VERSE)John 14:6 (VERSE)Square One (GUIDED STUDY)Support the Show

Set Yourself Up for a Successful StudyIn this episode, we're wrapping up our "Getting to Square One" Guided Study and giving you some real talk and practical tips on how to actually get started with a Square One study (or any gospel-focused conversation, really!). We're diving into questions like how to invite someone, how much to prep, and what to do if you get a tough question. Plus, don't forget to get your votes in for the Bible Bracket! Today's the LAST DAY to vote for your favorite Bible verses! Head over to biblegeeks.fm/bracket to make your voice heard. We're super excited about diving into the full Square One series soon, so this episode is all about getting you ready to lead the way. Thanks for tuning in!The Big Idea: Focus and commitment in someone’s spiritual growth goes a long way in leading a successful gospel-centered conversation.Show NotesWatch Episode 226 (VIDEO)Guiding Gospel Conversations (BLOG)Jesus Said: Mark 6:7-13 (VERSE)Getting to Square One (GUIDED STUDY)Square One (GUIDED STUDY)Bible Geeks Bracket - Draft ResultsSupport the Show

Choose Your Favorite Bible VersesIt's DRAFT TIME! Join us for another exciting Bible Bracket, this time drafting our Favorite Bible Verses. We're playing 64 single — ahem — verses in four regional categories: Timeless Wisdom, Precious Promises, Hard Truths, and Trust Builders. Why are these verses meaningful? Where did we get the idea for the Trust Builders regional? And what happens when we mess everything up? Find out and go vote for your favorites at biblegeeks.fm/bracket to get in on the action! Plus, stay tuned for news on our 'Getting to Square One' series and more.The Big Idea: The Bible is full of timeless wisdom, precious promises, hard truths, and trust building verses.Show NotesBible Geeks Bracket - Draft ResultsWatch Episode 225 (VIDEO)It's Draft Time! Bible Verses Edition (BLOG)Getting to Square One (GUIDED STUDY)Support the Show

Rejoice in the Good News TodayWe're back at it! After a long break, we’re ready to dive into some exciting updates. On this episode, we chat about vacations, personal projects, and how we’ve been revamping the website and resources. In typical Bible Geeks fashion, we explore our themes for the new year, honing in on how the gospel brings clarity and resolution. Then we share our “Favorite Things” from the off-season and introduce new podcast features like video episodes and the chance for you to submit audio questions! Tune in as we Find Jesus in the Bible and celebrate the good news.The Big Idea: It’s good to be back for another season focused on the gospel of Jesus!Show NotesWatch Episode 224 (VIDEO)Finding Jesus: Acts 10:34-43 (VERSE)Favorite Things from the Off-Season (BLOG)Getting to Square One (GUIDED STUDY)New Studies in Biblical Theology (BOOK SERIES)The IVP Bible Dictionaries (BOOK SERIES)Dictionary of Bible Themes (BOOK)Support the Show

Make a Decision About JesusHow do you help someone make a decision to follow Christ? In our season finale, we answer the big question, “What do I need to do to be saved?” It’s the third and final checkpoint in Square One — a series of conversations designed to have with non-Christians. We try to balance the cost of committing to Jesus with the blessings he invites us to enjoy. We also take a Closer Look at some salvation questions asked in the Bible and read about the Ethiopian eunuch’s conversation. We’re SO excited about all that’s still ahead in the full Square One series, coming next year. And as we wrap our season, we’re giving thanks for so much, praising God for all of you who listen and encourage us!The Big Idea: Jesus gave his life for us, and now he invites us to give ours to him.This Week's Challenge: If you're ready, declare your faith in Jesus, commit to following him, and be baptized for the forgiveness of your sins.Show NotesFinding Jesus: Luke 14:25-33 (VERSE)Square One Guided Study (GUIDED STUDY)Square One - Session 10 (LINK)Getting to Square One (GUIDED STUDY)Getting to Square One Study Guide (PDF)Beyond Bullet Points by Cliff Atkinson (BOOK)Support the Show

Rejoice at Jesus' Incredible SalvationHow does Jesus change things? In our second checkpoint in the Square One series, we discuss how Jesus brings hope. It’s the hinge of these conversations designed to bring someone to Christ, in between our “bad news” talk about sin and our next checkpoint, where we’ll invite them to make a decision and follow the Lord. We tell the Story of Jesus' life, death, resurrection, and reign, and consider how Isaiah 53 explains his saving work. Look for more resources like videos and guides to help you lead these discussions in 2025.The Big Idea: Jesus has conquered sin and death to bring hope, peace, and joy to our lives.This Week's Challenge: Read Matthew 27:32-28:20 on your own and reflect on this important moment in Jesus' story.Show NotesFinding Jesus: Luke 2:10-12 (VERSE)Square One Guided Study (GUIDED STUDY)Square One - Session 5 (LINK)Getting to Square One (GUIDED STUDY)Getting to Square One Study Guide (PDF)Support the Show

Reflect on What’s Not Working in LifeWe’ve talked all season about leading gospel conversations with unbelievers. This week we introduce the first of a series of discussions we’ve designed to take someone from Square One to conversion. In this kickoff episode, we ask why things are so broken in our world. Where did we go wrong? Recognizing the problem is the first step toward understanding the solution Jesus offers. We discuss the bleak picture in Isaiah 59:1-13 and the Heavy Words the Bible uses for sin. After walking through the guided discussion, we take a Closer Look at some tips for leading a dialogue like this with someone in your life. We pray that as we shine a light on the gospel, God will use these discussions to expand his kingdom.The Big Idea: Humanity has slipped into some terribly unhealthy patterns — and if we’re honest, we can see that brokenness in ourselves.This Week's Challenge: Let’s watch this week for both healthy and unhealthy things in the world.Show NotesJesus Said: Matthew 9:12 (VERSE)Square One Guided Study (GUIDED STUDY)Square One - Session 1 (LINK)Getting to Square One (GUIDED STUDY)Getting to Square One Study Guide (PDF)Support the Show

Share the Savior’s Satisfying NewsThis week we finish up Season 1 of The Chosen with a conversation about episode 8, “I Am He.” Reflecting on Jesus' interactions with the Samaritan woman, we (fittingly for our recent episodes!) find lots of insights about evangelism and disciple-making. We also discuss what Jesus Said in Matthew 9:10-13 about God’s desire for mercy!The Big Idea: Jesus’ mission was to show mercy to broken people, and ours should be the same.Show NotesThe Chosen (WEBSITE)Jesus Said: Matthew 9:10-13 (VERSE)Watch the Chosen (WEBSITE)Where to Stream the Chosen (WEBSITE)The Chosen - S1E8 - “I Am He” (WIKI)Support the Show

Get to Know Square OneGet to Know Square OneThis week we take a Closer Look at our Adventures in Evangelism, sharing some of the approaches we’ve used and what we’ve learned. As usual, we start out by talking about Christ, learning from what Jesus Said about the connection between discipleship and disciple-making. We explore the metaphor of “fishing for men” from Matthew 4:19 and delve into effective evangelism approaches. We also explain the upcoming Square One series, designed to guide evangelistic conversations.The Big Idea: Prayer and personal connection are powerful tools in sharing our faith with those who don’t yet know Jesus.Show NotesJesus Said: Matthew 4:19 (VERSE)Manipulative & Mechanical Approaches to Evangelism by Berry Kercheville (ARTICLE)Getting to Square One (GUIDED STUDY)Support the Show

Get Used to DifferentOn the heels of our 'Getting to Square One' mini-series — and before introducing our next series — we’re pausing to watch some TV! The Bible Geeks AV Club is back as we talk through 'The Chosen' Season 1, Episode 7. As always, our goal is to ground the show’s events in the relevant Biblical truths and events. We focus on Jesus' dialogue with Nicodemus in John’s gospel. What does it mean to be born again of water and the Spirit? What does the Bible really say about Nicodemus? We go through his story in a segment we call, “Hello, My Name Is…” and then we close with a Reach Out conversation. Building on a noteworthy comment by Jesus in the show, we discuss how we’ve each had to “Get used to different” as disciples.The Big Idea: Keeping your faith tucked in your pockets for fear of offending or alienating someone leads to regret and lost opportunities.Show NotesThe Chosen (WEBSITE)Jesus Said: John 3:3-15 (VERSE)Watch the Chosen (WEBSITE)Where to Stream the Chosen (WEBSITE)The Chosen - S1E7 - “Invitations” (WIKI)Episode 21 - “That’s Bad Advertising” (PODCAST EPISODE)Square One (GUIDED STUDY)Support the Show

Engage in Gospel-Centered ConversationsIn this episode, we finish our “Getting to Square One” Guided Study by discussing disciple-making practices. We open with a focus on the way Jesus asked questions. Then, we share a few of our Favorite Things to guide gospel-centered dialogue. It’s interesting how even our common, everyday conversations connect with the “holy conversations” we want to engage in as we bring God to the forefront and work through life’s most important issues. We pray this series has built you up and contributed to your efforts to share the good news. Go to biblegeeks.fm/squareone for videos, study guides, and more.The Big Idea: Through love, we learn to lead a different kind of conversation, a holy conversation.This Week's Challenge: Ask someone a spiritual question to start a conversation.Show NotesGetting to Square One (GUIDED STUDY)Like the Teacher: John 5:6 (VERSE)Like the Teacher: Luke 9:18-20 (VERSE)Like the Teacher: Mark 12:35-37 (VERSE)Like the Teacher: John 3:12 (VERSE)Support the Show

See Disciple-Making Like JesusWhat lie does Satan try to sell you about evangelism? And how does Jesus reframe our approach to evangelism? Here in session two of our Getting to Square One guided study, we examine our disciple-making paradigms. Whether you’ve tried selling salvation like Ginsu Knives or given up thinking people don’t care, an A-Team of evangelists like Ananias and Philip can teach us a better way. We want to make disciples Like the Teacher, so this week we rethink our timelines, strategies, and beliefs about it.The Big Idea: Most people need more than just the facts; they need someone to help clear a path to the Lord.This Week's Challenge: Have a conversation with someone about what does and doesn't work well in evangelism.Show NotesGetting to Square One (GUIDED STUDY)Like the Teacher: John 4:1-45 (VERSE)Like the Teacher: Luke 19:1-10 (VERSE)Like the Teacher: Luke 8:42-48 (VERSE)Like the Teacher: John 21:15-19 (VERSE)Support the Show

Confront the Roadblocks to Sharing Our FaithThis week we launch a 3-part guided study called Getting to Square One, all about the problems, paradigms, and practices of disciple-making (Matt. 28:19). If you’ve ever struggled leading others to Christ, you might relate to some of the gaffs we share in a new segment we’re calling Super Slo-Mo. We play “Monday morning quarterback” with each other’s evangelistic missteps, then we share the obstacles that others needed to overcome to teach and convert us. As always we start with Jesus, learning from some correction he gave to the “sons of thunder.” Later this season, we’ll move from “Getting to Square One” to “Square One,” a series of conversations designed for Christians to engage with non-Christians.The Big Idea: Making disciples is challenging but it's easier if we get out of our own way.This Week's Challenge: Have a conversation with someone about what does and doesn't work well in evangelism.Show NotesLike the Teacher: Luke 9:51-56 (VERSE)Getting to Square One - Session 1 (LINK)Irresistible Evangelism by Steve Sjogren (BOOK)Evangelism Made Slightly Less Difficult by Nick Pollard (BOOK)Tactics by Greg Koukl (BOOK)Support the Show

Bring Others to ChristWhat do Jesus’ miracles have to do with our greatest problem? And why is faith so hard for some people to get their minds around? We’re discussing one more episode of the Chosen before launching a new guided study next week. This week we watched Season 1, Episode 6 — “Indescribable Compassion” — then connected the dots from the plotlines to the gospels. In Luke 5, the leper, the lame, and the lost all find hope in Christ and we learn lessons from all of them. We hope you’re blessed by the conversation and look for session 1 of our evangelism study, “Getting to Square One,” next week!The Big Idea: We find hope and comfort in Christ’s compassion for the lost.Show NotesThe Chosen (WEBSITE)Jesus Said: Matthew 8:1-4 (VERSE)Watch the Chosen (WEBSITE)Where to Stream the Chosen (WEBSITE)The Chosen - S1E6 - “Indescribable Compassion” (WIKI)Support the Show

Keep Watching & Trusting GodThe Bible Geeks A.V. Club is back as we return to our popular series, talking through the TV show The Chosen. This week, we dive into the Bible background for the episode “The Wedding Gift” (Season 1, Episode 5), from young Jesus in the temple (Luke 2:41-52) to the wedding where he turned water to wine (John 2:1-12). What’s the significance of that early miracle? What do we notice about Mary in these accounts? As we watch Jesus react to stressful situations with such poise, we ask ourselves: How can we, as his disciples, keep cool under pressure?The Big Idea: Joy is at the heart of our service to the King.This Week's Challenge: Watch The Chosen S1E6Show NotesThe Chosen (WEBSITE)Like the Teacher: Luke 2:41-52 (VERSE)Watch the Chosen (WEBSITE)Where to Stream the Chosen (WEBSITE)The Chosen - S1E5 - “The Wedding Gift” (WIKI)Support the Show

Speak the GospelWhat do a group of lepers, an adulteress woman, a dead, rich man, and a former demon-possessed strong man have in common? We’re excited to be back for a new season of Bible Geeks! This season will focus on evangelism. This week we introduce a new segment we call “Bible Headlines” and zoom in on some unlikely evangelists. Thanks for jumping back in and listening!The Big Idea: You don’t have to be the most eloquent or well-read disciple to share the good news about Jesus.Show NotesJesus Said: Luke 16:27-28 (VERSE)Support the Show

Enjoy the Journey TogetherWhat are your favorite qualities of your best friend, and how have your friends changed you? As we conclude this season of Bible Geeks, we finish up our Two by Two study with a celebration of God’s gift of friendship. We begin with a moment where Christ looked to a dear one to care for his mother after his death. Then, we go Flyin’ Through the Book of Third John, with its portraits of Gaius, Demetrius, and Diotrephes. Why does John give Christians the moniker “the friends” (3 John 15) and how does his prayer exemplify what we want for each other (3 John 2)? We’ll be gone for a couple months on break, but look forward to returning in August with a new guided study and lots of other good stuff! Until then, we hope you’ll take advantage of the resources at biblegeeks.fm (including the full Two by Two study guide and videos) and keep in touch!The Big Idea: Some relationships change us in ways we won't even realize until we look back.This Week's Challenge: Pick up the bill for dinner with a close friend.Show Notes"An Epic Adventure" (CONVERSATION STARTER)Like the Teacher: John 19:25-27 (VERSE)Two By Two Guided Study (WEBSITE)Support the Show

Face Trials TogetherHow would your life's biggest trials have turned out without a friend to bear your load? Scripture says “A friend loves at all times and a brother is born for adversity” (Prov. 17:17). This week, in the penultimate episode of this season (and of our Two by Two study), we reflect on the support we find in good companions when everything falls apart. We build an A Team of Friends Through Adversity, learning from the examples of Bible all-stars Ruth & Naomi and Aaron & Hur. Finding Jesus in Galatians 6 leads us back to a Martin Luther sermon about Jesus carrying us on his shoulders. And we reflect on bad days with friends — and how we somehow wouldn’t want to be anywhere else. Find all the goodies that go with this series at biblegeeks.fm/twobytwo.The Big Idea: The hard things in life are made a little bit easier with friends you can count on.This Week's Challenge: Ask someone how you can carry their load or share yours with them.Show Notes"Filthy Fun Runs" (CONVERSATION STARTER)Finding Jesus: Gal. 6:1-5 (VERSE)Two By Two Guided Study (WEBSITE)Support the Show

Push Friends to Deeper DevotionEverybody loves getting poked in the eye, right? No, it’s never fun on either end of those “we need to talk” moments between friends, yet the Bible calls a friend’s wounds “faithful” (Prov. 27:6). So session 7 of our Two by Two study focuses on how friends sharpen each other like iron on iron (Prov. 27:17). It may sound like we’re contradicting ourselves after we just discussed a “circle of safety,” so we ask “What’s the Deal?” with that and harmonize these two crucial aspects of friendship. We also learn from Jesus’ example of telling it straight to the young ruler. And we share what we’ve each learned about having difficult conversations. As you work towards stronger bonds in YOUR life, spend some time with the first seven sessions of this 9-part guided study at biblegeeks.fm/twobytwo.The Big Idea: A foundation of trust lets us say — and hear — the hard truths.This Week's Challenge: Consider how to stir up a friend to love and good works this week.Show Notes"Friends Don’t Let Friends ..." (CONVERSATION STARTER)Like the Teacher: Mark 10:17-22 (VERSE)Two By Two Guided Study (WEBSITE)Support the Show

Establish Trust and OpennessHow are fickle companions like imaginary friends? In session six of our friendship study, we explore how trust, loyalty, and honesty change our interactions. One of the gifts of friendship is knowing someone has your back and feeling safe to share what’s really happening in your life. So this week we dig into Four Proverbs on dependable friends, learning how gossip makes us clam up and how someone’s investment in you makes you want to hear their counsel. We also look to Jesus, the perfect friend, and hear how he redefines the word. Check out the study guides and videos at biblegeeks.fm/twobytwo.The Big Idea: A true friend is someone you can count on.This Week's Challenge: Tell someone, "Thank you for being a friend."Show Notes"Blanches and Roses" (CONVERSATION STARTER)Jesus Said: John 15:12-16 (VERSE)Two By Two Guided Study (WEBSITE)Support the Show

Care Enough to ListenHow can we give our friendships a boost by lending an ear? Where did Eli go wrong and where did he get it right with Hannah? And what’s the deal with those brackets around John 7:53-8:11 in modern Bibles? Session 5 of the Two By Two study focuses on listening as a core friendship trait. We look at the story of a woman caught in adultery and one about a woman accused of drunkenness. In both, we notice the value of waiting to speak. Find more of this study — like videos and study guides — at biblegeeks.fm/twobytwo. And as always, thanks for … listening!The Big Idea: Listening is one of the purest expressions of love and connection.This Week's Challenge: Focus your conversations this week on asking good questions and listening to the answers.Show Notes"The Bahamas" (CONVERSATION STARTER)Like the Teacher: John 8:1-11 (VERSE)Two By Two Guided Study (WEBSITE)Support the Show

Treasure the Stories of ScriptureThe results are in and the votes counted. This year’s Bible Bracket has gone from a field of 64 beloved Bible stories down to one. On this episode we walk through some lessons learned from our Final Four and celebrate the life-changing power of Scripture’s many rich stories. We also share our own personal favorites and upsets and discuss what Jesus Said about his parables. A big thank you to all who shared, commented, and participated in this year’s tournament. Go to biblegeeks.fm/bracket to see the full bracket.The Big Idea: Scripture’s stories pierce us like a two-edged sword.This Week's Challenge: Ask someone about their favorite Bible story.Show NotesBible Geeks Bracket - Draft ResultsTwo By Two Guided Study (WEBSITE)Support the Show

Love Others as YourselfWhat happens when you expect a friend to never let you down or have a fault? How do we stay steady and reliable in our love for others? Here, in session four of our Two By Two study, we get to the heart of friendship. We work through how we look out for each other — from demonstrating mercy to friends to saying “I love you” without making it weird. We’re breaking out some of Scripture’s greatest hits — like the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:25-37) and Paul’s great Love Chapter (1 Corinthians 13) — to apply Christlike love to the people in our lives. Go to biblegeeks.fm/twobytwo for all the videos and study guides. And don’t forget to vote at biblegeeks.fm/bracket as we wrap up this year's Bible Bracket on favorite stories!The Big Idea: Love and compassion are the super glue that binds a friendship together.This Week's Challenge: Ask a friend, "How can I be a better friend to you?"Show Notes"World’s Strongest Adhesive" (CONVERSATION STARTER)Jesus Said: Luke 10:25-37 (VERSE)Scripture du Jour: 1 Corinthians 13 (VERSE)Two By Two Guided Study (WEBSITE)Support the Show

Overcome the Obstacles to Getting CloseHow do our fears, anxieties, and differences get in the way of forming new and deeper relationships? In session three of our “Two By Two” study of friendship, we face the fact that sometimes making friends isn’t easy. We share some Deep Thoughts about Paul’s great ode to humility in Philippians 2:1-11. We also look to the example of Jesus and his diverse collection of followers and share our own struggles with growing close to different groups of people. Go to biblegeeks.fm/twobytwo for the study guides and videos. And don’t forget — the Bible Bracket moves onto the Sweet Sixteen this week, so we’d love it if you’d go to biblegeeks.fm/bracket and vote for your favorite Bible stories!The Big Idea: Limiting friendships to people just like you severely shrinks your pool of possible partners.This Week's Challenge: Leave your comfort zone and invest in someone else's interests.Show Notes"Bible Bracket" (WEBSITE)"Make a Picture" (CONVERSATION STARTER)Like the Teacher: Mark 3:13-21 (VERSE)Two By Two Guided Study (WEBSITE)Support the Show

Treasure the Stories of ScriptureSpring is in the air, March Madness is on TV, and you know what that means over here at the Bible Geeks: It’s Bible Bracket time! This year’s bracket focuses on “Favorite Bible Stories,” celebrating the greatest hits of the world’s greatest book with four “regionals”: Profound Parables, Ancient Heroes, Sunday School Classics, and Jesus in Action. On this episode of the podcast, we draft the 64 stories that we’ll encourage everyone to vote on in the bracket. In a few weeks, we’ll have another episode featuring the results and talking through these wonderful stories (especially the Final Four). In the meantime, we encourage you to rock the vote, share the bracket with others, and talk to your family and friends about these amazing stories and why you love them! Go to biblegeeks.fm/bracket to vote!The Big Idea: The Bible’s stories make a profound impact on God’s people.Show NotesBible Geeks Bracket - Draft ResultsTwo By Two Guided Study (WEBSITE)Support the Show

Make Some Room for FriendshipIs it just us, or is it hard to find room for all the friendships you want to maintain? Sometimes we feel guilt over not being close to everyone in the church, and other times we wonder how we’ll make the time to connect with anyone at a substantive level! So here, in session 2 of our Two by Two guided study, we notice how Jesus tended to friendships and take a Closer Look at Paul’s band of close partners. We discuss some particular challenges each of us has run into and learn to make what one brother called friendship “shepherd’s pie.” As we work towards closer relationships, you can find each session of this 9-part guided study at biblegeeks.fm/twobytwo.The Big Idea: You can't be everyone's best friend, but you can make time to invest in close relationships.This Week's Challenge: Schedule a day on your calendar this month to get together with a friend for coffee or a meal.Show Notes"Jesus' Greatest Miracle?" (CONVERSATION STARTER)Like the Teacher: John 11:1-11 (VERSE)Two By Two Guided Study (WEBSITE)The Art of Gathering by Priya Parker (BOOK)Support the Show

Realize the Power of CommunityWe’re back and excited to start a new guided study on friendship called “Two By Two.” This first study comes from the Bible’s encouragement to value and invest in building these bonds. Four Proverbs on Friends remind us to choose our companions carefully and value quality over quantity. We learn from how Jesus sent the disciples out that he wants us to team up, and we ask, “What gets in the way of the kind of close friendships we want?” We pray this series enriches your relationships as you study along with us!The Big Idea: A strong circle of Christian friends is invaluable on our heavenward journey.This Week's Challenge: Perform a social audit, rating the interactions you have with others as “+” or “-“ in your journal.Show NotesTwo By Two Guided Study (WEBSITE)"Two is One" (CONVERSATION STARTER)Like the Teacher: Mark 6:7-13 (VERSE)Support the Show

Enjoy the JourneyToday — as this drops — it’s the fifth anniversary of our first show’s release. And since it’s also our 200th episode, we took some time to look back and share our Favorite Things about doing Bible Geeks (including a few favorite clips!). We kick it off with a “meta” Finding Jesus, talking about why we always start with Christ. Then we get into why we’re still here and don’t plan to stop anytime soon. To anyone who has ever listened, engaged with us, or supported us, we want to offer a HUGE thank you! You have made this a fun and encouraging journey, and we couldn’t have done it without you!The Big Idea: Thanks for sticking with us for five years of Bible Geeks!Show NotesBible Geeks Patreon (WEBSITE)Her Strength in Him (PODCAST)Support the Show

Put Your Faith in Jesus“If the Messiah is here, the Romans don’t matter—anything is possible now!” The AV Club is back with a Chosen episode that challenges us to hold onto our faith when life’s problems overwhelm us and we don’t understand God’s commands. From all-nighters to Matthew’s unique outlook, the episode sparked a lot of questions and a few Deep Thoughts. Simon Peter’s story is so relatable, with his bold personality, his doubts and fears, and his powerful conversion. We hope you walk away from this talk reaffirming your commitment to do what Peter did, leaving behind who you were to follow the One who changes everything.The Big Idea: Faith isn't faith if we keep it separate from the issues and questions of our lives.Show NotesThe Chosen (WEBSITE)Like the Teacher: Luke 5:1-11 (VERSE)Watch the Chosen (WEBSITE)Where to Stream the Chosen (WEBSITE)The Chosen - S1E4 - “The Rock On Which It Is Built” (WIKI)Support the Show

Look Forward with Hope & CourageEver wanted a straightforward process for learning from your past and planning some growth and goals for the future? Well, “take a look! It’s in a book!” The Bible Geeks Book Club is back with part 2 of our discussion of Michael Hyatt’s Your Best Year Ever. This week we share a few of our Favorite Things, highlighting Scriptural principles like grace, clarity, and order — as they relate to this goal-setting process. We also share some themes that have begun to show up in our own planning for 2024. We hope this conversation blesses you, as you prayerfully set out to make 2024 a fruitful year!The Big Idea: There’s wisdom in ordering our lives with purpose and planning.This Week's Challenge: Spend time in prayer, dedicating all your work to God, and let him establish your plans for 2024 (cf. Prov. 16:3).Show NotesYour Best Year Ever: A 5-Step Plan for Achieving Your Most Important Goals by Michael Hyatt (BOOK)Watch the Chosen (WEBSITE)Where to Stream the Chosen (WEBSITE)The Chosen - S1E4 - “The Rock On Which It Is Built” (WIKI)Support the Show

Learn from Past ExperiencesIf your past year were a movie, what genre would it be? And what do gratitude and belief have to do with setting goals? This week we look backward and forward with the help of a book fit for a new year, as the Bible Geeks Book Club returns. Michael Hyatt’s Your Best Year Ever, a resource Ryan had used for years, leads us through a process for “catching up” with the past and planning the year ahead. We consider what Jesus and the book of Proverbs teach us about planning. Then we go Flyin’ Through the Book, before slowing down to reflect on what limiting beliefs threaten to hold us back as we move forward into 2024.The Big Idea: Looking back helps us look forward.This Week's Challenge: Look back on the past year and note some lessons learned, some successes, and any changes you want to make going forward.Show NotesYour Best Year Ever: A 5-Step Plan for Achieving Your Most Important Goals by Michael Hyatt (BOOK)Support the Show

See Children Like Jesus DidWhat does Jesus' work have to do with his desire to "let the little children come" to him (Matt. 19:14)? The Bible Geeks A.V. Club is back to discuss season 1, episode 3 of The Chosen! After a brief recap of the story, we take a Closer Look at the Scriptural background for the episode's plot. We learn from two moments in Mark 9 and 10 when Jesus engaged with children (Mark 9:35-37; 10:13-16) and examine our engagement with kids in light of the Savior's example. There's more to think about on this subject than you may realize! We hope you enjoy reflecting on these dramatizations of Jesus' life as much as we've enjoyed talking about them!The Big Idea: Our Master’s willingness to take time for children should affect our choices.This Week's Challenge: Watch The Chosen - S1E3 and talk about it with a friend.Show NotesThe Chosen (WEBSITE)Like the Teacher: Mark 9:35-37 (VERSE)Watch the Chosen (WEBSITE)Where to Stream the Chosen (WEBSITE)The Chosen - S1E3 - “Jesus Loves the Little Children” (WIKI)The Chosen - S1E4 - “The Rock On Which It Is Build” (WIKI)Support the Show

Adorn Yourself with ModestyHow should a Christian dress? After several weeks off, we’re back with a special guest to talk about modest apparel. Ryan’s wife, Adrienne, joins the show to help answer a question submitted to us by a young woman who listens to the show. We take a Closer Look at two key passages and the Bible words used there. Then we get into some practical questions every disciple faces when choosing what to wear.The Big Idea: Our first guiding principle when choosing clothing is to glorify God — just like every other part of our lives.This Week's Challenge: Start a conversation about this topic with someone who might be able to give you a slightly different perspective.Show NotesJesus Said: John 8:54 (VERSE)Ask Us a Question! (WEBSITE)Support the Show

Abound in Grace and PeacePeace, Love, Grace, and Faith. As we wrap up this 13-session study of Ephesians, Paul’s closing blessing (6:21-24) points us to these four Heavy Words. We can’t help but wax poetic a little when we reflect on God’s overflowing goodness — talk of waterfalls, oceans, and mountains abound. But we also reflect on the lasting impression and practical takeaways this study has left us with. We hope Talking Through Ephesians has strengthened you as well! The full 13-session study guide and lots of other resources are available for you to put to use now, check it out at biblegeeks.fm/ephesians.The Big Idea: God wants every Christian's life to overflow with peace, love, faith, and grace.This Week's Challenge: Pick a favorite verse in Ephesians and memorize it.Show NotesTalking Through Ephesians Study Guide - Session 13 (PDF)Talking Through Ephesians Study Guide - Complete Guide (PDF)"Still Science Fiction" (CONVERSATION STARTER)Finding Jesus: Ephesians 6:21-24 (VERSE)Talking Through Ephesians Guided Study (WEBSITE)Support the Show

Stand Strong in the Lord’s ArmorHow can we stand in temptation and trial? This week we dive into Paul’s great text on spiritual warfare in Ephesians 6:10-20. Introducing a new segment, we take A Closer Look at each part of the “armor of God.” The study reminds us of our true enemy and our superior fire power. We end with a Reach Out discussion of the gaps in our armor that highlights our need for hope, knowledge, and trust. As Bryan likes to say, this is our PENULTIMATE session in this guided study of Ephesians, so catch us next week for the conclusion and download the whole guide at biblegeeks.fm/ephesians.The Big Idea: God equips us to stand firm with the same armor he wears in battle.This Week's Challenge: Ask a friend if there’s an aspect of their spiritual warfare you can pray for.Show NotesTalking Through Ephesians Study Guide - Session 12 (PDF)"Battle-Tested" (CONVERSATION STARTER)Finding Jesus: Ephesians 6:10-20 (VERSE)Talking Through Ephesians Guided Study (WEBSITE)Support the Show

Reflect Christ in Your RelationshipsHow do we apply church-like submission and Christ-like headship in our marriages? And what should Christians take from the servant / master commandments (and do those commandments mean that Christianity is pro-slavery)? This week we ask a lot of big questions in a Do You Understand segment focused on the Household instructions in Ephesians 5:22-6:9. Here in session 11 of Talking Through Ephesians, we ask, “WWYDFJ?” (that’s “What would you do for Jesus?”) and discover a secret strength like Samson. We also discuss how our view of marriage has changed over the years and take on a “top secret” mission in this week’s challenge. Find all the resources for this series at biblegeeks.fm/ephesians.The Big Idea: The secret strength behind Christian relationships is our love and honor for Jesus.This Week's Challenge: Find a way to do something extra at work without letting anyone know about it.Show NotesTalking Through Ephesians Study Guide - Session 11 (PDF)"Playing House" (CONVERSATION STARTER)Finding Jesus: Ephesians 5:22-6:9 (VERSE)Talking Through Ephesians Guided Study (WEBSITE)Support the Show

Swap Your Steps for the Lord’sThis week we discuss replacing old habits with a new way to walk, including some specific changes. What is “proper” behavior for a Christian? And practically speaking, how do we get filled with the Spirit? It’s a conversation about wise choices and discerning the light through “evil days.” We get into the difference between applying Scripture’s principles and commands versus making up our own rules. And we find that life without Christ is sleep-walking and conversion is like waking up. You can find all the resources for this series at biblegeeks.fm/ephesians.The Big Idea: God wants us to follow his lead by replacing destructive sinful activities with wholesome ones.This Week's Challenge: Note three times you've chosen wisely today in your journal or to a close friend.Show NotesTalking Through Ephesians Study Guide - Session 10 (PDF)"Texas Switch" (CONVERSATION STARTER)Finding Jesus: Ephesians 5:1-21 (VERSE)Talking Through Ephesians Guided Study (WEBSITE)Support the Show

Put On a New IdentityWe’re Talking Through Ephesians 4:17-32, a pragmatic look at how we put off the old and put on a new way of life. We take on some big questions, like: What’s the deal with grieving the Holy Spirit? And what does not letting "the sun go down on" our anger have to do with giving opportunity to the devil (4:26-27)? We figure out how to speak as fits the occasion and what it means to be tenderhearted. Yes, we somehow get into some gross illustrations, but we hope you still find the conversation edifying and helpful, as we focus on applications “where the rubber meets the road.” You can find the study guide, videos, and episodes for this Guided Study at biblegeeks.fm/ephesians.The Big Idea: A Christian's lifestyle change comes from a changed mind.This Week's Challenge: Put a note by your bed reminding you: "do not let the sun go down on your anger" (Eph. 4:26).Show NotesTalking Through Ephesians Study Guide - Session 9 (PDF)"You Smell" (CONVERSATION STARTER)Finding Jesus: Ephesians 4:17-32 (VERSE)Talking Through Ephesians Guided Study (WEBSITE)Support the Show

Unite Around Our Common FaithWe're in Session 8 of our Talking Through Ephesians Guided Study, getting super-practical with Eph. 4:1-16. We examine our role in a superhero team and the importance of unity and working together in the church. We share our Top Four Proverbs on responding gently to conflict and how we both struggle with humility and patience. And we encourage you to build unity within the Lord's church today, becoming like "Glue Guy" — sticking brothers and sisters together with long-lasting bonds. Find this series's study guides and videos at biblegeeks.fm/ephesians.The Big Idea: Though we all bring something unique to our role in the church, Jesus calls us to join forces and grow stronger together in love.This Week's Challenge: Commend a brother or sister for their work as a "peacemaker" this week.Show NotesTalking Through Ephesians Study Guide - Session 8 (PDF)"Forces Combine" (CONVERSATION STARTER)Finding Jesus: Ephesians 4:1-16 (VERSE)Talking Through Ephesians Guided Study (WEBSITE)Support the Show

Understand God's LoveWhat gets in the way of us comprehending Christ’s love? Here in session 7 of Talking Through Ephesians, we discuss the difference between worth and worthiness and what marriage has taught us about God’s love. We reflect on Paul’s inspiring prayer for insight and power in Ephesians 3:14-21, but we also look to our other favorite passages and hymns about love, turning to some of Scripture’s greatest hits. We believe that meditating on Christ’s love for you is one of the most empowering practices a Christian can engage in, so we hope this episode propels you to contemplation and praise! Find the study guides and videos for this series at biblegeeks.fm/ephesians.The Big Idea: *Knowing Christ’s love renews and strengthens us. *This Week's Challenge: Give someone a note or card reminding them how much God loves them.Show NotesTalking Through Ephesians Study Guide - Session 7 (PDF)"The Power of Love" (CONVERSATION STARTER)Finding Jesus: Ephesians 3:14-21 (VERSE)Talking Through Ephesians Guided Study (WEBSITE)Support the Show

Be Bold in God's SalvationWhat should we take from Paul's positivity in prison? How do we connect our circumstances to our story and — through the eyes of faith — see that we're a part of God's great story? In our sixth episode Talking Through Ephesians, we celebrate the mystery now revealed in Christ, as Paul proclaims access to God for all the nations. Finding Jesus in this week's text, we imagine swimming in riches like Scrooge McDuck and enjoy our "freedom of speech" before God. And as fantasy football draft parties happen across the country, we're going in a different direction in this week's A-Team, drafting Gentiles Paul impacted in his ministry. Go to biblegeeks.fm/ephesians and check out all the videos, guides, and episodes as we talk through Ephesians!The Big Idea: Paul's suffering and imprisonment paled compared to the privilege of preaching God's eternal plan to the Gentiles.This Week's Challenge: Ask a believing friend to join you in talking to a stranger about the Lord.Show NotesTalking Through Ephesians Study Guide - Session 6 (PDF)"Hidey-Hole" (CONVERSATION STARTER)Finding Jesus: Ephesians 3:1-13 (VERSE)Talking Through Ephesians Guided Study (WEBSITE)Support the Show

Draw Near to GodWhat threatens church unity today? What do East Berlin and airline amenities have to do with the temple veil? And how does life in God’s presence change us? This week in session 5 of Talking Through Ephesians we explore the last half of chapter two. We walk through the story of the temple, from the garden to the tabernacle; and from Solomon to the church and the New Jerusalem. We find Jesus in the doorway, the corner, the mortar, and everywhere else in the house, and discuss what it means that “he himself is our peace.” Along the way we learn about God’s nearness and holiness, and the privilege of access to the most guarded, sacred room that exists. Find the videos, guides, and episodes at biblegeeks.fm/ephesians.The Big Idea: People who once couldn't enter the temple have now become God's holy house.This Week's Challenge: Reconcile with any brother or sister you don't have peace with.Show NotesTalking Through Ephesians Study Guide - Session 5 (PDF)"Second-Class Citizens" (CONVERSATION STARTER)Finding Jesus: Ephesians 2:11-22 (VERSE)Talking Through Ephesians Guided Study (WEBSITE)Support the Show

Live with Renewed PurposeHow are we created FOR good works but not saved as a result of works (Eph. 2:9-10)? And how are people like zombies wandering around malls? This week we talk through Ephesians 2:1-10, finding good reason for humility and joy in God’s love and grace! We imagine the view, looking out from an open tomb and celebrate the truth that we now sit with Christ in the heavenly places. And we begin the discussion of our “walk” — a conversation that we’ll consider through the remainder of the book. It’s session 4 of Talking Through Ephesians — go to biblegeeks.fm/ephesians to find the videos, guides, and more!The Big Idea: Without God's love and grace, we'd still stumble through our days, dead in our sins.This Week's Challenge: Write out all the verses with the word "walk" in Ephesians.Show NotesTalking Through Ephesians Study Guide - Session 4 (PDF)"The Walking Dead" (CONVERSATION STARTER)Finding Jesus: Ephesians 2:1-10 (VERSE)Talking Through Ephesians Guided Study (WEBSITE)Support the Show

Open Your Heart's EyesThis week we unfog the privacy glass to see with hope and power. We’re Talking Through Ephesians with a conversation about the last half of chapter one, a prayer to let the light in. We define Heavy Words like enlightened, inheritance, and the heavenly places, learning why Christians aren’t rogue individuals and what kind of treasure awaits us. In our Reach Out question, we explore why informed hope is so important in a dire, dysfunctional world. And we find out where Jesus’ feet stand, what he fills, and what it all has to do with us. Go to biblegeeks.fm/ephesians for the guides, videos, and more!The Big Idea: Through faith, the eyes of your heart can perceive the hope awaiting you and God's power toward you.This Week’s Challenge: Let someone know how often you pray for them.Show NotesTalking Through Ephesians Study Guide - Session 3 (PDF)"Zooming Out" (CONVERSATION STARTER) - Finding Jesus: Ephesians 1:15-23 (VERSE) - Talking Through Ephesians Guided Study (WEBSITE)Support the Show