Bible Geeks Podcast

Learn From the Lord Throughout Your LifeHow does God draw us to Christ? What's the difference between learning a subject and learning a person (Eph. 4:20)? And how do we get off track when we make discipleship a competition? This week we kick off four weeks on lifelong learning, beginning with a discussion of discipleship that takes us from "old man problems" to our continuing education in faith and grace. We start with a Like the Teacher segment that leads us on a scavenger hunt and reminds us what a gift it is to be "taught by God" (John 6:45). Then we dive into some deep thoughts about dealing with the "thumbs down" button in life and about two different kinds of "following" Jesus (Matt. 4:25-5:1). It's all a humbling reminder of just how far we all still have to go, as we grow in Him!The Big Idea: The further we go with Jesus, the more we recognize our need for his instruction and grace.Weekly Challenges: Find this week’s Through the Week challenges here.Show NotesCross Training - "Old Dogs" (DAILY DOWNLOAD)Cross Training - Through the Week Challenges - Week 49Like the Teacher: John 6:44-51 (VERSE)The Bible Geeks Facebook Group (FACEBOOK)Support the Show

Learn the Leadership Style of ChristWhat does Jesus mean when he says he knows his sheep by name? And what gives us the right to lead anyone? On this episode, our sights are set on the Lord’s shepherding and how to imitate it in our own spheres of influence. This week’s Poetry in Motion dives into some of the most beloved words ever penned, as we find encouragement in God’s care and protection in the 23rd psalm. From fighting bears to cooking competitions, our Through the Week challenges force us to strain and grow as parents, friends, and teachers. It left us asking: Are we still just showing up for a Thanksgiving meal or hosting the feast? Hope you find it helpful too!The Big Idea: Leadership in the kingdom takes its cue from the care, commitment, and courage of Christ.Weekly Challenges: Find this week’s Through the Week challenges here.Show NotesCross Training - "Cowboys and Shepherds" (DAILY DOWNLOAD)Cross Training - Through the Week Challenges - Week 48Like the Teacher: John 10:1-18 (VERSE)Poetry in Motion: Psalm 23 (VERSE)The Bible Geeks Facebook Group (FACEBOOK)Support the Show

Don’t Dim Christ’s Light Within YouThis week, "on a very special Bible Geeks," we had the chance to record together lakeside and enjoy God's creation around us. Our Cross Training focuses on shining a light to lead others to the Lord. A lot of the conversation dealt with the challenge of letting others see your good works (Matt. 5:16) while at the same time avoiding doing good works "to be seen" (Matt. 6:1). That paradox lies at the heart of the Christian life, and working through it illuminates our purpose (see what we did there?). It's a Thanksgiving Day episode that comes as we all reflect on the year and all the ways the Lord has blessed us. May all that we do increase thanksgiving to the One who deserves all glory and gratitude!The Big Idea: Letting people see your good works isn’t about you. It’s about the glory God gets when people see His goodness in you.Weekly Challenges: Find this week’s Through the Week challenges here.Show NotesCross Training - "Afraid of the Dark" (DAILY DOWNLOAD)Cross Training - Through the Week Challenges - Week 47Like the Teacher: Matthew 5:14-16 (VERSE)The Bench of Knowledge (PHOTO)Owl Lamps (PHOTO)Recording Together (PHOTO)The Bible Geeks Facebook Group (FACEBOOK)Support the Show

Programming Note: This week, we're replaying one of our favorite episodes from the past. We'll be back next week with a brand new episode.This week we discuss how warhorses are like fighter jets and how beagles are like Moses. We talk about "Selah," superscriptions, and the source of salvation as we set the third psalm "in Motion." And we continue our Fruit of the Spirit series with a virtue some have called "the most untranslatable" Bible word. Jesus Said those who possess it will inherit the earth in Matthew 5:5.Weekly Challenge: Show gentleness and meekness to someone this week.Show NotesJesus Said … Matthew 5:5

Walk With the LordWhy does following Jesus require us to get over our estimation of ourselves — whether we see ourselves too low or too high? And how does the "butterfly effect" apply to your conversion? In a conversation with the risen Jesus over breakfast, Jesus won't let Peter redirect attention away from himself onto another disciple. Peter reminds us of Dr. Pol, the large animal vet of Nat Geo's reality show as Jesus trains him to care for the sheep he loves. And in a Here's the Story segment all about four of the "other apostles" — some of the twelve we don't usually focus on — we see the virtue of searching and sharing the Lord. It's a #throwbackthursday as Jesus' call throws back to Elijah, and our response to his call reminds Bryan of an old, failed Apple product.The Big Idea: Our relationship with Jesus deepens as we follow him throughout our lives.Weekly Challenges: Find this week’s Through the Week challenges here.Show NotesCross Training - "Learning the Ropes" (DAILY DOWNLOAD)Cross Training - Through the Week Challenges - Week 45Like the Teacher: John 21:15-22 (VERSE)The Bible Geeks Facebook Group (FACEBOOK)“The Rock of My Heart” (SONG)“O Sacred Head” (SONG)Support the Show

Pick Up Someone’s BaggageWhat burdens are yours to shoulder? This week, we learn to take radical responsibility from Jesus’ story about the shepherd and the lost sheep. We have some Deeep Thoughts about getting “voluntold,” making people feel small by serving them, and evaluating each other’s burdens. Bryan talks about times he wants to say, “you don’t have to go home, but you can’t stay here.” And Ryan talks about when his “eyes are bigger” than his ability to actually help. Bearing one another’s burdens is at the heart of the church, but it takes both compassion and wisdom to support one another well.The Big Idea: We can’t take responsibility for another person’s choices, but we must take ownership of what WE can do to influence, support, and serve others.Weekly Challenges: Find this week’s Through the Week challenges here.Show NotesCross Training - "Fellow Soldiers" (DAILY DOWNLOAD)Cross Training - Through the Week Challenges - Week 44Like the Teacher: Luke 15:4-7 (VERSE)The Bible Geeks Facebook Group (FACEBOOK)Support the Show

Live a Consistently Faithful LifeWhat’s the thread you hang onto everyday? How can we block out God like smog blocks out the sun? And what “tech support” do we all occasionally need to keep our “spiritual operating systems” optimized? This week we appreciate our Favorite Things to keep consistent, like time outside, asking good questions, and starting the day quietly. In this week’s Like the Teacher passage, Jesus says he “always does the things that please” the Father — but what are we supposed to draw from that example? Along the way, we replace New Year’s resolutions with new DAY’s resolutions, celebrate all the people we never have to worry about, and share what we hope people can reliably see in us. It’s Cross Training in consistency, an aspect of endurance we pray God blesses your life with — as you persevere in his grace, may you find stability in Him.The Big Idea: Stacking simple, godly habits, day after day, gives stability to our spiritual lives.Weekly Challenges: Find this week’s Through the Week challenges here.Show NotesCross Training - "Stay on Track" (DAILY DOWNLOAD)Cross Training - Through the Week Challenges - Week 43Like the Teacher: John 8:28-29 (VERSE)The Bible Geeks Facebook Group (FACEBOOK)Support the Show

Be Strong Through Your SufferingWhy does Jesus say the world will hate us? And what do weakness and waiting have to do with getting through tough times? In this episode, we're Flying Through the Book of James, learning from expectations and disappointment, and considering how trials have changed us. This week's "Through the Week" challenges have us dealing with burnout, embracing God's delivery schedule, and learning to appreciate difficult people. Plus, Jesus' words in John 15 teach us why it's better to stay IN the frying pan and why being ostracized shouldn't shock us.The Big Idea: When we look to the Lord for renewal and help in hardship, we’ll find the power to carry on.Weekly Challenges: Find this week’s Through the Week challenges here.Show NotesBalancing the Christian Life with Kenny Embry (PODCAST)Cross Training - "Inhospitable Environment" (DAILY DOWNLOAD)Cross Training - Through the Week Challenges - Week 42Like the Teacher: John 15:18-16:3 (VERSE)The Bible Geeks Facebook Group (FACEBOOK)Support the Show

Follow the Faithful From ScriptureWhat kind of statue do you envision when you think of Abel, Sarah, or Gideon? Which individual person from Scripture has influenced you the most? This week, in an ensemble Here’s the Story, we imagine walking through Hebrews 11’s “Hall of Faith,” stopping to appreciate each figure. We discuss how examples are like matching pajamas and Bible stories are like Evil Knievel’s ramp. We find our common humanity with our heroes and a common table to sit at with Elijah, Isaiah, and John. And as we take the stories to heart, we try to find our place in the great line of devoted (but flawed) people of God.The Big Idea: The great stories of faith can launch us to greater heights, inspiring and instructing us.Weekly Challenges: Find this week’s Through the Week challenges here.Show NotesCross Training - "A Different Story" (DAILY DOWNLOAD)Cross Training - Through the Week Challenges - Week 41Like the Teacher: Matthew 5:11-12 (VERSE)Montezuma Castle National Monument (WEBSITE)Walnut Canyon National Monument (WEBSITE)The Bible Geeks Facebook Group (FACEBOOK)Support the Show

Faithfully Tend to the Master’s BlessingsWhat’s the difference between efficiency and fruitfulness? How can our productivity in God’s service go from good to bad to ugly? This week we draft our A-Teams of stewardship stories and dive into the Lord’s parable of the Minas. We consider how sharing in the kingdom is kind of like using Vrbo, how humanity seems a risky investment for God, and how stewardship is like babysitting. We hope you find this discussion of all God’s gifts (and the responsibilities they bring) as challenging as we did, as we seek to be conduits instead of just consumers!The Big Idea: When we orient our lives around our God-given purpose, everything we possess becomes a resource to that end.Weekly Challenges: Find this week’s Through the Week challenges here.Show NotesCross Training - "Just Caretakers" (DAILY DOWNLOAD)Cross Training - Through the Week Challenges - Week 40Like the Teacher: Luke 19:11-27 (VERSE)The Bible Geeks Facebook Group (FACEBOOK)Support the Show

Do Your Work With All Your MightWhat do “manly” hands, iPhone Focus Mode, and three star generals have to do with fervently serving the Lord? What do you see when you look at a crowd? And (to quote an old song), “what’s love got to do with it?” This week we’re Cross Training to become more fruitful in Christ. So a Heavy Words study of zeal and diligence serves as a temperature check for our passion and devotion, encouraging us to be “romanced” by hope. While this week’s challenges inspire us to revisit our “why” and the stakes of our work. The Big Idea: Because Christ has risen, all our work has eternal meaning.Weekly Challenges: Find this week’s Through the Week challenges here.Show NotesCross Training - "Your Best Work" (DAILY DOWNLOAD)Cross Training - Through the Week Challenges - Week 39Like the Teacher: Matthew 9:35-38 (VERSE)The Bible Geeks Facebook Group (FACEBOOK)Support the Show

Programming Note: This week, we're replaying one of our favorite episodes from the past. We'll be back next week with a brand new episode.Hold Nothing Back From GodLiving dangerously ... but with discernment? This week we start with Jesus’ consuming zeal, as he cleanses the temple, guns blazing, so to speak. What if we acted with that kind of force and passion? That leads into a Shema Edition of Heavy Words, as we seek to live the Greatest Commandment. Finally, we take on (maybe) our toughest set of challenges yet, working on giving our whole hearts to the Lord.The Big Idea: Wholehearted service to God requires honesty before him.Weekly Challenges: Find this week’s Through the Week challenges here.Show NotesCross Training - “Squish Like Grape” (DAILY DOWNLOAD)Cross Training - Through the Week Challenges - Week 10Like the Teacher: John 2:13-17 (VERSE)Heavy Words: Shema Edition (VERSE)Quote by William Hutchinson Murray (WEBSITE)Episode 21 - “That’s Bad Advertising” (EPISODE)Weeble’s Commercial (VIDEO)Bible Geeks Patreon (WEBSITE)Bible Geeks Facebook Group (FACEBOOK)Support the Show

Take Responsibility for Obedience and GrowthWhy isn't it enough just to "come to Jesus"? What's the real issue behind burying your talent? And how can we care for others without getting too tangled up in their emotions and difficulties? This week we kick off four weeks on fruitfulness, beginning with a hard look at our accountability to God for our choices. We ask each other tough questions about judgment and fruitfulness in a "Do You Understand?" segment that lets us talk about things like "Markan sandwiches" and "sheep bleating." And our five Through the Week challenges invite you to be a secret agent of good and watch out for "sour grapes."The Big Idea: We aim to influence and care for others, but our responsibility lies 100% with our own choices.Weekly Challenges: Find this week’s Through the Week challenges here.Show NotesCross Training - "The Buck Stops Here" (DAILY DOWNLOAD)Cross Training - Through the Week Challenges - Week 37Like the Teacher: Matthew 12:33-37 (VERSE)The Bible Geeks Facebook Group (FACEBOOK)Support the Show

Live With Skill and DiscernmentAre you a skillful craftsman at building relationships? This week we learn to use questions to engage with hostile people like Jesus the "verbal Aikido" blackbelt. The book of Proverbs — Scripture's "Wisdom Central" — teaches us to build our lives like a house, filled with treasures rather than regrets. We learn from 4 Proverbs on Wisdom that planning for the future is good, but fixing our eyes "out there" on the horizon can keep us from accomplishing and enjoying our real lives right here and now. And in some Through the Week challenges for growing in wisdom, we find a "keystone" prayer and realize that looking for friction can show us where we need to work and grow.The Big Idea: Wisdom is fundamental to every area of life, so pray for it, pursue it, and practice it.Weekly Challenges: Find this week’s Through the Week challenges here.Show NotesCross Training - "Play How You Practice" (DAILY DOWNLOAD)Cross Training - Through the Week Challenges - Week 36Like the Teacher: Mark 11:27-33 (VERSE)Tactics by Gregory Koukl (BOOK)The Bible Geeks Facebook Group (FACEBOOK)Support the Show

Fight Back Against the Devil’s AttacksWhy does Satan want us to think we’re alone? How is overcoming temptation like dealing with mosquitoes, or like a hard-to-open jar lid? This week’s Cross Training focuses on resisting the devil. So in a new segment, we do a fantasy-style draft for our A-Team of “Resistance All-Stars” — Bible figures who stood firm against the devil. We learn about Satan’s strategies from his temptation of Christ and his conversation with Eve. And we share some personal experiences and insights from our fight against the Evil One.The Big Idea: We CAN overcome temptations, but we have to stop trying to do it by ourselves.Weekly Challenges: Find this week’s Through the Week challenges here.Show NotesCross Training - "Resistance Is Futile" (DAILY DOWNLOAD)Cross Training - Through the Week Challenges - Week 35Like the Teacher: Matthew 4:1-11 (VERSE)The Bible Geeks Facebook Group (FACEBOOK)Support the Show

Live With Readiness and VigilanceSometimes life feels like a game of dodgeball as we’re constantly on guard for Satan’s attack. This week we’re continuing our discussion about watchfulness with Jesus’ warnings to servants waiting at their master’s door. We go deep on defensive and offensive watchfulness, stopping along the way to think about preppers and sleepers. How can we keep routines from causing us to sleepwalk through life? How can we cut through the noise of life and focus on what matters? And why do our kids struggle to pay attention when given even the smallest tasks? Let’s get ready together in another Cross Training conversation.The Big Idea: We can get lulled into a dangerous lack of awareness if we don’t keep our eyes open — both for blessings and for threats.Weekly Challenges: Find this week’s Through the Week challenges here.Show NotesCross Training - "Head on a Swivel" (DAILY DOWNLOAD)Cross Training - Through the Week Challenges - Week 34Like the Teacher: Luke 12:35-48 (VERSE)Wake Up Grateful by Kristi Nelson (BOOK)The Bible Geeks Facebook Group (FACEBOOK)Support the Show

Open Your Eyes to the Spiritual RealmThis week we start with a game of “guess the spiritual superpower” as we focus on living with spiritual awareness. The otherworldly kingdom of Jesus challenges us to “think different,” while Pilate gets stuck in his assumptions. Then we set Poetry in Motion with a quick journey through psalm 20, affirming that while some trust in chariots, we trust in our God. And we try to find some perspective on our lives as time passes and we — perhaps — see more of the story. The Big Idea: We make different choices when we stay awake and aware of the spiritual realm we can’t see.Weekly Challenges: Find this week’s Through the Week challenges here.Show NotesCross Training - "The Rest of the Story" (DAILY DOWNLOAD)Cross Training - Through the Week Challenges - Week 32Like the Teacher: John 18:33-40 (VERSE)Poetry in Motion: Psalm 20 (VERSE)The Bible Geeks Facebook Group (FACEBOOK)Support the Show

Speak Boldly, Clearly, and GraciouslyEver replay something you said - and regret - in your mind? Or struggled with how to tell someone a challenging truth you know they don't want to hear? An aptly spoken word can impact lives in surprising ways. This week we continue our conversation about integrity with Four Proverbs about Courageous Speaking and discuss Christ's challenge to proclaim his words "from the housetops." We see how God can make us an "iron pillar" and how we can better each other as "iron sharpens iron." The Big Idea: We need to add discernment and love to our boldness if we want our words to make a difference.Weekly Challenges: Find this week’s Through the Week challenges here.Show NotesCross Training - "Battle Cat Courage" (DAILY DOWNLOAD)Cross Training - Through the Week Challenges - Week 32Like the Teacher: Matt. 10:26-39 (VERSE)The Bible Geeks Facebook Group (FACEBOOK)Support the Show

Prove Your Mettle in DifficultyFrom the Tokyo Olympics to the "wise man" who "built his house on the rock," this week we set our sights on character growth. When trials test our mettle, how do we respond? And how does hope fuel our perseverance? We answer those questions in a "character" edition of our recurring word-study segment, Heavy Words. Then we close the episode by looking in the mirror and discovering how God has pruned us, purified us, and pointed us toward greater patience.The Big Idea: If we never faced difficulties, we would miss the opportunity to show love, faith, courage, and perseverance.Weekly Challenges: Find this week’s Through the Week challenges here.Show NotesCross Training - "Pass the Test" (DAILY DOWNLOAD)Cross Training - Through the Week Challenges - Week 31Like the Teacher: Matt. 7:24-27 (VERSE)Song: “Blessed Be the Name of the Lord” (VIDEO)Technology readiness level (WIKI)The Bible Geeks Facebook Group (FACEBOOK)Support the Show

Programming Note: This week, we're replaying one of our favorite episodes from the past. We'll be back next week with a brand new episode.Embrace Your Role as Salt and LightThis week we look at what it means to be a change maker in the world and the people around you, from a Biblical perspective. In our Finding Jesus segment, we deal with the cynicism that says, “what’s the use, it won’t make a difference” and the suffering that comes from the Lord. Then in today’s Scripture du Jour (1 Corinthians 16), we consider what it means to “act like a man” and Bryan makes some observations about the weekly collection. And then we go from a Bryan Wilson song to the cross to the “man in the mirror” — as we look for ways to be a positive influence.The Big Idea: We can’t influence the world if we shut ourselves off from it.Weekly Challenge: Listen and find empathy for others around you this week.Show NotesInto the Book - Week 24Into the Book Preview - “1 Corinthians 13-16, 2 Corinthians 1” (DAILY DOWNLOAD)Brian Wilson’s “Love and Mercy” (SONG)Walter Breuggeman’s “From Whom No Secrets Are Hid: Introducing the Psalms”Support the Show

Consider the Whole TruthSomeone once said, “Never leave a goose behind.” But what happens when we treat some of God’s commands with little to no value? This week we’re continuing our Cross Training series, kicking off a conversation about integrity — starting with the whole truth. Since Jesus wasn’t hyperbolic when he used the word “all” with his disciples, do we give him full authority over our lives today? We’re also looking back to the sad story of a young prophet whose firm convictions faltered when he believed a lie. Plus, we’re talking about dog sitting, the Statue of Liberty, financial advice, and running from burning buildings. We hope you’re challenged — as we are — to take everything God says seriously!The Big Idea: When God speaks, it’s not a suggestion. And no amount of rationalization on our part will excuse our willful or unknowing disobedience.Weekly Challenges: Find this week’s Through the Week challenges here.Show NotesCross Training - "Selective Hearing" (DAILY DOWNLOAD)Cross Training - Through the Week Challenges - Week 29Like the Teacher: Matthew 28:16-20 (VERSE)Here’s the Story: 1 Kings 13 (VERSE)The Bible Geeks Facebook Group (FACEBOOK)Support the Show

Show Patience Like God DoesThis week's theme is — wait for it — patience! We notice all the ways we shorten our fuse and short-circuit our brains, inventing villains and moving too fast. Four Proverbs on patience get us thinking about inner warfare and training like Mr. Miyagi. And as Christ bears with Peter, he shows us that sometimes the best way to help is to pray and wait. From a "spoiler alert" on your ending to a head start on your day, we hope this week's episode gives some perspective and helps you grow in Christlike patience!The Big Idea: Patience means bearing with each other’s shortcomings in humility and love.Weekly Challenges: Find this week’s Through the Week challenges here.Show NotesCross Training - "TNT" (DAILY DOWNLOAD)Cross Training - Through the Week Challenges - Week 28Like the Teacher: Luke 22:31-34 (VERSE)The Ruthless Elimination of Hurry by John Mark Comer (BOOK)The Bible Geeks Facebook Group (FACEBOOK)Support the Show

Show Unexpected Kindness to OthersIn this week’s edition of “Hello, My Name Is ...” four Bible women inspire us to greater mercy, as we admire the power of small deeds and imagine attending our own funeral. And as we learn morality from Blockbuster and State Farm (but mostly from Jesus and his “Good Samaritan”), this discussion of merciful deeds takes us back to some important basics. We close the episode by challenging ourselves to become kindness artists — becoming proficient in unusual, covert, creative kindness.The Big Idea: We reflect God’s goodness when we seek out creative ways to bless others without expectation of any earthly reward.Weekly Challenges: Find this week’s Through the Week challenges here.Show NotesCross Training - "Pay It Forward" (DAILY DOWNLOAD)Cross Training - Through the Week Challenges - Week 27Like the Teacher: Luke 10:25-37 (VERSE)The Bible Geeks Facebook Group (FACEBOOK)Support the Show

Move Beyond Hurt to ForgivenessThis week we learn how pushing the envelope is like pressing your nose and discover some lessons about mercy from Harry Potter and Ford v. Ferrari. Plus we count down our Top Four Proverbs about forgiveness, learning to kill with kindness, cover with love, and let the Lord judge between us and others. And one of Jesus’ parables shows us a path to Christlike mercy, from a “ba-jillion” sins to three little words.The Big Idea: We find grace to forgive when we choose compassion and leave our justice in God’s hands.Weekly Challenges: Find this week’s Through the Week challenges here.Show NotesCross Training - "Number 491" (DAILY DOWNLOAD)Cross Training - Through the Week Challenges - Week 26Like the Teacher: Matt. 18:21-35 (VERSE)The Bible Geeks Facebook Group (FACEBOOK)Support the Show

Receive God’s Extraordinary GiftThis week we happily dive into the subject of grace, learning that while we’re undeserving, that doesn’t mean we’re worthless — far from it! So how is grace like a spoonful of peanut butter but unlike free Costco samples? Why does grace overcome our timidity before God? And what one thing can I do today to love Jesus more? We talk about rationing grace, settling into grace, and growing in grace. The story of Simon and the “sinful woman” who loved Jesus teaches us how grace leads to action, and some Deep Thoughts about God’s “amazing grace” reminds us why the Lord’s Supper is such a fitting way to begin our week.The Big Idea: Recognizing the greatness of our sins and the extravagance of the gift takes us from entitlement to gratitude and from timidity to confidence.Weekly Challenges: Find this week’s Through the Week challenges here.Show NotesCross Training - "Unpayable Debts" (DAILY DOWNLOAD)Cross Training - Through the Week Challenges - Week 24Like the Teacher: Luke 7:36-50 (VERSE)The Bible Geeks Facebook Group (FACEBOOK)Support the Show

Be Holy Like God Is HolyWhy is it so hard to live in the world without becoming the same as everyone around us? We’re all about holy living this week, as we finish our Cross Training on reverence. On a Psalm 19 edition of Poetry in Motion, we consider the sky’s song, the happiness of God, and the starting point for spiritual growth. We take lessons from the Lion King and Toy Story about our identity in Christ. And we’re back to candy and dessert again, as we seek to understand a life set apart for God.The Big Idea: *God has changed our identity in Christ. Our task is to live today as the new person he has created. *Weekly Challenges: Find this week’s Through the Week challenges here.Show NotesCross Training - "Prized Possessions" (DAILY DOWNLOAD)Cross Training - Through the Week Challenges - Week 24Like the Teacher: John 17:6-19 (VERSE)Poetry in Motion: Psalm 19 (VERSE)The Bible Geeks Facebook Group (FACEBOOK)Support the Show

Worship the Lord in Spirit and TruthWhat’s the difference between flat, thoughtless worship versus knowing God Almighty is in your midst? This week we looked at two Heavy Words for worship, learning to serve as priests and bow down as true worshipers. We talked about chalkboard psalms, idols in our hearts, and Paul’s picture of an unbeliever entering an assembly and falling down in worship. We notice how morning “sugar-highs” of empty spiritual calories keep us from the soul satisfaction of worship. And we nearly end the podcast forever in a debate over the best licorice!The Big Idea: Worship requires the humility to revere, serve, and surrender ourselves before God.Weekly Challenges: Find this week’s Through the Week challenges here.Show NotesCross Training - "You’re Worth It" (DAILY DOWNLOAD)Cross Training - Through the Week Challenges - Week 23Like the Teacher: John 4:20-24 (VERSE)Spatial Audio From Apple Music (YOUTUBE)The Bible Geeks Facebook Group (FACEBOOK)Support the Show

Programming Note: This week, we're replaying one of our favorite episodes from the past. We'll be back next week with a brand new episode.This week we’re setting Poetry in Motion again, as David gets some bad advice most of us can relate to in Psalm 11. Unity and humility come up again in the Scripture du Jour. And as we go looking for Jesus in this week’s reading, Bryan finds him in flaming fire, and Ryan notices where we WON’T find Jesus.The Big Idea: Recognizing the Lord’s coming judgment gives us comfort for our trials, compassion for the lost, and reverent awe for the great Judge of all.Weekly Challenge: Be a voice for unity this week.Show NotesInto the Book - Week 21Into the Book Preview - “2 Thessalonians 1-3, 1 Corinthians 1-2” (DAILY DOWNLOAD)

Draw Closer to Your Awesome GodDo you know God? This week we talked about finding secret pockets of time and having God on speed-dial. In a Psalm 18 edition of Poetry in Motion, God makes David a Superhero, while he "walks softly but carries a big stick." We ask questions like: how is knowing God like being married? What does it mean that God is transcendent and immanent? And how can seeing God's wrath and power give us the security to say "God is my rock"? Plus, a look at the "model prayer" highlights the difference between performing and talking to God. It's a great way to kick off a series of Cross Training conversations on REVERENCE – hope you'll join us!The Big Idea: The true God is exalted far above us, yet near us.Weekly Challenges: Find this week’s Through the Week challenges here.Show NotesCross Training - "Unrecognized" (DAILY DOWNLOAD)Cross Training - Through the Week Challenges - Week 21Like the Teacher: Matthew 6:5-15 (VERSE)Poetry in Motion: Psalm 18 (VERSE)The Bible Geeks Facebook Group (FACEBOOK)Support the Show

Speak Up and Spread the Good NewsWhat do bumper stickers and take-out have to do with the good news? This week we complete our conversations about joy by talking about evangelism. We go Flying Through the Book of Acts, tracking how the gospel’s gladness spread across the world. It’s a close look at how we talk to people about Jesus that takes us from shotguns to laser beams, from contagions to vaccines, and from MiracleGro to the gifts of spring. In it all, we find encouragement to keep praying and keep speaking the word. (All that, plus Bryan shows Ryan his new personalized license plate!) Hope you’ll join us!The Big Idea: The gospel is a living seed, filled with God’s power. Drop it into people’s hearts and watch it grow.Weekly Challenges: Find this week’s Through the Week challenges here.Show NotesCross Training - "Authentic Ambassadors" (DAILY DOWNLOAD)Cross Training - Through the Week Challenges - Week 20Like the Teacher: Mark 6:7-13 (VERSE)The Bible Geeks Facebook Group (FACEBOOK)Support the Show

Fall at Jesus’ Feet With ThankfulnessMost people know that gratitude impacts our walk with God, our joy, even our health! But how do we actually make it a regular part of our lives? This week we talked about losing our joy, weaponizing our gratitude, and carrying Jesus' side of the load. We ask questions like: can we give thanks for everything? Am I grateful for God's discipline? And how can loss increase my thanksgiving? It's amazing what this simple activity — giving regular thanks to God — can do. We hope the reminder helps you as much as it did us!The Big Idea: When we look at the world through a lens of gratitude, we see God’s gifts everywhere.Weekly Challenges: Find this week’s Through the Week challenges here.Show NotesCross Training - "All Year Round" (DAILY DOWNLOAD)Cross Training - Through the Week Challenges - Week 19Like the Teacher: Luke 17:11-19 (VERSE)Pareto Principle (WIKIPEDIA)The Bible Geeks Facebook Group (FACEBOOK)Support the Show

Let Hope Stabilize Your LifeWhat do you look forward to so much it can keep you going when things get hard? It’s “hope” week in our Cross Training, so this week Jesus teaches us to pray with hope and Noah teaches us to live with confidence. How is hoping for heaven like waiting for a car alarm to go off? What words help us triangulate our hope? If you’re like us, you might appreciate a reminder of the spectacular future God has in store for us! We hope you enjoy it!The Big Idea: Our hope is not in an outcome, but in the God who faithfully brings a good ending.Weekly Challenges: Find this week’s Through the Week challenges hereShow NotesCross Training - "This Won’t Last Forever" (DAILY DOWNLOAD)Cross Training - Through the Week Challenges - Week 18Like the Teacher: John 11:17-44 (VERSE)When people call you 'The Armpit of America,' take it as a compliment (BLOG)The Bible Geeks Facebook Group (FACEBOOK)Support the Show

Rejoice in the Lord’s SalvationThis week we’re moving onto another mark of the Master: joy! We’ll see how God rejoices over us with shouts of joy. A man and woman are thrilled to meet the redeemer of all humanity in the temple. And we’ll answer some questions about the earliest converts to Christ. How does acknowledging bad news highlight the greatness of good news? Why do some reject that fantastic news? And could our joy be stolen from us? Find out this week as we continue our Cross Training series.The Big Idea: The gospel of Jesus is grand and vast, solving the chronic problem of our human condition — sin — for all time.Weekly Challenges: Find this week’s Through the Week challenges here.Show NotesCross Training - "Instant Joy" (DAILY DOWNLOAD)Cross Training - Through the Week Challenges - Week 17Like the Teacher: Luke 2:22-38 (VERSE)The Bible Geeks Facebook Group (FACEBOOK)Support the Show

Outdo Each Other in Showing HonorIf you've ever sent a "Thank You" card for someone's "Thank You" card, this episode's for you! What does slingin' lattes at Starbucks or scoopin' ice cream at TCBY teach us about serving others? We're wrapping up our conversation of servanthood — a mark of the Master we're working on this year — with a discussion about showing honor to others. Jesus wasn't honored in his hometown, but how can we avoid treating those closest to us disrespectfully? We rejoice to know that he's restoring dignity to the disgraced. And we find a strange boy-meets-girl story where a Moabitess named Ruth sleeps at Boaz's feet while she shows honor to her mother-in-law. Plus, we're covering five Through the Week challenges. Thanks for tuning in!The Big Idea: The Master made humanity in his image, so we honor his creation by treating people with the utmost respect.Weekly Challenges: Find this week’s Through the Week challenges here.Show NotesCross Training - "Gone for Good?" (DAILY DOWNLOAD)Cross Training - Through the Week Challenges - Week 16Like the Teacher: Luke 4:16-30 (VERSE)The Bible Geeks Facebook Group (FACEBOOK)Support the Show

Let Love Motivate You to Sacrifice"For God so loved the world, he gave ..." This week, we find some surprises in the verses surrounding the world's most beloved verse — John 3:16 — and also look at another John 3:16 (First John 3:16, that is!). We dive into some Crosswords — Heavy Words spoken at the cross — finding potent irony and some guidance for life and death. We close with some challenges to help us "Cross Train" in sacrificial love. We hope the conversation leads you back to Calvary, as it did for us. May we all learn to love like He does!The Big Idea: We don’t have inexhaustible resources, but we trust God to provide as we joyfully imitate Christ’s sacrificial service.Weekly Challenges: Find this week’s Through the Week challenges here.Show NotesCross Training - "As You Wish" (DAILY DOWNLOAD)Cross Training - Through the Week Challenges - Week 15Like the Teacher: John 3:1-21 (VERSE)CrossWords - Near the Cross (PDF)CrossWords - From the Cross (PDF)The Servant by Ryan Joy (SERMON)The Power of Habit by Charles Duhigg (BOOK)The Bible Geeks Facebook Group (FACEBOOK)Support the Show

Programming Note: This week, we're replaying one of our favorite episodes from the past. We'll be back next week with a brand new episode.Why is spiritual development like monkey bars or the American Ninja Warrior obstacle course? On this episode, we're talking about humility and learning to learn! We cover the pervasive problem of male pride, raising children in God's discipline and instruction, and the value of wounds from a friend. And we look to Jesus' perfect pattern of humility, as one who had "the tongue of those who are taught" in Isaiah 50:4-7. We also lament our kids' muddy shoes and discuss how to save a failing restaurant.The Big Idea: Hearing about our failures isn’t easy, but it’s necessary for leading us to spiritual growth. And developing a tongue taught by God and ears open to his instruction leads us to stability and confidence.Weekly Challenge: Ask someone close to you what step you could take toward spiritual growth.Show NotesJesus Said … Isaiah 50:4-712 Rules for Life: An Antidote to Chaos by Jordan B. Peterson (BOOK)American Ninja Warrior (SHOW)Restaurant: Impossible (SHOW)Handling Hard Words by Bryan Schiele (SERMON)How Do You Handle A Situation Where You Feel You Have Been Unfairly Rebuked? By Ryan Joy (SERMON)

See the Lord’s Calling ClearlyIs it time for an eye exam? Like a funhouse mirror, a distorted lens can lead us in fear and pride, but Christ gives new eyes through his example and teaching. This week we start with "sons of thunder" and their bold request for glory. Then, Saul's conversion shows us what happens when the "scales" fall from our eyes, in our newest Here's the Story segment. Finally, our Through the Week challenges show us how to get personal without taking things too personally. The Big Idea: Joyful service comes from catching Christ’s vision of true blessedness.Weekly Challenges: Find this week’s Through the Week challenges here.Show NotesCross Training - "Bionic Vision" (DAILY DOWNLOAD)Cross Training - Through the Week Challenges - Week 13Like the Teacher: Mark 10:35-52 (VERSE)Here’s the Story - Saul’s Conversion: Acts 9:1:25(VERSE)"The Skinny Mirror" on Shark Tank (YOUTUBE)Support the Show

Do Good to EveryoneAre you “open” for business, ready to serve and connect with others? In this week’s Like the Teacher, we discover the childlike goodness of Jesus and learn to evaluate interruptions like he does. We also share some Deeep Thoughts about the early church’s availability to each other. Finally, we throw down five challenges you can do with us Through the Week. It’s a conversation about friendship and fellowship, two of the best things God has given us in this world. Hope you’ll join us!The Big Idea: To love others well, we need to commit to their worth and believe the best in them.Weekly Challenges: Find this week’s Through the Week challenges here.Show NotesCross Training - “When You Need It” (DAILY DOWNLOAD)Cross Training - Through the Week Challenges - Week 12Like the Teacher: Mark 10:13-16 (VERSE)Bear It All by Bryan Schiele (SERMON)Support the Show

Put First Things First“Baby steps to the door, baby steps down the stairs ...” Like Bill Murray in What About Bob, this week we’re learning it’s sometimes hard to plan a future beyond the next right step. Mary and Martha teach us to slow down and ask a timely question in a Like the Teacher story. We also give our Top 4 Proverbs on priorities and discover that our most fertile mission field might be closer than we think. And we close with five challenges we can do together to help establish God-honoring priorities.The Big Idea: Our ever-changing lives require vigilant attention to prioritize the Lord and do what matters most NOW.Weekly Challenges: Find this week’s Through the Week challenges here.Show NotesCross Training - “Things That Matter Most” (DAILY DOWNLOAD)Cross Training - Through the Week Challenges - Week 11Like the Teacher: Luke 10:38-42 (VERSE)Baby Steps (YOUTUBE)One Sec — Take a Deep Breath (iOS APP)Seven Habits of Highly Effective People by Stephen Covey (BOOK)Support the Show

Hold Nothing Back From GodLiving dangerously ... but with discernment? This week we start with Jesus’ consuming zeal, as he cleanses the temple, guns blazing, so to speak. What if we acted with that kind of force and passion? That leads into a Shema Edition of Heavy Words, as we seek to live the Greatest Commandment. Finally, we take on (maybe) our toughest set of challenges yet, working on giving our whole hearts to the Lord.The Big Idea: Wholehearted service to God requires honesty before him.Weekly Challenges: Find this week’s Through the Week challenges here.Show NotesCross Training - “Squish Like Grape” (DAILY DOWNLOAD)Cross Training - Through the Week Challenges - Week 10Like the Teacher: John 2:13-17 (VERSE)Heavy Words: Shema Edition (VERSE)Quote by William Hutchinson Murray (WEBSITE)Episode 21 - “That’s Bad Advertising” (EPISODE)Weeble’s Commercial (VIDEO)Bible Geeks Patreon (WEBSITE)Bible Geeks Facebook Group (FACEBOOK)Support the Show

Count the CostWhat's your Impenetrable Barrier? And what does counting the cost have to do with life in a Vietnam POW camp? This week we look at the DEDICATION required of a disciple, taking on some hard words of Jesus about who "cannot" follow him. Plus, Bryan explains what it means to be the apple of God's eye, and we appreciate the "prayer of a righteous man" in a Psalm 17 edition of Poetry in Motion. As usual, we end by working through 5 challenges you can do with us Through the Week. We hope you'll join us!The Big Idea: If we’re not prepared for difficulty and sacrifice, we won’t have the will to finish.Weekly Challenges: Find this week’s Through the Week challenges here.Show NotesCross Training - “Pay the Price” (DAILY DOWNLOAD)Cross Training - Through the Week Challenges - Week 9Like the Teacher: Luke 14:25-33 (VERSE)Poetry in Motion: Psalm 17 (VERSE)Support the Show

Speak Up About Your FaithSilence isn’t always golden. This week, we tell the story of Jonah and draw some insights from his reluctance to speak God’s message. And speaking of speaking, what does speaking have to do with faith? We have five challenges to help you grow in your commitment to confess the Lord and share the gospel. Plus, a close look at one of Jesus’ conversations shows us that dialogue beats a data dump, when we want people to grasp the saving truth.The Big Idea: As faith comes from hearing, faith leads to speaking.Weekly Challenges: Find this week’s Through the Week challenges here.Show NotesCross Training - “Can’t Be Overshared” (DAILY DOWNLOAD)Cross Training - Through the Week Challenges - Week 8Like the Teacher: John 4:4-42 (VERSE)Here’s the Story: Jonah (VERSE)Support the Show

Stick Firmly to the LordHow attached are you to the Lord? This week we continue our exploration of faith, taking steps to greater loyalty. We start by talking about the ultimate example of faithfulness, as Jesus goes all the way to the finish line. Then we learn some lessons from Job in a new segment we call “Hello, My Name Is …” Hope you’ll join us, and consider taking on our 5 Through the Week challenges this week!The Big Idea: We serve at the Lord’s pleasure, not our own.Weekly Challenges: Find this week’s Through the Week challenges here.Show NotesCross Training - “Through Thick and Thin” (DAILY DOWNLOAD)Cross Training - Through the Week Challenges - Week 7Like the Teacher: John 19:16-30 (VERSE)Support the Show

Programming Note: This week, we're replaying one of our favorite episodes from the past. We'll be back next week with a brand new episode.“It was a dark and stormy night…” As we begin part five of our “Here’s Your Sign” series, a moment of life-or-death peril at sea meets one of history’s most fantastic miracles. Starting with what Jesus Said about fear in Luke 12:4-7, we try to understand the times we pass through the waters.Weekly Challenge: Memorize a powerful verse to help you overcome fearful situations.Show NotesJesus Said … Luke 12:4-7How To Talk To Yourself (Part 3) by Ryan Joy (SERMON)Through the Fire by Ryan Joy (SERMON)Overcoming Fear by Ryan Joy (SERMON)

Believe and Build Your FaithHow do you decide what to believe? Is there any place for doubt in the Christian’s life? And what can we do when we find our faith mingled with a touch of unbelief? This week we begin looking at FAITH, one of the marks of the Master we seek to imitate in our Cross Training to be like him. In this week’s Like the Master story, we imagine the incredulous tone of Jesus’ voice as he repeats three words from a frightened man. Then we give our Favorite Things for helping build belief, offering a few resources and approaches to apologetics that have helped us.The Big Idea: Faith changes our perception of life, the future, and realities beyond our sight.Weekly Challenges: Find this week’s Through the Week challenges here.Show NotesCross Training - “We Interrupt Our Program” (DAILY DOWNLOAD)Cross Training - Through the Week Challenges - Week 5Like the Teacher: Mark 9:14-29 (VERSE)Is it Reasonable to Believe in God in this Scientific Age? By Buddy Payne (SERMON SERIES)Partial Bibliography of Pertinent Works Relative to the Creation/Evolution Controversy by Buddy Payne (PDF)Books by Gary Habermas (WEBSITE)Books by Michael Licona (WEBSITE)William Lane Craig Debates (WEBSITE)Animated Reasonable Faith Videos (WEBSITE)On the Witness Stand (DAILY DOWNLOAD SERIES)Support the Show

Build Meaningful ConnectionsRelationships … amiright?!? Even our closest friendships can take time and effort, yet Jesus leads us into all the “messiness” that comes with befriending, serving, and leading others closer to him. This week we focus on a fourth dimension of discipleship: COMMUNITY, identifying four Heavy Words that are essential for Christlike connections with people. We also learn why Jesus’ mission is the opposite of the United States Marines and why curiosity is a key to friendship.The Big Idea: We can’t follow Christ and keep our distance from people.Weekly Challenges: Find this week’s Through the Week challenges here.Show NotesCross Training - “Beyond the Cave” (DAILY DOWNLOAD)Cross Training - Through the Week Challenges - Week 4Like the Teacher: Matthew 9:9-13 (VERSE)A Contagious Cure by Ryan Joy (SERMON)The Gospel Comes with a House Key by Rosaria Butterfield (BOOK)“Fighter Jets of Gentleness” - Bible Geeks Weekly, Episode 10 (PODCAST)What’s a Member? by Ryan Joy (SERMON)Support the Show

Just Do It!"Aaand … ACTION!" In the last two episodes we talked about the importance of the truth and the heart, but a third dimension of discipleship is action — letting the Lord’s example shape our behavior. We revisit two iconic stories: First we learn from Jesus washing the disciple’s feet. Then, Abraham receives a shocking test in a segment we call Here’s the Story. As we see Jesus on his knees and Isaac on an altar, we recognize our own responsibility to do likewise, serving others and offering ourselves to God. The Big Idea: Our character is proven by our actions in the moment of trial.Weekly Challenges: Find this week’s Through the Week challenges here.Show NotesCross Training - “Action Figures” (DAILY DOWNLOAD)Cross Training - Through the Week Challenges - Week 3Like the Teacher: John 13:1-17 (VERSE)Here’s the Story: Genesis 22:1-18 (VERSE)Emergency Broadcast System (WIKIPEDIA)Start Close In by David Whyte (POEM)Support the Show

Rewrite Your HeartHow do we learn to love what the Lord loves? This week, we're looking at another dimension of discipleship — "Heart" — as we continue our Cross Training. In this episode's Like the Master story, Jesus stresses out his parents and Bryan takes a lesson from a mouthy robot. And in a Psalm 16 edition of Poetry in Motion, we find our refuge, our portion, and our hope in a prophecy of Christ's resurrection.The Big Idea: All the stuff of your life flows from your heart.Weekly Challenges: Find this week’s Through the Week challenges here.Show NotesCross Training - “Because He Loves It” (DAILY DOWNLOAD)Cross Training - Through the Week Challenges - Week 2Like the Teacher: (VERSE)Into the Book Reading PlanInto the Book PDF (DOWNLOAD)Support the Show

Shape Your Thinking with TruthHappy New Year! This week, we’re excited to start doing some “Cross Training.” Throughout this year, we’ll explore what it means to do the hard work of crucifying ourselves so that Christ can live in us. But the start of discipleship is listening to the teacher and learning to think like him. So in this episode, we talk about how a knowledge of truth changes us, and how to keep learning and growing in it. Hope you’ll start the journey with us, here in week one!The Big Idea: A worldview informed by the truth is like seeing through a clear lens.Weekly Challenges: Find this week’s Through the Week challenges on our website.Show NotesCross Training - “The More You Know” (DAILY DOWNLOAD)Cross Training - Through the Week Challenges - Week 1Like the Teacher: Matthew 4:1-11 (VERSE)Support the Show

Watch This IntroductionHappy New Year everyone!Now that our Into the Book reading plan is over, what's next? Today, we're excited to share our plans for 2021! We're calling it Cross Training — a yearlong discipleship development series for believers of all ages and spiritual maturity levels. We want to become fully trained — cross trained — by the Master Teacher himself (Luke 6:40). To do that, each week we'll focus on four different Dimensions of Discipleship: Truth — The Lord's teachings shape our thinking.Heart — The Lord's values shape our affections.Action — The Lord's actions shape our behavior.Community — Our connection to the Lord shapes all our relationships.Every Monday beginning January 4th, we'll tackle a different Element of spiritual growth, taking our cues from Jesus. We'll release a Daily Download podcast episode, post an article on our website, and share a video on social media, just like we did with our Into the Book series in 2020. You can also sign up for our weekly email newsletter! We'll also share five Through the Week Challenges to help keep us motivated.Read — A few passages to help build your knowledgeReflect — A reflective question to ask yourselfRequest — A prayer you can bring before GodRespond — A step to take that turns your belief into actionReach Out — A discussion to have with those you meetWe'll introduce the series, talking about the four Dimensions of Discipleship in detail in the first four weeks. And then, for the rest of the year, we'll cover twelve Marks of the Master, spending four weeks exploring foundational elements of each one. These Marks include Faith, Dedication, Servanthood, Joy, Reverence, Mercy, Integrity, Watchfulness, Fruitfulness, Endurance, Leadership, and Lifelong Learning.We're hoping to grow together with you throughout the year in deeper discipleship and service to the Lord. If you've taken a break from the show, now's the time to jump back on board! Find out more information at biblegeeks.fm/crosstraining.