Bible Geeks Podcast

Close the Year with ReflectionWe made it! Congratulations on persevering through 2020 — especially to those of you who read through the New Testament with us. This week we talk about the Bible’s spectacular ending — its symmetry, grace, and, well, finality. We also look back at a few of our Favorite Things in 2020, reflecting on what helped us grow in the Lord this year. May God bless you in this new year. “The grace of the Lord Jesus be with all. Amen.” (Rev. 22:21). The Big Idea: Consistent spiritual habits help stabilize our lives, even in chaotic times.Weekly Challenge: Recap your yearly accomplishments and struggles with someone close to you.Show NotesInto the Book - Week 52Into the Book Preview - “Revelation 18-22” (DAILY DOWNLOAD)A Metrical Psalter (BOOK)Working with the Word (PODCAST)Family Discipleship: Leading Your Home Through Time, Moments, and Milestones by Matt Chandler and Adam Griffin (BOOK)Audible Plus Catalog (AUDIOBOOKS)Run with the Horses: The Quest for Life at Its Best by Eugene Peterson (BOOK)A Mouth Full of Fire: The Word of God in the Words of Jeremiah by Andrew Shead (BOOK)Like Fire in the Bones: Listening for the Prophetic Word in Jeremiah by Walter Breuggemann (BOOK)The Ruthless Elimination of Hurry: How to Stay Emotionally Healthy and Spiritually Alive in the Chaos of the Modern World by John Mark Comer (BOOK)The Thread by Ryan Joy (SERMON)Support the Show

Push Towards the Finish LineWhat kind of year has it been? This week, as we draw to the close of the year, we also near the end of reading through the New Testament. And these strange pictures in Revelation seem as good a backdrop as any to reflect on lessons from this strange year. So we’re Finding Jesus in Revelation 13-17 and talking about weakness, instability, grit, and a God who cares. Join us for a listen!The Big Idea: God’s judgment comes from his goodness, love, and justice.Weekly Challenge: Catch up on your reading before the end of the year!Show NotesInto the Book - Week 51Into the Book Preview - “Revelation 13-17” (DAILY DOWNLOAD)Unbroken Vessels by Bryan Schiele (SERMON)“A Golden Thumbs Up” (WEEKLY EPISODE)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.Prepare for Spiritual WarfareThis week, we’re going to war! What does spiritual warfare look like? What is the “_armor of God_” (Eph. 6:10-18) all about? And who is the real enemy? And as we discuss Ephesians 2-6, we find a challenging standard for maturity and a stabilizing love in Christ. Then we talk about sleeping and submitting in an Ephesians 5 edition of Scripture du Jour. And by the way, “Ephesians Week” is as good a time as any to start reading the New Testament with us, just one chapter a day! Either way, hope you’ll join us for a listen and find some encouragement for your walk with Christ.The Big Idea: God equips us with his own weapons to fight against evil.Weekly Challenge: Take a moment this week to meditate on God’s love for you.Show NotesInto the Book - Week 34Into the Book Preview - “Philppians 1-4, Ephesians 1” (DAILY DOWNLOAD)Into the Book - Week 35Into the Book Preview - “Ephesians 2-6” (DAILY DOWNLOAD)“Everybody Wins” (EPISODE)Support the Show

Be Amazed at the Heavenly VisionThis week, John’s vision leads us through a door and into God’s spectacular throne room. Revelation helps us understand how we’ll celebrate in heaven and how the Lord sees congregations. As we go Finding Jesus, we learn that the lion is the lamb, and the lamb is the shepherd. Then we dive into Christ’s letters to the churches with some “Deeep Thoughts.” What does it have to do with Twilight Zone, Chuck Norris, and Jeff Bezos? You’ll have to listen to find out!The Big Idea: Jesus knows and cares what is happening in his churches.Weekly Challenge: Rate and review your work for the Lord.Show NotesInto the Book - Week 49Into the Book Preview - “Revelation 3-7” (DAILY DOWNLOAD)“To the Conquerors” (DAILY DOWNLOAD SERIES)Support the Show

Put the Lord First AlwaysWhat do we learn about idolatry from WALL-E, Andy Griffith, and John Calvin? This week we take a look at our idols, acknowledging the many ways we can elevate other things and downgrade the One True God. As usual, we start the episode by Finding Jesus in this week’s reading, discovering the “Anti” Anti-Christ and learning how Jesus the opposite of the Wizard of Oz. And in our Scripture du Jour, Bryan enrolls us in “Symbols 101” as Jesus explains how to interpret the book of Revelation.The Big Idea: The well-ordered heart directs its greatest hope and adoration toward God. Anything less is idolatry.Weekly Challenge: Seek and destroy some modern-day idol that’s pulling your time or attention away from God.Show NotesInto the Book - Week 48Into the Book Preview - “1 John 5, 2 & 3 John, Revelation 1-2” (DAILY DOWNLOAD)“5 Idols Revealed through Hardship” by Mark Vroegop (ARTICLE)Nothing Gold Can Stay (WIKIPEDIA)Lazy Humans From WALL-E (YOUTUBE)Support the Show

Be Confident in Uncertain TimesWhat do Craftsmen Tools and the Phantom Menace have to do with our confidence in Christ? With all the uncertainty around us, it seems like the perfect time to focus on what we can KNOW from the book of 1 John. Why does healing require honesty and why does prayer require give and take? This week’s reading in Hebrews 13 and 1 John 1-4 shows us how to deal with misplaced guilt and fear, how to confidently pray, and how what we love defines our stability.The Big Idea: Living in God’s love leads to confidence.Weekly Challenge: Do something to show someone your love for them this week.Show NotesInto the Book - Week 47Into the Book Preview - “Hebrews 13, 1 John 1-4” (DAILY DOWNLOAD)Shrug Emoji ¯\_(ツ)_/¯ (EMOJIPEDIA)Support the Show

Walk with Faith and IntegrityThis week, in a Psalm 15 edition of Poetry in Motion, we learn that God wants to host people in his home, but not everyone can enter. We discuss how the tabernacle is like LEGOs, character is like a key card, and seeking God is like dating (it made sense when we said it!). Plus, we answer questions like: Does God really want us to despise “vile” people? Is it wrong to do good things because we want the reward? And how can we say, “All is well,” when our circumstances seem “anything but.” Hebrews 11 is our Scripture du Jour and we’re Finding Jesus in this week’s reading — Hebrews 8-12. The Big Idea: God is the rewarder of the faithful, but he is also the greatest REWARD.Weekly Challenge: Spend some time praying and worshiping in God’s presence.Show NotesInto the Book - Week 46Into the Book Preview - “Hebrews 8-12” (DAILY DOWNLOAD)“All is Well” by Ryan Joy (SERMON)Support the Show

Overcome Your Spiritual StrugglesWhere are your spiritual “growing pains”? This week, we had a frank conversation about some of the difficulties that have threatened to pull us off course spiritually. From the magnetic pull of the comfortable to the isolation of feeling you’re on your own, there are so many ways to get discouraged and stop growing. Our current reading in Hebrews 3-7 exhorts a group of Christians to keep growing and keep holding onto the Lord. Join us as we dive into the Scriptures with an eye toward maturing in Christ!The Big Idea: God calls us from our easy comforts to an adventure that demands faith, courage, love, and a will to keep learning and growing in him.Weekly Challenge: Share your challenges with someone and ask them to pray for you.Show NotesInto the Book - Week 45Into the Book Preview - “Hebrews 3-7” (DAILY DOWNLOAD)We Have an Anchor (SONG)Support the Show

Honor God’s Incredible SonWhat is your defining metaphor for life? What does it tell you about Jesus that as he hung on the cross, he put plans in place for a trusted disciple to look after his mom? And how is hidden love like winking at a girl in the dark? This week we go Finding Jesus in our weekly reading from the Into the Book reading plan — John 19-21 and Hebrews 1-2. Then we share 4 Proverbs that give a Better Way. Join us for a listen, and as always, don’t hesitate to contact us with topics, questions, and feedback!The Big Idea: *When we look closely at Jesus, we see what it means to be human and what it means to be God. *Weekly Challenge: Sing a song of praise to Jesus.Show NotesInto the Book - Week 44Into the Book Preview - “John 19-21, Hebrews 1-2” (DAILY DOWNLOAD)Support the Show

Connect with ChristHave you ever asked, “Why did God make me?” This week, we discuss our purpose, our relationships, and the source of all our accomplishments, drawing from this week’s readings in John 14-18. What’s the difference between a servant and a friend, and why does Jesus call his disciples friends? And what kind of friendship with one another does that call us into? Plus, we look at a story where Jesus literally knocks an army down with two words, and we share a few of our Favorite Things about John’s gospel.The Big Idea: Rather than standing at a distance, Jesus reveals himself to us and calls us his friends.Weekly Challenge: Invest in your relationship with someone this week.Show NotesInto the Book - Week 43Into the Book Preview - “John 14-18” (DAILY DOWNLOAD)“I’ll Be a Friend to Jesus” (SONG)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.Believe in Jesus’ Power to Raise the DeadWe have big questions on our minds, as death looms over this week’s passages. Questions like: How can we put God in a box, even when we trust him in the big stuff? Does the famously brief verse, “Jesus wept,” display Christ’s humanity or his deity? And Jesus Said he holds the keys to Hades in Revelation 1:17-18, but what does that mean for us? Throughout our seventh “Here’s Your Sign” segment, we consider how the raising of Lazarus should affect our view of death. It’s heavy stuff, but we think you’ll find it worth your while to join us!The Big Idea: Believing in Christ puts death in its proper perspective: it’s complicated and sometimes heartbreaking, but for believers, it’s also a joyful step on our path to eternal life.Weekly Challenge: Read John 19-21 about Jesus’ death and resurrection.Show NotesJesus Said … Revelation 1:17-18John 19-21Support the Show

Find Satisfaction in SalvationIs it ever okay to judge someone? How do rivers of living waters flow from believers’ hearts? And what does Jesus mean when he talks about eating his flesh? This week, we’re taking on some challenging questions from our reading. We also ask how Jesus can honor the Sabbath, yet never take a day off, and why doing God’s will is the food that sustained Jesus — and can sustain us. All of that plus plenty of nerdy talk about the Feast of Booths, Alfred Hitchcock, and how to “soak your roots”!The Big Idea: True satisfaction is found in Christ alone.Weekly Challenge: Meditate on some passage that you may have only scratched the surface of.Show NotesInto the Book - Week 41Into the Book Preview - “John 4-8” (DAILY DOWNLOAD)Feast of Booths by Ryan Joy(SERMON)Support the Show

Be Born … AgainWhat does it mean to be “born again”? This week, as we begin reading the gospel of John, we’re thinking about grace, the new birth, and...well, food. We consider how grace is like a stack of pancakes, how bread crumbs lead us forward, and how the Lord’s wine tastes the best (and what that should tell us about everything else he does!). And we dive into the Bible’s most famous verse, John 3:16, and remember what God wants us to do in the world. The Big Idea: Our transformation is powered by divine grace.Weekly Challenge: Reboot some aspect of your life that needs transformation and renewal.Show NotesInto the Book - Week 40Into the Book Preview - “2 Peter 3, Jude, John 1-3” (DAILY DOWNLOAD)Support the Show

Have No FearHow are our lives restored like Japanese vases? And how do our responses to fear and desire reveal our beliefs? This week, a Psalm 14 edition of Poetry in Motion reveals the hope and helplessness of humanity. We find an antidote to anxiety and learn what God says about conspiracy theories as we go Finding Jesus in this week’s reading. And along the way, we learn about Ryan’s awful eyesight, Bryan’s fear of snakes, and God’s exit row, escape hatch. Hope you’ll join us!The Big Idea: Our choices speak volumes about what we really think.Weekly Challenge: Sing a song about God’s promises.Show NotesInto the Book - Week 39Into the Book Preview - “1 Peter 3-5, 2 Peter 1-2” (DAILY DOWNLOAD)“Let Your Life Speak” by Parker Palmer (BOOK)“Broken Things” by Hallal Music (VIDEO)Kintsugi (WIKIPEDIA)Support the Show

Run From Loving the WorldWhat do you love? This week we look at some of the objects of affection the Bible directs us away from, and which ones it points us toward. Along the way we talk about the Borg and Big Ten Football, long distance relationships and kids finally cleaning their rooms. Today’s Scripture du Jour (1 Peter 1) holds up a mirror. And we find encouragement in some fundamentals of the faith when we go Finding Jesus in this week’s reading, 2 Timothy 2-4 and 1 Peter 1-2. The Big Idea: What we love propels us toward particular attitudes and choices.Weekly Challenge: Identify what drives you.Show NotesInto the Book - Week 38Into the Book Preview - “2 Timothy 2-4, 1 Peter 1-2” (DAILY DOWNLOAD)The 5 Love Languages: The Secret to Love that Lasts by Gary Chapman (BOOK)Support the Show

I Mean It!What do you consider the most “essential workers” on the planet today? This week we set our sites on understanding what Paul says about overseers (1 Timothy 3). What does church leadership look like, and what’s the point of all those qualifications? We also learned some stuff about money from our Scripture du Jour (1 Timothy 6) — both the good and the bad. And we kick things off with Christ’s “good confession” and some reflections on the reason we can happily suffer, in our Finding Jesus segment. Join us for a listen, and let us know any feedback or questions!The Big Idea: We receive our most important leadership training by apprenticing under Jesus - learning from Christ and imitating him as disciples.Weekly Challenge: Thank an overseer this week for their love and leadership.Show NotesInto the Book - Week 37Into the Book Preview - “1 Timothy 3-6, 2 Timothy 1” (DAILY DOWNLOAD)“More Than Enough WiFi” (EPISODE)“Feelin’ Satisfied!” (EPISODE)Support the Show

Be Sound in the FaithWhat does it mean to be “sound”? This week we consider what spiritual health and wellness requires, when we look at an important Heavy Word. We ask, “what is the goal of a Bible class?” and “what’s the point of church discipline?” And we go Finding Jesus in this week’s reading — which points to a common need we share with all humanity. The Big Idea: Teaching that is faithful to the Word of Christ brings spiritual wellness.Weekly Challenge: Think about Jesus’ standard this week and how your life measures up.Show NotesInto the Book - Week 36Into the Book Preview - “Titus 1-3; 1 Timothy 1-2” (DAILY DOWNLOAD)Signal Strength and Readability Report (WIKIPEDIA)“Want to Be Healthier? Change Your Tastebuds” by Michael Gregor (ARTICLE)“Pattern of Sound Words” by Ryan Joy (SERMON)Support the Show

Prepare for Spiritual WarfareThis week, we’re going to war! What does spiritual warfare look like? What is the “armor of God” (Eph. 6:10-18) all about? And who is the real enemy? And as we discuss Ephesians 2-6, we find a challenging standard for maturity and a stabilizing love in Christ. Then we talk about sleeping and submitting in an Ephesians 5 edition of Scripture du Jour. And by the way, “Ephesians Week” is as good a time as any to start reading the New Testament with us, just one chapter a day! Either way, hope you’ll join us for a listen and find some encouragement for your walk with Christ.The Big Idea: God equips us with his own weapons to fight against evil.Weekly Challenge: Take a moment this week to meditate on God’s love for you.Show NotesInto the Book - Week 34Into the Book Preview - “Philppians 1-4, Ephesians 1” (DAILY DOWNLOAD)Into the Book - Week 35Into the Book Preview - “Ephesians 2-6” (DAILY DOWNLOAD)“Everybody Wins” (EPISODE)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.Learn to Intercede for OthersThis week a listener question about “interceding for others” raises lots of other questions for us. Like, how does it change us when we pray for our families, our enemies, and even strangers? When is it an empty gesture to say, “you’re in our thoughts and prayers”? And where do we get started, when everyone needs our prayers? Bryan sets it all up with a Jesus Said about praying for people who stand against us. Hope you’ll tune in today and then let us know your questions for a future episode!The Big Idea: Praying for others can make a difference in their lives (and ours!), but it’s not a substitute for helping them in other ways, as we have opportunity.Weekly Challenge: Help or pray for someone you haven’t before.Show NotesJesus Said … Matthew 5:43-48Six Rules of Prayer by Ryan Joy (SERMON)Six More Rules of Prayer by Ryan Joy (SERMON)Echo Prayer App (APP)Support the Show

Set Your Minds on Things AboveThis week we’re thinking about thinking (about thinking?), considering, “How do we set our minds above when we’re stuck in life below?” If thoughts are like TV shows in our minds, who has the remote, and how do we change the channel? We’re in Colossians and Philemon this week in the Into the Book Bible reading plan, where we also discover insights about struggling in prayer, quarterbacking conversations, and Finding Jesus in our bosses. Join us for a listen, and feel free to contact us with any comments, questions, or suggested topics!The Big Idea: God has recreated us for eternity, so strive to choose thoughts and actions TODAY fit for eternal life.Weekly Challenge: Bring grace and an evangelistic intentionality to your interactions with others this week.Show NotesInto the Book - Week 33Into the Book Preview - “Colossians 1-4, Philemon” (DAILY DOWNLOAD)Metacognition (WIKIPEDIA)“Iconic” by Ryan Joy (SERMON)Support the Show

Climb the Ladder of PrayerEver feel like the cartoon cloud above your head follows you everywhere you go? (Maybe that cloud should be renamed “2020”!) What kind of prayer can meet us in our loneliest, most frustrated times? In a Psalm 13 edition of Poetry in Motion, we learn how David escaped his lowest lows to rejoice in the Lord. We’re also Finding Jesus in strangers, and finding him in Total Command! Then in the Scripture du Jour, we hear Christ’s cry of lament and consider the crazy miracles of that crucifixion day.The Big Idea: We can strengthen our resolve to stand firm by remembering the watching world and the Adversary who rejoices in our defeats.Weekly Challenge: Express your confidence in the Lord through prayer this week.Show NotesInto the Book - Week 32Into the Book Preview - “Matthew 24-28” (DAILY DOWNLOAD)All-In Disciples by Bryan Schiele (SERMON)The Day the Sky Went Dark by Ryan Joy (SERMON)Psalms 1-72 by Derek Kidner (BOOK)Support the Show

Learn From the Lord’s EnemiesThe Pharisees weren’t cartoon villains, they were real people known for taking their religion seriously — yet the Lord’s rebukes have made them infamous. And if we don’t take his warnings seriously, we can become the second coming of the Pharisees! So, this week we share some Deeep Thoughts, asking, “Is there a little bit of Pharisee in me?” We also Find Jesus slaying trees and spinning riddles in this week’s reading, Matthew 19-23. And, we learn what it means to be “chosen” and how the greatest commandments shape a disciple’s life.The Big Idea: Jesus calls us to leave our divided lives and half measures, to follow him in holistic righteousness — the wholehearted obedience of love.Weekly Challenge: Identify the “little bit of Pharisee” in your heart, and take a step to correct it.Show NotesInto the Book - Week 31Into the Book Preview - “Matthew 19-23” (DAILY DOWNLOAD)The Jesus Creed by Scot McKnight (BOOK)“What Not to Wear” (DAILY DOWNLOAD)Support the Show

Find Where Heaven and Earth MeetWho doesn’t love a good story? This week, we’re mixing it up with a new segment called “Here’s the Story,” imagining together what it must have been like to see Jesus transfigured. As usual, we kick things off by Finding Jesus. This week we find him out among the “missing 1%” but also “where two or three are gathered” in his name. In our Scripture du Jour, we learn how “little-faith” keeps us stuck in anxiety, panic, and fear. And we see Jesus’ wisdom in not giving offense...sometimes. Join us for a listen and if you’re not reading along with us, consider checking out the Into the Book Bible reading plan!The Big Idea: Fear and anxiety can indicate we have “little-faith” — a debilitating forgetfulness about the power and care of the Lord.Weekly Challenge: Find a way to look out for the lost sheep this week.Show NotesInto the Book - Week 30Into the Book Preview - “Matthew 14-18” (DAILY DOWNLOAD)Support the Show

Learn From the Stories of JesusDo you have a favorite parable? This week we each share our favorite parables as we talk about the power of story and the influence Jesus’ stories have had on us. Finding Jesus in this week’s reading from our Into the Book reading plan, Matthew 9-13, we see him play 3D Chess with the Pharisees, but, on the other hand, offer a gentle, gracious invitation to the masses. We’re challenged by his words about words and his judgments about mercy. And we consider the role of imagination, patience, and boldness in teaching.The Big Idea: We can’t make people change, but we can plant the seeds of change.Weekly Challenge: Pick out your favorite parable this week and share it with someone close to you.Show NotesInto the Book - Week 29Into the Book Preview - “Matthew 9-13” (DAILY DOWNLOAD)Mercy Not Sacrifice by Bryan Schiele (SERMON)Preaching and Teaching with Imagination (BOOK)The Good Life by Ryan Joy (SERMON)Support the Show

Let Christ Shape Your RelationshipsIt’s Sermon on the Mount week! We’re pretty excited about all of this amazing content, and it has us asking questions like: Why is the golden rule deceptively difficult to live? What is the problem with resisting those who would treat us unfairly? And why did Jesus go to be tempted in the wilderness like (as Bryan put it) a man with one arm tied behind his back? We spend time with the sermon’s opening words, closing words, and quite a few of the bits in between as we try to learn how Jesus wants us to live.The Big Idea: We won’t enjoy the fruit of Christ’s teaching until we start DOING what he says.Weekly Challenge: Find a way to give your tunic this week!Show NotesInto the Book - Week 28Into the Book Preview - “Matthew 4-8” (DAILY DOWNLOAD)“Crocodile and a Lion” (EPISODE)Give Your Tunic Too by Ryan Joy (SERMON)The Golden Rule by Ryan Joy (SERMON)Forgiving Our Enemies by Bryan Schiele (VIDEO)Support the Show

Let Christ Strengthen You in TrialThis week we count down our Top Four Proverbs on suffering, noticing the value of empathy, weakness, joy, and overlooking offenses. We learn how John the Baptist made a freeway through the desert for Jesus and how we can be like the Scribes in interpreting Jesus. We also find encouragement in the humanity of Christ as we consider what it meant for God to enter this world as an infant.The Big Idea: Our weakness can direct our attention to Christ, who understands life in this frail flesh and supplies power and grace as we lean on him.Weekly Challenge: See your trials joyfully, through the eyes of faith.Show NotesInto the Book - Week 27Into the Book Preview - “2 Corinthians 12-13, Matthew 1-3” (DAILY DOWNLOAD)“Dad Travel!” (EPISODE)“Mental Mentos” (EPISODE)“Baking Soda and Vinegar Science Experiments” (VIDEO)“Divine Conspiracy” by Dallas Willard (BOOK)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 rethinking “faith” and “faithfulness” as we continue through the Fruit of the Spirit series. What Jesus Said in Luke 12:42-48 raises the question, “Who am I when no one’s looking?” And some “Deep Thoughts” from the Minor Prophets take us to the heart of the gospel. Plus, Bryan encounters an unhappy cashier and Ryan notices coworkers watching the Final Four in their cubicles. Join us for a listen!Weekly Challenge: Write down three things you know and three things you want to know.Show NotesJesus Said … Luke 12:42-48Mercy Not Sacrifice by Bryan Schiele (SERMON)At Ease by Bryan Schiele (SERMON)The Pursuit of Paneled Houses by Bryan Schiele (SERMON)Sermons from North church of Christ (PODCAST)The Faith of God by Doy Moyer (BLOG)

Get Transformed by Christ!This week, we notice that everything looks different when you see it through faith. For instance, when he describes Christ’s victory, why does Paul see himself as a humiliated captive? Aren’t we the winning team, fit for a parade? When Jesus picks up the “pen” of the Spirit, what does he write on your heart? Why do people (including Jesus!) look so different to Paul now that he’s in Christ? And how does it change your view of the afterlife to realize you’ll be “further clothed” in eternity? Finally, in a Psalm 12 edition of Poetry in Motion, we ask, what can we do when we see evil and empty talk all around us? We hope the answer encourages you!The Big Idea: We’ll never see ourselves or others clearly, until we look through the lens of faith.Weekly Challenge: Rather than despair, find confidence in prayer this week.Show NotesInto the Book - Week 25Into the Book Preview - “2 Corinthians 2-6” (DAILY DOWNLOAD)“The Triumph of Love” by Ryan Joy (SERMON)Support the Show

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

How can we honor someone when they push us too far? How do people look at the same Lord and walk away with different ideas about him? And why is the communal aspect of the Lord’s Supper critical to its meaning? This week we consider a Heavy Word — fellowship! We discover there are a lot of ways we can water it down, but also see that this one idea — properly understood — can alter our relationships and unite God’s people. We’re in week 23 of the Into the Book reading plan (1 Cor. 8-12) and our Scripture du Jour is in 1 Corinthians 11 (or thereabouts!). Join us as we dive into the word!The Big Idea: Because we serve the same Lord, we relate to one another differently, sharing our lives, our possessions, ourselves.Weekly Challenge: Remember your fellow believers next time you take the Lord’s Supper.Show NotesInto the Book - Week 23Into the Book Preview - “1 Corinthians 8-12” (DAILY DOWNLOAD)Koinonia Translations (INFOGRAPHIC)Koinonia Usage (INFOGRAPHIC)“Fellowship, Part 1” (SERMON)“Fellowship, Part 2” (SERMON)

In the immortal words of the Princess Bride, “Marriage is what brings us together today!” We’re stepping all over our own toes with the Bible’s marital guidance. After a Scripture du Jour from Paul’s marriage chapter, First Corinthians 7, we dive into Four Proverbs to strengthen a marriage. From conflict avoidance to weaponizing Bible verses, the Proverbs remind us that living with faithfulness, integrity, and love is a lot harder than just saying “I love you.” The Big Idea: A marriage’s strength lies — not in our vows or lofty words — but in the care and daily work we put into it.Weekly Challenge: Share a proverb that you’re personally working on with your spouse (or someone close to you).Show NotesInto the Book - Week 22Into the Book Preview - “1 Corinthians 3-7” (DAILY DOWNLOAD)“A Goopy Kind of Love?” (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 Notes Into the Book - Week 21 Into the Book Preview - “2 Thessalonians 1-3, 1 Corinthians 1-2” (DAILY DOWNLOAD)

Why is the Christian life a quiet life? What will it look like when Jesus comes again? This week we dive into 1 Thessalonians and then ask each other questions about the coming of Christ in a segment called “Do You Understand?” The Big Idea: History has a glorious destination: the day our king returns! Weekly Challenge: Encourage a brother or sister by reminding them of the Lord’s coming. Show Notes Into the Book - Week 20 Into the Book Preview - “1 Thessalonians 1-5” (DAILY DOWNLOAD) “Tortilla of Prayer” (EPISODE) The End Series (DAILY DOWNLOAD)

Maybe you’ve noticed tensions growing about how to handle the current health crisis. What if someone doesn’t wear a mask in worship? Is it safe to assemble? Is it liberal not to have a traditional assembly yet? What if someone tries to shake your hand or even hug you? While these issues are worthy of serious discussion, is there a more important goal than fighting about all this? How do we maintain harmony in the church while we navigate these questions? This week we’re Finding Jesus in Galatians and diving into the “one another” verses of Galatians 5. Then we take a deep dive into patience and peace in the church, in a time of differing opinions. The Big Idea: Knowledge can inflate our pride, but love moves us beyond the narcissism of small differences. Weekly Challenge: Practice patience with someone whose choices don’t align with yours this week. Show Notes Into the Book - Week 19 Into the Book Preview - “Galatians 2-6” (DAILY DOWNLOAD) Scoot Over and Make Some Room by Heather Avis (BOOK) Fruit of the Spirit Series (EPISODES) “That’s Bad Advertising” (EPISODE)

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, as we go Finding Jesus in Luke 16-20, we notice that Jesus is never boring and always knows the right thing to say. But we also see his heart ache for people, and learn that he likes to hear “thank you” as much as anyone. As we set Psalm 10 in Motion, we learn to speak frankly with God and turn our questions to praise. It may seem like God is avoiding you when you need him most, but the King is listening — so what are you asking? The Big Idea: Helping the helpless is one of God’s specialties. Weekly Challenge: Speak your mind to God in prayer this week. Show Notes Into the Book - Week 4 Into the Book Preview - “Luke 16-20” (DAILY DOWNLOAD) “What Do You Say?” (DAILY DOWNLOAD) “Donkey Declarations” (DAILY DOWNLOAD)

Is there anything good about being stuck at home? Find out as we list our Favorite Things: Quarantine Edition. Plus we find a prayer formula in Gethsemane, a helpful strategy for making big decisions, and a reality check for the “religious.” The Big Idea: When unproductive branches are pruned from your life, don’t try to graft them back on. Weekly Challenge: Identify some aspect of life you thought was important, but now doesn’t seem to be. Show Notes Into the Book - Week 17 Into the Book Preview - “Mark 13-16, James 1” (DAILY DOWNLOAD) Wilson Adams’ Family Studies (WEBSITE) Wilson Adams’ Family Studies (FACEBOOK)

It’s March, er, April Madness! This week we break down the Bible Bracket tournament, offering our biggest surprises, our Most Valuable Passages, and what we learned along the way. And we spend some extra time with the winner, finding our Scriptures du Jour in Matthew 6, and asking questions like: Why is it essential for disciples to receive little children? And, how are we defined by what our eyes look at? Join us for a listen! The Big Idea: What you value most shapes your heart. Weekly Challenge: Find some encouragement from the Bible Bracket Final Four (Psalm 19, Isaiah 53, Romans 12, and Matthew 6). Show Notes Into the Book - Week 16 Into the Book Preview - “Mark 8-12” (DAILY DOWNLOAD) The Bible Bracket (WEBSITE)

Why is it so important to learn to accept help from others? Did Jesus command his disciples to “play it by ear”? Why is it sometimes harder to value the input of those we know best? This is week 15 of the Into the Book reading plan, where we find interesting tidbits about the belief of demons and the disbelief of family friends. Join us for a listen! Also, don’t forget to vote in the Bible Bracket of Favorite Chapters this week! The Big Idea: Upward progress rarely comes when things are handed to us without challenge. Weekly Challenge: Trust God to bring a positive outcome from something negative. Show Notes Into the Book - Week 15 Into the Book Preview - “Mark 3-7” (DAILY DOWNLOAD) The Bible Bracket (WEBSITE)

The last few weeks we’ve moseyed through the book of Romans, but today we “feel the need … for speed.” So we’re Flyin’ Through the Book, getting the big picture of what’s happening throughout this magnificent letter. We also look at how Jesus touched the untouchable, found time to pray, and brings his family together to glorify God in perfect harmony. The Big Idea: The Lord holds his people together, as we unite ourselves with him. Weekly Challenge: Find a way to maximize your time for the Lord this week. Show Notes Into the Book - Week 14 Into the Book Preview - “Romans 14-16, Mark 1-2” (DAILY DOWNLOAD) Receive One Another (SERMON) Kickoff Gospel (SERMON) Reading Romans Backwards (BOOK)

What does it look like to live every day as a living sacrifice to God? How is imitating Christ’s character like putting on an armor of light? How do we avoid drunken “delusions of grandeur” as we evaluate ourselves? And is it realistic to do what’s right in other people’s eyes and live at peace with everyone? Join us this week, as we zero in on one of our favorite chapters — the practical instruction of Romans 12. The Big Idea: The mercy of God calls for nothing less than our whole body, mind, and heart, freely given as an offering back to him. Weekly Challenge: Touch someone’s life in a positive way this week. Show Notes Into the Book - Week 13 Into the Book Preview - “Romans 9-13” (DAILY DOWNLOAD)

This week, we talk about toilet paper, anxiety, and the security we find in Christ. It’s a great week to find comfort in the encouraging words or Romans 4-8, and that’s where we find ourselves in our reading plan. There, we discover that for those in Christ Jesus, there is no social distancing ourselves from God! The harder things get, the more we need to return to God’s promises. We hope you find the conversation helpful. The Big Idea: If God has already proven his commitment to you at the cross, why be afraid now? Weekly Challenge: Identify the source of your fear and pray about it. Show Notes Into the Book - Week 12 Into the Book Preview - “Romans 4-8” (DAILY DOWNLOAD) Faith in Famine: Lessons From Joseph (SERMON) Perfect - Ryan Joy (SERMON)

Have you ever wondered what the gospel is really all about? This week we’re lifting another Heavy Word — gospel — to see what it means and what it does. As we go looking for Jesus in the readings for week 11 of the Into the Book reading plan, Bryan explains how the Scriptures are like a Magic Eye picture and Ryan explains how Jesus is like the ark of the covenant’s lid. Plus, in the Scripture du Jour, we talk about hypocrisy and Aladdin’s lamp. The Big Idea: The gospel is meant to do something to us — changing us by bringing us into submission to Christ through faith. Weekly Challenge: Share with someone what the gospel means to you. Show Notes Into the Book - Week 11 Into the Book Preview - “Acts 27-28; Rom. 1-3” (DAILY DOWNLOAD) "Notable Natives" (DAILY DOWNLOAD) "Truth or Consequences" (DAILY DOWNLOAD) "Know Better" (DAILY DOWNLOAD) "Gift Giving" (DAILY DOWNLOAD) Itty Bitty Living Space (VIDEO) C.S. Lewis Quote (WEB PAGE) “First Take Out the Log” (SERMON)

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 continue our series for “young folks” with advice to our younger selves about “matters of the heart.” What kind of decisions can guide a Christian’s dating life towards a great, godly marriage? How do we protect ourselves (and our dates!) from decisions we’ll regret? What Jesus Said about plucking out your eye in Matthew 5:27-30 leads to what Job said about making a covenant with his eyes, and we can’t help but notice how uncomplicated these issues really are, if we’re honest. From establishing better guardrails to asking better questions, the only way any of it works is when we decide for ourselves where we are going to stand. Hope you benefit from the conversation and invite the young people in your life to have a listen! The Big Idea: Committing yourself to divine principles can guide your “life story” (and even your “love story”) away from regret and toward blessing. Weekly Challenge: Establish guardrails. Show Notes Jesus Said … Matthew 5:27-30 Love & Respect by Emerson Eggerichs (BOOK) “A Goopy Kind of Love?” (EPISODE)

Like Bible Geek grenades, we’re lobbing questions at each other in a new segment called “Do you understand?,” as we try to better understand a topic. This week our questions focus on the early church’s assembly and leadership. Week 9 of the Into the Book reading plan takes us through Paul’s journeys, where we — surprisingly — find some red letter words of Christ. How does Paul’s trial parallel the Lord’s? What do you want on your epitaph? And what can a dead man in the middle of services teach us about paying attention? The Big Idea: Godly lives — past and present — illuminate the path of love and faithfulness. Weekly Challenge: If there’s something keeping you from speaking out, conquer that fear with Christ. Show Notes Into the Book - Week 9 Into the Book Preview - “Acts 17-21” (DAILY DOWNLOAD) "Preacher Training" (DAILY DOWNLOAD) "Spirit Smackdown" (DAILY DOWNLOAD) "Okay to Cry" (DAILY DOWNLOAD) "Shared Stress" (DAILY DOWNLOAD) The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People (BOOK)

With all the fighting and division in Christianity today, have you ever wondered how early Christians worked out disagreements? Today’s Scriptures du Jour look to two examples of brethren disagreeing in Acts 15. Then, we try to get past our disclaimers for some real talk on fasting. When did churches fast in the New Testament, and what should we take from their example? The Big Idea: Unity is possible when we reason together with no agenda but God’s will and no authority but God’s Word. Weekly Challenge: Fast or give up something for one day this week. Show Notes Into the Book - Week 8 Into the Book Preview - “Acts 12-16” (DAILY DOWNLOAD) “Disciple Debate” (DAILY DOWNLOAD) Celebration of Discipline by Richard Foster (BOOK)

This week, we look at two Heavy Words: repentance and discipleship. Bryan explains why a Christian can never be like Darth Vader and Ryan explains why we’re like Gila monsters. We talk about the hardest thing in the Bible to do and why it’s so hard to believe someone can actually change. And we go looking for Jesus in week 7 of our reading plan (Acts 7-11), including our favorite verses from today’s readings. The Big Idea: As disciples, we will never be the master, but Jesus our master shows us the Ultimate Disciple. Weekly Challenge: Connect with someone who might be seeking the Lord this week. Show Notes Into the Book - Week 7 Into the Book Preview - “Acts 7-11” (DAILY DOWNLOAD) “Antioch Activity” (DAILY DOWNLOAD) Repent | μετάνοια (metanoia) (LEXICON) Disciple | μαθητής (mathētēs) (LEXICON) “50 Challenges” (SERMON)

This week we’re talking about the Holy Spirit — his work and presence in the early church and the church today. What is the baptism of the Holy Spirit? How is it different from the gift of the Spirit Christians receive at baptism? And what does it really mean to be “filled with the Spirit”? And as this week’s “Into the Book” readings lead us into Acts, we look for the apostle’s “hobby horse” sermon topic and find that trembling before our awesome God is just as important in the New Testament as the Old Testament. The Big Idea: The Lord continues to live and work in his people today. Weekly Challenge: Be aware of God’s presence in your life this week. Show Notes Into the Book - Week 6 Into the Book Preview - “Acts 2-6” (DAILY DOWNLOAD) “Liar, Liar” (DAILY DOWNLOAD) “Twelve Voices Series - Joel” (SERMON) “Twelve Voices Series - Joel” (PRESENTATION)

How did Jesus stay calm, composed, and classy in crisis? What did Jesus do to set people’s hearts on fire? Why did Jesus tell his disciples to touch him? And how is hurrying like a Mexican Buffet? This week we take on these and other exciting questions, as we finish Luke. The Scriptures du Jour come from Luke 24 and we finish up with some Deeep Thoughts about keeping it together. The Big Idea: We can find Christlike composure by entrusting ourselves to God. Weekly Challenge: Respond to difficulty with grace this week. Show Notes Into the Book - Week 5 Into the Book Preview - “Luke 21-24; Acts 1” (DAILY DOWNLOAD) The Ruthless Elimination of Hurry by John Mark Comer (BOOK) Cafe Poca Cosa (RESTAURANT) Pancho’s (RESTAURANT)

This week, as we go Finding Jesus in Luke 16-20, we notice that Jesus is never boring and always knows the right thing to say. But we also see his heart ache for people, and learn that he likes to hear “thank you” as much as anyone. As we set Psalm 10 in Motion, we learn to speak frankly with God and turn our questions to praise. It may seem like God is avoiding you when you need him most, but the King is listening — so what are you asking? The Big Idea: Helping the helpless is one of God’s specialties. Weekly Challenge: Speak your mind to God in prayer this week. Show Notes Into the Book - Week 4 Into the Book Preview - “Luke 16-20” (DAILY DOWNLOAD) “What Do You Say?” (DAILY DOWNLOAD) “Donkey Declarations” (DAILY DOWNLOAD)

This week, we’re on fire! Or at least we’re talking about fire a lot. We go looking for Jesus in this week’s readings and find a strong man casting fire on the earth. Our Scripture du Jour has us rethinking our dinner invitations and trying to stay salty. And a Psalm 9 edition of Poetry in Motion has us praising the God who sees us, maintains justice, and gives us a stronghold. The Big Idea: Understanding fire of God’s judgment on evil brings the humble heart to repent. Weekly Challenge: Get together with someone you would normally not invite. Show Notes Into the Book - Week 3 Into the Book Preview - “Luke 11-15” (DAILY DOWNLOAD) “Controlled Burn” (DAILY DOWNLOAD) Sans Saline” (DAILY DOWNLOAD) Christ’s Victory (SERMON) Instruments of Peace (SONG)