Bible Geeks Podcast

Programming Note: This week, we're replaying one of our favorite episodes on spiritual growth. We'll be back next week with a brand new episode. This week, we answer a listener question about going from milk to meat and find that the next step of growth is different for all of us. The conversation takes us from muscle men with toothpick legs to babies with giant heads, as what Jesus Said in Mark 8:14-21 reminds us that the Lord expects us to follow an appropriate growth curve. How do we overcome spiritual stagnation and keep moving forward, both as Bible students and as disciples? Join us as we try to figure it out! The Big Idea: Discernment is the art of appropriately applying all the relevant Biblical principles to a circumstance or issue. Weekly Challenge: Read a book of the Bible that you haven’t studied in-depth. Show Notes Jesus Said … Mark 8:14-21 Hidden in Plain Sight - The Lever by Ryan Joy (SERMON) Hidden in Plain Sight - Take A Look by Ryan Joy (SERMON) Hidden in Plain Sight - How To Find Truth by Ryan Joy (SERMON) Hidden in Plain Sight - Mirror Mirror by Ryan Joy (SERMON) Hidden in Plain Sight - Wisdom Of Fools by Ryan Joy (SERMON) The Bible Story by Ryan Joy (SERMON)

Why is it so hard to talk to people about the gospel? How can we engage people in real dialogue about the truth? Join us for a discussion about the gospel, as we seek to understand it and share it. And as we talk about the first week’s reading on this episode, it’s still a great time to start reading through the New Testament with us! With the new year, we’ve also changed up the format — Finding Jesus in every passage we read and offering our Scripture du Jour from the week’s reading. Hope you’ll join us! The Big Idea: Reasonable dialogue can open opportunities for sharing the gospel, where one-way communication might fall short. Weekly Challenge: Ask someone a spiritual question this week. Show Notes Into the Book - Week 1 2020 Theme: Guard the Treasure by Ryan Joy (SERMON) Readings with Theophilus by Ryan Joy (SERMON) “Stranger Dangers” (DAILY DOWNLOAD) Humility by Andrew Murray (BOOK) Triple Option Offense (LINK)

Happy 2020 — are you ready to get Into the Book? We’re kicking off a new focus for this year, journeying through the New Testament, reading one chapter every weekday. Have you ever read through the Bible in a year? Maybe you do it every year or maybe you (like us!) have had some difficulty making it through. Either way, we hope you’ll join us! The Big Idea: Reading through the Bible in a year is a marathon, not a sprint, so we designed this plan to give you the flexibility to make it to the finish line! Weekly Challenge: Start the weekly reading plan. Show Notes Into the Book Bible Reading Plan Magnificat (SONG) YouVersion (APP) Metrical Psalter (BOOK)

How would you sum up your year in one word? As we complete 2019, we encourage you to reflect on your year with us, considering what happened and what you learned. We share some of the books that impacted us, what our goals were (and how we failed at them!), and discuss the important difference between a goal and an intention. And as usual, we kick things off with something Jesus Said — a promise that we will be satisfied in Matthew 5:6. Join us as we put a bow on The Year That Was: 2019! The Big Idea: When we deal well with our past we’re better prepared for our future. Weekly Challenge: Answer two questions about 2019 for yourself. Show Notes Jesus Said … Matthew 5:6 Margin by Richard Swenson (BOOK) Something Needs to Change by David Platt (BOOK) The Common Rule by Justin Earley (BOOK) Working the Angles by Eugene Peterson (BOOK) From Whom No Secrets Are Hid by Walter Breuggeman (BOOK) What’s Best Next by Matt Perlman (BOOK)

In this episode, we're diving into one of the most "singable" psalms — Psalm 8 — talking about God's majesty and love for us. What's our role on this earth? What does nature teach us about the Creator? Let's listen to the voice of the little ones in Matthew 21:14-16! And we wrap it all up with a few of our favorite things, including movies, books, and quiet moments alone in the woods. We hope you’ll join us — it's way better than listening to stereo instructions! The Big Idea: We may be small, but the Creator of the universe loves us. Weekly Challenge: Stop and reflect on God’s glory in nature. Show Notes Jesus Said … Matthew 21:14-16 “Nature Lessons” (DAILY DOWNLOAD) Elohim - The Bible Project (VIDEO) The Unseen Realm by Dr. Michael S. Heiser (BOOK) DesignWorks Ink - Standard Issue Notebook No. 3 (PRODUCT) Zondervan Handbook of the Bible (BOOK)

We’re closing out our “Young folks” series with our Top 4 Proverbs on the subject along with some closing advice to our younger selves. How do you find great friends and a great spouse? Why is tending to your own heart such a big deal? And (sorry!) we had to get into every grown up’s favorite word to repeat to teenagers: “responsibility!” From some timeless words of Jesus in Matthew 26:41 (“Watch and pray”) to a silly saying by Ryan’s Grandpap (“Wherever you go, there you are”), we are grasping for all the wisdom we can find to pass onto “Little Bryan” and “Little Ryan.” So join us for one more trip on the Delorian! The Big Idea: Invest your time and energy into maintaining 1) your heart and 2) your important relationships — your life will largely take its shape from these two factors. Weekly Challenge: Spend time with a friend who sharpens you. Show Notes Jesus Said … Matthew 26:41

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)

How can a young person set a course for a meaningful work life? How is confessing Jesus (Matt. 10:32–33) like giving a reference letter? And how do we begin to lift Bible reading from drudgery to delight? Continuing our series on what we would love to tell our younger selves, today we consider the value of values — the impact that writing down our core commitments can have on the shape of our lives. A well-built life starts with a purposefully-laid foundation of beliefs and habits! The Big Idea: To internalize the principles of Scripture, we have to identify them, practice them, and reflect on them. Weekly Challenge: Write down your core values and share them with someone close to you. Show Notes Jesus Said … Matthew 10:32–33 Celebration of Discipline Resource Guide (PDF)

Programming Note: This week, we're replaying one of our favorite episodes from the past. We'll be back Thursday, November 28th with a brand new episode. What is the value of weakness? What’s the problem with the term self-control? And why do we all occasionally find ourselves holding a tub of ice cream when we should probably have skipped dessert? This week we begin a series on the fruit of the Spirit and review all our challenges so far. We also talk about what Jesus Said to Paul in 2 Corinthians 12:7-9. Weekly Challenge: Review your yearly and quarterly goals. Show Notes Jesus Said … 2 Corinthians 12:7-9 Getting Things Done (BOOK)

We’re heading back in the DeLorean to talk to our younger selves on this episode. What Jesus Said about service in Luke 22:24–27 leads the way in our discussion about how “young folks” can take on the role of leaders. When we start by leading ourselves through easy and tough times, then we can begin to take responsibility for leading others. We cover mentorship, organization, volunteering, and other areas the upcoming generation of disciples can make a difference. There’s no better time than today to begin to be an example for others to follow! The Big Idea: The first step of leadership is to take responsibility for leading yourself. Weekly Challenge: Identify your contribution to the body and invest yourself in it. Show Notes Jesus Said … Luke 22:24–27 Alfred D. Souza (QUOTE) Y.E.S. - Youth Edification Support (WEBSITE)

This week we take on the generation gap in the church, looking for a way forward that brings us together in the Lord’s name. A popular meme has young people responding to older generations with a #OKBoomer. A recent Pew Research poll documents the continued drop in Millennials who call themselves Christians. We see this problem all around us, but when relationships become strained in the Lord’s church — when either young or old become disconnected — we have a responsibility to build the body. So join us as we talk about oneness, Teddy Roosevelt, slime, and what it means to be stuck with each other! The Big Idea: Listening to one another in love — regardless of a brother’s different age or background — leads to fruitful dialogue and greater church unity. Weekly Challenge: Connect with someone from another age group than you this week. Show Notes Jesus Said … John 17:10-23 Decline of Christianity Continues at Rapid Pace (POLL) Roosevelt's "The Man in the Arena" (QUOTE) “Slime Camp” (DAILY DOWNLOAD) Conviction vs. Mercy by Gardner Hall (BOOK)

Are you ready for Jesus’ return? How can you be sure? In this episode, we’re looking at his challenging words about preparedness from Luke 17:26-35, and we’re “Flying Through the Book” of 2 Peter. The common theme: knowledge and growth. The more we know about the Lord, and the deeper our relationship with him, the greater our confidence will be. We cover the plastic food of fakers, keeping our eyeballs toward the hope of heaven, and being diligent in adding to our faith. The Big Idea: Our hope in God’s promises shapes our choices and strengthens our self-control. Weekly Challenge: Meditate on one virtue from 2 Peter 1:5-7. Show Notes Jesus Said … Luke 17:26-35 Episode 37 - "The Big Mo!" gnōsis | γνῶσις (LEXICON) epignōsis | ἐπίγνωσις (LEXICON)

Ever get in a rut? Ever have a week, a month, or even a year when everything seems harder than it should be and you can’t seem to find your footing? This week we’re talking about momentum, starting what Jesus Said in Matthew 25:14-30. How do we get out of “autopilot” and become an expert in our lives? How can our surroundings and support system make all the difference? Join us as we try to figure out how to get on the right track and stay there! The Big Idea: Small, positive steps can turn around a downward spiral, but it takes patience, purpose, and faith. Weekly Challenge: Modify your surroundings to make spiritual growth easier. Show Notes Jesus Said … Matthew 25:14-30 “Be Wise Small” - Excel Still More (PODCAST) “Momentum Matters” - Focus 3 (PODCAST) “Your Best Year Ever” by Michael Hyatt (BOOK) Episode 32 - “Go Milk a Cow” Episode 3 - "The First Century Person Inside My Brain" Episode 2 - “As Was His Custom”

If you’ve ever felt misunderstood or wrongly accused of something, you know how painful it can be. But how should a Christian respond? This week we begin with what “Jesus Said” segment focused on what Jesus DIDN’T say in Matthew 27:11-14 and then consider how we can learn to imitate his silence. Then we spend some time in a Poetry in Motion segment about a psalm David wrote while falsely accused. The Big Idea: If we live with simplicity and integrity, we’ll keep a clean conscience and unshaken confidence in God, even when under attack. Weekly Challenge: Consider challenging feedback you’ve received and ask yourself if there’s something you can learn or change. Show Notes Jesus Said … Matthew 27:11-14 Psalm 7

This week we counted down our Top 4 Proverbs on money, which brought some interesting discoveries! We learned how to “lend money” to God and how to make friends with eternal houses. We discussed how our weekly paycheck is like Confederate currency at the end of the Civil War. And we wondered, “What would we see if we got a quarterly report on our spiritual investments?” The Big Idea: We have investment opportunities today that will soon disappear, so manage your money for eternal gains. Weekly Challenge: Look over your finances and note how your spending honors God. Show Notes Jesus Said … Luke 16:1-13 Proverbs 19:17 Proverbs 3:9-10 Proverbs 18:11 Proverbs 11:4 Money, Possessions, and Eternity by Randy Alcorn (BOOK)

This 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 Notes Jesus Said … Matthew 5:43-48 Six Rules of Prayer by Ryan Joy (SERMON) Six More Rules of Prayer by Ryan Joy (SERMON) Echo Prayer App (APP)

Programming Note: This week, we're replaying one of our favorite episodes where we talked with our wives about the challenges of comparison. We'll be back next week with a brand new episode. The ladies have arrived! This week we discover that our wives are better at podcasting than we are, as they join us to discuss the trap of comparing ourselves to others. We begin with what Jesus Said about anxiety in Matthew 6:31-34 and end with a challenge to combat comparison with appreciation. In between, Adrienne and Sharilyn talk about beauty, lawn care, swimsuits, homeschooling, and working outside the home as a mom. You don’t want to miss this one! Weekly Challenge: Express gratitude to someone this week. Show Notes Jesus Said … Matthew 6:31-34 Backwards Beauty by Jessie Minassian (BOOK) Mom on Purpose (PODCAST) The Unglued Challenge by Lysa TerKeurst (DAILY DEVOTIONALS) The Bible App by YouVersion (APP) “Thank Your, Ladies and Gentlemen” (VIDEO CLIP)

This week, we answer a listener question about going from milk to meat and find that the next step of growth is different for all of us. The conversation takes us from muscle men with toothpick legs to babies with giant heads, as what Jesus Said in Mark 8:14-21 reminds us that the Lord expects us to follow an appropriate growth curve. How do we overcome spiritual stagnation and keep moving forward, both as Bible students and as disciples? Join us as we try to figure it out! The Big Idea: Discernment is the art of appropriately applying all the relevant Biblical principles to a circumstance or issue. Weekly Challenge: Read a book of the Bible that you haven’t studied in-depth. Show Notes Jesus Said … Mark 8:14-21 Hidden in Plain Sight - The Lever by Ryan Joy (SERMON) Hidden in Plain Sight - Take A Look by Ryan Joy (SERMON) Hidden in Plain Sight - How To Find Truth by Ryan Joy (SERMON) Hidden in Plain Sight - Mirror Mirror by Ryan Joy (SERMON) Hidden in Plain Sight - Wisdom Of Fools by Ryan Joy (SERMON) The Bible Story by Ryan Joy (SERMON)

Ever feel stressed out and overloaded with all the busyness of life. We sure do! So what can we do about it? This week we’re talking about margin, and how to make more time, money, and energy available to serve God and others. Two of our favorite sisters from Luke 10:38-42, Mary and Martha, show us both sides of stress. And we cover the challenges of saying “no,” the dissatisfaction we feel despite our modern conveniences, and how Jesus handled his busy schedule. The Big Idea: Saying “no” to some good things in our schedule and budget gives us the space to say “yes” to better things. Weekly Challenge: Identify something that causes you stress and take steps to reduce it. Show Notes Jesus Said … Luke 10:38-42 “Go Get Her A Sandwich” (EPISODE) Margin: Restoring Emotional, Physical, Financial, and Time Reserves to Overloaded Lives by Richard Swenson (BOOK) Essentialism - The Disciplined Pursuit of Less by Greg McKeown (BOOK) Stress Free Chess from Excel Still More by Kris Emerson (PODCAST) Productivity, Part 1 (SERMON) Productivity, Part 2 (SERMON)

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 Notes Jesus Said … Isaiah 50:4-7 12 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)

We’re putting a bow on the miracles of Jesus in John, with a discussion of the quintessentially amazing events surrounding his resurrection. We talk about going through grief, how seeing isn’t always believing, and about the transformation that comes when we cast our cares on God. Also getting into a bit of “Poetry in Motion” with David’s words from Psalm 6, and finally a challenge to reach out and submit your questions. Oh, and did we mention there’s a discussion about polar bear hunting? The Big Idea: When you feel weary, troubled, and alone, remember the Lord hears and understands. Weekly Challenge: Send us a question about growing in your faith. Show Notes Jesus Said … Matthew 26:36–39 We’re Going On A Bear Hunt - by Michael Rosen (BOOK) We’re Going On A Bear Hunt (VIDEO) A Metrical Psalter: The Book of Psalms Set to Meter for Singing by Julie and Timothy Tennent (BOOK)

Believe in Jesus’ Power to Raise the Dead We 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 Notes Jesus Said … Revelation 1:17-18 John 19-21

Be Confident Yet Moldable Whatta ya know? This week we take on a “Heavy Word” for “knowing,” and ask: How important is the difference between what we know and what we think we know? We get an answer when a “mic-drop” moment from a healed blind man leads to a childish moment from some Jews, in part six of our “Here’s Your Sign” series. And what Jesus Said in John 21:15-17 challenges, heals, and commissions Peter to serve others. Push play and let’s dive into the Word together! The Big Idea: It’s easy to find ways to confirm our convictions, but we establish Biblical faith by following the evidence and discovering the truth. Weekly Challenge: Use an opportunity to share what you know about Christ. Show Notes Jesus Said … John 21:15-17 “Now You Know” — G.I. Joe (VIDEO)

“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 Notes Jesus Said … Luke 12:4-7 How To Talk To Yourself (Part 3) by Ryan Joy (SERMON) Through the Fire by Ryan Joy (SERMON) Overcoming Fear by Ryan Joy (SERMON)

Weird episode alert! This week we’re tackling Jesus’ challenging words about eating his body during that Passover meal in Luke 22:19-20. We see similar language after he miraculously feeds 5000 in our “Here’s Your Sign” segment. After sharing a few “Deep Thoughts” about his ability to create abundance out of nothing, we talk about how Jesus is EVERYTHING. Hang on tight … difficult words ahead! Weekly Challenge: Figure out where you’re lacking and ask God for an abundance. Show Notes Jesus Said … Luke 22:19-20 Jesus Feeds 5000 People (VIDEO) What's In Your Basket by Bryan Schiele (SERMON)

What do you want? What Jesus Said to Mary in John 20:14-16 kicks off an episode all about what we’re seeking. We dive into the question he asked a paralytic in part two of our miracles series, “Here’s Your Sign.” And then we take on the “Heavy Words” for “seek” and “want,” recognizing their significance in John’s gospel and our lives. We hope you’re as challenged and edified by Jesus’ words as we were in this week’s conversation! Weekly Challenge: Make a list of what you want and identify how they line up with God’s desires. Show Notes Bible Geeks Daily Download Jesus Said … John 20:14-16 Ordinary Questions by Ryan Joy (Sermon) Warren Buffet's "2 List Strategy" by James Clear (BLOG)

When your child’s illness takes a turn for the worst, how do you cope, and could anything pull you from their bedside? This week, we continue our series on Christ’s miracles, “Here’s Your Sign,” watching as one desperate father runs to Jesus and gets more than a miracle in the exchange. Plus, in a Psalm 5 edition of “Poetry in Motion,” we journey through a morning prayer all about going to God in trouble. And what Jesus Said in Matthew 11:28-30 calls us to restful order with him. We stuffed this one with Bible-y goodness! Weekly Challenge: Ask God to resolve a troubling situation in your life, or for someone you know. Show Notes Bible Geeks Daily Download Jesus Said … Matthew 11:28-30

This week we kick off a new series called “Here’s Your Sign,” mining the miracles of Jesus for their insights into the Lord himself. We start with a wedding story about Jesus saving the day! Plus, what Jesus Said in John 12:20-28 has us doing Mad Libs as we aim to glorify the Lord in the everyday moments of our lives. Weekly Challenge: Glorify the Lord in your everyday life. Show Notes Jesus Said … John 12:20-28 Episode 20 - “Almost Funny” (EPISODE) Jesus Turns Water into Wine (VIDEO)

Broken relationships, misunderstandings, hurt feelings. So easy to say “forgive and forget,” but how do we get past a wrong? Throughout this episode we keep coming back to life’s complicated moral debts — like the pain we cause others — so much harder to pay off than mortgages and credit cards! So we’re “Flying Through” Philemon, the short letter that tells the story of two brothers with some big problems to work out. And we find an answer to the question, “How can I love Jesus more?” when we hear what Jesus Said in Luke 7:36-47. Hope you join us! Weekly Challenge: Examine your relationships to find anywhere you need to extend forgiveness. Show Notes Jesus Said … Luke 7:36-47 Forgiving Our Enemies by Bryan Schiele (VIDEO) Kingdom Roots (PODCAST)

The ladies have arrived! This week we discover that our wives are better at podcasting than we are, as they join us to discuss the trap of comparing ourselves to others. We begin with what Jesus Said about anxiety in Matthew 6:31-34 and end with a challenge to combat comparison with appreciation. In between, Adrienne and Sharilyn talk about beauty, lawn care, swimsuits, homeschooling, and working outside the home as a mom. You don’t want to miss this one! Weekly Challenge: Express gratitude to someone this week. Show Notes Jesus Said … Matthew 6:31-34 Backwards Beauty by Jessie Minassian (BOOK) Mom on Purpose (PODCAST) The Unglued Challenge by Lysa TerKeurst (DAILY DEVOTIONALS) The Bible App by YouVersion (APP) “Thank Your, Ladies and Gentlemen” (VIDEO CLIP)

Getting to know you, getting to know all about you — this week we’re sharing some of our Favorite Things about the connection between the New and Old Testaments, marriage, parenting, morning rituals, and organization. We look out the window in our Jesus Said segment to see the angels of God ascending and descending on the Messiah from John 1:51, and we search for more in-depth ways to connect with others by asking deeper questions. Weekly Challenge: Learn more about someone by asking some of their favorite things. Show Notes Jesus Said … John 1:51

We’re moving beyond the "life hacks" and "tips & tricks" on this episode, talking about productivity from a biblical perspective. We discuss what “Jesus Said” in Luke 13:6-9 about His investment in us, how God will determine when enough is enough, the ways we can be more fruitful in small next steps, and the importance of recharging our batteries. So put down your day planner, grab a hoagie (if you’re getting hungry), and listen along! Weekly Challenge: Find time this week to recharge. Show Notes Jesus Said … Luke13:6-9 The Next Right Thing by Emily P. Freeman (BOOK) Deep Work by Cal Newport (BOOK) Productivity - Part 1 by Ryan Joy (SERMON) Productivity - Part 2 by Ryan Joy (SERMON)

On this episode, we explore the difference between “enough” and “more, more!” This takes us from what Jesus Said about covetousness in Luke12:13-15 to what David said about a good night’s sleep in a Psalm 4 edition of Poetry in Motion. From our modern “FOMO” to Paul’s “secret,” contentment is a timeless answer to human restlessness and misplaced desire. Weekly Challenge: Identify something you have in abundance and share it with someone in need. Show Notes Jesus Said … Luke12:13-15 Finding Contentment by Bryan Schiele (SERMON)

Keeping it light this week, we’re just trying to answer all of life’s biggest questions! What’s my purpose? Why does the universe exist? What’s God’s big, eternal plan? Fortunately, Paul has given us a window into “the heavenly places” in the book of Ephesians, so we’re “Flying Through the Book!” And what Jesus Said in John 3:2-3 kicks us off, leading into the discussion of our new identity. Weekly Challenge: Examine your life to expose anything “unfruitful” that you should eliminate. Show Notes Jesus Said … John 3:2-3 The Common Rule (BOOK) The Common Rule Habits (CHART) Who Was Ephesians Written To? (STUDY GUIDE)

This week we take on some of the obstacles that keep us from fulfilling our two most basic purposes: loving God and others. We discuss the temptation to “hole up” away from the world, the difficulty of saying “no” to the demands and distractions of our lives, and the habit of insisting on our own way. We also talk about our favorite “love songs” in the Bible as we finish our Fruit series. And we wonder what is “new” about Jesus’ commandment to “love another” in John 13:34-35. Weekly Challenge: Choose one of the 8 habits from “The Common Rule” to try this week. Show Notes Jesus Said … John 13:34-35 Do you suffer from gadget addiction? (BLOG) O Sacred Head (SONG) The Common Rule (BOOK) The Common Rule Habits (CHART) Augustine’s Prayer (QUOTE) The Commandment Before the Greatest Commandment (SERMON) The Commandment After the Greatest Commandment (SERMON) Chara Poster by The Bible Project (IMAGE) Word Study: Agape - "Love" by The Bible Project (VIDEO)

This week, what Jesus said in Luke 15:4-7 reminds us of the night we went searching the neighborhood for a dog. And what Paul says in Philippians 4 teaches us to avoid staring at “Medusa.” Join us we journey through the book of Philippians and consider how to live with joy, nearing the end of our Fruit series. Plus, Bryan uses the word “penultimate” appropriately and we ALMOST make it through an episode without mentioning Marie Kondo. Thanks for following and subscribing! Weekly Challenge: Read the book of Philippians and focus on joy. Show Notes Jesus Said … Luke 15:4-7 Chara Poster by The Bible Project (IMAGE) Word Study: Chara - "Joy" by The Bible Project (VIDEO) How Long Does It Take To Read Each Book Of The Bible? - J.A. Medders (IMAGE)

Continuing our Fruit series, we look at the commanding words of Jesus over the wind and waves from Mark 4:37-40, the “exile ethic” of men like Daniel, the strength of a well-built wall, and the dangers of drinking coffee in a room that’s on fire. We’re talking about “Shalom,” the depth of peace which surpasses all understanding! Join us for a listen. Weekly Challenge: Find a quiet place this week to be still and acknowledge that the Lord is God. Show Notes Jesus Said … Mark 4:37-40 Shalom Poster by The Bible Project (IMAGE) Word Study: Shalom - "Peace" by The Bible Project (VIDEO) Shalom by Ryan Joy (SERMON VIDEO) Shalom (PDF) “Peace in the Storm” Painting (IMAGE) “This Is Fine” Dog (GIF)

As we continue our Fruit series, this week’s theme is “Patience.” Or, “How to Avoid Living Like a Can of Shaken Soda.” Or, as we discuss in our Jesus Said segment in Matthew 16:22-23, “Just Because Jesus Called You Satan, Doesn’t Mean He Has Given Up On You.” Join us as we talk about patience in trials, patience with others, and even patience with ourselves! Weekly Challenge: Make a list of anything in your life that would keep you from being patient. Show Notes Jesus Said … Matthew 16:22-23 Mentos and Diet Coke Explosion in Slow Motion (VIDEO) Seeing Jesus with New Eyes (SERMON) How Do We Keep Our Cool (SERMON) Yoda’s Advice About Fear (VIDEO)

On this episode, we ask “What’s the Deal” with John’s doubts and wonder what our bodies will be like in the resurrection. We try to figure out how to choose between two good things as we continue our Fruit of the Spirit series, and something Jesus Said in Mark 10:17-18 gets to the heart of what is good. Weekly Challenge: Pray for God to fulfill every resolve for good in our lives. Show Notes Jesus Said … Mark 10:17-18 Go Tell John by Ryan Joy (SERMON) Foundations: Resurrection and Judgment by Ryan Joy (SERMON)

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 Notes Jesus Said … Luke 12:42-48 Mercy 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)

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 Notes Jesus Said … Matthew 5:5

What is the value of weakness? What’s the problem with the term self-control? And why do we all occasionally find ourselves holding a tub of ice cream when we should probably have skipped dessert? This week we begin a series on the fruit of the Spirit and review all our challenges so far. We also talk about what Jesus Said to Paul in 2 Corinthians 12:7-9. Weekly Challenge: Review your yearly and quarterly goals. Show Notes Jesus Said … 2 Corinthians 12:7-9 Getting Things Done (BOOK)

This week we discuss some perplexing questions about prayer in a new segment we call “What’s The Deal With That?” Bryan asks what we mean when we say “prayer works” and Ryan asks why we pray if God already has a plan for the future. As always, we start with some thought-provoking words from Jesus in Luke 11:5-10 and end with a practical challenge for your week! Weekly Challenge: Try journaling your prayers this week. Show Notes Jesus Said … Luke 11:5-10 Why Christians Should Stop Saying “Prayer Works” by Carey Nieuwhof (ARTICLE) Are God’s Answers to Our Prayers Miracles? (SERMON) Six Rules of Prayer (SERMON) Six More Rules of Prayer (SERMON)

This week we put the spotlight on marriage, from Jesus’ authoritative words on the union to practical wisdom we’ve learned (sometimes the hard way) through the years. We also contemplate some “deeeep thoughts” on what God is doing between a husband and wife. Join us for a listen! Weekly Challenge: Talk to your spouse, focussing on listening, and take action based on your conversation. Show Notes Jesus Said … Matthew 19:3-7 The Meaning of Yada in Hebrew (REFERENCE) The Model for Marriage by Bryan Schiele (SERMON) Traveling Companions - Part 1 by Ryan Joy (SERMON) Traveling Companions - Part 2 by Ryan Joy (SERMON) Traveling Companions - Part 3 by Ryan Joy (SERMON) Love & Respect by Dr. Emerson Eggerichs (BOOK) Agape Love by Ryan Joy (SERMON)

This week we set “Poetry in Motion” with the second psalm, and if you’ve ever watched the news with amazed discouragement, you can probably relate to its picture of a turbulent world beneath the sure throne of God. Plus, Bryan explains two words Jesus Said in Mark 2:14 and we invite you to try our favorite Bible study method. Weekly Challenge: Study a chapter of the Bible and apply one of the inductive principles to your study. Show Notes A Metrical Psalter: The Book of Psalms Set to Meter for Singing by Julie and Timothy Tennent (BOOK) Jesus Said … Mark 2:14 New Inductive Study Series by Precept Ministries (BOOKS) 10 Tips for Getting Started with Inductive Bible Study (BLOG) Episode 4 - "Fully Infused" (PODCAST) The New Inductive Study Bible (BOOK)

Movies that quote word-for-word from the gospels. Beautifully handcrafted leather-bound Bibles. Singing the Psalter, Bonhoeffer, and more. These are a few of our favorite things! Join us as we discuss what Jesus saw in the mass of humanity in Matthew 9:35-38, why we need to be contagious, and how singing can change your day. Weekly Challenge: Sing a spiritual song every day this week. Show Notes Jesus Said … Matthew 9:35-38 A Contagious Cure by Ryan Joy If Bible Translations Were Star Wars Characters (IMAGE) Faithlife TV (WEBSITE) The Gospel of Mark (VIDEO) and Ted Hildebrandt’s Youtube Channel (VIDEO) Excel Still More by Kris Emerson (PODCAST) Read Scripture videos by the Bible Project (VIDEO) Paul’s Leather Company (STORE) Bible Lectures on Logos Mobile Ed (WEBSITE) The Cost of Discipleship by Dietrich Bonhoeffer (BOOK) A Metrical Psalter: The Book of Psalms Set to Meter for Singing by Julie and Timothy Tennent (BOOK) Psalms, Hymns, and Spiritual Songs (HYMNAL) 15 Reasons We Love To Sing by Ryan Joy (SERMON)

When most people think of meditation, they think of someone cross-legged on a mountain saying, “Ommm.” The Bible draws us into a different kind of meditation altogether, so in a new segment called “Poetry in Motion,” we go to the first psalm to explore one of Scripture’s defining pictures of meditation. How is Bible meditation different from other forms of meditation and what are some practical strategies for getting started? Weekly Challenge: Choose a passage and meditate on it this week. Show Notes Jesus Said … Luke 4:18-21 Psalm 1 Celebration of Discipline by Richard J. Foster (BOOK)

Exorcisms, Exodus, and excess baggage … we cover the gamut this week, examining servant leadership from John 13:12-15, diving into some “Deep Thoughts” and challenging each other to shed some spiritual “weight.” Weekly Challenge: Ask a close friend what baggage you need to shed. Show Notes Jesus Said … John 13:12-15 Traveling Companions Part 2 - Baggage Check by Ryan Joy (SERMON) “Baggage Check” Lesson Graphics (PDF) The Primes: How Any Group Can Solve Any Problem by Chris McGoff (BOOK) The Leadership Spectrum Prime (SITE) Exegesis Versus Eisegesis (BLOG) Naked Bible 87: Exorcism of Demons as Part of the Messianic Profile (PODCAST) Bruce Waltke on the Psalms (VIDEO) Prejudice & Privilege by Bryan Schiele (VIDEO)

This week we’re all about habits! How do you get a good habit to stick, why is a sin habit so hard to shake, and what kind of habits did Jesus have? We’ve had habits on the brain lately as we both have been reading James Clear’s new book, so we’re examining our own habits and diving into God’s wisdom on this practical subject. Plus Bryan reacts to Jesus’ words on God filling us up to overflowing from Luke 6:38, and Ryan shares why his son can’t seem to shake the thumb-sucking habit. Join us for a listen! Weekly Challenge: Identify a small habit that supports your bigger spiritual goals and incorporate into your daily routine. Show Notes Jesus Said … Luke 6:38 Atomic Habits by James Clear (BOOK) The Power of Habit by Charles Duhigg (BOOK) The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People (BOOK) Marginal Gains: This Coach Improved Every Tiny Thing by 1 Percent (BLOG) Start Tiny (BLOG) Bullet Journal (SITE) Productive habits & daily goals tracker (APP) Ryan’s 50 Challenges (SERMON) Ryan’s Habits Presentation (SLIDES)

Welcome to the inaugural episode of the Bible Geeks podcast. We’re starting from square one by introducing ourselves and laying out our vision for the show. We also discuss the childlike response that Jesus demands of us in order to receive the kingdom of God from Mark 10:14-16. Thanks for subscribing and listening along! Show Notes: Jesus Said ... Mark 10:14-16 North church of Christ (SITE) Monte Vista church of Christ (SITE) Hugh Acheson Stirs The Pot: Ep. 1 - Tom Colicchio Heats Up Leftovers (PODCAST)