Help Me Teach The Bible

The Everyday Pastor is a new podcast from TGC on the nuts and bolts of ministry. Hosted by Ligon Duncan, with nearly 20 years of pastoral experience, and Matt Smethurst, who planted a church three years ago, it seeks to model how ministers of different generations, levels of experience, and even denominations can apply God’s never-changing Word in a fast-changing world.It’s not an easy time to be a pastor, but it’s an exciting one—because the Lord is on his throne and his Word is enough to help us navigate the trenches of ministry with fortitude and joy. So join Matt and Lig (and special guests along the way) as they seek to help you think wisely about nitty-gritty issues of everyday ministry.Don't miss an episode of The Everyday Pastor! Subscribe now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen. Help The Gospel Coalition build up a renewed church for tomorrow. Let's Build Together: Donate Today at tgc.org/together

Join Collin Hansen and Melissa Kruger for their annual recap discussion on the biggest stories affecting the church around the world in the last year. This conversation was originally featured on TGC's Gospelbound podcast.

When it comes to selecting a book of the Bible to study or teach, Revelation is a book that is often avoided. We’re a bit intimidated by it—afraid we won’t be able to understand it, afraid of the controversy that surrounds it, and afraid of the realities it presents in its graphic strangeness. We also know it is a book some people have an unhealthy obsession with. The book of Revelation actually begins and ends with a promise—a promise of blessing for those who hear what is revealed in it and allow that revelation to shape their perspective about what is real, what will last, and who is worthy of worship. In this workshop, recorded live at The Gospel Coalition's 2022 Women’s Conference, Nancy Guthrie addresses fears many have in regard to the book of Revelation—the fears of not understanding it, fears of controversy, persecution, and its depictions of God’s judgments— offering reasons to invest ourselves in understanding this challenging book as well as keys that will unlock its meaning and impact.Click here for more from Nancy on the book of Revelation.

We all know that some teachers are easier to listen to and learn from than others. And we want to be teachers who are clear and engaging. In this workshop recorded live at The Gospel Coalition's 2022 Women’s Conference, Nancy Guthrie defines what she means and doesn’t mean by “passion” and “personality” and then works through twelve ways to put personality and passion into your teaching without making it all about you. Topics include the use of story, voice variation, drama, humor, eye contact, and getting to the passion of Christ himself.

In this episode of Help Me Teach the Bible, Nancy sat down with Colleen McFadden and Lisa Helm. McFadden is director of women’s workshops for The Charles Simeon Trust, and Helm, wife of Simeon Trust executive director David Helm, is an instructor for the trust’s women’s workshops. We talked about their own development as Bible teachers and about the convictions every Bible teacher must hold. McFadden and Helm discuss how to use tools such as context, structure, traveling through the cross, and melodic line to get to the intended meaning of the biblical text.

In this episode of Help Me Teach the Bible, Nancy talked with Ligon Duncan—chancellor, CEO, and professor of systematic theology at Reformed Theological Seminary—about the book of Numbers. In the two-part conversation, Duncan helps teachers to see God’s kindness toward women in a couple of passages, the beauty embedded in the long lists of hard-to-pronounce names, and how to point to Christ in well-known stories such as Moses striking the rock, the serpent mounted on a pole, and Balaam’s talking donkey.Recommended ResourcesNumbers(Tyndale Old Testament Commentaries) by Gordon J. WenhamNumbers: God’s Presence in the Wildernessby Iain M. DuguidSermons on Numbers by Ligon DuncanThe Literary Study Bible edited by Leland RykenThe ESV Study BibleRyken’s Bible Handbook by Leland Ryken, Philip Ryken, and James Wilhoit

In this episode of Help Me Teach the Bible, Nancy talked with Ligon Duncan—Chancellor, CEO, and professor of systematic theology at Reformed Theological Seminary—about the book of Numbers. In our two-part conversation, Duncan helps teachers to see God’s kindness toward women in a couple of passages, the beauty embedded in the long lists of hard-to-pronounce names, and how to point to Christ in well-known stories such as Moses striking the rock, the serpent mounted on a pole, and Balaam’s talking donkey.Recommended ResourcesNumbers(Tyndale Old Testament Commentaries) by Gordon J. WenhamNumbers: God’s Presence in the Wildernessby Iain M. DuguidSermons on Numbers by Ligon DuncanThe Literary Study Bible edited by Leland RykenThe ESV Study BibleRyken’s Bible Handbook by Leland Ryken, Philip Ryken, and James Wilhoit

In this episode of Help Me Teach the Bible, Nancy sat down with Jen Wilkin to talk about organizing a Bible study. Wilkin is a minister in the Institute at The Village Church in Flower Mound, Texas, where she oversees curriculum and teaches women’s classes. She is the author of Women of the Word: How to Study the Bible with Both Our Hearts and Our Mindsand None Like Him: 10 Ways God Is Different from Us (and Why That’s a Good Thing). She has also published group studies on 1 Peter on the Sermon on the Mount.In this conversation, Wilkin explains how her passion and ability to teach developed and how significant it is to have a pastor affirm and encourage teaching gifts. Having led a large parachurch Bible study for women and now overseeing the women’s Bible study at her own church, Wilkin offers valuable advice for organizing and orchestrating a Bible study program. In particular, Wilkin says studies should provide structure, accountability, and predictability.

In this second of a two-part conversation on how to teach the Book of Romans, Michael J. Kruger, president and professor of New Testament and early Christianity at Reformed Theological Seminary (RTS), Charlotte, shares some of what he’s learned over the past two years through teaching Romans to a women’s Bible study. Kruger works his way from Romans 8–16, explaining how to do justice to the majestic themes in chapter 8, why Paul presents election not as a problem but as the solution to a greater problem, and how Paul guides us through the complexities of the Christian life in chapters 12–15.In addition to his duties at RTS, Kruger served (at the time of recording) as an associate pastor of Uptown Church in Charlotte. He blogs at Canon Fodder on the origins of the New Testament canon and other biblical and theological issues. Kruger is editor and contributor to A Biblical-Theological Introduction to the New Testament and author of both Canon Revisited: Establishing the Origins and Authority of the New Testament Books and also The Heresy of Orthodoxy: How Contemporary Culture’s Fascination with Diversity has Reshaped Our Understanding of Early Christianity, co-authored with Andreas Köstenberger.On Romans, Kruger recommends:Romans (The Crossway Classic Commentaries) by Charles HodgeThe Epistle to the Romans (The New International Commentary on the New Testament) by John MurrayThe Epistle to the Romans (The New International Commentary on the New Testament) by Douglas MooRomans International Critical Commentary (two-volume set) by C. E. B. CranfieldFourteen-volume set on Romans by Martyn Lloyd-JonesRomans (four-volume set) by James Montgomery BoiceStudy GuideRomans: A 12-Week Study by Jared C. Wilson

In part one of this two-part conversation on how to teach the book of Romans, Michael J. Kruger, president and professor of New Testament and early Christianity at Reformed Theological Seminary (RTS), Charlotte, shares some of what he’s learned over the past two years through teaching Romans to a women’s Bible study. Working his way through Romans 1 to 7, Kruger explains how and why he creates handouts for his students, and how to respond to those offended by what Paul writes in the book on homosexuality and the wrath of God.In addition to his duties at RTS, Kruger served (at the time of recording) as an associate pastor at Uptown Church in Charlotte. He blogs at Canon Fodder on the origins of the New Testament canon and other biblical and theological issues. Kruger is editor and contributor to A Biblical-Theological Introduction to the New Testament and author of both Canon Revisited: Establishing the Origins and Authority of the New Testament Books and The Heresy of Orthodoxy: How Contemporary Culture’s Fascination with Diversity has Reshaped Our Understanding of Early Christianity, co-authored with Andreas Köstenberger.On Romans, Kruger recommends:Romans (The Crossway Classic Commentaries) by Charles HodgeThe Epistle to the Romans (The New International Commentary on the New Testament) by John MurrayThe Epistle to the Romans (The New International Commentary on the New Testament) by Douglas MooRomans International Critical Commentary (two-volume set) by C. E. B. Cranfield14-volume set on Romans by Martyn Lloyd-JonesRomans (four-volume set) by James Montgomery BoiceStudy GuideRomans: A 12-Week Study by Jared C. Wilson

In this episode, Nancy talked with Paul House in Birmingham, Alabama, where he teaches Old Testament theology and Hebrew at Beeson Divinity School. House is the author of several books, including The Unity of the Twelve, Old Testament Survey, Old Testament Theology, Lamentations in the Word Biblical Commentary series, and Bonhoeffer’s Seminary Vision. He has also served as a member of the Translation Oversight Committee for the English Standard Version Bible.The Book of Jeremiah is 5 percent of the entire Bible, but House provides practical help on how to organize and what to emphasize in order to teach this book in just a few weeks. He also gives insight into the social and spiritual realities of Judah in Jeremiah’s day, which remarkably reflect social and spiritual realities in our own.Additional Print and Audio Resources:Jeremiah and Lamentations: From Sorrow to Hope by Philip Graham RykenJeremiah: A 12-Week Study by Matthew S. HarmonA Mouth Full of Fire: The Word of God in the Words of Jeremiahby Andrew SheadThe Prophet of the Heart sermon series from All Souls Langham PlaceSermons on Jeremiah by Colin Adams

In this episode of Help Me Teach the Bible, Nancy talked with Phillip Jensen at his Two Ways Ministries office in the heart of Sydney, Australia. Over a lifetime, Jensen’s ministry has centered around the exposition of the Scriptures. He served as chaplain for the University of New South Wales, offered leadership to the Katoomba Christian Convention, founded Matthias Media, and most recently served as dean of St. Andrews Cathedral in Sydney.To teach 1 Timothy, Jensen suggests we begin not at the outset of the letter but at the center, where Paul’s purpose for writing is stated clearly (1 Tim. 3:15) and should, therefore, inform our teaching throughout. Jensen challenges our preconceived understandings of “the mystery of godliness,” and provides a framework for understanding Paul’s teaching in 1 Timothy 2 about the proper behavior of men and women in the church.Print and audio resources on 1 Timothy:1–2 Timothy and Titus: A 12-Week Study by Brian Tabb1–2 Timothy and Titus: To Guard the Deposit by Bryan ChapellExalting Jesus in 1 and 2 Timothy and Titus by David Platt and Daniel AkinSermons on 1 Timothy by Phillip JensenSermons on 1 Timothy by Dick LucasSermons on 1 Timothy by Alistair BeggBooks by Phillip Jensen:Guidance and the Voice of GodTwo Ways to Live pamphlet

In her new podcast, Blessed, Nancy Guthrie sits down with Bible scholars, theologians, pastors, and other church leaders to explore the message of the book of Revelation, and why it's more relevant to our lives than we often think. Today, we're excited to share the first episode from Nancy's new show right here on the Help Me Teach the Bible podcast.Subscribe to Blessed: Conversations on the Book of Revelation with Nancy Guthrie on Apple Podcasts.

In this episode of Help Me Teach the Bible, Nancy sat down with Graeme Goldsworthy in his home in Brisbane, Australia, to talk about biblical theology and how it affects our understanding and teaching of the Bible. Goldsworthy has written many books, including the popularAccording to Plan: The Unfolding Revelation of God in the Bible, one of the best and most accessible overviews of the Bible’s basic plot. Over the course of our conversation, we discussed how this approach to the Bible was lost and found, how his approach to biblical theology differs from that of Geerhardus Vos and Edmund Clowney, and how to trace themes throughout the Scriptures as he demonstrates in his newest book, The Son of God and the New Creation in Crossway’s Short Studies in Biblical Theology book series. Books by Graeme Goldsworthy:The Goldsworthy Trilogy: Gospel and Kingdom; Gospel and Wisdom; The Gospel in RevelationGospel-Centered Hermeneutics: Foundations and Principles of Evangelical Biblical InterpretationChrist-Centered Biblical Theology: Hermeneutical Foundations and PrinciplesMentioned in this podcast:Biblical Theology: Old and New Testaments by Geerhardus VosThe Unfolding Mystery by Edmund ClowneyPreaching Christ in All of Scriptureby Edmund Clowney

In this episode of Help Me Teach the Bible, Nancy talked with Michael Horton of Westminster Seminary in California about his book and biblical teaching campaign Core Christianity. In addition to being the author of many popular and academic books, Horton is the editor-in-chief of Modern Reformationmagazine, one of the hosts of the White Horse Innradio broadcast, and a minister in the United Reformed Churches.In their conversation on his book Core Christianity: Finding Yourself in God’s Story, they discuss why those we teach need training in doctrine, the way God speaks to us today, and whether the purpose of our lives as Christians is to change the world.

In this conversation, O’Donnell provides helpful ideas and key insights for teaching through Matthew, including how to find the melodic line of Matthew, Matthew’s emphasis on pattern fulfillment, and what he calls “Doug O’s Amazing Ten Steps” to interpreting parables.Books by Douglas O’Donnell:Matthew: All Authority in Heaven and on EarthThe Beginning and End of WisdomGod’s Lyrics: Rediscovering Worship through Old Testament SongsThe Song of Solomon: An Invitation to IntimacyDouglas O’Donnell recommends:Matthew in the Zondervan Exegetical Commentary on the New Testament by Grant OsborneMatthew: A Commentary, Volumes 1 & 2 by Frederick Dale BrunerInterpreting the Parables by Craig BlombergThe Parables of Jesus by David Wenham

For this two-part conversation on 2 Samuel, Nancy sat down with John Woodhouse in his home office in Sydney, Australia.In part one, Woodhouse helps relate the story of God’s kingdom in David’s day to the context of God’s kingdom in our day. He gives us handles on how to teach 2 Samuel 7, one of the most important chapters in the Bible, in which God makes a covenant with David and promises that his throne will last forever. In part two, Woodhouse discuss the difficult-to-read—and even more challenging to teach—section on Amnon’s sin with Tamar and Absalom’s rebellion.Books on 2 Samuel:2 Samuel: Your Kingdom Come (Preaching the Word commentary series) by John WoodhouseSermons on 2 Samuel by John Calvin2 Samuel: Out of Every Adversity by Dale Ralph Davis1–2 Samuel: A Twelve Week Study by Ryan KellyAudio Resources on 2 Samuel:Sermons series by John Woodhouse at Christ Church St. Ives in Sydney, AustraliaSermon series by Liam Goligher at Tenth Presbyterian in PhiladelphiaSermon series by Ryan Kelly at Desert Springs Church in Albuquerque

For this two-part conversation on 2 Samuel, Nancy sat down with John Woodhouse in his home office in Sydney, Australia.In part one, Woodhouse helps relate the story of God’s kingdom in David’s day to the context of God’s kingdom in our day. He gives us handles on how to teach 2 Samuel 7, one of the most important chapters in the Bible, in which God makes a covenant with David and promises that his throne will last forever. In part two, Woodhouse discuss the difficult-to-read—and even more challenging to teach—section on Amnon’s sin with Tamar and Absalom’s rebellion.Books on 2 Samuel:2 Samuel: Your Kingdom Come (Preaching the Word commentary series) by John WoodhouseSermons on 2 Samuel by John Calvin2 Samuel: Out of Every Adversity by Dale Ralph Davis1–2 Samuel: A Twelve Week Study by Ryan KellyAudio Resources on 2 Samuel:Sermons series by John Woodhouse at Christ Church St. Ives in Sydney, AustraliaSermon series by Liam Goligher at Tenth Presbyterian in PhiladelphiaSermon series by Ryan Kelly at Desert Springs Church in Albuquerque

In this episode of Help Me Teach the Bible, Nancy sat down with two good friends who have spent many years identifying, recruiting, training, and overseeing teachers in the church. She asked them what they look for in a teacher, red flags that may indicate one shouldn’t be tapped to teach, and how they recommend people improve at teaching the Bible.Resources recommended in this episode:Simeon Trust WorkshopsOne to One Bible Reading by David HelmLiving By the Bookby Howard HendricksGetting the Message by Dan DorianiPutting the Truth to Work by Dan DorianiThe Heart Is the Target by Murray CapillZondervan Encyclopedia of the BibleESV Study BibleESV Gospel Transformation Bible

In this episode, Nancy sat down with Rosaria Butterfield, formerly a tenured professor of English at Syracuse University and now a pastor’s wife, homeschool mother of four, author, and a good neighbor. She tells about her experience and provides wisdom for those teaching the Bible to people like she once was—angry and skeptical, yet wanting to discover if the Bible is credible, what has to say, and what it demands.Both of Butterfield’s books are excellent resources for thinking about how to discuss the Bible with a confirmed yet curious skeptic:The Secret Thoughts of an Unlikely Convert [review]Openness Unhindered: Further Thoughts of an Unlikely Convert on Sexual Identity and Union with Christ[20 quotes | review]

On this episode of Help Me Teach the Bible, Nancy sat down with Trevin Wax—writer, TGC blogger, Religion New Service contributor, and (at the time) managing editor of The Gospel Project, a gospel-centered small group curriculum for all ages published by LifeWay Christian Resources. Wax presents the three questions every teacher needs to ask when preparing to teach as well as what makes teaching genuinely gospel-centered according to his book, Gospel-Centered Teaching: Showing Christ in All the Scripture.Resources mentioned by Trevin Wax:The Big Picture Interactive Bible StorybookThe Big Picture Story Bible by David HelmThe Jesus Storybook Bible by Sally Lloyd-JonesAccording to Planby Graeme GoldsworthyGod’s Big Pictureby Vaughan RobertsReading God’s Story: A Chronological Daily Bible by George GuthrieRead the Bible for Lifeby George Guthrie

In this episode of Help Me Teach the Bible, sat down with Carrie Sandom from TheProclamation Trust in the UK and Jenny Salt from Sydney Missionary and Bible College in Australia to talk about how they approach a passage they are preparing to teach.They discuss their first opportunities and how they found the confidence to teach, as well as how they would each like to continue to improve their teaching.Audio resources:Jenny Salt’s series on RuthTalks by Salt in TGC’s resource databaseCarrie Sandom’s messages at the Proclamation TrustTalks by Sandom in TGC’s resource database

On this episode of Help Me Teach the Bible, recorded live in front of an audience at The Gospel Coalition’s 2016 Women’s Conference in Indianapolis, Nancy talked to John Piper about the book of 1 Peter. Piper is the founder of Desiring God and chancellor of Bethlehem College & Seminary.While most of us may be familiar with John Piper’s preaching, he makes a case for teaching using the Socratic method by writing good questions for Bible study participants to work through, first on their own and then as a group.Audio/Video Resources on 1 PeterPlenary Sessions on 1 Peter from The Gospel Coalition’s 2016 Women’s ConferenceSermons on 1 Peter by Dick LucasSermons on 1 Peter by Alistair BeggVideo series and group study on 1 Peter by Jen WilkinRecommended Books1 and 2 Peter and Jude: Sharing Christ’s Sufferings by David Helm1 Peter (Reformed Expository Commentary) by Daniel DorianiThe Message of 1 Peter: The Way of the Cross by Edmund Clowney10 Keys to Unlock the Christian Life by Colin Smith

In this episode of Help Me Teach the Bible, Nancy Guthrie talked with Ray Ortlund Jr. about the book of Proverbs. Ortlund was the founding pastor of Immanuel Nashville and is president of Renewal Ministries and a Council member for TGC. Among many other books, he’s the author of Proverbs: Wisdom that Works in Crossway’s Preaching the Word Commentary series. Ray presents Proverbs as an opportunity to sit down with Jesus and have him as our counselor.Recommended resources:Ancient Wisdom: Mentoring from the Book of Proverbs, a series of messages by Ray OrtlundHow Do I Preach Expository Sermons from Proverbs? by Dan DorianiProverbs: A 12-Week Study by Lydia BrownbackResources recommended by Ray Ortlund Jr.:Proverbs in the Tyndale Old Testament Commentaries series by Derek KidnerThe Book of Proverbs: Chapters 1–15 and The Book of Proverbs, Chapter 15–31 by Bruce K. WaltkeThe Expositor’s Bible Commentary, which includes commentary by Allen P. Ross on Proverbs“The Emotional Life of Our Lord” essay by B. B. Warfield

On this episode of Help Me Teach the Bible, Nancy Guthrie talked with Justin Taylor and Dane Ortlund about how Bible teachers can build a library of useful resources.Taylor and Ortlund discuss books they believe are essential for the Bible teacher, publishing projects they’re most pleased to have been a part of, as well as what they’re working on now. They also talk about what makes an effective Bible teacher and how to become a better one.Resources suggested by Taylor and Ortlund:How to Read a Book by Mortimer AdlerKnowing the Bible study guide seriesIntroductions to Bible sections and other ESV Study Bible resourcesAccording to Planby Graeme GoldsworthyThe Bible Speaks Today commentary series

On this episode of Help Me Teach the Bible, Nancy Guthrie sat down with Colin Smith, pastor of The Orchard Evangelical Free Church in Arlington Heights, Illinois, and preacher at Unlocking the Bible. They discussed how to teach the story of Joseph with Christ at the center, as demonstrated in Smith’s “Snapshots of a Godly Life” sermon series.Joseph’s is the story of the loved and favored son who is hated by his brothers. Yet he is the one to whom they must come for salvation, the one to whom they must be reconciled.Mentioned in the discussion:Gleanings in Genesis (full text online) by A. W. PinkResources on Joseph:Sermon on Joseph by Dick LucasSermons on Joseph by Alistair Begg

In this episode of Help Me Teach the Bible, Nancy sits down with George Guthrie (no relation), professor of Bible at Union University in Jackson, Tennessee, to talk through how to teach Paul’s second letter to the church in Corinth.Guthrie provides clarity on the “triumphal procession,” our transformation “from one degree of glory to another,” as well as how to teach on financial giving in a way that captures the beauty of the passage. Guthrie has participated in numerous Bible translation projects and wrote Read the Bible for Life: Your Guide to Understanding and Living God’s Word as well as the volume on 2 Corinthians in the Baker Exegetical Commentary on the New Testament series.Recommended Print Resources2 Corinthians: Baker Exegetical Commentary on the New Testament by George GuthrieA Sincere and Pure Devotion to Christ: 100 Daily Meditations on 2 Corinthians by Sam Storms (Volume 1 and Volume 2)2 Corinthians: Power in Weakness by R. Kent Hughes in the Preach the Word Commentary2 Corinthians: A 12-Week Study by Dane Ortlund (forthcoming)Recommended Audio Resources2 Corinthians sermon series by Sinclair Ferguson2 Corinthian sermon series by Richard Pratt2 Corinthians sermon series by R. Kent Hughes

In this episode of Help Me Teach the Bible, Nancy talks to Scott Redd, campus president and associate professor of Old Testament at Reformed Theological Seminary in Washington, D.C. Redd is the author of the chapter on Deuteronomy in A Biblical-Theological Introduction to the Old Testament: The Gospel Promised, edited by Miles Van Pelt.He describes Deuteronomy as “the hub around which the entire Old Testament revolves.” In this discussion, Redd describes how the Ten Commandments serve as a table of contents for much of the book of Deuteronomy. He also helps with handling hard issues in the book, such as its discussion of slavery and the stoning of a rebellious son.Resources on Deuteronomy:Sermons on Deuteronomy by Sandy WillsonDeuteronomy’s Riches: A Conversation with Ajith FernandoThe Theology of Deuteronomy for Preachers workshop by Gary MillarNew International Biblical Commentary: Deuteronomy by Christopher WrightDeuteronomy (Apollos Old Testament Commentary) by J. G. McConvilleDeuteronomy (Evangelical Press Study Commentary) by John CurridDeuteronomy: Loving Obedience to a Loving God by Ajith FernandoNow Choose Life: Theology and Ethics in Deuteronomy by Gary Millar

In this episode of Help Me Teach the Bible, Nancy Guthrie talks with Lee Gatiss about the final book in the Old Testament, the book of Malachi. Gatiss is the director of Church Society and is an adjunct lecturer in church history at Union School of Theology in Wales. Gatiss is the senior editor of The NIV Proclamation Bible and is the author of numerous books including his recent book, The Forgotten Cross.Resources for teaching the book of Malachi:Lee Gatiss’s leaders notes on Malachi (pdf)The Message of Malachi by Peter AdamJoel, Obadiah, Malachi (NIV Application Commentary) by David BakerJohn Piper’s sermon series on Malachi

On this episode of Help Me Teach the Bible, Nancy Guthrie talks with Dick Lucas in London’s Proclamation Trust offices about what makes an excellent Bible teacher. We talked about how a teacher studies and prepares to teach, dealing with discouragement as a teacher, as well as the temptation to pride.Lucas was rector of St. Helen’s Bishopsgate from 1961 to 1998. In 1986, he founded the Proclamation Trust to train men and women to correctly handle Scripture through prayerful study of the text in light of its context in both the biblical book and the Bible as a whole. Now in his early 90s, Lucas was a key figure along with John Stott and J. I. Packer in shaping the conservative evangelical movement in the UK during the 20th century. He still has an active and influential ministry, preaching and speaking at conferences and serving on the leadership team of the Cornhill Training Course.You can hear Lucas’s own Bible teaching through these audio resources:The message of Galatians, Lucas’s most recent teaching to the staff at St. Helens BishopsgateDick Lucas Sermon Archive

In this episode of Help Me Teach the Bible, Nancy Guthrie speaks to Iain Duguid about the book of Judges. Duguid has been a professor of Old Testament at Westminster Theological Seminary since 2014, having taught previously at Grove City College, Westminster Seminary California, and RTS Jackson.Duguid is the author of numerous commentaries and books, including volumes on Daniel and Esther and Ruth in the Reformed Expository Commentary series, The Song of Songs in the Tyndale Old Testament Commentaries, The NIV Application Commentary: Ezekiel, and Numbers: God’s Presence in the Wilderness in Crossway’s Preaching the Word series. He is working on a commentary on Judges that will be published by B&H.In this episode, Duguid points out that most of us are familiar with a few of the stories from Judges but don’t have a sense of how they fit together. He helps us to see how the book of Judges can minister to people whose lives have been significantly affected by the darkness of this world and even darkness among God’s people, the church.Recommended Resources for Teaching JudgesThe New American Commentary: Judges, Ruth by Daniel L. BlockJudges: Such a Great Salvation by Dale Ralph DavisJudges & Ruth: There Is a Redeemer by Sarah IvillJudges and Ruth: God in Chaos by Barry Webb

On this episode of Help Me Teach the Bible, Nancy Guthrie talks with David Garner of Westminster Theological Seminary. They discuss what it takes to be clear as a teacher, how to lead in situations where participants want to take the discussion in a direction away from the text, and how our sense of the authority of Scripture impacts what and how we teach.Garner is the editor of Did God Really Say? Affirming the Truthfulness and Trustworthiness of Scripture. His lectures on the authority of Scripture from Westminster’s Full Confidence conference are available online. Additionally, his article “High Stakes: Insider Movement Hermeneutics and the Gospel” appeared in the July 2012 edition of Themelios.Resources on Teaching with Authority and ClarityDid God Really Say? Affirming the Truthfulness and Trustworthiness of Scripture by David GarnerTaking God at His Word by Kevin DeYoungWhy Trust the Bible? by Greg GilbertWomen of the Word: How to Study the Bible with Both Our Hearts and Our Minds by Jen Wilkin

You’ve been asked to give a Bible talk. So where do you begin? And how do you make sure you’re understanding and applying the passage of scripture rightly? How will you get to the gospel?In this workshop session, recorded live at The 2021 Gospel Coalition National Conference, Nancy Guthrie takes listeners through the process of preparing to teach the Bible including prayer, looking at the context, determining the structure of the passage, composing and aim, creating an outline, getting to the gospel, developing applications, and coming up with an introduction and conclusions. She then applies each of these tasks to putting together a talk on Numbers 6:22-27.Mentioned in this episode: Putting Together a Bible Talk worksheet

In this episode of Help Me Teach the Bible, Nancy sat down with Christopher Ash at his home in Cambridge, England, to get help for teaching the book of Job, which was perhaps the first book of the Bible written. Their conversation covers ways Job is often taught inadequately and the many ways to preach Christ through this ancient book.Ash is a pastor and writer in residence at Tyndale House in Cambridge. He recently retired as director of the Cornhill Training Course, where he served from 2004 to 2015. He is the author of Job: The Wisdom of the Cross in Crossway’s Preaching the Word commentary series.Resources by Christopher Ash:Job: The Wisdom of the CrossHow Does God Treat His Friends? sermon series by Christopher AshTeaching Romans Volume 1 and Volume 2Zeal without Burnout Married for God: Making Your Marriage the Best It Can Be Sermons by Christopher Ash at All Saints Little Shelford (1998 to 2004)More Resources on Job:Holding onto Your Faith in the Midst of Suffering sermon series by John PiperSermon series on Job by Sandy WillsonThe Gospel According to Job: An Honest Look at Pain and Doubt from the Life of One Who Lost Everything by Mike Mason

In this episode of Help Me Teach the Bible, Nancy talked with Greg Beale, who was at the time professor of New Testament and biblical theology at Westminster Theological Seminary, about the book of Revelation—the book of the Bible surveys say people most want to be taught to them and teachers least want to teach. We work our way through key statements from Beale’s Revelation: A Shorter Commentary to cover questions on:symbolism;recapitulation;the nature of the renewal of all things; andcentral pastoral and theological themes in Revelation.Books by Greg Beale:A New Testament Biblical Theology: The Unfolding of the Old Testament in the NewBook of Revelation (New International Greek Text Commentary)Revelation: A Shorter CommentaryGod Dwells Among Us: Expanding Eden to the Ends of the EarthRecommended by Beale:More than Conquerors: An Interpretation of the Book of Revelation by William HendricksenMore Resources on Revelation from Crossway, the sponsor of Help Me Teach the Bible::Revelation: The Spirit Speaks to the Churches by James M. Hamilton Jr.Revelation: A 12-Week Study by Stephen WitmerRecommended audio resources:Sermons on Revelation by Greg Beale26-part sermon series on Revelation by D. A. CarsonSermons on Revelation by Mike Bullmore

Even in churches in which men and women are getting a regular diet of biblical theology and redemptive history in what is being preached from the pulpit, often what is being offered in small-group Bible study is driven by felt needs, has little biblical or theological rigor, or is oriented around self-improvement. But when biblical theology infiltrates Bible study, it puts the emphasis on what Christ has done rather than on what we must do. It helps participants put the various parts of the Bible together so they begin to make sense. And it makes being united to Christ by faith urgent and necessary.In this workshop recorded live at The Gospel Coalition 2021 National Conference, Nancy Guthrie works through seven ways biblical theology transforms Bible study as well as ways teachers can develop a deeper grasp of biblical theology.Registration opens on July 1 for 12 Biblical Theology Workshops for Women around the country taught by Nancy Guthrie in 2021. For cities and dates, go to: www.nancyguthrie.com/biblical-theology-workshop.Recommended in this podcast:Name Above All Names by Sinclair Ferguson and Alistair BeggGod’s Big Picture by Vaughan RobertsThe Unfolding Mystery by Edmund P. ClowneyThe Goldsworthy Trilogy by Graeme GoldsworthyGod Dwells Among Us by G. K. Beale and Mitchell KimRemaking a Broken World by Christopher AshThe Story Retold by G.K. Beale and Benjamin GladdEven Better than Eden by Nancy Guthrie

In this episode of Help Me Teach the Bible, Nancy talked with Robert Smith Jr., professor of preaching at Beeson Divinity School. They discussed Psalm 42–43 and what it has to teach about moving from sorrow to joy, from mourning to morning. Smith was previously associate professor of Christian preaching at The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary in Louisville, Kentucky. Among other writing projects, he is the author of Doctrine That Dances: Bringing Doctrinal Preaching and Teaching to Life, which was named Preaching magazine’s 2008 Preaching Book of the Year and Preaching.com’s 2009 Preaching Book of the Year.Recommended resources:“Seeing My Son’s Murderer,” article by Robert Smith“The Oasis of God,” message on Psalm 42–43 by Dr. Robert SmithSinclair Ferguson on Psalm 42–43John Piper on Psalm 42 and Psalm 43

In this the second of a two-part episode of Help Me Teach the Bible, Nancy talked to Gary Millar, principal of Queensland Theological College in Brisbane, Australia, and author of Saving Eutychus. Millar is currently working on a commentary on 1 and 2 Kings, which will be published by Crossway. The Book of 1 Kings opens with a weakened King David who can’t seem to keep warm in bed, and subsequently works its way through:the glorious and yet ultimately failed kingship of Solomonthe building and dedication of the templethe division of the kingdom with its good and bad kingsthe prophetic ministry of ElijahRecommended audio resources on 1 Kings:Chapel messages on 1 and 2 Kings by Gary MillarSermons on 1 Kings by Sinclair FergusonRecommended print resources on 1 Kings:1 and 2 Kings (Brazos Theological Commentary on the Bible) by Peter J. Leithart1 Kings: The Wisdom and the Folly by Dale Ralph DavisKing Solomon: The Temptations of Money, Sex, and Power by Philip Graham Ryken

In this two-part episode of Help Me Teach the Bible, Nancy talked to Gary Millar, principal of Queensland Theological College in Brisbane, Australia, and author of Saving Eutychus. Millar is currently working on a commentary on 1 and 2 Kings, which will be published by Crossway. The Book of 1 Kings opens with a weakened King David who can’t seem to keep warm in bed, and subsequently works its way through:the glorious and yet ultimately failed kingship of Solomonthe building and dedication of the templethe division of the kingdom with its good and bad kingsthe prophetic ministry of ElijahRecommended audio resources on 1 Kings:Chapel messages on 1 and 2 Kings by Gary MillarSermons on 1 Kings by Sinclair FergusonRecommended print resources on 1 Kings:1 and 2 Kings (Brazos Theological Commentary on the Bible) by Peter J. Leithart1 Kings: The Wisdom and the Folly by Dale Ralph DavisKing Solomon: The Temptations of Money, Sex, and Power by Philip Graham Ryken

In this episode of Help Me Teach the Bible Nancy went to Columbia, South Carolina, to sit down with Derek Thomas and ask his help for teaching through the book of Mark. Over the course of the conversation they discussed:the miracle stories and how to apply themthe kingdom of Godtrue repentancewhat it means to be a discipleRecommended audio resources:Sermons on the book of Mark by Derek ThomasSermons on the book of Mark by Kevin DeYoungSermon series on the book of Mark from Holy Trinity ChurchTGC sermon resources on MarkRecommended print resources:Let’s Study Mark by Sinclair FergusonThe Gospel According to Mark in Pillar New Testament Commentary by James R. Edwards, Jr.Mark: A 12-Week Studyin the Knowing the Bible series by Dane C. Ortlund

In this, the second of two episodes, Nancy talked with Ryan Kelly, pastor for preaching at Desert Springs Church in Albuquerque, New Mexico, where he taught through the book of 1 Samuel. Kelly calls 1 Samuel a “hinge book” between the time of the judges and the establishment of the kingship in Israel. Topics include:The prayer of Hannah that extends beyond what has been revealed and provides a table of contents for the bookThe problem with Israel’s desire for a kingDavid’s speeches in the David and Goliath storyWhat Jonathan reveals about true conversionThree decapitationsWarnings for us in the sin of SaulAdditional audio resources 1 Samuel:Sermons on 1 Samuel by Ryan KellySermons on 1 Samuel by Tom SchreinerSermons on 1 Samuel by Liam GoligherRecommended print resources:ESV Men’s Devotional Bible 1 Samuel: Looking for a Leader by John WoodhouseA Son to Me: An Exposition of 1 and 2 Samuel by Peter LeithartThe King in His Beauty by Tom Schreiner

In this two-part episode, Nancy talked with Ryan Kelly, pastor for preaching at Desert Springs Church in Albuquerque, New Mexico, where he taught through the book of 1 Samuel. Kelly calls 1 Samuel a “hinge book” between the time of the judges and the establishment of the kingship in Israel. Topics include:The prayer of Hannah that extends beyond what has been revealed and provides a table of contents for the bookThe problem with Israel’s desire for a kingDavid’s speeches in the David and Goliath storyWhat Jonathan reveals about true conversionThree decapitationsWarnings for us in the sin of SaulAdditional audio resources 1 Samuel:Sermons on 1 Samuel by Ryan KellySermons on 1 Samuel by Tom SchreinerSermons on 1 Samuel by Liam GoligherRecommended print resources:ESV Men’s Devotional Bible 1 Samuel: Looking for a Leader by John WoodhouseA Son to Me: An Exposition of 1 and 2 Samuel by Peter LeithartThe King in His Beauty by Tom Schreiner

On this episode, Nancy Guthrie talked with Mike Bullmore about what may be one of the least-studied books in the Bible. The book of 2 Chronicles is rich in story and encouragement to trust God to be faithful to his promises. Bullmore is senior pastor of CrossWay Community Church in Bristol, Wisconsin, and author of The Gospel and Scripture: How to Read the Bible (Crossway, 2011).Topics include:Why study 2 Chronicles?How do we prepare people to understand the two histories of 2 Chronicles?What is the purpose of 2 Chronicles?What is the difference between 1–2 Kings and 1–2 Chronicles?What is the divine promise 1–2 Chronicles is arguing God will be faithful to?What is the angst of the situation in Judah?How does the chronicler’s record of Solomon reveal his purpose in writing?How does the theme of temple run throughout this book, and, in fact, through the whole Bible?How is Christ anticipated in 2 Chronicles?How should teachers bring content from the prophets into teaching 2 Chronicles?What kind of moral instruction is in 2 Chronicles?How do we teach 2 Chronicles 7:14 rightly?Additional audio resources :Sermons on 2 Chronicles by Mike BullmoreSermons on 2 Chronicles by Richard PrattRecommended print resources:Word Biblical Commentary Vol. 15, 2 Chronicles by Raymond B. Dillard1 and 2 Chronicles, The Mentor Commentary by Richard Pratt1 and 2 Chronicles, The NIV Application Commentary by Andrew HillThe Message of Chronicles by Michael Wilcock

In this episode of Help Me Teach the Bible, Nancy talked about the book of Hebrews with Sam Storms, lead pastor for preaching and vision at Bridgeway Church in Oklahoma City, and founder of Enjoying God Ministries. They discussed the many challenging aspects of teaching this book so steeped in the Old Testament, as well as the deep encouragement that comes from it. Topics include:the aim of the writer of Hebrewsthe wealth of the first four versesthe humanity of Jesusthe Sabbath theme in Hebrewswarnings in Hebrewswhy we need a priestthe reason we should not anticipate a rebuilt physical temple and reinstated sacrificesthe challenge and intimidation of teaching Hebrews 6teaching Hebrews 11 rightlyHere are some additional audio resources you may find helpful in preparing to teach Hebrews:Sermons on Hebrews by Sam StormsMessages on Hebrews by John PiperFor further study, here are some books you may find helpful, including titles from Crossway, the sponsor of Help Me Teach the Bible:The Epistle to the Hebrews by F. F. BruceA Commentary of the Epistle to the Hebrews by Philiip Edgcumbe HughesThe Letter to the Hebrews, Pillar New Testament Commentary by Peter O'BrianHebrews, NIV Application Commentary by George GuthrieCommentary on Hebrews, Biblical Theology Christian Proclamation Commentary by Tom SchreinerHebrews: An Anchor for the Soul Volumes 1 & 2 by Kent HughesHebrews: A 12-Week Studyby Matthew Z. CappsBooks by Sam Storms include:Kept for Jesus: What the New Testament Really Teaches about Assurance of Salvation and Eternal SecurityTough Topics: Biblical Answers to 25 Challenging Questions

In this episode of Help Me Teach the Bible, Nancy talked with one of her favorite Scottish preachers, Colin Smith, about how the book of Jonah reveals the steadfast love and mercy of God. Smith is senior pastor of The Orchard Evangelical Free Church in Arlington Heights, Illinois, and teacher on Unlocking the Bible. Topics in this episode include:ways the book of Jonah is taught inadequatelyreasons Jonah would not have wanted to go to Ninevehthe pagan sailors’ response to the offer of a sacrifice that savesJonah in the fish—a picture of being in Christthe heart of the book: “Salvation belongs to the Lord”Jonah's fearless message of judgment and gracewhat to do with “God relented”how grace either makes a person worship or makes a person angryHere are some additional resources you may find helpful in preparing to teach Jonah:Sermons on Jonah by Colin SmithSermons on Jonah by Alistair BeggSermons on Jonah by Tim Keller“The Sign of Jonah,” a sermon by Christopher AshFor further study, here are some books you may find helpful, including titles from Crossway, the sponsor of Help Me Teach the Bible:Jonah: Navigating a God-Centered Life by Colin SmithMan on the Run!, a children’s book on the Jonah storyMan Overboard by Sinclair FergusonThe Gospel Transformation Bible (with notes on Jonah by Colin Smith)

To teach us how to teach the book of James, Nancy Guthrie talked with Dan Doriani, vice president of strategic academic initiatives and professor of theology at Covenant Theological Seminary in St. Louis. Doriani is the author of Getting the Message: A Plan for Interpreting and Applying the Bible, a book that is essential reading for every Bible teacher, as well as numerous commentaries. He also wrote the introduction and notes on the book of James in the Gospel Transformation Bible. Topics in this discussion include:the way Jesus is presented differently in James compared to other epistlesthe tree tests of Jamesthe nature of “true religion”the gospel according to Jamesbringing a social justice framework to teaching Jameswhether there’s conflict between James and Paul regarding faith and workspraying for healing according to JamesHere are some additional resources you may find helpful in preparing to teach James:Doriani’s class lectures on James at Covenant Theological Seminary (registration required)Sermons on James by Alistair BeggSermons on James by Dick LucasLet’s Get Real! sermon series by various teachers at All Souls, Langham PlaceFor further study, here are some books you may find helpful, including titles from Crossway, the sponsor of Help Me Teach the Bible:James (Reformed Expository Commentary) by Dan DorianiThe Letter of James (Pillar New Testament Commentary) Douglas J. MooJames: Faith that Works (Preaching the Word Commentary) by R. Kent HughesJames: a 12-Week Study by Greg Gilbert

In this episode of Help Me Teach the Bible, Nancy talks with David Helm, pastor of the Hyde Park Congregation of Holy Trinity Church and chairman of The Charles Simeon Trust. The book of Daniel is often mined for the stories in its first half while the apocalyptic visions of the second half are avoided. David is the author of a new book Daniel for You (The Good Book Company, 2015) and is also author of the acclaimed Expositional Preaching: How We Speak God’s Word Today, One to One Bible Reading, as well as The Big Picture Story Bible. Promising that we can teach the book of Daniel without charts, David provides great wisdom to teachers in this episode, including:Why teach the book of DanielUnderstanding Babylon throughout the Bible and in this bookThe thematic poetic line in DanielGetting to Christ in the fiery furnace sceneMaking the genre shift in the second part of DanielThe primary fulfillment of Daniel's prophecies in the death and resurrection of ChristHere are some additional resources that you may find helpful in preparing to teach Daniel:At Home in Babylon (Daniel 1–6) and Getting Home from Babylon (Daniel 7–12), sermon series from Holy Trinity ChurchTGC sermon resources on the book of DanielThe Proclamation Trust has numerous resources on Daniel by Sinclair Ferguson, Simon Manchester, and others.Jesus in the Lions’ Den?: Preaching Christ from Daniel (Matt Smethurst interviews Sidney Greidanus)For further study, here are some books you may find helpful, including titles from Crossway, the sponsor of Help Me Teach the Bible:Daniel for You by David HelmPreaching Christ from Daniel by Sidney GreidanusThe Gospel According to Daniel: A Christ-Centered Approach by Bryan ChapellDaniel: Reformed Expositional Commentary by Iain M. Duguid

In this episode of Help Me Teach the Bible, Nancy talks with Michael Lawrence, senior pastor of Hinson Baptist Church in Portland, Oregon, or “the ends of the earth” as Lawrence calls it in context of the book of Acts. In this episode you'll not only hear the sounds of a church office building under construction, you'll also hear about how God is going about building his church as recorded in the book of Acts. Topics include:epic moments in redemptive history in ActsActs as part two of Luke's Gospelthe main character of the book of Actsthe structure of the book of Actsthe cinematic sweep of Actsthe Spirit falls on unexpected peoplequestions about tonguessermons in the book of Actsimplications and applications of the crucifixion and resurrectionwhether the early church is a model for the church todayresources for teaching Acts.Here are some additional audio resources that you may find helpful in preparing to teach Acts:Michael Lawrence’s sermons on ActsTGC sermon resources on ActsFor further study, here are some books you may find helpful, including titles from Crossway, the sponsor of Help Me Teach the Bible:Perspectives on Pentecost by Richard GaffinThe Spirit, the Church, and the World: The Message of Acts by John R.W. StottThe Acts of the Apostles, Pillar New Testament Commentary by David PetersonActs, Baker Exegetical Commentary on the New Testament by Darrell BockThe Acts of the Risen Lord Jesus by Alan J. ThompsonActs: The Church Afire, Preaching the Word Commentary series by R. Kent HughesActs, The St. Andrews Expositional Commentary by R. C. SproulActs: A 12-Week Study by Justin Holcomb

In this episode of Help Me Teach the Bible, Nancy sits down with Dale Ralph Davis at First Presbyterian Church in Columbia, South Carolina, where, in his “retirement” he serves as minister in residence or, as senior pastor Derek Thomas calls him, “the preacher of the night.” Davis is a long-time pastor and former professor of Old Testament at Reformed Theological Seminary in Jackson, Mississippi. Davis's book, No Falling Words, has long been a must-have commentary on Joshua.We sat down with him as he was reworking his messages on Joshua for an upcoming conference to talk about “the strange God” of Joshua as well as:old promises fulfilled in Joshua;the meaning of the land;God’s command to destroy the Canaanites;the unlikely recipient of mercy;the grace demonstrated and response to grace commanded in Joshua.Here are some additional audio resources that you may find helpful in preparing to teach Joshua:Overview of Joshua by Dale Ralph DavisDavid Jackman messages on JoshuaJohn Woodhouse messages of JoshuaEntering into the Promises series at All Souls Langham PlaceTGC sermon resources on JoshuaFor further study, here are some books you may find helpful, including titles from Crossway, the sponsor of Help Me Teach the Bible:No Falling Words by Dale Ralph DavisJoshua: An Exegetical and Theological Exposition of Scripture (New American Commentary) by David HowardJoshua: People of God's Purpose by David JackmanJoshua and the Flow of Biblical History by Francis A. Schaeffer

On this episode of Help Me Teach the Bible, I spoke with Bryan Chapell, senior pastor of Grace Presbyterian Church in Peoria, Illinois, and the former president of Covenant Theological Seminary about how to teach through the book of Ephesians. Chapell’s books include Holiness by Grace: Delighting in the Joy That Is Our Strength and Christ-Centered Preaching. In Ephesians, Paul presents us with so much essential teaching for understanding what Christ has done and how we are to live as those who belong to him.Topics in the discussion include:the cosmic scope of Ephesians;God’s plan that includes the persecution of the church;the meaning of “the heavenly realm”;answering questions about predestination;key words and concepts such as reconciliation and mystery;the indicative and imperative of Ephesians; andteaching submission in the context of the broader message of Ephesians.Recommended audio resources on Ephesians:Sermons on Ephesians by Bryan ChapellSermons on Ephesians by Dick LucasSermons on Ephesians by D. A. CarsonSermons on Ephesians by Kent HughesRecommended print resources on Ephesians:Kevin DeYoung’s introduction and notes on Ephesians in the ESV Gospel Transformation BibleEphesians (Reformed Expository Commentaries) by Bryan ChapellEphesians: The Mystery of the Body of Christ by R. Kent Hughes