Bible Book Club - Susan Merrill & Heather Rubio

Latest Episodes:

1 Chronicles 1-2: The Israelite’s Old-School DNA Tracking Mar 24, 2025

Show notes

Do your eyes glaze over when you read Old Testament genealogies?

See how the names come alive when you discover surprising details and hidden tidbits buried in the genealogies of 1 Chronicles 1-2. Because every name the Chronicler includes in this old-fashioned DNA tracker carries a message of hope both for the returned exiles and for us still today.

In our 1 Chronicles 1-2 Bible study, we cover:

[2:46] Being Sent Away: Why Hagar and Ishmael are sent away from Abraham’s household yet never forgotten by God.
[10:20] The Power of 12: How Ishmael, Esau, and Jacob each end up with 12 sons and tribes, and why that fulfills God’s promise to Abraham.
[14:10] Redemption in the Family Tree: Judah’s messy origins show how God can work through flawed people and transformed hearts.
[21:51] Hidden Details: Where Joseph secretly pops up in this genealogy and why biblical authors love to highlight him.
[24:54] Welcoming Foreigners: Why Egyptian servants are grafted into Judah's family tree, and how it reveals God’s open-door policy.
[28:02] Bethlehem Breadcrumbs: How one little verse connects Rachel, Boaz, and King David directly to Jesus.

1 Chronicles Show Notes

Group Discussion Questions for 1 Chronicles 1-2

[15:20] Judah’s story is full of mistakes, poor choices, and messy situations, yet God uses his family line to bring about the Messiah. Why do you think God chooses to work through imperfect families and flawed people?
[24:58] The Chronicler makes a point to show us that “outsiders” like the Egyptian servant Jarha are fully welcome and integrated into God’s family tree. What is one practical way you can help someone feel welcome and integrated into your faith community this week?
[32:01] Have you ever felt the thrill of discovering something surprising in your own genealogy? How does that help you imagine what this list of names meant to the exiles?

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This episode is part of our ongoing Bible Book Club series, starting with Genesis and journeying all the way through the Bible. Thanks for listening!

1 Chronicles Overview - 1: Israel Faces an Identity Crisis Mar 17, 2025

Show notes

What's the best way to deal with an identity crisis?

As our 1 Chronicles Bible study begins, the returned exiles have lost everything: their king, their Temple, and their sense of national identity. The Chronicler starts with a genealogy lesson to remind them who they are: God's chosen people for whom God's promises still stand.

It's a great reminder for us, too. The Old Testament is our spiritual heritage, and our identity is found in Christ, who fulfilled God's promise to the Israelites.

In our 1 Chronicles 1 Bible study, we cover:

[2:08] Bible Organization: Why the Bible isn't in chronological order and where Chronicles fits into the story.
[5:53] Identity Crisis: How the Chronicler builds his case for hope to inspire the lost and defeated exiles.
[9:51] Historical Purpose: Why the theme of Chronicles is different from 1 and 2 Samuel and Kings.
[18:21] Adam to Noah: How ancient genealogy illustrates God's redemptive plan, which can never be thwarted.
[27:36] Shem to Abraham: Why the ten generations from Shem to Abraham restore Israel's spiritual heritage, and what that means for our faith today.

1 Chronicles Show Notes

Group Discussion Questions for 1 Chronicles Overview and Chapter 1

[4:52] The Chronicler encourages the exiles to believe God's promises even when circumstances seem impossible. In times of despair, who has God sent to help you remember to trust Him?
[5:54] The returned exiles are going through an identity crisis, surrounded by a foreign culture in unfamiliar territory. Have you ever lost your sense of identity or purpose? How did God help you remember who you are in Him?
[18:38] Despite major setbacks, God's redemptive plan always prevails. In your own life, when has a perceived setback actually been God's way of working out a bigger (better) plan for you?

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2 Kings 24-25: Judah Follows Israel Into Captivity Mar 10, 2025

Show notes

After centuries of rebellion, Judah is dramatically removed from God's presence in 2 Kings 24 and 2 Kings 25. Yet, as so often happens with God, there's a plot twist at the end.

Themes of this podcast episode:

The dangers of ignoring God’s Word. Judah’s downfall was rooted in their failure to obey and honor God. When they neglected His presence, destruction followed. In our own lives, when we drift from God’s Word and guidance, we risk spiritual decline. Staying rooted in His truth protects and strengthens us.

Our choices have consequences, but God’s mercy endures. Judah’s downfall didn't start with King Jehoiakim in 2 Kings 24. It was the result of repeated rebellion and bad leadership over centuries. Yet, even as the nation collapses in 2 Kings 25, God still preserves a remnant. While our choices carry real consequences, God’s mercy is always available, offering us a way back to Him.

God’s sovereign plan prevails. Even in exile, God ensures the Davidic line continues through King Jehoiachin, leading to Jesus—the true King. His plan cannot be thwarted, no matter how bleak the circumstances. God is always working, even in our darkest moments, to bring about His perfect will.

Show Notes:

Blog

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2 Kings 22-23: King Josiah Finds God in the Lost Book of the Law Mar 03, 2025

Show notes

What happens when a young king stumbles upon a long-lost treasure that holds the key to his nation’s survival? Join us to find out!

Themes of this podcast episode:

The transformative power of God’s Word. When King Josiah reads the Book of the Law, his immediate repentance shows the life-changing impact of returning to God’s Word. It's a reminder neglecting Scripture leads to spiritual decline, but rediscovering it brings renewal and revival.

Faithfulness in tough times. Despite knowing that Judah’s fate is sealed because of past sins, King Josiah remains committed to following God. His unwavering faith is a great reminder true obedience isn’t about outcomes—it’s about honoring God.

A good king, but a doomed nation. King Josiah stands out as the last good king of Judah, but his faithfulness is not passed down to his sons. Their swift return to evil highlights personal devotion to God cannot be inherited.

🎧 Listen now for a powerful story of repentance.

Show Notes:

Blog
List of the Kings of Israel
The Path to Good or Evil
Scene 1: King Josiah Discovers the Long Lost Book of the Law (2 Kings 22:1-13) (James 2:5) (Deuteronomy 17:14 & 18) (Deuteronomy 11:13-17)
Scene 2: What Will Become of Judah? (2 Kings 22:14-20)
Scene 3: King Josiah Calls for a Covenant Renewal (2 Kings 23:1-3)
Scene 4: King Josiah Demolishes Idolatry (2 Kings 23:4-20) (1 Kings 13:1-2)
Scene 5: King Josiah Celebrates the Passover (2 Kings 23:21-25)
Scene 6: Judah Must Face the Consequences (2 Kings 23:26-27)
Scene 7: King Josiah Was the Last Good King (2 Kings 23:28-30)
Scene 8: How Could Josiah’s Sons Fall So Far? (2 Kings 23:31-37) (Deuteronomy 11:18-21)

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2 Kings 19-21: A Tale of Two Kings–Judgement Awaits Feb 24, 2025

Show notes

The fate of Judah hangs in the balance—will God answer King Hezekiah’s desperate prayer and save Jerusalem from destruction in 2 Kings 19? As Judah teeters between faith and failure, 2 Kings 20 and 2 Kings 21 reveal a shocking twist: a miraculous rescue followed by a king’s fatal mistake and his son King Manasseh’s reign of terror.

Themes of this podcast episode:

God’s power is greater than any challenge. When King Hezekiah faced the Assyrian threat, he turned to God instead of relying on human strength. His story reminds us that no obstacle—whether an army, crisis, or personal struggle—is bigger than God’s ability to save and provide.

Pride can turn blessings into burdens. King Hezekiah’s faith brought about his miraculous healing, but later his pride led Babylon to Judah’s riches. His mistake teaches us to turn to the Lord rather than pride in our blessings. Success should deepen our dependence on God, not inflate our ego.

One Generation’s Faith Doesn’t Guarantee the Next’s. Despite having a righteous father, King Manasseh led Judah into idolatry and evil. His reign proves that spiritual heritage isn’t enough—we must choose to follow God ourselves. Faith isn’t inherited; it’s lived.

🎧 Listen now to be inspired by God’s work in the messiness of history.

Show Notes:

Blog
List of the Kings of Israel
Scene 1: God Hears and Isaiah Speaks (2 Kings 19:20-34)
Scene 2: God Alone Saves Jerusalem, So the World May Know (2 Kings 19:35-37) (2 Kings 19:5-7)
Scene 3: Hezekiah Prays for His Life (2 Kings 20:1-11)
Scene 4: A Visit from Babylon Casts a Dark Shadow (2 Kings 20:12-21)
Scene 5: Manasseh Is Crowned King of Judah (2 Kings 21:1-18) (Genesis 15:16) (Deuteronomy 9:4-6) (Deuteronomy 11:22-25)
Scene 6: Amon Is Crowned King of Judah (2 Kings 21:19-26)

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2 Kings 18-19: Good King Hezekiah Feb 17, 2025

Show notes

When an unstoppable army marches to Judah’s doorstep–mocking their faith and daring them to trust God–find out how King Hezekiah and the Prophet Isaiah respond (it's awesome) in 2 Kings 18 and 2 Kings 19.

Themes of this podcast episode:

Recognizing the Enemy’s Tactics. The Assyrian commander uses fear, lies, and twisted theology to manipulate Judah into surrender. His strategy mirrors the enemy’s tactics today, showing us why we must be grounded in truth to stand firm.

Trusting God in the Face of Fear. King Hezekiah faces overwhelming opposition...twice. The first time, he panics and makes a big mistake. The second time, he makes an incredible faith come back. Don’t miss this helpful reminder that faith isn’t about the absence of fear—it’s about where we place our trust when fear comes knocking.

Prayer Changes History. Hezekiah’s bold, God-centered prayer isn’t just a desperate plea, it’s a game-changer. His prayer aligns with God’s will, giving us a powerful example of how we can bring our own struggles to God.

🎧 Listen now to this incredible story of faith, prayer, and divine intervention.

Show Notes:

Blog
Kings of Israel
The Path to Good or Evil
Scene 1: Hezekiah Is Crowned King of Judah (2 Kings 18:1-8)
Scene 2: Three Assyrian Threats (2 Kings 18:9-12)
Scene 3: Assyria Attacks Judah (2 Kings 18:13-16)
Scene 4: Assyria Threatens Jerusalem (2 Kings 18:17-37)
Scene 5: Hezekiah Seeks Wisdom from God’s Prophet Isaiah (2 Kings 19:1-13)
Scene 6: Hezekiah Prays (2 Kings 19:14-19) (Psalm 55:22) (Philippians 4:6)

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2 Kings 15-17: Israel, the Northern Kingdom Ends in Captivity Feb 10, 2025

Show notes

What happens when a nation ignores God’s warnings for generations? Find out in this episode of the Bible Book Club Podcast where we explore:

2 Kings 15
2 Kings 16
2 Kings 17

Themes of this podcast episode:

Partial Obedience Leads to Spiritual Decay – King Azariah (Uzziah) and King Jotham's lukewarm faith serves as a warning that half-hearted obedience to God is still disobedience.

Trusting the Wrong Savior is Costly – King Ahaz turned to Assyria for help instead of seeking God, reminding us that placing our trust in worldly solutions instead of the Lord will always lead to spiritual and moral decline.

Sin Has Consequences, Even for a Nation – After centuries of rejecting God’s warnings, Israel is conquered and the ten northern tribes are lost forever. Their downfall is a sobering reminder, when we repeatedly choose sin over God, we eventually get what we choose—separation from Him.

🎧 Listen now to be inspired by God’s work in the messiness of history.

Show Notes:

Blog
Kings of Israel
Scene 1: Azariah (2 Kings 15:1-7)
Scene 2: Zechariah Is Crowned King of Israel (2 Kings 15:8-12)
Scene 3: Shallum Is Crowned King of Israel (2 Kings 15:13-16)
Scene 4: Menahem Is Crowned King of Israel (2 Kings 15:17-22)
Scene 5: Pekahiah Is Crowned King of Israel (2 Kings 15:23-26)
Scene 6: Pekah Is Crowned King of Israel (2 Kings 15:27-31)
Scene 7: Jotham Is Crowned King of Judah (2 Kings 15:32-38)
Scene 8: Ahaz Is Crowned King of Judah (2 Kings 16:1-4)
Scene 9: Ahaz Chooses Assyria as Allies (2 Kings 16:5-20)
Scene 10: Hoshea, the Last King of Israel (2 Kings 17:1-6)
Scene 11: Israel’s Sin Leads to Exile from the Promise Land (2 Kings 17:7-41) (Jeremiah 31:15)

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2 Kings 13-14: Evil Escalates and Kings Fall Fast Feb 04, 2025

Show notes

Buckle up! This episode takes us through a whirlwind of flawed kings, miraculous events, and God’s mercy in the Bible in 2 Kings 13 and 2 Kings 14.

Themes of this podcast episode:

God’s Mercy is Greater Than Our Failures – In 2 Kings 13, despite Israel’s continued rebellion, God shows mercy when King Jehoahaz humbles himself and cries out for help. Even when Israel returns to idolatry, God remains faithful, giving them repeated chances to turn back to Him.

Faith Matters, Even in the Smallest Acts – King Jehoash’s interaction with Elisha reveals how half-hearted faith limits our blessings. But the miracles of Elisha, even after his death, show us how God can work in the midst of great faith, reminding us that when God calls us to act, our level of faith impacts the outcome.

Pride Leads to Destruction – In 2 Kings 14, King Amaziah starts strong but lets pride cloud his judgment, leading to a humiliating defeat and his assassination. His downfall is a stark reminder that without humility and dependence on God, even the most promising leaders will fall.

🎧 Listen now to be inspired by God’s work in the messiness of history.

Show Notes:

Blog
List of the Kings of Israel
The Path to Good or Evil
Bible Verse Links:
- Scene 1: Jehoahaz Is Crowned King of Israel (2 Kings 13:1-9)
- Scene 2: Jehoash Is Crowned King of Israel (2 Kings 13:10-13)
- Scene 3: Elisha’s Last Prophecy (2 Kings 13:14-19)
- Scene 4: Elisha’s Sudden Death and Last Miracle (2 Kings 13:20-21) (2 Kings 2:9)
- Scene 5: Back to King Jehoash + Elisha’s Last Prophecy (2 Kings 13:22-25)
- Scene 6: Amaziah Is Crowned King of Judah (2 Kings 14:1-22)
- Scene 7: Jeroboam II Is Crowned King of Israel (2 Kings 14:23-29)

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2 Kings 11-12: The Wicked Queen of Judah Tries to Kill the Line of David Jan 27, 2025

Show notes

What happens when a power-hungry queen stands in opposition to God’s plan?

In this episode of the Bible Book Club Podcast, we dive into 2 Kings 11 and 2 Kings 12—a dramatic story of betrayal, courage, and the divine power of God.

Themes of this podcast episode:

God’s Plan Cannot Be Stopped – Despite Queen Athaliah’s ruthless attempts to wipe out David’s line, God used the bravery of a godly couple, Jehosheba and Jehoiada, to preserve His promise. No matter how powerful evil may seem, God’s plan will always prevail.

Faith and Courage Make a Difference – Jehosheba and Jehoiada risked everything to protect Joash and restore Judah, showing that God works through those who stand firm in their faith. Their story reminds us that even in the darkest times, courage and obedience to God can change history.

Spiritual Mentors Matter – King Joash flourished under Jehoiada’s guidance and became one of the kings who repaired the temple in the Bible. But once his mentor was gone, he compromised his faith and made disastrous choices. His downfall teaches us that strong spiritual leadership is crucial, and without it, even those with great potential can lose their way.

🎧 Listen now to be inspired by God’s work in the messiness of history.

Show Notes:

List of the Kings of Israel
Blog
Bible Verse Links:
- Scene 1: The Wicked Queen of Judah Tries to Kill God’s Plan (2 Kings 11:1-2)
- Scene 2: God Uses a Courageous Woman to Stop Athaliah (2 Kings 11:2-3)
- Scene 3: Joash Is Crowned King (2 Kings 11:4-12)
- Scene 4: Athaliah, The Wicked Queen of South Dies (2 Kings 11:13-16)
- Scene 5: Jehoiada Leads Judah Back to God (2 Kings 11:17-21)
- Scene 6: Joash’s Resume (2 Kings 12:1-3)
- Scene 7: Joash Restores the Temple (2 Kings 12:4-16)
- Scene 8: Joash’s Murder (2 Kings 12:17-24) (2 Chronicles 24:23-25) (Luke 12:48)

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2 Kings 9-10:Good News–The Wicked Queen of the North is Dead Jan 20, 2025

Show notes

In Episode 7 of the Bible Book Club, we dive into the gripping and action-packed chapters of 2 Kings 9 and 10. It’s a story of prophecy, power, and divine justice, where the wicked reign of Ahab’s descendants finally meets its end.
Themes of this podcast:

Influence is powerful and dangerous without integrity. Jezebel and Jehu were both powerful influencers who weilded their power through fear, manipulation, and deception. It’s important to consider where we’re leading others and where we’re allowing ourselves to be led.

God uses flawed, even evil people to accomplish His righteous purposes. Jehu was simultaneously doing God's work to fulfill God’s judgement while also being an ungodly man. His ambition and brutality exceeded what God commanded, which highlights tension between divine justice and human sin.

God cares more about the condition of our hearts than our outward accomplishments. Though Jehu eliminated Baal worship, like Jeroboam before him, he led with compromise because his heart wasn’t fully devoted to God. Jehu's lukewarm heart led to lukewarm blessings despite his successful completion of God's mission.

Show Notes

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