How to Study the Bible - Bible Study Made Simple

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In the Community: Rahab (How Rahab Redefines Belonging in Advent) Dec 16, 2024

Show notes

The Significance of Rahab in Jesus's Genealogy and the Redefinition of Community

This week, we're diving into the life of Rahab, the second woman mentioned in Jesus's genealogy, and how her narrative redefines the concept of community, especially during the Advent season. This exploration highlights several key themes: faith, kindness, and the transformative power of belonging.

Rahab's Background: Joshua 2

Rahab was a woman living in Jericho, a city that the Israelites were preparing to conquer as they entered the Promised Land under Joshua's leadership. Despite her profession as a prostitute, Rahab's story is one of faith and courage. When two Israelite spies came to Jericho, she recognized the power of their God and chose to protect them, hiding them from the king's soldiers. This act of bravery was rooted in her belief in the God of Israel, whom she had heard about through travelers.

Faith Leading to Action

Rahab's faith was not passive; it led her to take significant action. She asked the spies to spare her family in exchange for her kindness, demonstrating a deep understanding of grace. The spies agreed, instructing her to hang a scarlet cord from her window as a sign for her family's protection during the impending attack on Jericho. This scarlet cord symbolizes the grace that saves, paralleling the message of the Gospel, where all humanity is offered salvation despite their shortcomings.

Kindness as a Reflection of the Gospel

The concept of kindness is central to Rahab's story. The Hebrew word for kindness encompasses grace and favor, even when it is undeserved. Rahab's request for kindness from the spies reflects the essence of the Gospel, where God's kindness leads to repentance and transformation. This Advent season, God is inviting you to reflect on the kindness shown to you through Jesus Christ.

What Does It Mean? Redefining Community

Rahab's inclusion in the genealogy of Jesus signifies a radical redefinition of community. After the fall of Jericho, she and her family were spared and integrated into the Israelite community. This act of inclusion illustrates that belonging is not determined by one's past or societal status but by faith and the willingness to embrace God's grace. Rahab's story is a powerful reminder that everyone has a place in God's family, regardless of their background.

What Does It Mean for Me?

Consider how you can embody kindness in your own lives. Just as Rahab acted on her faith, believers are called to demonstrate kindness and grace to others. "Who can you be kind to this week? How might you show kindness and receive God's kindness for you this week?" This call to action aligns with the spirit of Advent, a time of waiting and expectancy for the coming of Christ, who embodies ultimate kindness and grace.

THIS WEEK'S RESOURCES:

Help Us Partner with Samaritan’s Purse! Our goal is to raise $3000 as a How to Study the Bible community! samaritanspurse.org/study

A free Christmas Eve liturgy for you and your family: nicoleunice.com/christmas

Help! My Bible is Alive!

Nicole’s Newest Book: Not What I Signed Up For

When you go to NicoleUnice.com/notwhatisignedupfor you'll get the intro, first chapter and a free prayer guide!

Find all of Nicole's books and resources on Amazon or Barnes & Noble

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Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

In the Family: Tamar (How Family Is Redefined through Jesus) - Advent Week 1 Dec 09, 2024

Show notes

In this Advent series, we're going to explore the theme of family, this week through the story of Tamar, a complex character found in Jesus' genealogy. God redefines family and belonging, moving beyond traditional definitions rooted in bloodlines and societal expectations. It's in this genealogy that something very unusual happens. Women are called out and named. Five women. Over the next five weeks, we'll look at each woman in Jesus' family tree, and in the spirit of Advent, how they connect to what the birth of Jesus means for us today and how family is redefined.

Today's Scripture: Matthew 1 & Genesis 38

Tamar's story, found in Genesis 38, serves as a focal point for understanding this redefinition of family. Tamar, the daughter-in-law of Judah, faces a series of tragic events, including the deaths of her husbands. In a society where women had limited rights and were often dependent on male relatives for security, Tamar's situation became desperate. When Judah fails to fulfill his duty to provide her with a husband from his family, Tamar takes matters into her own hands by disguising herself and confronting Judah.

This act of desperation leads to a significant turning point in Judah's life. This moment not only changes Judah but also redefines Tamar's place within the family lineage, as she becomes an ancestor of King David and, ultimately, Jesus.

THIS WEEK'S RESOURCES:

Help Us Partner with Samaritan’s Purse! Our goal is to raise $3000 as a How to Study the Bible community! samaritanspurse.org/study

A free Christmas Eve liturgy for you and your family: nicoleunice.com/christmas

Help! My Bible is Alive!

Nicole’s Newest Book: Not What I Signed Up For

When you go to NicoleUnice.com/notwhatisignedupfor you'll get the intro, first chapter and a free prayer guide!

Find all of Nicole's books and resources on Amazon or Barnes & Noble

Within its pages, you’ll find a powerful foundation for recovery with spiritual care, practical wisdom, and the life-changing Word of God. Guidance, support, and hope are here.

Begin your journey today at LifeRecoveryBible.com.

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

10 Bible Verses that Help Us Choose Gratitude, Even in Difficult Circumstances Dec 02, 2024

Show notes

In this special in-between episode, we're going to explore the spiritual practice of gratitude and its significance in our everyday lives, especially during challenging times. We're going to talk about four ways to choose gratitude. One of the things that's always been really challenging for me as a believer is separating my gratitude and thanksgiving from my circumstances. And I wish after all these years of walking with God that I had improved in this area, I think maybe I'm growing in this area, but the reality is I know my own heart, and I know that when things are in a joyful place circumstantially, In fact, I wrote in my journal this morning, Lord, help me to have as much joy for you in the hard times as I do in the good times. And I wanted to bring us to, you know, we hear all about choosing gratitude and about being thankful to God. So that's what we're going to talk about today as we move into the Christmas season and transition into our Advent series on John. We're going to look at 10 verses in the Bible where God instructs us to choose gratitude, no matter what circumstances we're facing.

THIS WEEK'S BIBLE STUDY RESOURCES:

Sign up for Nicole's newsletter and get regular encouragement straight to your inbox: https://nicoleunice.com/realtalk/

Help! My Bible is Alive!

Nicole’s Newest Book: Not What I Signed Up For

When you go to NicoleUnice.com/notwhatisignedupfor you'll get the intro, first chapter and a free prayer guide!

Find all of Nicole's books and resources on Amazon or Barnes & Noble

Within its pages, you’ll find a powerful foundation for recovery with spiritual care, practical wisdom, and the life-changing Word of God. Guidance, support, and hope are here.

Begin your journey today at LifeRecoveryBible.com.

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

The Gate & the Good Shepherd: Understanding Jesus' Promises in John 10 Nov 25, 2024

Show notes

Jesus as the Gate and the Good Shepherd

In this week's episode, Nicole explores the profound significance of Jesus identifying himself as both the gate and the good shepherd, emphasizing the exclusivity of his role in providing salvation and safety for his followers. This dual identity is rooted in the teachings found in John 10, where Jesus makes two critical "I Am" statements: "I am the gate" and "I am the good shepherd."

The Gate

When Jesus refers to himself as the gate, he establishes a clear boundary for His followers. The gate symbolizes access to safety, security, and sustenance. Jesus does not say he is "a gate" but rather "the gate," indicating that he is the only way into the safety of God's pasture. This exclusivity is crucial for understanding the nature of salvation; it is not a universal access point but a specific entry through Jesus himself.

The concept of the gate also counters the idea of universalism, which suggests that all paths lead to God. Instead, Jesus asserts that there is a definitive way to enter into a relationship with God, and that is through Him. Nicole notes that this boundary is not meant to exclude but to define a safe space where believers can experience the fullness of life that Jesus promises.

The Good Shepherd

In addition to being the gate, Jesus identifies as the good shepherd, a role that carries deep significance in biblical tradition. Nicole draws parallels between Jesus and the Old Testament depiction of God as a shepherd, particularly referencing Psalm 23. The good shepherd is characterized by his willingness to lay down his life for the sheep, demonstrating a profound commitment to their well-being.

The distinction between the good shepherd and the hired hand is also highlighted. While a hired hand may abandon the sheep in times of danger, the good shepherd remains steadfast, prioritizing the safety of his flock above his own life. This self-sacrificial love is a cornerstone of Jesus' mission and underscores the depth of his care for his followers.

One Flock, One Shepherd

Jesus mentions having "other sheep" from different pens. Jesus' role as the good shepherd extends beyond a single group; he is committed to gathering all who will listen to his voice into one flock. Nicole emphasizes that this unity transcends cultural, racial, and geographical divides, pointing to a future where all believers will worship together.

Conclusion

In summary, Jesus' identification as both the gate and the good shepherd encapsulates the exclusivity and depth of his role in providing salvation and safety for his followers. he is the only way to enter into a relationship with God, offering a safe pasture where believers can find life to the full. His commitment to his flock is unwavering, as he lays down his life for their sake, ensuring that they are protected and united under his care. This message of hope and security is central to the Christian faith, inviting all to come through the gate and experience the love of the Good Shepherd.

THIS WEEK'S BIBLE STUDY RESOURCES:

Sign up for Nicole's newsletter and get regular encouragement straight to your inbox: https://nicoleunice.com/realtalk/

Help! My Bible is Alive!

Nicole’s Newest Book: Not What I Signed Up For

When you go to NicoleUnice.com/notwhatisignedupfor you'll get the intro, first chapter and a free prayer guide!

Find all of Nicole's books and resources on Amazon or Barnes & Noble

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Seeing the Light: A Journey from Blindness to Belief in John 9 Nov 18, 2024

Show notes

In this episode of How to Study the Bible, we're looking at John 9 and reading about two different cases of blindness - the blind man's journey toward physical sight and spiritual belief, and the Pharisees' descent into hard-heartedness and spiritual blindness.

Progression of Belief: The blind man's transformation is a central focus. He begins as a man who cannot see, both physically and spiritually. Through his encounter with Jesus, he experiences a profound change, culminating in his worship of Jesus. This journey reflects the idea that true belief often starts with a personal experience of God's grace and power.
Hard-heartedness of the Pharisees: In contrast, the Pharisees become increasingly blind to the truth. Their refusal to accept the miracle and their insistence on adhering to the law over compassion illustrate how rigid beliefs can lead to spiritual blindness. Their condemnation of both the man and Jesus reveals a deep-seated fear of losing their authority and control.

Nicole encourages listeners to reflect on their own lives and consider where they may be blind to God's work. She invites them to pray for open eyes and hearts, emphasizing that transformation begins with a willingness to see the world through God's perspective.

THIS WEEK'S BIBLE STUDY RESOURCES:

Sign up for Nicole's newsletter and get regular encouragement straight to your inbox: https://nicoleunice.com/realtalk/

Help! My Bible is Alive!

Nicole’s Newest Book: Not What I Signed Up For

When you go to NicoleUnice.com/notwhatisignedupfor you'll get the intro, first chapter and a free prayer guide!

Find all of Nicole's books and resources on Amazon or Barnes & Noble

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

"Before Abraham Was Born, I Am." The Significance of Jesus' Claim in John 8 Nov 11, 2024

Show notes

Jesus' Exclusive Claims About His Identity

In this week's episode, Nicole explores the profound and polarizing claims made by Jesus regarding His identity. Central to the discussion is the assertion that Jesus is not merely a good teacher or moral guide, but rather God Himself. This claim is pivotal in understanding the conflict that arose between Jesus and the religious leaders of His time.

The Nature of Jesus' Claims

Throughout the episode, it is emphasized that Jesus made exclusive claims about His identity that set Him apart from other spiritual leaders. For instance, He stated, "I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me." Such declarations are not those of a humble teacher; they are the assertions of someone who claims divine authority and a unique relationship with God. This exclusivity is what makes Jesus' identity so contentious.

In John 8:58, Jesus declares, "Before Abraham was born, I am." This statement is particularly significant because it directly links Jesus to the divine name revealed to Moses in Exodus 3:14: "I am who I am." By using this phrase, Jesus positions Himself as eternal and uncreated, further asserting His divinity. The religious leaders, recognizing the implications of this claim, react with hostility, interpreting it as blasphemy—an offense punishable by death.

The Polarizing Effect of Jesus' Claims

The episode highlights how Jesus' claims created a divide among the people. Many were drawn to His teachings and miracles, while others, particularly the religious authorities, viewed Him as a threat to their established beliefs and practices. Younis notes that Jesus was a polarizing figure; people were either for Him or against Him, with little room for neutrality. This polarization is evident in the way the Jewish leaders respond to His claims, resorting to insults and ultimately seeking to stone Him for what they perceive as blasphemy.

What Does This Mean for Me?

Jesus' claims are not just theological assertions; they demand a response from those who hear them. Will we take God at His word and accept Jesus as Lord? If you're going to follow Jesus, you have to take him at his claim, and you're going to worship him as God, because that's who he says he is. He has given us His Word, and as we dig into His Word, we are going to discover the truth. And the question is, will we let that truth set us free? Will we say yes to Jesus, surrender our life to him, know that he is the one who can truly save, redeem, and set us free from the oppression of sin? Will we say yes to that? That's the question of John 8.

THIS WEEK'S BIBLE STUDY RESOURCES:

Sign up for Nicole's newsletter and get regular encouragement straight to your inbox: https://nicoleunice.com/realtalk/

Help! My Bible is Alive!

Nicole’s Newest Book: Not What I Signed Up For

When you go to NicoleUnice.com/notwhatisignedupfor you'll get the intro, first chapter and a free prayer guide!

Find all of Nicole's books and resources on Amazon or Barnes & Noble

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Jesus Is More than a Good Teacher (A Bible Study on John 7) Nov 04, 2024

Show notes

Understanding Jesus through the Gospel of John: A Deep Dive into Chapter 7

This week, Nicole reveals an important aspect of Jesus through the lens of the Gospel of John. Chapter 7 serves as a pivotal moment in Jesus's ministry, showcasing both His authority and the varied reactions He provokes from those around Him.

The Context and Backstory of John 7

John 7 opens with a clear indication of the tension surrounding Jesus. The narrative begins with the mention that people are trying to kill Him, highlighting the serious conflict between Jesus and the religious authorities of the time. This sets the stage for understanding the gravity of Jesus's actions and teachings. Nicole points out that Jesus is not merely a beloved teacher; rather, He is a revolutionary figure whose teachings challenge established norms and interpretations of the law.

Jesus's Authority and Teaching

As Jesus navigates the festival in Judea, He encounters a mix of opinions about His identity. Some view Him as a good man, while others accuse Him of deceiving the people or even being demon-possessed. This spectrum of reactions illustrates the polarizing effect Jesus has on society. Nicole highlights that Jesus's teachings are not aimed at abolishing the law but rather at reforming the understanding of it. He confronts the religious leaders' interpretations, particularly regarding the Sabbath, and emphasizes the spirit of the law over rigid adherence to rules.

One of the key moments in this chapter is when Jesus challenges the logic of the religious leaders by pointing out their own inconsistencies. For instance, He asks them if they would circumcise a child on the Sabbath, illustrating that they themselves make exceptions to the law for the sake of tradition. This not only showcases Jesus's deep understanding of the law but also His authority to interpret it correctly.

The Invitation to All

Despite the opposition and conflict, Jesus extends a powerful invitation to everyone present. In a loud voice, He calls out to those who are thirsty, promising that anyone who believes in Him will have streams of living water flowing from within them. This metaphor signifies the transformative power of faith in Jesus, suggesting that believers will not only find refreshment for their souls but will also become sources of life and blessing to others.

Nicole emphasizes that this promise is universal, extending to all who seek Him, regardless of their previous judgments or misunderstandings about Him. It encapsulates the essence of Jesus's mission: to offer hope, healing, and a relationship with God.

THIS WEEK'S BIBLE STUDY RESOURCES:

Sign up for Nicole's newsletter and get regular encouragement straight to your inbox: https://nicoleunice.com/realtalk/

Help! My Bible is Alive!

Nicole’s Newest Book: Not What I Signed Up For

When you go to NicoleUnice.com/notwhatisignedupfor you'll get the intro, first chapter and a free prayer guide!

Find all of Nicole's books and resources on Amazon or Barnes & Noble

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

"For God So Loved" - Understanding the Fundamentals of Our Faith (A Bible Study on John 3:16) Oct 28, 2024

Show notes

In this week's episode, Nicole shares a recent sermon from Hill City Church on John 3:16, focusing on the first four words, "For God so loved." She emphasizes the importance of foundational knowledge in faith. Nicole explains that true love (agape) is unconditional and self-sacrificing, contrasting it with self-preservation. She highlights that God's love is expansive and transformative, urging believers to reflect and act on this love. The sermon also includes a personal testimony from Logan about his faith journey and the importance of community support during challenging times.

For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. - John 3:16

THIS WEEK'S BIBLE STUDY RESOURCES:

Sign up for Nicole's newsletter and get regular encouragement straight to your inbox: https://nicoleunice.com/realtalk/

Help! My Bible is Alive!

Nicole’s Newest Book: Not What I Signed Up For

When you go to NicoleUnice.com/notwhatisignedupfor you'll get the intro, first chapter and a free prayer guide!

Find all of Nicole's books and resources on Amazon or Barnes & Noble

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Praying for Those Hit Hardest by Hurricane Helene Oct 21, 2024

Show notes

In this special episode of How to Study the Bible, Nicole connects with friend of the show Rachel Toone, Dean of Spiritual Formation at Montreat College, who shares her experiences during Hurricane Helene, which hit her area in Western North Carolina.

Rachel describes the devastation, including 25-30 inches of rain, downed power lines, and flooded rivers that washed out roads and homes. She highlights the community's resilience, with local churches providing essential aid. Rachel emphasizes the long-term needs, including continued support for vulnerable communities and infrastructure rebuilding. She requests prayers and assistance for the coming months, stressing the importance of not forgetting the affected area as the news cycle moves on.

How You Can Help Hurricane Recovery Efforts:

Montreat College Benevolence Fund:
https://montreatcollege.givingfuel.com/disaster-recovery-from-tropical-storm-helene

Volunteer or Give to Disaster Relief through Samaritan's Purse

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

"I Am the Bread of Life" Why Jesus Performed Miracles (A Bible Study on John 6) Oct 14, 2024

Show notes

Have you ever had this thought, If only I could see Jesus face to face, if only he was with me, then I would not be afraid, or I would know He's real, or I would have more faith. If you've ever had that thought, I'm so glad you're joining us today. We are in the Gospel of John right now, talking about the idea of being rooted, rooted deeply in the truth of who God is. Today, we're going to study John 6.

Provision, Presence, and a Question: Introduction to John Chapter 6

In John 6, we read about Jesus feeding the 5000, which highlights Jesus' provision and the role of a young boy's offering. The story is connected to the Old Testament provision for the Israelites in the wilderness, emphasizing Jesus as the one who provides daily bread. Nicole explains that Jesus' miracles point to His authority to save souls and impute righteousness, not just to provide earthly needs.

Jesus' Presence: Walking on Water
Nicole transitions to the story of Jesus walking on water, emphasizing Jesus' presence and reassurance to His disciples. She explains the significance of Jesus' statement "It is I" in Greek, connecting it to God's name "I am who I am." The story illustrates Jesus' promise to be with His followers always, even in the face of fear and uncertainty. Believers are never alone when they say yes to Jesus, despite the spiritual battles they may face.

The Bread of Life: Believing in Jesus
Jesus' conversation with the crowd after feeding the 5000 is discussed, focusing on the need to believe in Him for eternal life. Nicole explains the disciples' struggle to understand Jesus' teachings about spiritual reality versus physical needs.
Jesus' statement, "I am the bread of life," is highlighted, emphasizing that He alone can satisfy the deepest desires of the soul. The importance of believing in Jesus as the one sent by God is reiterated, with a focus on faith as the ultimate work of the soul.
Hard Teaching and Faith: Believing in Jesus' Sacrifice
Nicole discusses Jesus' hard teaching about eating His flesh and drinking His blood, leading many to fall away. She explains the disciples' response to Jesus' question about leaving Him, with Simon Peter affirming his faith in Jesus.
The importance of faith in action, even in difficult times, is emphasized, with a focus on believing in Jesus' promise of life. Nicole concludes by encouraging participants to stay with Jesus through all circumstances, trusting in His provision and presence.

THIS WEEK'S RESOURCES:

Sign up for Nicole's newsletter and get regular encouragement straight to your inbox: https://nicoleunice.com/realtalk/

Help! My Bible is Alive!

Nicole’s Newest Book: Not What I Signed Up For

When you go to NicoleUnice.com/notwhatisignedupfor you'll get the intro, first chapter and a free prayer guide!

Find all of Nicole's books and resources on Amazon or Barnes & Noble

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.