The Bible Explained with Jenn Kokal
Jenn Kokal hosts a daily podcast that makes reading the Bible enjoyable and accessible. She reads and discusses Scripture in a simple, approachable way, using cross-references, ancient history, and Hebrew/Greek language insights. The podcast does not follow a one-year plan but aims to cover the Bible over a decade. Listeners praise it as one of the best Bible-reading podcasts available.
Episodes
Job 5 - Twisted Truths and Terrible Comfort
In this episode of The Bible Explained, Jenn continues through Eliphaz's speech in Job 5 and shows how true statements about God can become dangerous when they're misapplied to someone who is suffering: Eliphaz tells Job not to bother appealing to the holy ones. Is that really true? Does God answer people who bring Him their questions? Eliphaz claims he has seen the foolish crushed in the city ga
1 Peter 5:6-14 - Yes, You Can Pray for Your Dog
In this episode of The Bible Explained, Jenn finishes up 1 Peter 5 and talks about the humility, love, and prayer we're supposed to have for each other, and how we stand against Satan when he tries to devour us like a lion: What does it mean to humble yourself under the mighty hand of God? (In the Old Testament, God's mighty hand points to both punishment and deliverance.) Cast all your worries o
Job 4 - How NOT to Comfort a Friend
In this episode of The Bible Explained, Job's friend Eliphaz speaks up, and it's a masterclass in how NOT to comfort a friend: Eliphaz calls Job a hypocrite for helping others through suffering but falling apart when it's his turn. "Isn't your piety your confidence?" - Why this is the prosperity gospel, and why the whole book of Job is a war against it. Eliphaz says God is quick to anger an
1 Peter 5:1-7 - The Danger of Church Celebrity Culture - With Guest Speaker Garett Kokal
Jenn's husband Garett joins to dive into 1 Peter 5, discussing the importance of humility in eldership, what elders are, and the responsibilities of elders in the church. As they explore this passage, they tackle some tough topics, including the qualifications for elders and the dangers of a celebrity culture in the church: What it means to be a humble leader, and how this plays out in the lives
Job 3 - Job Curses the Day He Was Born
In this episode of The Bible Explained, Job's intense suffering and emotional turmoil come to the forefront: Job's consumed by his grief, cursing the day of his birth and the night of his conception, wishing he'd never even existed. Job invokes those who rouse up Leviathan to help him curse his birthday. Since Job can't erase himself, he wishes to have been born stillborn. But since Job can't go
1 Peter 4:12-19 - (Part 2) Why Won't God Keep Good People from Suffering?
This episode of The Bible Explained is a thought-provoking discussion on the topic of Christians suffering: Christians are called to rejoice in their sufferings as a way to become more like Christ and share in His sufferings. Trials are not something to be shocked about. Judgement begins in the household of God - what this means, and how it reshapes the definition of suffering. Our lives are like
Here We Go Again :(
Hi FM, I am sick again, so there won't be an episode today. Let me know what you read on your own in the Bible today! Hey! Don't leave before looking at other P40 stuff: YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Hnh-aqfg8rw Ko-Fi - https://ko-fi.com/p40ministries Website - https://www.p40ministries.com Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/p40ministries Co
Job 2 - (Part 1) Why Won't God Keep Good People from Suffering?
The story of Job is a complex and thought-provoking one, full of questions and answers that challenge our understanding of God's character and our own place in the world as Christians. As we explore the book of Job, we're going to examine the age-old question: why do righteous people suffer? Satan comes to God with another accusation against Job, claiming that he's only worshiping God because he'
1 Peter 4:7-11 - Living a Life that Honors God
The chapter is full of practical advice on how to live a life that honors God, from being of sound mind and self-controlled to serving one another with the gifts we've been given: Living with a sense of urgency, knowing that the end of all things is near. This doesn't just mean the second coming of Jesus, but also the fact that our own lives are short and can end at any moment. How we be of sound
Job 1:13-22 - The Prince of the Power of the Air
Job suffers a series of devastating losses, including the destruction of his possessions, family, and servants. Why God would allow such suffering to not only Job, but Job's family and children. Satan's accusations that Job's faith is only motivated by his material blessings, and that God is the same as an idolatrous god. Satan's desire to one-up God and prove his intelligence is above the
1 Peter 4:1-6 - Dead to Self, Alive in Christ
Peter's advice to the church is to suffer well and have endurance through persecution: The concept of suffering and sin, referencing Romans 6, where Paul says that those who have died to sin are no longer bound by it. This doesn't mean Christians are sinless, but rather that they've died to their old selves and are made alive in Christ. Putting old sins to death is a daily process, requirin
Job 1:6-12 - Satan Roams the Earth
In this episode of The Bible Explained, we delve into the mysterious figure of Satan and his role in the story of Job: Who are the sons of God and what is the role of Satan? The age old question - why did God allow suffering and hardship to befall his faithful servant Job? The prosperity gospel, revealed to be a doctrine of demons. We're shown how this false teaching has been used througho
1 Peter 3:17-22 - How to Know if You Were Baptized With the Holy Spirit
Today's episode wraps up the chapter with a discussion on Jesus' suffering and the importance of standing up for what's right, even in the face of persecution: We become more like Jesus when we are persecuted for doing what's right. A discussion on baptism - how it's not just a physical act, but a spiritual one that brings us closer to God. What are the "spirits in prison"? Jenn explores se
Job 1:1-5 - The Blameless Man Named Job
It is time to explore the life of Job, a man described as blameless and upright, who suffers catastrophic loss despite his unwavering faith in God: Who was Job? Was he a historical figure or a literary creation made to tell a moral story? The significance of Job's character, his possible kingship, and his role as mediator in his family. Was Job sinless, as some people claim? Why is the book of J
1 Peter 3:8-16 - How Do You Pray for Enemies When You REALLY Don't Want To?
In a world where it's easy to get caught up in negativity and fear, 1 Peter 3 offers a powerful reminder of how to live a life that shines the light of Jesus. This episode of The Bible Explained podcast explores the concept of blessing those who hurt us: Christians are called to bless those who mistreat us, just like Jesus did on the cross. But what does it mean to bless someone? Does this mean w
Esther 9:16-10:3 - The History of Purim and the Happy End of Esther
The book of Esther comes to a close in this episode, and it's a thrilling conclusion. But what's just as fascinating is the way this story has shaped the Jewish holiday of Purim, which is still celebrated today. The aftermath of Haman's defeat and the establishment of Purim as a national holiday. The significance of the word "Purim" and how it relates to the casting of lots that sealed the fate
1 Peter 3:7 - Husbands Must Honor the Weaker Vessel
This episode of the Bible Explained podcast delves into the topic of husbands submitting to God in their marriage relationships: Husbands must live with their wives according to knowledge - in other words, "In an understanding way." Being a Christian husband means treating one's wife with respect, even if she is difficult, and not pulling away from her or trying to find someone else. The concept
Esther 9:1-15 - The Jews in Susa Defend Their Lives and Win
The Jews in Susa defend themselves against their enemies and ultimately emerge victorious. But what's behind this remarkable turn of events? The role of Mordecai, the king's new trusted advisor, and how his influence helped to turn the tide in favor of the Jews. Esther's request to Xerxes to extend the decree for another day for the Jews in Susa was a crucial factor in the outcome. The Jews refu
1 Peter 3:1-7 - How Wives Submit to God through Submission in Marriage
1 Peter delves into a topic that's often met with discomfort: the role of women in submission in the marriage relationship: The wife's comfort is not more important than her husband's spiritual health. Peter is usually misunderstood, with some people taking this passage to mean that women should never speak up or wear jewelry. However, Peter is actually saying that a gentle and quiet spirit is wh
Esther 8 - Esther's Second Appeal to the King : The Solution to the Jew's Plight
Esther is still at an impasse with the king after she learns about the destruction of her people: In a likely effort to placate Esther, the king gives her Haman's entire estate' Esther reveals her relationship with Mordecai, who is promoted to Haman's place Esther must appeal to the king a second time in order to beg for the life of her people Mordecai finds the solution that will save his people
Esther 7 - Evil Haman Meets His End
In this episode, we delve into the climax of the story, where Esther's bravery is put to the test: Esther's words are laced with caution, as she carefully crafts her plea to save her people from destruction. The king and Haman finally realize that Esther is a Jewish woman The king angrily retreats to the garden, where he comes back to see Haman on the same couch with Esther pleading for his life
1 Peter 2:18-25 - His Wounds Healed Us
Today we delve into the topic of submission, specifically in the context of slavery, as discussed in 1 Peter 2:18-25: Peter encourages slaves to submit to their masters with respect, regardless of their treatment, as Jesus did when he suffered for humanity's sins. Peter, Paul, James, and other apostles understood something that most of the Roman world did not - that slaves had inherent value an
Esther 6 - Haman is Humiliated
In this episode of The Bible Explained, Jenn dives into Esther chapter six, a chapter that's often considered one of the funniest in the Bible. But don't let the humor fool you - this chapter is also a pivotal moment in the story of Esther, and it's full of unexpected twists and turns: King Ahasuerus has a hard time sleeping after Esther's banquet. He orders the book of records to be brought to h
1 Peter 2:11-17 - Is It Biblical to Submit to Corrupt or Pagan Governments?
Today we dive into a topic that's often met with resistance: submission to government authorities. This concept is repeated throughout Scripture, from Romans 13 to 1 Peter 2, and even Jesus himself taught on this subject. But why should we submit to those in power, especially when we disagree or our government is corrupt? As Christians, we're temporary residents on this earth, which helps us reme
Esther 5 - Esther Risks Her Life to Save Her People
Today, we delve into the dramatic story of Esther, a Jewish woman who finds herself in a precarious position as the queen of Persia. With a genocide looming over her people, Esther must navigate the complexities of the royal court to save her life and the lives of those she loves: Esther's faced with a daunting task: approaching the king without being summoned - a move that could result in her su
1 Peter 2:1-10 - You are a Chosen Race, a Royal Priesthood, and a Holy Nation
The episode explores 1 Peter 2, discussing how Jesus is the Chief Cornerstone and the foundation of the church: Any teachings or practices that aren't grounded in Jesus can lead to spiritual instability. In contrast, those who build their faith on Jesus, the Living Stone, will find stability and security. Jesus is a stumbling stone, which refers to Jesus as a rock of offense to those who re
Esther 4 - Perhaps You Were Created for Such a Time as This
Today, we focus on the story of Esther and Mordecai's response to the horrific news that the Jewish people are about to be destroyed: Mordecai, upon learning of the decree, tears his clothes and puts on sackcloth with ashes, mourning loudly and bitterly outside the king's gate. Esther sends a eunuch to Mordecai to investigate and learns about the decree and the amount of money Haman promised to
1 Peter 1:17-25 - The Precious Blood of Jesus
As we continue through the book of 1 Peter, we're reminded that our lives on this earth are temporary, and our hope should be in something eternal: A powerful reminder that as Christians, we are called to live on this earth as foreigners, not as our permanent home. We know that there is something better waiting for us in eternity, and that's why we should be living in reverent fear, not placing
Esther 3 - Haman Plots to Kill All Jews
In today's episode of Esther 3, the notorious character Haman is introduced: Haman plots to destroy the Jewish people. King Ahasuerus promotes Haman above his princes and commands everyone to bow down to him. Mordecai, a Jewish man, refuses to show homage. Haman's ancestry reveals his connection to the Amalekites, a group known for their hatred towards the Jews. Haman convinces King
On The Ground with Samaritan's Purse - Keeping Faith through Difficulty
In this special, Saturday episode, Jenn is joined by Kristy Graham, a dedicated wife, mom, and communications expert at Samaritan's Purse. Kristy shares her personal story of how her family's life was shaped by their involvement with Samaritan's Purse, and how her role in the organization's podcast, On the Ground, has been a game-changer for her faith. Kristy talks about the importance of prayer i
1 Peter 1:10-16 - What is the Trinity? Is Modalism Biblical?
This episode of The Bible Explained takes a deep dive into the Book of First Peter, exploring the concept of salvation and the Trinity: The prophets of the Old Testament searched diligently for the salvation that would come to us through Jesus Christ. The prophets didn't know the name of Jesus, yet still understood that a Messiah was coming and that salvation was on its way. Who or what is the
Esther 2 - Esther is Chosen as Queen
Today, we explore the story of Esther's selection as the new queen of King Ahasuerus: After the king's wrath against Vashti subsided, he remembered her sadly and decreed a beauty contest to find a new queen to take his mind off her. The king's servants sought out beautiful young virgins from all provinces, who were taken to the citadel of Susa to be trained and prepared for the king's harem. The
1 Peter 1:1-9 - Faith Through Trials
Welcome to The Book of First Peter! Today we highlight Peter's encouragement for those struggling through trials: Peter's letter is addressed to Christians living as foreigners in various communities, reminding them to obey Jesus and be sprinkled with his blood - what this means and its significance today. Peter's letter is meant to encourage Christians to have faith and obedience, as these go h
Esther 1 - The Cruelty of King Xerxes I and Persian Culture
Esther begins with King Xerxes I, also known as Ahasuerus, who was a Persian ruler: Xerxes throws a six-month-long celebration to showcase his kingdom's wealth and power. A grand feast was attended by officials, nobles, and commoners, with the king displaying his riches and honor. (This this event likely took place before King Xerxes' failed conquest of Greece, which is what the famous movi
James 5:9-20 - The Prayer of Faith and Healing - With Guest Speaker Garett Kokal
In this episode of The Bible Explained, Garett joins Jenn to discuss the last bit of James. Garett shares his insights on the importance of perseverance, repentance, and the role of elders in the church. The theme of the judge standing at the door, referencing the prophets who called people to repentance, including Job, who endured suffering and persevered in his faith. The importance of ho
Nehemiah 13:15-31 - Nehemiah's Last Reforms (Part 2)
The book of Nehemiah ends by discussing the problems that are constantly plaguing Israel. No matter what Nehemiah does to fix things, the Israelites need a Savior: The Israelites profane the Sabbath by working on the Sabbath The importance of keeping the Sabbath day holy and what that means for the modern listener. Sabbath is a sign of the eternal rest we'll experience in God's presence and how i
James 4:13-5:8 - The Wealth Idol
In this episode covering James 4-5, we discuss the importance of living a life that prioritizes God's will over earthly desires. Christians should not be consumed by the things of this world, such as wealth and material possessions, but rather focus on building a relationship with God. The dangers of boasting and the importance of always giving credit to God for one's accomplishments. The
Nehemiah 13:1-14 - Nehemiah's Last Reforms (Part 1)
Nehemiah leaves for a while to go back to the king of Persia. While he's gone from Jerusalem, things begin to change for the worse: Nehemiah comes back to a corrupted temple. The storage rooms were being used as personal apartments for evil men like Tobiah. Nehemiah throws out all of Tobiah's belongings and commands the rooms be used for storage again. The people learn that Ammonites a
James 4:11-12 - Secret Meetings and Gossip Sessions Have No Place in the Church
In today's episode, we discuss two verses from James 4 that warn against gossip, secret meetings, and judgement of brothers and sisters in Christ: Jenn shares personal experiences and biblical examples to illustrate how gossip can be detrimental to the church. Judgement is not about calling out sin, but rather speaking against others to manipulate or destroy their reputation. The difference betw
Nehemiah 11 and 12 - Jerusalem Becomes a Capital City Once Again
As the city of Jerusalem begins to flourish once again, the people are faced with a crucial decision: who will stay and help rebuild their new home? The key players and events that shaped the city's rebirth. We meet the princes of the people who lived in Jerusalem, the Levites who were tasked with rebuilding the city, and the priests who played a vital role in the community. As the city's walls
James 4:1-10 - Divided Hearts Produce Divided Churches
James 4 delves into a crucial topic that affects the church worldwide: the problem of selfish ambition and its devastating consequences. This issue is not limited to Western churches, but is a global phenomenon that James calls "demonic" because it's a direct result of the enemy's hatred for the church. How wars and factions among church members originate from their own pleasures and selfish ambi
Nehemiah 10 - Overcompensating is Not the Answer
The Israelites make a promise to follow God's law and dedicate themselves to His service: The Israelites' make a covenant with God, promising to follow His law and observe His commands, ordinances, and statutes. Three specific promises made - not giving their daughters in marriage to foreigners, foregoing the seventh year crops and debts, and not purchasing goods on the Sabbath day. The Israelit
James 3:13-18 - Are You Operating with Worldly Wisdom or Spiritual Wisdom?
James 3 delves into the importance of humility and self-reflection in the church, highlighting the dangers of selfish ambition and jealousy among leaders and congregants: Distinguishing between earthly, sensual, and demonic wisdom, and the wisdom that comes from above The American church breeds narcissism. Calling out pastors, who should strive to be humble and gentle in their conduct. The
Nehemiah 9:24-38 - The Israelites Rededicate Themselves to God
The Israelites acknowledge their disobedience and rebellion against God, which led to their punishment and suffering: The prayer highlights the Israelites' tendency to become complacent during times of prosperity, forgetting about God and worshiping idols. This pattern is evident through their history, from the wilderness to the Babylonian captivity. God's mercy is a recurring theme in the
James 3:1-12 - The Tongue is a Destructive Fire
This episode of The Bible Explained is a thought-provoking discussion on the importance of controlling our tongues: James warns against the dangers of becoming a teacher, as it comes with a heavier judgment. The importance of humility and the burden of teaching the Bible, and how it's not just about personal gain, but about serving Jesus and the Gospel. Jenn shares her own experiences as
Nehemiah 9:1-23 - God Loves You Immensely
The Israelites gather to confess their sins and seek forgiveness from God. This powerful psalm, attributed to the Levites, is a beautiful expression of God's faithfulness and love for his people, despite their constant rebellion and disobedience: The Israelites, feeling convicted after hearing the law read to them, come together to fast, wear sackcloth, and mourn their sins. The Levites lead the
James 2:14-26 - The Demons Believe and Shudder
True faith is about living out that faith through obedience and good works: James' message is often misunderstood as contradicting Paul's teachings - but here's why that is not the case. Faith without works is dead. Does this mean that works are necessary for salvation? Lip service to God is useless, just like telling someone in desperate need to "go in peace" without providing any help. Je
Nehemiah 8:13-18 - The Feast of Booths Fulfilled in Christ
This episode explores the significance of the Feast of Booths, its connection to Jesus, and what it means for Christians today. The people of Jerusalem learn about the Feast of Booths for the first time. They discover that this feast was a time for celebration, joy, and remembrance of God's provision, just like the water in the wilderness. How Jesus fulfilled the Feast of Booths in a profound w
James 2:8-13 - Mercy Triumphs over Judgement
James makes the argument that it is better to be merciful than judgmental: How the OT laws still apply to modern Christians. Should Christians follow the OT laws? Jesus came to "fulfill" the laws and not destroy them - what that means for us. Breaking one of the smallest commandments makes one a lawbreaker of the whole law. Why it's important to have a brotherhood with your fellow Christian - so
Nehemiah 8:1-12 - The Joy of the Lord is Your Strength!
This episode of The Bible Explained podcast delves into the story of Ezra reading the Book of the Law to the people of Jerusalem, and the impact it has on them: The significance of the seventh month in the Jewish calendar, which is a time for rest, reflection, and celebration. The people of Jerusalem gather to hear Ezra read from the Book of the Law, and how they respond with sadness. The joy of
James 2:1-9 - Partiality Among Christians
Church must be different than the world: The importance of not showing partiality among Christians. No Christian is above another, regardless of their social status or wealth. James's example of a wealthy person and a poor person entering a meeting place highlights how we often show favor to the wealthy. God chooses those who are poor in this world to be rich in faith and heirs of the king
Nehemiah 7 - Nehemiah's List of Exiled Families
In the West, we often skip over chapters like this because we don't care about family names or random people, but in Nehemiah's day, family name meant everything: God put it on Nehemiah's heart to gather the nobles and rulers to list the people by genealogy, which is a crucial task for repopulating the city of Jerusalem. Why did God put this on Nehemiah's heart when Ezra already did it? The diffe
James 1:19-27 - Be Doers, Not Just Hearers
This episode delves into James chapter one, focusing on the importance of putting away anger and being swift to hear and slow to speak. The anger of man doesn't produce the righteousness of God. The different types of anger, including the long-lasting, deep-seated kind that can hinder the righteousness of God in our lives. Being doers of the word, not just hearers. A discussion of James's analo
Nehemiah 6 - Discerning the Prophets
In this episode, the Israelites are rapidly rebuilding the walls of Jerusalem. Sanballot, Tobiah, and Gesham, try to intimidate Nehemiah into stopping the project: They send Nehemiah letters, claiming that he's planning to rebel against the king and become the ruler of Judah. People who are doing good for God usually face opposition and false accusations. Nehemiah's discernment and faith are put
James 1:12-18 - The Difference Between Testing and Tempting
It's easy to get caught up in the idea that God is the one tempting us to sin. But that's not the case. In today's episode, we explore the nuances between testing and temptation: The definition of "temptation" and how it is different from testing. A discussion of Eve and Jesus, two people who were tempted. One gave in to temptation, the other resisted. God gives us a way out of temptation,
Nehemiah 5 - The Wealthy Israelites Mistreat the Poor
In this episode, Jenn discusses Nehemiah chapter five, where the Israelites are facing internal problems that hinder the rebuilding of the Jerusalem wall: The mistreatment of the poor by the wealthy and powerful in Jerusalem, who are charging exorbitant interest rates and selling their fellow Jews into bondage. This is a clear violation of the Old Testament laws, which prohibit charging interest
James 1:1-12 - A Fitting Introduction to the Book of James
In this episode of The Bible Explained, we're starting the Book of James, a letter written by the brother of Jesus. James is known for its practical wisdom and straightforward advice on how to live a life pleasing to God: How to gage if we are mature in our faith. The dangers of loving money too much. We can ask for wisdom from God, but we must do so with faith and without doubting. The imp
Nehemiah 4 - Hammer in One Hand, Sword in the Other
As the city of Jerusalem begins to rebuild its walls, a surprising obstacle emerges in the form of Sanballot, a governor from a neighboring region, who's determined to sabotage the project. In this episode, we explore the challenges faced by Nehemiah and the people of Jerusalem as they work to complete the wall, despite the opposition from their enemies: God's will doesn't always mean things will
Bonus: Finding Joy When God's Answer Is No with Kristy Graham of Samaritan's Purse
Today's episode features a special bonus episode from "Untangling Prayer with Rachel Wojo" Host Rachel Wojo interviews Kristy Graham host of On the Ground with Samaritan's Purse. Through powerful stories of faith, service, and God’s work around the world, this episode offers a reminder that Scripture is not just something we study—it’s something we live out. Discover how Samarita
Hebrews 13:12-25 - Final Words in the Book of Hebrews
This episode wraps up the Book of Hebrews, a deeply impactful and meaningful conclusion to a series that leaves Faithful Listeners with a lot to think about: The difference between praise and worship, and what it means to offer a sacrifice of praise to God continually. A discussion about obeying church leaders and submitting to them. Why we must learn to differentiate between personal preference
Nehemiah 3 - The 10 Gates Symbolic of the Christian's Life
Jenn delves into Nehemiah chapter three, exploring the symbolic significance of Jerusalem's gates in the Christian life. There's one gate for every step a Christian takes: The Sheep Gate - Accepting Jesus The Fish Gate - Evangelizing The Old Gate - Having faith in God's Word The Valley Gate - God with us The Dung Gate - Removing sin The Fountain Gate - Being refreshed and cleansed The Water Gate
Hebrews 13:7-14 - Jesus is the Same Yesterday, Today, and Forever
This episode of the Bible Explained Podcast delves into Hebrews 13:7-14, where Jenn emphasizes the importance of scrutinizing leaders and their conduct. The way the American church is set up can promote narcissism, with a single leader at the top, but this is not a scriptural system: The Bible calls for a system of shared leadership with checks and balances to ensure that no one leader goes off t
Nehemiah 2:11-20 - Nehemiah Encourages the Jews to Build the Wall
Nehemiah has a heart to rebuild the walls of Jerusalem after a long period of exile. But what drove Nehemiah to take on this monumental task, and how did he overcome the obstacles that stood in his way? In this episode, we explore the early days of Nehemiah's journey, from his conversation with King Artaxerxes to his initial inspection of the walls of Jerusalem. We learn about the challenges he fa
Hebrews 13:1-6 - Choosing Love in Spite of Anger or Bitterness
Jenn delves into the importance of brotherly love in the Christian community. This concept is often misunderstood, and many Christians struggle to show love to others, especially when faced with difficult situations or hurtful experiences. There are 8 different ways every Christian should illustrate brotherly love: Hospitality to Christian strangers Standing for the mistreated Christians Re
Nehemiah 2:1-10 - Nehemiah Sent to Jerusalem after His Bold Request
For the first time ever, Nehemiah appears before the king sad: The checkered history of King Artaxerxes, and why Nehemiah was right to be afraid of him The mysterious queen mentioned - was she Artaxerxes wife, or possibly queen Esther? Artaxerxes allows Nehemiah to leave, and grants him the materials needed in order to build the walls of Jerusalem Two men are very upset when they learn that Nehem
Hebrews 12:18-29 - God is a Consuming Fire
In this episode, we dive into the significance of reverence and awe in our relationship with God: The importance of reverence and awe in the face of God's power The significance of the New Covenant, and how it brings us into a personal, intimate relationship with God. The warning: if the Israelites did not escape God's wrath when He spoke to them from earth, how will we escape if we ignore His he
Nehemiah 1 - 4 Ways to Have Effective, Biblical, and Powerful Prayers
The Book of Nehemiah tells the story of the Israelites rebuilding the walls of Jerusalem. But before we get to the action, we see Nehemiah's heart and his relationship with God through his prayer. He's a man who knows how to talk to a king, but more importantly, he knows how to talk to God. His prayer is a model for us, showing us how to approach God with reverence, humility, and a deep understand
Hebrews 12:14-24 - Only 1 Way You Can Effectively Approach God
Today, we discuss the topic of God's approachability. Christians are called to be peaceful, not argumentative or volatile. The story Esau, who sold his birthright for a bowl of stew, illustrating the dangers of instant gratification. God's people were commanded not to touch the mountain - yet everyone's innate desire is to touch the mountain. God is approachable, but we must approach Him in the r
Ezra 10:9-44 - The Strange End of Ezra
This is the last episode of the Book of Ezra, focusing on the issue of Israelites marrying pagan women. Israel was in direct disobedience to God's command. Pagan wives were leading the Israelites away from Yahweh. A critique of Ezra's "solution" to the problem - divorce and abandonment Jenn argues that the real solution was for men to teach their children about Yahweh and love their wives, as Pa
Hebrews 12:4-13 - Does God Really Discipline Christians?
This episode of The Bible Explained delves into the often uncomfortable topic of God's discipline, exploring how it's a sign of his love and care for us. God's discipline is not something to be despised, but rather something to be understood and appreciated. God's discipline can be a catalyst for growth and transformation. God's discipline is not meant to be enjoyable in the moment, but it yiel
Ezra 10:1-8 - God Hates Divorce
In the last chapter of Ezra, things escalate quickly: Ezra is encouraged by an Israelite man to force the Israelites to divorce their wives Why descriptions in the Bible are not the same as prescriptions Ezra forces the men to comply or lose everything Why divorce is considered cruelty in the eyes of God Related episodes: Matthew 19:1-12 (From Christ) - What Are The Grounds for Divorce? Deutero
Hebrews 12:1-3 - Are the Saints Interceding for Us?
This episode of The Bible Explained delves into the concept of the "cloud of witnesses" in Hebrews 12:1-3. Who are the cloud of witnesses, and what are they witnessing? Is praying to the saints biblical? Why we look to Jesus as the ultimate example of faith and perseverance The episode also touches on the theme of perseverance, using the example of Jesus' endurance on the cross as a model
Ezra 9 - What People Don't Understand about Sin
Ezra learns of a great sin that the leaders are doing only a few months after he arrives in Israel: The Levites, priests, and elders have intermarried into pagan families Was God against "interracial" marriage? What Deuteronomy 7 tells us about sin 99% of Christians don't view sin strongly enough Ezra's prayer is a powerful expression of his people's guilt and shame. He recognizes that God's gra
Hebrews 11:30-40 - Faith Through Persecution
This is the final portion of Hebrews eleven, exploring the faith of several individuals from the Old Testament, including Rahab, Samson, Gideon, and David. These stories serve as a testament to the power of faith in the face of adversity, and the speaker highlights Faith led to the walls of Jericho tumbling down. Faith led to surviving through fire and escaping death by sword. Faith led to
Ezra 8 - The Dangerous Journey Home
Before Ezra and his companions start on their long journey to Israel, problems already arise that need ironed out: No Levites decided to make the journey, so Ezra needs to find some willing Levites to change their minds Ezra felt ashamed to ask the king for assistance from the Persian army, so he orders a 3-day long fast to ask for protection from God Ezra immediately gives the Priests and Levite
Hebrews 11:17-29 - Belief and Faith are Not the Same Thing
Jenn delves into the concept of faith, exploring its difference from belief and/or obedience. The discussion centers around the Hall of Faith in Hebrews chapter eleven, where the author of Hebrews highlights various individuals who demonstrated remarkable faith in God's promises: What is the difference between faith and belief? Why it's crucial to have faith, not just belief One can have belief,
Ezra 7:11-28 - Introducing Ezra, the Powerful Scribe
In this episode of TBE, Jenn delves into Ezra chapter seven, where we meet the main character, Ezra, a skilled scribe and leader of the Israelites: King Artaxerxes gives Ezra a letter granting him permission to lead some Israelites back to Jerusalem The king's letter shows the power dynamics at play in the Persian Empire. Ezra is tasked with using the king's funds and resources to beautify the
Hebrews 11:1-16 - Faith and Obedience Go Together
In this episode, Jenn delves into the concept of faith, exploring what it means to have faith in God and how it's demonstrated in the lives of biblical figures like Abel, Enoch, and Abraham: The definition of faith - the assurance of things hoped for and the conviction of things not seen. The lives of these biblical characters, who, through their faith, experienced incredible outcomes, such as A
Ezra 6:14 - 7:10 - The 2nd Temple is Finally Finished
In this episode of the Bible Explained podcast, Jenn delves into the story of Ezra and the rebuilding of the Second Temple in Jerusalem. Despite facing opposition from neighboring nations and even some of the Persian kings, the Israelites remained committed to their faith and worked tirelessly to complete the temple. Some key points in today's episode: The importance of the temple's completion, h
Hebrews 10:26-39 - The Scariest Verse for Christians
**Hebrews 10: A Call to Action** In this episode, Jenn delves into the difficult topic of Hebrews 10, where Christians are reminded that actions have consequences, and that God is a God of justice: The concept of willful sinning - how it leads to a "fearful expectation of judgment" and a "fierceness of fire" that will devour those who refuse to obey God. Jenn shares personal anecdotes and biblica
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