In this episode we return to the topic of our thoughts and the emotions that flow from them. We see how our minds are like raging rivers that can sweep us away or can be harnessed and used biblically and constructively.
Other episodes referenced in this one:
7. Meditating on the Scriptures, part 1
26. Taking thoughts captive 101
33. Do not be anxious
44. The renewal of our minds
49. If we don't control our thoughts, they will control us
54. How to respond to pressure and stress
57. It's all about knowing Him
Scriptures used:
Matthew 4:4
2 Timothy 3:16
Isaiah 26:3
Philippians 4:6-9
Romans 12:1-2
Matthew 6:34
Psalm 119:92
Psalm 42:11
Psalm 27:13-14
Psalm 62:5-6
Psalm 56:3-4
Psalm 1:1-3
Psalm 119:18
Proverbs 15:23
Isaiah 50:4
**CORRECTIONS/CLARIFICATIONS**
When I quoted Matthew 4:4 I said, "Man does not live by bread alone..." The actual quote is "Man shall not live by bread alone..."
If you feel so led, you can support the podcast by clicking HERE or by clicking the "Support the show" button above. I Just Want to Talk about the Bible is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, which means that any donations made are tax-deductible. Thank you so much for giving as the Lord leads!
Take care!
Today we talk about broadening our view of what God may be doing in our lives because we may be missing it by having too narrow a view.
Other episodes referenced in this one:
- Episode 50: The Lord knows best
- Episode 55: Prisoners in unlocked cells, part 1
- Episode 56: Prisoners in unlocked cells, part 2
Check out the Experiencing God Bible study.
Scriptures referenced:
- John 5:1-19
- Romans 12:2
- Mark 3:1-6
- Matthew 4:23-24
- Matthew 13:58
- James 4:1-3
- 1 John 5:14-15
- Matthew 7:7-11
- Jeremiah 42:1-7
- James 1:5-6
- James 1:17
- Numbers 6:24-26
**CLARIFICATIONS**
- When I made the statement about the Lord being able to supernaturally heal apart from surgery, that was not a statement against surgery. Sometimes the Lord heals through surgery. Sometimes He heals supernaturally. Getting surgery is not some sort of failure. My point was simply to say that we should guard against having super restricted ideas of how something can happen.
- I said healing and restoring is what Jesus did. I would like to amend that to say that healing and restoring is what He does.
If you feel so led, you can support the podcast by clicking HERE or by clicking the "Support the show" button above. I Just Want to Talk about the Bible is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, which means that any donations made are tax-deductible. Thank you so much for giving as the Lord leads!
Take care!
Reading the Bible is not an academic exercise, but an investment in a relationship. Today we talk about how the main objective in the entire Christian life is to know Jesus. If we miss the relational component of our walks with Him, then we miss everything.
Episodes referenced in this one:
Episode 4: Brief overview of the Old Testament
Episode 24: The Gospel
Scriptures used in this episode:
John 17:3
Jeremiah 22:8-9
Ezekiel 33:10-11
2 Peter 3:9
Ezekiel 18:32
Ezekiel 18:23
Romans 6:23
Ezekiel 18:4
Jonah 1:1-3a
Jonah 3:1-10
Jonah 4:1-4, 11
Matthew 23:12
Luke 15:17-24
John 1:14
Philippians 2:12-13
Matthew 11:28
Ezekiel 34:1-6, 15-16
John 10:11
2 Corinthians 3:17-18
John 14:8-9
Hebrews 1:1-3
**CORRECTIONS/CLARIFICATIONS**
When quoting John 10:11, I accidentally omitted the second occurrence of the word "good". Here is the actual Scripture: " I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep."
If you feel so led, you can support the podcast by clicking HERE or by clicking the "Support the show" button above. I Just Want to Talk about the Bible is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, which means that any donations made are tax-deductible. Thank you so much for giving as the Lord leads!
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Today we continue the conversation that we began in the previous episode about fighting against a victim mentality. Specifically, today we look at two things: a practical application and a caution.
Episodes referenced:
Episode 24: The Gospel
Episode 55: Prisoners in unlocked cells, part 1
Resources mentioned:
The Jesus Storybook Bible
Experiencing God
Scriptures used/referenced:
Galatians 6:7
James 4:8
Proverbs 12:15
James 4:6 and 1 Peter 5:5
Proverbs 6:6-11
Proverbs 27:12
Proverbs 19:3
Genesis 3:1-7
Proverbs 18:10
John 14:15
Matthew 4:1-11
Romans 8:9
1 Corinthians 10:13
Romans 5:8
Ephesians 2:4-9
Psalm 103:13-34
Psalm 145:17
Luke 6:35
Revelation 20:11-15
Matthew 5:44-45
Psalm 27:13-14
Matthew 7:7-11
**CORRECTIONS/CLARIFICATIONS**
I said there was a disconnect between what the person in the financial example was sowing and reaping. What I meant was that in their mind there is a disconnect because they couldn’t seem to see (or they refused to see) the connection.
Proverbs 19:3 has an even broader application than just how I used it in this episode. For example, it could also refer to a person who was aware of the consequences of their actions and yet expected God to shield them from those consequences nonetheless.
If you feel so led, you can support the podcast by clicking HERE or by clicking the "Support the show" button above. I Just Want to Talk about the Bible is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, which means that any donations made are tax-deductible. Thank you so much for giving as the Lord leads!
Take care!
In this episode we discuss the subtlety and peril of having a victim mentality. It's something that we can all fall into if we're not paying attention, and, if we're not careful, such a mentality has the power to dominate our lives and color the way we see everything that happens around us.
Other episodes mentioned in this one:
Episode 12: His steadfast love endures forever
Episode 54: How to respond to pressure and stress
Scriptures referenced:
Psalm 107:6, 13, 19, 28
Psalm 107:8, 15, 21, 31
Psalm 138:3
Romans 12:2
Philippians 4:13
2 Peter 1:3-4
Romans 8:11
Joshua 6:26
1 Kings 16:34
1 Corinthians 13:11
Romans 3:4
Psalm 27
Psalm 18:29
Hebrews 13:5
Psalm 107:1
1 Samuel 16:14
Psalm 51:11
John 14:16
Psalm 20:7-8
Matthew 26:63
Hebrews 12:2
Philippians 2:5
1 Corinthians 2:16
2 Chronicles 16:12
Psalm 42:10-11
Romans 8:37
Romans 8:31
Romans 8:28-29
Philippians 4:6-7
Jeremiahs 22:8-9
Jeremiah 32:14-15
**CORRECTIONS/CLARIFICATIONS**
- Regarding the curse laid on anyone who would rebuild Jericho, note what the latter part of 1 Kings 16:34 says, "according to the word of the Lord, which he spoke by Joshua the son of Nun". Notice that it was a word from the Lord spoken by Joshua. It originated with the Lord. He was the source of the power behind the pronouncement.
- When reading 1 Corinthians 13:11 I added the word "but" to emphasize the contrast, but "but" is not in the actual passage.
- The point I was making by quoting Romans 3:4 is that God and His Word are true, period. They are true regardless of everything else. If the truth of God bumps up against something we think, then it is we who need to adjust and correct to the Word of God and not the other way around.
- I paraphrased Philippians 4:6-7. It wasn't a direct quote.
If you feel so led, you can support the podcast by clicking HERE or by clicking the "Support the show" button above. I Just Want to Talk about the Bible is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, which means that any donations made are tax-deductible. Thank you so much for giving as the Lord leads!
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Today we look at some biblical principles regarding how to respond to pressures and change them from being destructive to being constructive.
Quotes:
- To abide in Jesus is to live in fellowship with Him every moment of every day. (Vance Pitman)
- Fruit is the life of the Vine pressed out through the branches. (Vance Pitman)
- The life of Jesus in me being lived through me (Vance Pitman)
Other episodes mentioned in this one:
- Episode 7: Meditating on the Scriptures, Part 1
- Episode 12: His steadfast love endures forever
- Episode 24: The Gospel
Scriptures used:
- Psalm 107:1
- Psalm 107:43
- Psalm 107:6, 13, 19, 28
- Psalm 107:8, 15, 21, 31
- Romans 8:38-39
- John 3:16
- Psalm 138:3
- Psalm 143
- James 4:8
- Psalm 105:4
- Hebrews 11:6
- John 15:4-5
- Galatians 2:20
- Colossians 1:27
- James 1:5-6
- Matthew 7:28-29
- Philippians 4:13
- 1 John 4:19
- Ecclesiastes 4:9-12
- Mark 2:1-12
- James 4:6; 1 Peter 5:5
- Matthew 23:12
- Galatians 6:2
- Proverbs 17:17
- James 5:16
- Psalm 121:1-2
- Psalm 34:8
- Psalm 1:1-3
If you feel so led, you can support the podcast by clicking HERE or by clicking the "Support the show" button above. I Just Want to Talk about the Bible is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, which means that any donations made are tax-deductible. Thank you so much for giving as the Lord leads!
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Our love for the Lord is a response to His love for us. Like 1 John 4:19 says, "We love because he first loved us." And our obedience to the Lord should flow out of our love for Him.
In this episode we talk about the Lord's love for us as seen through some of the things that the Lord did for us through the Gospel. As we come to know and believe these things more and more, our hearts will swell with reciprocal love for God.
Other episodes referenced in this one:
Episode 7: Meditating on the Scriptures, part 1
Episode 14: Our funeral leads to our freedom
Episode 24: The Gospel
Here is the list that I read and some corresponding Scriptures:
Because of what Jesus has done:
- All of our sins and shortcomings are completely and totally covered and forgiven (Ephesians 1:7; Colossians 2:13-14).
- We have been redeemed (our debt was fully paid, the wrath of God has been fully satisfied and no longer rests on us, Jesus was the propitiation—He died in our place) (Romans 3:23-26; Ephesians 1:7; Colossians 1:13-14; Colossians 2:13-14; 1 Peter 1:18-19).
- We have been adopted as sons and daughters of God (Ephesians 1:4c-5; Romans 8:15).
- We have been blessed with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places (Ephesians 1:3).
- We are holy and blameless before God (Ephesians 1:4a-b).
- In Christ we have been justified (made righteous, made right, approved of and accepted by God) (Romans 3:23-26; Romans 8:33-34; 2 Corinthians 5:21).
- We don’t have to be perfect. We put no confidence in the flesh. We are freed from looking for a righteousness of our own that would come by trying to keep the law (Philippians 3:8-9; Romans 6:14).
- We have peace with God (Romans 5:1).
- We live in the grace of God (Romans 5:2).
- Who we are is not who we were. We’ve been made new. We died with Christ and were raised with Him (Romans 6:6; 2 Corinthians 5:17; Colossians 2:11-12).
- There is no condemnation for us in Christ Jesus (Romans 8:1).
- We have the Holy Spirit (Romans 8:9-11).
- We are heirs with Christ (Romans 8:16-17).
- All things work together for our good (Romans 8:28-29).
- We are more than conquerors through Him (Romans 8:37).
- Nothing can separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus (Romans 8:38-39).
- We are seated in the heavenly places with Christ Jesus (Ephesians 2:4-7).
- We have direct access to God through Christ Jesus (Ephesians 3:11-12; Hebrews 4:14-16; 10:19-22).
Additional Scriptures used:
John 14:15
Matthew 5:21-22
1 Samuel 16:7
James 2:17, 26
Galatians 5:22-23
Matthew 22:37-40
John 19:30
Matthew 16:13-17
Hebrews 12:3-13
John 3:16
Romans 6:1-2
John 1:12-13
Romans 10:13
John 17:3
**CORRECTIONS/CLARIFICATIONS**
John 3:16 says, "For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life." When quoting it, I said "shall" instead of "should".
If you feel so led, you can support the podcast by clicking HERE or by clicking the "Support the show" button above. I Just Want to Talk about the Bible is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, which means that any donations made are tax-deductible. Thank you so much for giving as the Lord leads!
Take care!
In this episode we look at a passage from Jeremiah and ask ourselves a hard question based on what we read.
Other episodes referenced in this one:
Episode 4: Brief overview of the Old Testament
Episode 6: Surrender: a firsthand experience
Episode 50: The Lord knows best
Scriptures referenced:
Jeremiah 1:4-8
Jeremiah 2:4-13
Jeremiah 22:8-9
Jeremiah 42:1-22
Deuteronomy 5:29
Jeremiah 43:1-7
Psalm 40:8
Matthew 26:39
Luke 6:46
Psalm 107:6
Psalm 40:1-3
If you feel so led, you can support the podcast by clicking HERE or by clicking the "Support the show" button above. I Just Want to Talk about the Bible is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, which means that any donations made are tax-deductible. Thank you so much for giving as the Lord leads!
Take care!
"Pray as if it all depends on God, and work as if it all depends on you." That's something a man of God I used to know would say, and it captures the focus of this episode. Today we look at how we need to do what we can do and then depend on God to do what only He can do.
Other episodes referenced in this one:
Episode 7: Meditating on the Scriptures, part 1
You can access the commentary I read the quote from about John 2:4 HERE.
Scriptures used:
John 2:1-11
John 19:26-27
John 11:38-44
Matthew 17:20
Matthew 28:18-20
John 6:44
Psalm 1:1-3
Psalm 119:11
2 Timothy 2:7
Psalm 105:4
Psalm 27:8
Psalm 119:10
Jeremiah 29:13
Hebrews 11:6
James 4:8
Matthew 7:7
**CORRECTIONS/CLARIFICATIONS**
I referred to Psalm 27:6. The correct reference is actually Psalm 27:8.
If you feel so led, you can support the podcast by clicking HERE or by clicking the "Support the show" button above. I Just Want to Talk about the Bible is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, which means that any donations made are tax-deductible. Thank you so much for giving as the Lord leads!
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Happy 50th episode!
In this episode we discuss the peril of doing what seems best to us and the importance of trusting the Lord in every circumstance even when it may not make sense to us.
Other episodes referenced in this one:
Episode 6: Surrender: A Firsthand Experience
Scriptures used:
Proverbs 14:12
Proverbs 16:25
John 10:10
Proverbs 3:7-8
Proverbs 12:15
Proverbs 26:12
Judges 17:6
Judges 21:25
Romans 12:19-21
Matthew 5:38-42
Genesis 3:1-6
Revelation 12:9
John 3:16
Romans 5:8
1 John 3:1
1 John 4:9-10
Psalm 16:11
Proverbs 3:5-6
Psalm 103:13-14
If you feel so led, you can support the podcast by clicking HERE or by clicking the "Support the show" button above. I Just Want to Talk about the Bible is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, which means that any donations made are tax-deductible. Thank you so much for giving as the Lord leads!
Take care!
In this episode we discuss the importance of trusting the Lord, and we see how our emotions are indicators of our thoughts. It's our responsibility to meditate upon the Word of God, to ask God for wisdom, and to analyze our thoughts and see if they line up with the truth of God's Word. But we must also be dependent upon the Holy Spirit in this process. Apart from His power, we won't be able to do what we discuss in this episode (see 1 Corinthians 2:11-12). Like Jesus said, "...apart from me you can do nothing" (John 15:5).
Here is the declaration I shared in this episode: My emotions are not intrinsically trustworthy, and I am not led by them; rather, it is the Lord and His Word that govern my thoughts and actions. (Philippians 4:8: “Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things.”)
Remember, if we don't control our thoughts, they will control us. When we find ourselves sinking like Peter was, we need to pay attention to the thoughts we are thinking that are leading to that. Or, to put it simply: when we find ourselves sinking, ask, "What am I thinking?"
Other episodes referenced in this one:
Episode 24: The Gospel
Episode 44: The renewal of our minds
Episode 48: Five loaves and two fish
Scriptures referenced in this episode:
Matthew 14:22-33
Mark 6:48
James 2:26
Isaiah 26:3
James 1:5-6
Romans 12:2
Ephesians 4:22-24
Matthew 6:25-34
John 1:12-13
Psalm 56:3-4
Psalm 42:11
Philippians 4:8-9
John 8:44
John 14:6
Philippians 4:6-7
John 10:10
John 16:33
Romans 8:37
**CORRECTIONS/CLARIFICATIONS**
When I said that "we" had physical bodies in the garden before the fall, I was referring to Adam and Eve, of course. By "we" I meant humankind.
If you feel so led, you can support the podcast by clicking HERE or by clicking the "Support the show" button above. I Just Want to Talk about the Bible is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, which means that any donations made are tax-deductible. Thank you so much for giving as the Lord leads!
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In this episode we discuss how if we bring to the Lord what we have He can take it and multiply it into something greater than we could have ever imagined for His glory and the good of others. Just remember: you can be used to make an impact in the kingdom of God!
Here is where the feeding of the 5,000 can be found in each Gospel account: Matthew 14:13-21; Mark 6:30-44; Luke 9:10-17; John 6:1-15
Other episodes referenced in this one:
Episode 15: Abide, part 1
Episode 16: Abide, part 2
Episode 24: The Gospel
Scriptures used/referenced:
Mark 6:30-44
Luke 9:11
John 6:8-9
Matthew 14:21
Ephesians 2:8-10
Exodus 3:1-4:17
Judges 6-8
1 Corinthians 12:12-20
John 15:1-5
Matthew 13:3-9
Matthew 13:18-23
Galatians 6:2
If you feel so led, you can support the podcast by clicking HERE or by clicking the "Support the show" button above. I Just Want to Talk about the Bible is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, which means that any donations made are tax-deductible. Thank you so much for giving as the Lord leads!
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In this episode I share three things that the Lord does in us through difficulties. There are certainly many more things, but these three are things He has highlighted to me recently. As a recap, those three things are:
Also, here is the declaration I wrote about meekness that I share in the episode: "The Lord is teaching me meekness. I don’t get angry when things don’t go my way. The times when I’m insulted, criticized, slandered, spoken against, or disrespected are simply the training grounds for learning meekness." (1 Peter 2:22-24; Proverbs 16:32)
Scriptures used:
John 16:33
Romans 8:28-29
Matthew 11:28-30
2 Corinthians 1:3-4
2 Corinthians 12:9
James 4:6
1 Peter 5:5
Matthew 23:12
2 Corinthians 1:8-9
Matthew 5:5
Ephesians 4:1-3
Galatians 5:22-23
1 Peter 2:22-24
Philippians 2:3-11
John 6:38
Matthew 26:52-54
Matthew 5:3-4
Proverbs 16:32
1 Thessalonians 5:16-18
1 Samuel 18:10-11
1 Samuel 19:9-10
Galatians 6:2
Galatians 6:1
If you feel so led, you can support the podcast by clicking HERE or by clicking the "Support the show" button above. I Just Want to Talk about the Bible is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, which means that any donations made are tax-deductible. Thank you so much for giving as the Lord leads!
Take care!
This episode is a continuation of the conversation that we started back in episode 44. In it, I share a declaration that I wrote based on the reality that our righteousness comes from Jesus alone and that we don't have to earn God's love, favor, or approval.
Here is the declaration I shared in this episode: "I don’t have to 'do enough', because Jesus has done it all." (Philippians 3:8-9)
Episodes I referenced in this one:
Episode 21: "I never knew you"
Episode 24: The Gospel
Episode 44: The renewal of our minds
Episode 45: Declarations
I referenced the Greek word that the ESV translates as rubbish in Philippians 3:8. More information (including the Strong's number) can be found HERE.
Scriptures used in this episode:
- Philippians 3:2-11
- Romans 8:1
- Hebrews 12:3-13
- John 1:12-13
- Romans 8:38-39
- John 14:15
- 1 John 5:3
- Matthew 11:30
- Matthew 22:37-40
- Romans 3:23
- Matthew 5:3
- Matthew 15:1-9
- Romans 3:19-20
- 2 Corinthians 5:17
- Hebrews 13:5
- John 6:37
- 2 Corinthians 12:9
If you feel so led, you can support the podcast by clicking HERE or by clicking the "Support the show" button above. I Just Want to Talk about the Bible is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, which means that any donations made are tax-deductible. Thank you so much for giving as the Lord leads!
Take care!
In this episode I share some of the declarations that I have written for myself. Hopefully, some of them will be an encouragement to you too. Remember though, it's important for you to personalize them or come up with your own as well based off of what the Lord is currently teaching you.
As I shared in the episode, I'm including the declarations below. I wanted to write out the Scriptures in their entirety next to each one, but it would exceed the amount of space I'm provided in this podcast description. As such, I just put the Scripture references next to each declaration.
DECLARATIONS:
Jesus is all that I need. (Psalm 23:1)
Every moment of every day I set the Lord before me. No matter what comes, I am stable because He is with me. (Psalm 16:8-9; 112:7)
I continually give thanks regardless of my circumstances and emotions. My days are an endless stream of gratitude to the Lord for who He is and all that He’s done for me. (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18)
I put others first. I run to the back of the line. I hurry to the low seat. I live to serve, not to be served. (Mark 10:42-45)
I am led by the Spirit. I consciously and willingly yield to Him today and place my mind under His control. (Romans 8:14)
Jesus loves me. He meets me with open arms, not a pointed finger. (Matthew 11:28-30)
All of my guilt, shame, and condemnation has been nailed to the cross. There is none left for me. (Romans 8:1-4)
I am not dragged around by my thoughts or emotions. I trust the Lord and look to Him for guidance and answers. He shows me what to do. (Proverbs 3:5-6)
God gives me wisdom when I ask for it, and He doesn’t point a finger in my face for needing it. He is not disappointed or irritated with my need for wisdom. (James 1:5-6)
I don’t know everything, and I don’t have to always be right. I am a learner and a listener, not a know-it-all. I can learn something from everyone. (Proverbs 18:2)
I don’t seek conflict, but I don’t run from it either. (Proverbs 28:1)
God is my provider. I don’t worry about finances. I just seek Him. (Matthew 6:31-34)
I am not an anxious person. Any anxiety I experience I immediately cast at the feet of Jesus, give thanks, and ask for His wisdom. Then I leave the matter there unless He tells me to do otherwise. (Philippians 4:6-7)
I do what’s right, not what’s easy. (Still working on a verse)
I am a finisher, not just a starter. (Still working on a verse)
I look to the Lord and not to food for comfort. I don’t overeat. By the power of the Holy Spirit, I’m temperate and self-controlled. (Proverbs 25:16)
The Lord sees me. He is fully aware of what I’m facing and how I’m feeling, and He cares. (Genesis 16:13)
I’m a joyful person regardless of my circumstances. God has filled my heart with joy. He is the source of my joy. (Psalm 4:6-7; 16:11)
**CORRECTIONS/CLARIFICATIONS**
When sharing my first declaration, I said the Scripture reference was Psalm 23. Specifically, it's Psalm 23:1.
If you feel so led, you can support the podcast by clicking HERE or by clicking the "Support the show" button above. I Just Want to Talk about the Bible is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, which means that any donations made are tax-deductible. Thank you so much for giving as the Lord leads!
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In this episode we discuss the importance of being transformed by the renewal of our minds by declaring truth daily so as to change the way that we think.
Other episodes referenced in this one:
- Episode 20: Give thanks to the Lord, for He is good!
- Episode 26: Taking thoughts captive 101
Pastor Craig Groeschel's book Winning the War in Your Mind can be purchased HERE.
Scriptures referenced:
- Luke 10:38-42
- Matthew 11:30
- John 14:26
- Romans 12:2
- Philippians 4:6-9
- Romans 8:1
- 2 Corinthians 5:21
- Hebrews 13:5
- Proverbs 12:15
- Psalm 16:8-9
- 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18
- Proverbs 18:2
- Mark 10:42-45
- Psalm 4:6-7
- Psalm 16:11
If you feel so led, you can support the podcast by clicking HERE or by clicking the "Support the show" button above. I Just Want to Talk about the Bible is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, which means that any donations made are tax-deductible. Thank you so much for giving as the Lord leads!
Take care!
In this episode we discuss the important difference between empathy and compassion.
Episodes referenced:
- Episode 39: "Seventy-seven times"
- Episode 42: "By this all people will know..."
www.blueletterbible.org is the resource that I mentioned that is helpful for doing studies in the original languages.
Here are the words that I focused on in this episode (click on the highlighted link to go to the corresponding page):
List of verses where splagchnizomai is used:
- Matthew 9:36
- Matthew 14:14
- Matthew 15:32
- Matthew 18:27
- Matthew 20:34
- Mark 1:41
- Mark 6:34
- Mark 8:2
- Mark 9:22
- Luke 7:13
- Luke 10:33
- Luke 15:20
Scriptures referenced in this episode:
- Romans 12:15b
- Matthew 9:35-10:8
- Acts 1:8
- Matthew 14:13-21
- Matthew 15:32-39
- Matthew 18:21-35 (especially verses 25-27)
- Matthew 20:29-34
- Mark 1:40-42
- Luke 10:25-37 (especially verse 33)
- Luke 15:11-32 (especially verse 20)
- Matthew 5:46
- Colossians 3:12-14
**CORRECTIONS/CLARIFICATIONS**
- When reading the passage out of Matthew 15, I somehow accidentally jumped over verse 35, which says, "And directing the crowd to sit down on the ground"
If you feel so led, you can support the podcast by clicking HERE or by clicking the "Support the show" button above. I Just Want to Talk about the Bible is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, which means that any donations made are tax-deductible. Thank you so much for giving as the Lord leads!
Take care!
In this episode we talk about the importance of love in the life of a believer.
Other episodes referenced in this one:
- 21. "I never knew you"
- 24. The Gospel
Quote by Pete Scazzero: "Love really is the mark of a true and mature spirituality."
Quote by my pastor Jeff Kapusta: "Crisis reveals character."
I mentioned blueletterbible.org. I wanted to include the link to that website HERE.
Scriptures used:
- John 13:34-35
- John 3:16
- Romans 13:8-10
- Matthew 22:37-40
- John 1:14
- 1 Corinthians 13:4-7
- 1 Corinthians 12:31b
- 1 Corinthians 13:1-3
- Galatians 5:22-23
- 1 Corinthians 10:13
- Proverbs 17:3
- James 4:6
- Matthew 23:12
- Psalm 51:10
- 1 John 3:1
- Psalm 23
- Hebrews 13:5
**CORRECTIONS/CLARIFICATIONS**
- When quoting Matthew 22:37-40 I said, "And He said to them..." It is actually, "And He said to him..."
- I said that being able to quote Scripture doesn't indicate maturity at all. I want to clarify that a little more. What I meant is that just because someone can quote Scripture doesn't mean that they are spiritually mature; however, if someone is growing in spiritual maturity, then they should also certainly be growing in biblical knowledge as well. To put it simply, just because someone can quote Scripture doesn't make them mature, but if someone is mature, then they will most likely know quite a bit of Scripture.
- When reading 1 John 3:1, I accidentally omitted the word "to" at one point. It doesn't change the meaning, but here is the portion of the verse that I was reading, "See what kind of love the Father has given to us, that we should be called children of God; and so we are."
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The journal entry I mention in this episode captures the focus of the entire thing:
"I was just praying and asked the Lord for wisdom, and I think He showed me something wonderful. He’s promised to give wisdom; so, when I ask I need to truly be confident that He will give it. I can rest in that assurance. It's a guarantee! However, I’ve wanted that wisdom same day or same week. There is no guarantee of when it will come or how it will come; the guarantee is simply that it will come! Good things come to those who wait. So, if I’m asking God for wisdom in a matter and He hasn’t given it to me yet, then I just need to wait for the Lord. I shouldn’t make a move. I must not become impatient. If I don’t wait for the Lord, then I will just be doing what is right in my own eyes."
Other episodes referenced in this one:
- Episode 32: Wisdom series: Connect the dots
- Episode 35: Wisdom series: "And David inquired of the Lord"
- Episode 36: Wisdom series: Jethro's advice
- Episode 37: Wisdom series: Perspective
Scriptures used in this episode:
- James 1:5-8
- Proverbs 2:1-15
- Judges 21:25
- Proverbs 3:5-6
- Matthew 23:12
- Psalm 27:14
- Genesis 16
- Psalm 46:10
- Proverbs 12:15
- Psalm 119:105
- Psalm 1:1-2
If you feel so led, you can support the podcast by clicking HERE or by clicking the "Support the show" button above. I Just Want to Talk about the Bible is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, which means that any donations made are tax-deductible. Thank you so much for giving as the Lord leads!
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In this episode we talk about experiencing emotional healing from the Lord.
The quote that I referenced from my pastor was: "If our past is still affecting us, it's not our past."
Here are the items that we talked through:
- God sees you, and He cares.
- He understands.
- His heart is one of compassion towards you.
- Cry out to Him. Where there is no prayer there is no progress.
- Apply Romans 8:28-29 to the sources of the pain.
- Give thanks in all circumstances.
Here are some of the main Scriptures I used/referenced:
- 2 Corinthians 3:17
- Isaiah 61:1-3
- Luke 4:16-30
- Psalm 139:23-24
- John 16:33
- John 14:27
- Psalm 34:18
- Psalm 4:7
- Psalm 16:11
- Galatians 5:22-23
- Genesis 16:13
- Matthew 6:8
- Matthew 6:32
- Hebrews 4:14-16
- Matthew 8:2-3
- John 4:46-54
- Matthew 9:35-36
- Matthew 15:32
- Hebrews 13:8
- Romans 8:1
- Matthew 19:13-15
- Matthew 23:1-36
- Matthew 11:16-19
- Matthew 11:28-30
- Psalm 23:1-3a
- Jeremiah 17:9
- Psalm 107:6
- Luke 18:1-8
- Luke 11:5-13
- Psalm 30:2
- Psalm 30:11-12
- 2 Corinthians 12:7-10
- Romans 8:28-29
- 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18
- Philippians 4:6-7
- Galatians 6:2
**CORRECTIONS/CLARIFICATIONS**
- I say that the account of Jesus reading from the scroll of Isaiah was at the end of Luke 4. It is actually closer to the middle of Luke 4.
- At one point I referenced "Psalm 38". The correct reference is Psalm 34:18.
- When discussing the Angel of the Lord, I mentioned that this was the seedbed for the Trinity. By saying this I was not implying that the Trinity did not always exist. All three Members of the Trinity have always existed from eternity past. My point was simply to address the wrong idea that the Trinity is a New Testament invention, which it clearly is not. We discuss the Trinity more in episode 25 entitled "The Trinity".
- I mentioned that "Hagar" meant "the immigrant". While I originally heard this from a reputable source that I trust, I had trouble finding this definition while double checking. Another suggested meaning of the name is "to flee".
- I referred to an incident where a man came and asked Jesus to heal his servant who was in bed and Jesus did and when the man returned the next day he was told that his servant recovered at the very hour that he had been speaking with Jesus. I accidentally combined multiple accounts in my mind. It was not the man's servant but his son. The account is recorded in John 4:46-54.
- At one point I said, "Here we agree with things, but here we believe them." I pointed to my head and then to my heart when saying this.
If you feel so led, you can support the podcast by clicking HERE or by clicking the "Support the show" button above. I Just Want to Talk about the Bible is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, which means that any donations made are tax-deductible. Thank you so much for giving as the Lord leads!
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In this episode we talk about the vital importance of forgiving others.
I referenced an episode that I uploaded about the Gospel. That was episode number 24 (entitled "The Gospel").
Here is the quote from Lewis B. Smedes that I read: "To forgive is to set a prisoner free and discover that the prisoner was you."
Scriptures used:
- Matthew 18:15-35
- 2 Kings 4:1-7
- Romans 3:23
- Romans 6:23
- Ephesians 2:8-9
- 2 Corinthians 5:21
- Ephesians 4:30-32
- Luke 7:36-50
- 1 John 4:7-20
- Matthew 22:34-40
- Romans 8:1
- Hebrews 12:5-13
- John 3:16
- Luke 23:34
- Romans 12:19
- Matthew 6:14-15
- Psalm 66:18
- Mark 11:20-25
- John 14:13
- 1 John 5:14-15
- James 4:3
**CORRECTIONS/CLARIFICATIONS**
- I said that a talent was a unit of measurement. It would've probably been more helpful and accurate to refer to it as a monetary unit instead of a unit of measurement (although I suppose it does "measure" an amount of money so to speak).
- I used the word "exorbitant" to describe the king's generosity and compassion. Perhaps "extreme" would have been a better word. Sometimes exorbitant can have a negative connotation about it, which is most certainly not what I was implying. I was only referring to the king's mercy in positive terms.
- When reading Matthew 18:34, I said, "...until he should pay off all his debt." I accidentally added the word "off". The verse actually says, "...until he should pay all his debt."
- I read Matthew 18:33 as, "And should you not have had mercy...". It's actually "And should not you have had mercy..." It was just a slight word order change that didn't affect the meaning in any way.
If you feel so led, you can support the podcast by clicking HERE or by clicking the "Support the show" button above. I Just Want to Talk about the Bible is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, which means that any donations made are tax-deductible. Thank you so much for giving as the Lord leads!
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Here is that list I mentioned listing out a few things that are true of us in Christ:
Nothing can separate me from the love of God in Christ Jesus.
Romans 8:38-39
In Christ I am a new creation.
2 Corinthians 5:17
In Christ I am the righteousness of God.
2 Corinthians 5:21
There is no condemnation for me in Christ Jesus.
Romans 8:1
Romans 8:33-34
I have been adopted into the family of God. God is my Father.
John 1:12-13
Romans 8:14-17
The Lord will never ever leave me nor forsake me.
Hebrews 13:5
I have the Holy Spirit.
Romans 8:9
I no longer am who I was. I am dead to sin and alive to God in Christ Jesus. Sin no longer has dominion over me.
Romans 6:6
Romans 6:11
Romans 6:14
Galatians 2:20
God will not ever let me be tempted beyond my ability. No matter what situation I find myself in, it is never too much because God is faithful.
1 Corinthians 10:13
I have everything I need to live the life God has called me to live.
2 Peter 1:3-4
Quote I used:
"Without being too technical, the verb lay aside can be translated one of two ways, (1) either indicating a completed past action (this would be our position in Christ) or (2) an action the believer is to carry out (almost giving it the sense of an imperative)." (https://www.preceptaustin.org/ephesians_420-22)
Other podcast episodes that I referenced that are helpful companions to this one (in order of appearance):
Episode 21: "I never knew you"
Episode 34: Justification
Episode 14: Our funeral leads to our freedom
Scriptures used:
John 11:35
John 11:38-44
John 11:11-15
John 11:25
2 Corinthians 5:17
Romans 6:6
Ephesians 4:17-24
Ephesians 2:1-3
John 1:12-13
Romans 8:14-17
2 Corinthians 5:21
Romans 8:9
Galatians 5:22-23
Colossians 3:8-10
Romans 6:14
Romans 8:38-39
Hebrews 13:5
Romans 12:1-2
1 Corinthians 2:11-12
Romans 6:1-11
**CORRECTIONS/CLARIFICATIONS**
I said "be transformed by the renewing of your mind". The direct quote is "be transformed by the renewal of your mind" in the translation I was reading out of. This doesn't make any difference at all whatsoever. I simply wanted to be precise.
When I said that Jesus' first coming brought a spiritual death and rebirth I was referring to what happens to us when we were born again. I fully believe the biblical message that Jesus physically died and that He physically rose from the dead. That is a crucial and indispensable component to the gospel.
I think I made this clear at a couple of points in the episode, but these identity qualities that I am describing are true of those who are in Christ, meaning those who have place their faith and trust in Him. For those who have yet to do so, these qualities do not yet apply; however, they can! Anyone can give their lives to the Lord in an instance and receive immediate forgiveness for sins and become a new creation!
If you feel so led, you can support the podcast by clicking HERE or by clicking the "Support the show" button above. I Just Want to Talk about the Bible is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, which means that any donations made are tax-deductible. Thank you so much for giving as the Lord leads!
Take care!
In this episode we continue our discussion on seeking wisdom from the Lord, specifically by asking Him to give us His perspective.
You can access the article I mentioned concerning Elisha HERE.
You can access the Hebrew word for "marauding bands" HERE.
Scriptures used or referenced:
2 Kings 6:8-24
2 Kings 5:2
John 10:18
Exodus 15:22-27
Exodus 16-17
James 1:5-6
Matthew 5:3
Matthew 16:21-23
1 Corinthians 15:14
John 10:18
Matthew 17:22-23
Romans 6:23
Hebrews 10:19-22
**CORRECTIONS/CLARIFICATIONS**
2 Kings 6:10 reads, "And the king of Israel sent to the place about which the man of God told him. Thus he used to warn him, so that he saved himself there more than once or twice." I accidentally omitted the word "there".
I refer to Syria as "he" at one point. I meant "they". Syria is not an individual but rather a nation.
I accidentally said, "Elijah" a number of times when it clearly should've been "Elisha".
I referenced what Jesus said in John 10:18, but I wanted to include the verse verbatim here: "No one takes it from me, but I lay it down of my own accord. I have authority to lay it down, and I have authority to take it up again. This charge I have received from my Father."
I referenced what Paul said in 1 Corinthians 15:14, but I wanted to include the verse verbatim here: "And if Christ has not been raised, then our preaching is in vain and your faith is in vain."
I accidentally said "Romans 6:26". The correct reference was Romans 6:23.
If you feel so led, you can support the podcast by clicking HERE or by clicking the "Support the show" button above. I Just Want to Talk about the Bible is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, which means that any donations made are tax-deductible. Thank you so much for giving as the Lord leads!
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In this episode we continue to discuss getting wisdom from the Lord, specifically with regard to the topic of prioritization.
Scriptures used:
Exodus 18
Exodus 2:11-22
Exodus 3:1
Deuteronomy 5:1-2
Ephesians 2:8-10
Romans 12:3-8
1 Corinthians 12 (especially verses 12-27)
Acts 2:41
Acts 6:1-7
James 1:27
**CORRECTIONS/CLARIFICATIONS**
I said that Moses saw an Egyptian taskmaster abusing a Hebrew slave. The text doesn't actually indicate that this Egyptian was a taskmaster. Exodus 2:11-12 says, "One day, when Moses had grown up, he went out to his people and looked on their burdens, and he saw an Egyptian beating a Hebrew, one of his people. He looked this way and that, and seeing no one, he struck down the Egyptian and hid him in the sand." I wanted to clarify that the text does not say that the Egyptian was a taskmaster or that the Hebrew was a slave; however, the oppression of the Hebrews is clearly implied by the phrase "and looked on their burdens". Furthermore, it likely was a taskmaster because Exodus 1:11a says, "Therefore they set taskmasters over them to afflict them with heavy burdens." But the point remains the same that an Egyptian was beating an oppressed Hebrew.
I mentioned how Horeb and Sinai refer to the same location. I wanted to provide a couple more Scriptures indicating this. Notice in Exodus 19 that the mountain is referred to as Mount Sinai (Exodus 19:11, 18, 20, 23). It is also referred to as Mount Sinai in Exodus 24:16 and 31:18. Then in Exodus 32 the incident with the golden calf happens down in the camp. Referring to this incident, Psalm 106:19 says, "They made a calf in Horeb and worshiped a metal image." Furthermore, Exodus 33:6 says, "Therefore the people of Israel stripped themselves of their ornaments, from Mount Horeb onward." These Scriptures (among others) indicate that Horeb and Sinai are the same location.
I mentioned how Jethro spent one night with Moses and then left the next day. The text explicitly states that the next day after he arrived Jethro saw what Moses was doing (Exodus 18:13). Then Jethro offers the advice. Later in the passage Moses applies Jethro's wisdom, and then Jethro departs. It's possible that Jethro remained there even longer than one day. The text simply does not explicitly state that. It could've been one night, or it could've been more. The point is that Jethro came and saw the situation with Moses and seemingly immediately offered his counsel.
If you feel so led, you can support the podcast by clicking HERE or by clicking the "Support the show" button above. I Just Want to Talk about the Bible is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, which means that any donations made are tax-deductible. Thank you so much for giving as the Lord leads!
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Today we take another look at seeking wisdom from the Lord but from a slightly different perspective. This episode is connected to episode 32 because both episodes have to do with seeking wisdom from the Lord.
Scriptures used:
2 Samuel 5:17-25
Joshua 6:1-5
Joshua 6:15-21
Joshua 7:1-13
Joshua 8:1-2
Matthew 5:9
Proverbs 3:5-6
James 1:5-6
**CORRECTIONS/CLARIFICATIONS**
Joshua 6:18 says, “But all silver and gold, and every vessel of bronze and iron, are holy to the Lord; they shall go into the treasury of the Lord.” I accidentally placed the word “the” before silver. It doesn’t affect the passage in any way. I just want to always totally accurately represent the text.
Also, let me clarify that I wasn't trying to paint Joshua in a negative light in this episode. After all, he was the one who in Joshua 24:15 said, "But as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord." Nevertheless, we can really learn from what happened regarding Ai.
If you feel so led, you can support the podcast by clicking HERE or by clicking the "Support the show" button above. I Just Want to Talk about the Bible is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, which means that any donations made are tax-deductible. Thank you so much for giving as the Lord leads!
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Today we talk about the crucial topic of justification (or being made righteous).
Scriptures used:
John 1:12-13
Romans 8:9
2 Corinthians 5:17
Romans 5:1-2
Romans 3:19-20
Romans 3:23
Genesis 15:1-6
Romans 4:20-25
Ephesians 2:8-9
James 2:20-24
James 2:14-19
John 17:3
Ephesians 2:10
John 3:16
John 20:30-31
Romans 5:6-9
2 Corinthians 5:21
Galatians 2:16
Romans 8:1
Philippians 4:6-7
Romans 8:31-34
Galatians 6:1-2
Hebrews 12:5-11
Hebrews 4:16
Hebrews 10:19-22
2 Corinthians 5:9
Psalm 19:14
John 14:15
**CORRECTIONS/CLARIFICATIONS**
I said at one point that we are saved by faith. What I meant was that we are saved by grace through faith in Jesus Christ
I said Hebrews 10:19-20. I meant to say Hebrews 10:19-22.
I said that if we are in Christ that we have been justified and the Lord loves us. I don't meant to imply that the Lord does not love those who are not yet born again. The Bible is clear that He loves everyone and that it is because of His love that He offers us the opportunity through Jesus Christ to be saved (e.g., John 3:16; Romans 5:6-11). My point was simply that we do not have to earn His love.
If you feel so led, you can support the podcast by clicking HERE or by clicking the "Support the show" button above. I Just Want to Talk about the Bible is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, which means that any donations made are tax-deductible. Thank you so much for giving as the Lord leads!
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In this episode we talk about the struggle against anxiety and how to walk in victory over it.
Scriptures used:
Matthew 6:25-34
Matthew 10:19
Luke 10:38-42
Philippians 4:6-7
Philippians 2:19-24
John 10:10
John 16:33
Galatians 5:22-23
Psalm 55:22
1 Peter 5:6-7
1 Thessalonians 5:16-18
Colossians 3:15
Galatians 6:2
Quotes:
“Worry chokes the life of faith. It does not help us to overcome our difficulties, but unfits us for dealing with them. No weapon that is formed against us shall prosper; every tongue that shall rise against us shall be condemned; our bread shall be given, and our water sure. God will perfect that which concerneth us, and His goodness and mercy shall never cease. Roll thyself and thy burden on the Lord, and leave them there. Too many take them back again!” (F. B. Meyer)
“Nothing is the most exclusive word in the English language. It leaves out everything.” (J. Vernon McGee)
If you feel so led, you can support the podcast by clicking HERE or by clicking the "Support the show" button above. I Just Want to Talk about the Bible is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, which means that any donations made are tax-deductible. Thank you so much for giving as the Lord leads!
Take care!
In this episode we discuss our vital need for wisdom from the Lord and some practical ways to ask for that wisdom and identify the answer to that prayer.
Scriptures used:
Matthew 5:9a
James 1:5-8
Hebrews 11:6
Romans 10:17
James 1:2-4
Matthew 7:7-11
James 4:2-3
James 1:22
1 Kings 3:5-10
Proverbs 2:1-15
If you feel so led, you can support the podcast by clicking HERE or by clicking the "Support the show" button above. I Just Want to Talk about the Bible is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, which means that any donations made are tax-deductible. Thank you so much for giving as the Lord leads!
Take care!
Today we are looking at Psalm 73 in its entirety and the vital importance of asking the Lord to give us His perspective.
You can access the article I mentioned about Asaph by clicking HERE.
Scriptures used in this lesson:
Psalm 73
Romans 6:23
John 14:6
Isaiah 40:29-31
Matthew 11:15
James 1:5-6
Numbers 14:7b-9
Matthew 5:9
Galatians 6:1
Matthew 7:7-8
**CORRECTIONS/CLARIFICATIONS**
Around 16:08 when I quoted Romans 6:23, I only quoted the first half of it in the episode. Here is the full verse: "For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord."
Around 32:20 I accidentally said "Numbers 14 halfway through verse 17 through verse 9." Obviously, I meant "Numbers 14 halfway through verse 7 through verse 9."
Around 33:09 when I quoted Galatians 6:1, I only quoted part of the verse. Here is the whole verse: "Brothers, if anyone is caught in any transgression, you who are spiritual should restore him in a spirit of gentleness. Keep watch on yourself, lest you too be tempted."
If you feel so led, you can support the podcast by clicking HERE or by clicking the "Support the show" button above. I Just Want to Talk about the Bible is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, which means that any donations made are tax-deductible. Thank you so much for giving as the Lord leads!
Take care!
In this episode we revisit the topic of humility and pride and go a little deeper into the conversation.
You can click the following links to see the definitions of some of the words we discussed:
PROUD
HUMBLE
OPPOSES
GRACE
ABOMINATION
You can access a the article I mentioned about fasting by clicking HERE.
Scriptures used:
James 4:6
Matthew 23:12
Luke 18:9-14
Matthew 4:17
Romans 6:23
Philippians 2:3-4
Matthew 11:29
Luke 14:7-11
Proverbs 27:2
Proverbs 26:12
Proverbs 18:12
Proverbs 16:18
Proverbs 21:4
Proverbs 16:5
Psalm 138:6
Isaiah 57:15
Isaiah 66:1-2
Ephesians 2:8-9
2 Corinthians 12:7-10
Galatians 5:16
Titus 2:11-14
Hebrews 13:5
Hebrews 10:19-22
Philippians 2:5-11
**CORRECTIONS/CLARIFICATIONS**
At 3:24 when discussing the word for pride I say "The first word is 'hyper". I meant to say that the first word is "huper". "Hyper" is a transliteration of the Greek word "huper". Not really a substantial point, but I still wanted to be thorough and clear.
At around 4:25 I mentioned Matthew 23:12. While this passage does not use the same word for “proud” as James 4:6, it absolutely communicates the same concept through the word “exalts”. Different word, same concept.
At around 27:18 I said something to the effect of, “I didn’t even know what the English word ‘abomination’ meant, let alone the Greek word.” I meant to say “let alone the Hebrew word”, because this verse was originally written in Hebrew.
If you feel so led, you can support the podcast by clicking HERE or by clicking the "Support the show" button above. I Just Want to Talk about the Bible is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, which means that any donations made are tax-deductible. Thank you so much for giving as the Lord leads!
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In this episode we briefly discuss the vital importance of having a right understanding of what God is like.
Here is a link to the quotes from C.S. Lewis and A.W. Tozer: https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/blogs/justin-taylor/tozer-vs-lewis-whats-the-most-important-thing-about-us/
Scriptures used in this episode:
Romans 5:6-10
2 Corinthians 5:21
John 1:12-13
John 1:14-18
John 14:8-9
John 17:6
John 17:25-26
Matthew 1:1
Mark 3:20-21
If you feel so led, you can support the podcast by clicking HERE or by clicking the "Support the show" button above. I Just Want to Talk about the Bible is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, which means that any donations made are tax-deductible. Thank you so much for giving as the Lord leads!
Take care!
In this episode we discuss James 1:2-4 and how the Lord will use trials in our lives for our benefit and His glory.
Scriptures used:
James 1:2-4
Romans 8:28
Psalm 119:160
Matthew 4:4
2 Timothy 3:16
Psalm 119:67
Psalm 119:71
2 Corinthians 3:17-18
Proverbs 10:22
Proverbs 22:4
Psalm 84:11
Matthew 7:11
Psalm 103:13-14
1 Peter 1:6-7
Proverbs 17:3
1 Corinthians 10:13
Proverbs 24:10
1 Peter 5:6-11
For those interested, you can read a little bit more about the Septuagint by clicking HERE.
**CORRECTIONS/CLARIFICATIONS**
Around 10:50 when I said, "Talking about this is my favorite thing to do" I was holding up the Bible. I imagine that was probably clear by the context, but still wanted to clarify.
Around 13:10 I slightly misquoted James 1:2 (although it didn't change the meaning). Here is the verse verbatim: "Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds..."
Around 13:25 I slightly misquoted Romans 8:28 (although it didn't change the meaning). Here is the verse verbatim: "And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose."
Around 14:32 I slightly misquoted Psalm 119:160 (although it didn't change the meaning). Here is the verse verbatim: "The sum of your word is truth, and every one of your righteous rules endures forever."
Around 14:35 I slightly misquoted Matthew 4:4 (although it didn't change the meaning). Here is the verse verbatim: "But he answered, 'It is written, "Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that comes from the mouth of God."'"
Around 18:25 I slightly misquoted Psalm 103:13-14 (although it didn't change the meaning). Here is the verse verbatim: "As a father shows compassion to his children, so the Lord shows compassion to those who fear him. For he knows our frame; he remembers that we are dust."
Around 26:15 I said that 10 karat gold is 50% gold and 50% other metals. It is actually 41.7% gold and 58.3% other metals.
At 30:34 I quoted part of 1 Corinthians 10:13. I wanted to write out the entire thing here because it is so relevant to this episode's topic: "No temptation has overtaken you that is not common to man. God is faithful, and he will not let you be tempted beyond your ability, but with the temptation he will also provide the way of escape, that you may be able to endure it."
Around 31:43 I said that the Greek word used in the James passage translated as "steadfastness" is "hupomeno." It is actually the word "hupomone." This doesn't change the point at all. "Hupomeno" is simply the verb form while "hupomone" is the noun.
Around 41:32 I say, "Unfortunately and fortunately He is more concerned with lasting change.” Obviously, I was being intentionally facetious when I said "unfortunately." The Lord developing us is the best thing that could happen to us.
If you feel so led, you can support the podcast by clicking HERE or by clicking the "Support the show" button above. I Just Want to Talk about the Bible is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, which means that any donations made are tax-deductible. Thank you so much for giving as the Lord leads!
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Today we talk about the vital importance of being in genuine Christian community where we can be transparent and vulnerable.
Scriptures used:
Luke 14:7-11
Psalm 27:10
Hebrews 13:5c
1 John 5:2-3
John 14:15
2 Corinthians 3:17-18
Proverbs 27:17
Proverbs 27:6
Colossians 3:16
Galatians 6:2
Galatians 6:1
Proverbs 12:15
Romans 12:15
Hebrews 10:24-25
James 5:13-18
Mark 2:1-12
Mark 8:22
James 4:6
CORRECTIONS/CLARIFICATIONS
At around 1:45 when I say the parable is straightforward, that is not to say that it is simple. The truth is that there are always new insights and life-changing principles that the Lord can show us from any passage. We will never 100% exhaust any part of the Bible.
If you feel so led, you can support the podcast by clicking HERE or by clicking the "Support the show" button above. I Just Want to Talk about the Bible is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, which means that any donations made are tax-deductible. Thank you so much for giving as the Lord leads!
Take care!
In this episode we discuss how to address recurring troubling emotions, how to identify lies that we are believing, and how to inform those lies with the truth of God's Word and begin to walk in freedom and joy.
Here is the resource I mentioned that could be helpful in finding verses related to specific topics: http://www.openbible.info/topics/
Many of the verses used in this episode:
Philippians 4:6-7
Hebrews 4:12
Hebrews 13:5c
Romans 12:2
Ephesians 4:17-24
2 Corinthians 10:3-6
John 10:10
John 15:5
Philippians 4:8-9
Psalm 127:1a
Psalm 46:1
Psalm 1:1-3
Joshua 1:8
Psalm 119:160
Proverbs 30:5
John 17:17
Matthew 4:4
2 Timothy 3:16-17
James 4:6b
Matthew 23:12
Romans 12:15
Proverbs 24:17-18
**CORRECTIONS/CLARIFICATIONS**
At around 30:15 I said "the superficial feelings." I meant to say "the superficial thoughts."
At 31:35 I quote Matthew 23:12 but I accidentally said "but" instead of "and". It does not change the meaning, but here is the actual verse: "Whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and whoever humbles himself will be exalted" (Matthew 23:12).
If you feel so led, you can support the podcast by clicking HERE or by clicking the "Support the show" button above. I Just Want to Talk about the Bible is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, which means that any donations made are tax-deductible. Thank you so much for giving as the Lord leads!
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We look at the Scriptures to see what the Bible has to say about the Trinity.
One God:
Deut 6:4
Jn 17:3
Isa 44:6
1 Tim 2:3-6 (cross reference 1 John 4:14)
God the Father:
Jn 3:16
1 Jn 3:1a
1 Pet 1:3a
Lk 10:21-22
2 Cor 1:3-4
Jesus is God:
Matt 3:1-3
Jn 8:48-59
Ex 3:13-15
Jn 10:22-42
Jn 14:8-11
Jn 20:24-29
Mk 2:1-12
Mk 4:35-41 (cross reference Psalm 107:23-32)
Jesus' humanity:
Mk 4:38a
Jn 4:4-6
Matt 9:9-13
Jn 19:28-37
Jesus' submission to the Father:
Jn 14:28 (cross reference Jn 17:4-5 and Phil 2:5-11)
The Angel of the Lord:
Gen 22:10-18
The Holy Spirit is a Person:
Eph 4:30
1 Cor 12:11
Rom 8:26-27
Jn 16:12-15
The Holy Spirit is God:
Acts 5:1-6
The Holy Spirit in the Old Testament:
Gen 1:2
1 Sam 16:13
Isa 11:1-2
All three Persons of the Trinity in the same passage:
Matt 3:16-17
Matt 28:18-20
Jn 14:26
Gal 4:6
Rom 8:9
Articles:
General overview of the Trinity: https://www.gotquestions.org/Trinity-Bible.html
Information about Jesus being God: https://www.insight.org/resources/article-library/individual/how-do-we-know-that-jesus-is-god
The Angel of the Lord: https://blog.logos.com/angel-of-the-lord/ (This is quite a lengthly and detailed article, but it is helpful. One quick correction: at one place the article says "Genesis 20:10-18". That is a typo. The correct reference is Gen 22:10-18.)
The Holy Spirit being God: https://www.gotquestions.org/is-the-Holy-Spirit-God.html
Concerning Modalism: https://www.gotquestions.org/Modalistic-Monarchianism.html
Concerning Arianism: https://www.gotquestions.org/arianism.html
Concerning Docetism: https://www.gotquestions.org/Docetism.html
Concerning Adoptionism: https://www.gotquestions.org/adoptionism.html
I mentioned that I would include a few articles discussing the possible meaning of Jn 10:34. Below are two articles that take differing stances. I am not necessarily endorsing one view over the other. I simply wanted to include both perspectives as a means of allowing you to be informed.
One view: https://www.gotquestions.org/you-are-gods.html
Another view: https://faithlife.com/posts/776815
Here is the quote I mentioned concerning when Jesus said “for the Father is greater than I”: “‘for the Father is greater than I’ This is not a statement that focuses on the inequality of the Son, but a statement that deals with the functions within the Trinity related to mankind's salvation (cf. John 10:29-30). This subordination of the Son was only for a period of time, during His stay on the earth to fulfill the Triune God's plan of revelation and redemption (cf. John 17:4-5; Phil. 2:6-11). However, there is a sense in which the Father, being the sender, is primary (cf. John 13:16; 1 Cor. 15:27-28; Eph. 1:3-14).”
**CORRECTIONS**
At 3:34 it wasn't clear when I finished the quote. Here's the whole quote: "This is a term that is used to attempt to describe the triune God—three coexistent, co-eternal Persons who are God."
At 31:41 the correct reference is actually Matt 9:9-13.
At 38:55 the correct reference is actually Phil 2:5-11.
Feel free to email any questions or comments you have to ijustwanttotalkabout@gmail.com. Please note that while it may take a little while
If you feel so led, you can support the podcast by clicking HERE or by clicking the "Support the show" button above. I Just Want to Talk about the Bible is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, which means that any donations made are tax-deductible. Thank you so much for giving as the Lord leads!
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In this episode we discuss what the gospel is and how someone can begin a relationship with the Lord.
Here is the link to the Bible dictionary definition of "gospel": https://www.blueletterbible.org/lexicon/g2098/esv/mgnt/0-1/
Here are many of the Scripture references that I used:
Matthew 1:18-25
Luke 2:46-52
John 1:1
John 1:14
Matthew 4:23-24
Matthew 9:35-36
John 6:60-71
John 10:17-18
Hebrews 4:15
1 John 3:5
1 Peter 2:22-25
Romans 3:23
Isaiah 6:1-3
Deuteronomy 32:4
Romans 6:23
Romans 5:6-8
2 Corinthians 5:21
Matthew 16:21
1 Corinthians 15:3-8
Colossians 3:1
John 14:6
John 3:16
John 1:12-13
2 Corinthians 5:17
Luke 9:23
Luke 13:1-5
Romans 10:9
Ephesians 2:8-9
Hebrews 7:25
Romans 8:9-17
1 Peter 5:6-7
Psalm 119:18
Hebrews 10:24-25
Matthew 28:18-20
**CLARIFICATIONS**
At 10:08 I say, "Jesus is simultaneously God and also the Son of God." I also want to acknowledge the fact that He is also fully human. Jesus is 100% God and 100% human. I think this was communicated through the rest of what I said, but I wanted to say it in conjunction with this statement as well.
At 14:42 I say that Jesus' life started off with His supernatural conception and birth. This was NOT to say that His existence began with the virgin birth. The Son of God has always existed. We see this from places like John 1:1. My statement was merely referring to the beginning of his human life on earth.
Feel free to email any questions or comments you have to ijustwanttotalkabout@gmail.com. Please note that while it may take a little while to receive a response, your email is very important, and it is not being ignored.
If you feel so led, you can support the podcast by clicking HERE or by clicking the "Support the show" button above. I Just Want to Talk about the Bible is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, which means that any donations made are tax-deductible. Thank you so much for giving as the Lord leads!
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In this brief episode, we discuss some ways that we can practically meditate on the Word of God consistently throughout the day.
Some of the Scriptures I referenced:
Joshua 1:8.
Psalm 1:1-3.
Psalm 16:7.
Psalm 34:8.
Psalm 119:18.
Psalm 119:130.
1 Corinthians 2:11-12.
1 Thessalonians 5:17.
**CORRECTIONS/CLARIFICATIONS**
At 10:32 I called the app and website "Scripture Typer." I think that may have been a previous name. The current name of the app and website are "Bible Memory." Here is the link to the website: https://biblememory.com.
Around 12:15 I reference "John 16:3." I meant to say "John 16:13."
Around 12:30 I mention the idea of falling asleep while meditating upon the Scriptures. That idea came from a guy who is discipling me. It was not original to me. I wanted to give credit where credit is due.
Around 15:00 I said that when Peter saw the wind and the waves that he began to sink. The issue was not that he saw the intense weather. The issue was that he gave in to fear. He stopped trusting the Lord in that moment. The passage says, "But when he saw the wind, he was afraid, and beginning to sink he cried out, 'Lord, save me.' Jesus immediately reached out his hand and took hold of him, saying to him, 'O you of little faith, why did you doubt?'" (Matthew 14:30-31). Likewise, in our lives, "seeing the wind" is not the problem. The problem is when we take our trust off of the Lord and give in to fear. When we do this we quickly begin to sink.
Around 16:15 I said the Holy Spirit makes the Scriptures real to us. Of course the Scriptures are 100% objectively true, period. In saying that He makes them real to us I am not advocating some sort of relativistic truth. What I mean is that He brings them to life in our experience. In other words, the Scriptures are objectively true, and the Holy Spirit takes them and makes them also subjectively true to us. Or, put yet another way, he will move the Scriptures from simply being in our heads to being also in our hearts. He empowers us not only to agree with the Scriptures intellectually but to truly believe them in our innermost being.
Feel free to email any questions or comments you have to ijustwanttotalkabout@gmail.com. Please note that while it may take a little while to receive a response, your email is very important, and it is not being ignored.
If you feel so led, you can support the podcast by clicking HERE or by clicking the "Support the show" button above. I Just Want to Talk about the Bible is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, which means that any donations made are tax-deductible. Thank you so much for giving as the Lord leads!
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In this episode we talk about the vital importance of not just hearing the Word but also of doing it.
Here are the resources that I mentioned in the episode:
George Müller quote: https://www.georgemuller.org/devotional/how-i-ascertain-the-will-of-god.
Open Bible: https://www.openbible.info/topics/ (This link will take you directly to the page where you can search for topics; so, it removes a step in how I described it on the episode).
Got Questions: https://www.gotquestions.org (This website has extremely helpful articles on almost any topic relevant to Christianity. While I don't 100% agree with absolutely everything in all of the articles, I use this phenomenal resource very frequently and would commend it to just about anyone).
List of topics: http://www.mentoringmen.net/important-teachings-of-the-bible/ (This link will take you directly to the page; so, you can skip all the steps that I mentioned in the episode).
Some of the primary Scriptures I referenced:
James 1:22-25.
2 Corinthians 3:17-18.
John 8:34-36.
Matthew 5:3.
Matthew 5:8.
Matthew 7:24-27.
Matthew 4:4.
2 Timothy 3:16-17.
Psalm 119:160.
John 16:13.
John 17:17.
Proverbs 12:15.
Proverbs 28:26.
**CLARIFICATIONS**
At around 6:45 I said that for some people conviction is a spiritual experience. Conviction from the Holy Spirit is indeed a spiritual experience for all of us. My point was simply to say that many people feel as though they are doing well simply because the Holy Spirit convicted them of something even if they don't act on that conviction. This would of course be hearing but not doing.
At around 39:00 I said something along the lines of wanting Jesus to be real in our experience. I try to be careful to accurately communicate what I mean when I use this type of verbiage. Obviously, Jesus is real. Period. Whether or not someone believes in Him does not affect the fact that He is real, that He is alive, and that He is at the right hand of God. What I meant was that He will become more real to us in our practical experience. To say it another we, we experience Him more intimately.
At around 48:00 I quickly quoted Matthew 4:4. My wording was slightly off (although it did not change the meaning). Here is the exact wording: "Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that comes from the mouth of God."
Feel free to email any questions or comments you have to ijustwanttotalkabout@gmail.com. Please note that while it may take a little while to receive a response, your email is very important, and it is not being ignored.
If you feel so led, you can support the podcast by clicking HERE or by clicking the "Support the show" button above. I Just Want to Talk about the Bible is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, which means that any donations made are tax-deductible. Thank you so much for giving as the Lord leads!
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In this episode we take a close look at Jesus' words in Matthew 7:21-23: "Not everyone who says to me, 'Lord, Lord,' will enter the kingdom of heaven, but the one who does the will of my Father who is in heaven. On that day many will say to me, 'Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name, and cast out demons in your name, and do many mighty works in your name?' And then will I declare to them, 'I never knew you; depart from me, you workers of lawlessness.'"
The main points were:
- Just because someone verbally says that Jesus is Lord does not automatically mean that they are truly saved.
- Just because someone does some spiritual/religious things does not automatically mean that they are truly saved.
- True salvation is evidenced by a changed life. If someone can continue in sin and have no desire to stop or if someone doesn't actually have the desire to know Jesus, then that individual may very well not know the Lord at all.
- True salvation is found in truly knowing Jesus, not just doing and saying the right things.
- There is no way to have a relationship with God apart from through Jesus Christ.
- For those who are truly born again, there has been a change. They are no longer who they were but have become a new creation.
We covered a lot of Scripture in this episode and I wanted to include some of the references for those of you who want to go back and reread them. These are (roughly) in order of appearance in the episode:
- Matthew 7:21-23.
- Ephesians 2:8-9.
- Psalm 119:160.
- John 17:17.
- 2 Timothy 3:16.
- 2 Peter 1:20-21.
- John 1:12-13.
- John 20:30-31.
- John 3:16.
- John 14:6.
- Acts 4:12.
- 1 John 3:4-10.
- 1 John 1:8-2:6.
- Ephesians 2:10.
- John 17:3.
**CLARIFICATIONS**
- Early on I say that the Sermon on the Mount describes what a Christian should be like. This is most definitely true, but the Sermon on the Mount is even more than just a description of how a Christian should behave. In it we see much about the character of God, salvation, trusting the Lord, and many other things. I simply used that abbreviated description in passing. Nevertheless, I wanted to elaborate on it a bit.
- At one point I say something like, “It’s faith in these things that leads to salvation.” I want to clarify: it’s faith in Jesus Christ that leads to salvation—nothing else. The “these things” to which I was referring were facts about the Gospel that described what it means to have faith in Jesus. I still wanted to clarify though.
- When discussing 1 John 2:2 and I said the whole world had access to the Lord, that was not to say that the entire world has heard the Gospel. There are indeed still un reached people groups. My statement was simply saying that anyone can come to the Lord regardless of background. Everyone is invited to repent and place their trust in Him. It’s not only for a specific people group.
Feel free to email any questions or comments you have to ijustwanttotalkabout@gmail.com. Please note that while it may take a little while to receive a response, your email is very important, and it is not being ignored.
Support the showIf you feel so led, you can support the podcast by clicking HERE or by clicking the "Support the show" button above. I Just Want to Talk about the Bible is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, which means that any donations made are tax-deductible. Thank you so much for giving as the Lord leads!
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In this episode I share a teaching that I did with the ministry that I'm with. As I mentioned in the introduction, there are a few things that made sense if you were in the room but might not have been as clear if you were not. I thought these things were minor enough to still post the teaching here.
At one point I used my hands to briefly describe the layout of first century Israel. Here is a map of Israel during Jesus' physical ministry so you can see what I was talking about: https://www.loc.gov/item/2009579463/
Link to Winning the War in Your Mind by Pastor Craig Groeschel: https://www.amazon.com/Winning-War-Your-Mind-Thinking/dp/0310362725/ref=sr_1_1?dchild=1&keywords=winning+the+war+in+your+mind&qid=1624900048&sr=8-1
Link to 1,000 Gifts by Ann Voskamp: https://www.amazon.com/One-Thousand-Gifts-Fully-Right/dp/0310321913/ref=sr_1_3?dchild=1&keywords=1000+gifts&qid=1624900963&sr=8-3
**CORRECTIONS/CLARIFICATIONS**
- When I was discussing Moab and Mt. Seir regarding Deuteronomy 2, I said they were the descendants of Esau. The people of Mt. Seir were indeed descended from Esau, but the people of Moab descended from Lot, Abraham’s relative.
- I slightly paraphrased Philippians 2:14 (although it didn’t change the meaning). Here is the exact text: “Do all things without grumbling or disputing…”
- At one point I paraphrased Romans 8:28. Here is the exact text: "And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose."
- Near the end I was quoting 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18. I accidentally slightly switched the word order in verse 18. While it didn't change the meaning of the text at all, I still wanted to include the passage verbatim here: "Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you."
Feel free to email any questions or comments you have to ijustwanttotalkabout@gmail.com. Please note that while it may take a little while to receive a response, your email is very important, and it is not being ignored.
If you feel so led, you can support the podcast by clicking HERE or by clicking the "Support the show" button above. I Just Want to Talk about the Bible is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, which means that any donations made are tax-deductible. Thank you so much for giving as the Lord leads!
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In this episode we approach the difficult subject of what happens to those who never hear the message about Jesus.
Near the end of the episode I mentioned that I would include some resources for anyone who wanted to learn more about the fate of the unborn/infants/young children/the severely mentally handicapped who have died.
**CORRECTIONS/CLARIFICATIONS**
- At one point I said “various levels of hell.” I meant to say “various levels of punishment in hell.”
Feel free to email any questions or comments you have to ijustwanttotalkabout@gmail.com. Please note that while it may take a little while to receive a response, your email is very important, and it is not being ignored.
If you feel so led, you can support the podcast by clicking HERE or by clicking the "Support the show" button above. I Just Want to Talk about the Bible is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, which means that any donations made are tax-deductible. Thank you so much for giving as the Lord leads!
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Hope is a powerful thing. In this episode we shift our perspective a little beyond what we can see. We discuss how the Lord will test us and the importance of perseverance.
The Scriptures we focused on were Exodus 15:22-27; Deuteronomy 8:1-20; 1 Samuel 10:8; 13:1-15; and John 6:5-7.
**CORRECTIONS/CLARIFICATIONS**
I quote Romans 15:13 a few times in this episode. The primary application of what that verse means by “hope” is the hope that we have in Christ, namely, that our souls are secure in Him. It’s about the reality of the fact that we have been redeemed by Him and we look forward in anticipation to His coming and His kingdom. Nevertheless, the verse is still relevant because hope has to do with having the correct biblical perspective and drawing strength from a future reality.
In passing I slightly misquoted James 1:17. Here is the verse: “Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shadow due to change.”
Feel free to email any questions or comments you have to ijustwanttotalkabout@gmail.com. Please note that while it may take a little while to receive a response, your email is very important, and it is not being ignored.
If you feel so led, you can support the podcast by clicking HERE or by clicking the "Support the show" button above. I Just Want to Talk about the Bible is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, which means that any donations made are tax-deductible. Thank you so much for giving as the Lord leads!
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In this episode we discuss the difference between actually spending time with the Lord and just reading the Bible. The passages that we focus on are Matthew 11:28; Luke 10:38-42; Genesis 32:24-26; Luke 11:5-10; and Luke 18:1-8.
CORRECTIONS:
- When describing the ways by which we can be certain that Jacob was wrestling with the Lord I mentioned that one noteworthy thing was how Jacob received a name change (to Israel). I mentioned how Abraham had previously received the same thing. That was not to say that the Lord is the only individual in the Scriptures who will change someone’s name. For example, Moses renamed someone named Hoshea and gave him the name Joshua (Numbers 13:16). This is the Joshua after whom the book of Joshua is named. So, it’s possible for a human to rename another, but it is also something we see the Lord doing. In retrospect while I was trying to prove from the Scriptures that this individual with whom Jacob wrestled was the Lord I wish I had included Genesis 32:30: “So Jacob called the name of the place Peniel, saying, ‘For I have seen God face to face, and yet my life has been delivered.’” This clearly shows the point I was trying to make.
- Near the end, when quoting Psalm 66:18 I said, "If I had cherished iniquity in my heart, You would not have listened." The text actually says, "If I had cherished iniquity in my heart, the Lord would not have listened." Obviously, this doesn't affect the meaning at all.
- When quoting Matthew 5:23-24 I says, "if you are offering your gift before the altar...", whereas the text says, "so if you are offering your gift at the altar..." Once again, this makes no practical difference. I just want to faithfully quote the text.
Feel free to email any questions or comments you have to ijustwanttotalkabout@gmail.com. Please note that while it may take a little while to receive a response, your email is very important, and it is not being ignored.
If you feel so led, you can support the podcast by clicking HERE or by clicking the "Support the show" button above. I Just Want to Talk about the Bible is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, which means that any donations made are tax-deductible. Thank you so much for giving as the Lord leads!
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In this episode we wrap up the brief series on abiding in Christ.
Summary of part 1:
What are we commanded to do in John 15? We are commanded to abide in Christ.
What are the results of abiding in Christ? Bearing fruit (vv. 4-5), answered prayer (v. 7), overabundant joy (v. 11), and intimacy with the Lord (v. 10).
How do we abide in Christ? By meditating upon His Word (v.7), and by obedience (v. 10).
Key takeaways from part 2:
If we are not obeying, then we are not abiding.
Obedience leads to intimacy. If we want our relationship with Jesus to be vibrant and living, then we need to be obeying Him.
This leads to the need of consistent and immediate repentance of any known sin in our lives.
Generally speaking, as believers we often take the sin in our lives far too lightly.
Quotes that I used in this week and last:
"It does not matter what your personal deficiency, or whether it be a hundred and one different things, God has always one sufficient answer, His Son Jesus Christ, and He is the answer to every need." - Watchman Nee
"God is not seeking a display of my Christ-likeness, but a manifestation of His Christ." - Watchman Nee
"You have made us for Yourself, O Lord, and our heart is restless until it finds its rest in You." - Augustine
"When you ignore God's instructions, do not expect to receive His blessing." - One of the pastors from my church
"Do not wait for the hour of evening prayer, nor even for the opportunity of being alone, but in the busy street, in the midst of daily toil, lift up your heart to Christ if you have done wrong, and say: 'I have gone astray...'" - F. B. Meyer
"It is not the nature of sin to remain in a fixed state. Like decaying fruit, it grows more rotten. The man who is bad today will be worse tomorrow." - Charles Spurgeon
**CORRECTIONS/CLARIFICATIONS**
I said, "Jesus, knowing that all things had been placed under their feet, got down and washed theirs." I meant to say, "Jesus, knowing that all things had been placed under HIS feet, got down and washed theirs."
When I quoted John 20:31 I slightly changed some of the verbiage unintentionally. It doesn't affect the meaning of the text at all, but I wanted to post the verse here: "...but these are written so that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that by believing you may have life in his name."
I was speaking about God's response to Job's friends. I wanted to post the verse that I was referring to here so that the wording will be exactly right: "After the Lord had spoken these words to Job, the Lord said to Eliphaz the Temanite: 'My anger burns against you and against your two friends, for you have not spoken of me what is right, as my servant Job has'" (Job 42:7).
I said I was reading 2 Cor 7:10. It was actually 2 Cor 7:1 that I was reading.
While reading 2 Tim 2:22 I accidentally switched the order of the words "faith" and "love". This doesn't have any impact on the meaning of the text, but I still wanted to clarify.
I accidentally said that we're saved "by faith through grace" when I meant "by grace through faith." I was quoting Ephesians 2:8.
Feel free to email any questions or comments you have to ijustwanttotalkabout@gmail.com. Please note that while it may take a little while to receive a response, your email is very important, and it is not being ignored.
If you feel so led, you can support the podcast by clicking HERE or by clicking the "Support the show" button above. I Just Want to Talk about the Bible is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, which means that any donations made are tax-deductible. Thank you so much for giving as the Lord leads!
Take care!
Every one of us wants peace, joy, fulfillment, etc. But what if all of those things are simply by-products of the thing we actually want?
In this episode we begin a short two-episode series called Abide. The main text for this episode is John 15:1-11. We go through the text verse by verse, and focus in on a particular key word that appears 10 times in this passage.
**CORRECTIONS**
When briefly listing out the fruit of the Spirit, I accidentally switched "gentleness" and "goodness" in the order. Obviously, this doesn't impact the meaning of the text in the least, but I still wanted to correct that.
When I was describing the events of John 12 when Mary poured perfume on Jesus' feet and wiped them with her hair, I accidentally said she wiped Jesus' hair instead of wiped His feet with her hair.
When I began describing when Jesus fed the 5,000 with the bread and the fish, I initially said that it was in John 7. It is actually in John 6. Every other time I said John 6, but the first time I accidentally said 7.
Feel free to email any questions or comments you have to ijustwanttotalkabout@gmail.com. Please note that while it may take a little while to receive a response, your email is very important, and it is not being ignored.
If you feel so led, you can support the podcast by clicking HERE or by clicking the "Support the show" button above. I Just Want to Talk about the Bible is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, which means that any donations made are tax-deductible. Thank you so much for giving as the Lord leads!
Take care!
In this episode we discuss how to deal with the root (or source) of sin as opposed to simply focusing on the fruit (specific actions or behaviors). We focus on the crucial truths found in Romans 6:1-14.
As I mentioned, I challenge you to internalize (memorize and meditate upon) Romans 6:1-14! Just take it little by little. Scripture memory is "hard by the yard, but a cinch by the inch!"
And remember that if we want to put ourselves in a position for the Holy Spirit to illuminate the Scriptures to us, we need to meditate on the Word and fervently pray for Him to help us to see and understand! For more info on this see episode 7 of this podcast ("Meditating on the Scriptures, part 1").
Feel free to email any questions or comments you have to ijustwanttotalkabout@gmail.com. Please note that while it may take a little while to receive a response, your email is very important, and it is not being ignored.
If you feel so led, you can support the podcast by clicking HERE or by clicking the "Support the show" button above. I Just Want to Talk about the Bible is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, which means that any donations made are tax-deductible. Thank you so much for giving as the Lord leads!
Take care!
In this episode we look at what at first may appear to be a contradiction between these two verses. Once we see how the "contradiction" is not a contradiction at all, then we explore generally the topic of temptation and what is happening spiritually whenever we are tempted with something.
Feel free to email any questions or comments you have to ijustwanttotalkabout@gmail.com. Please note that while it may take a little while to receive a response, your email is very important, and it is not being ignored.
If you feel so led, you can support the podcast by clicking HERE or by clicking the "Support the show" button above. I Just Want to Talk about the Bible is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, which means that any donations made are tax-deductible. Thank you so much for giving as the Lord leads!
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Hello, everyone!
In this episode we take a close look at Psalm 107, what it shows us about what God is like, and the implications that it has on our lives! No matter what, remember that God is compassionate, and you can cry to the Lord in your trouble. He wants to hear you.
Feel free to email any questions or comments you have to ijustwanttotalkabout@gmail.com. Please note that while it may take a little while to receive a response, your email is very important, and it is not being ignored.
If you feel so led, you can support the podcast by clicking HERE or by clicking the "Support the show" button above. I Just Want to Talk about the Bible is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, which means that any donations made are tax-deductible. Thank you so much for giving as the Lord leads!
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In this episode we discuss the importance of repetition in the Bible. The passages that I used as examples were:
1) 2 Samuel 5:17-25.
2) Jonah 1; Mark 4:35-41; Psalm 107:23-30.
Also, the book I recommended was The Lost Letters of Pergamum by Bruce W. Longenecker.
Feel free to email any questions or comments you have to ijustwanttotalkabout@gmail.com. Please note that while it may take a little while to receive a response, your email is very important, and it is not being ignored.
If you feel so led, you can support the podcast by clicking HERE or by clicking the "Support the show" button above. I Just Want to Talk about the Bible is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, which means that any donations made are tax-deductible. Thank you so much for giving as the Lord leads!
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In this episode we discuss a few major contexts to keep in mind while reading the Bible. Context determines meaning. The contexts I mentioned in the episode were:
1) Overarching/Entire Bible Context -- "What does the rest of the Bible say about this topic. Are there any other Scriptures I can think of?"
2) Literary Context -- "What is the genre of this portion of the Bible? Is it poetry, prose, narrative, a letter, biography, etc.?"
3) Immediate Context -- "What do the sentences and paragraphs around this passage say? How do they inform my understanding of the text?"
4) Historical/Cultural Context -- "Are there any historical or cultural details that would help me understand and properly interpret this passage?"
Two helpful resources I want to share with you are:
1) http://www.openbible.info/topics (This site will allow you to fill in a search bar that says "What does the Bible say about...". Then it will just give you verses that are relevant to the topic you typed in. This will help with the Overarching/Entire Bible Context.)
2) http://www.freebiblecommentary.org (This man has written introductions to each books of the Bible as well as commentaries on each chapter of the Bible. When I am looking for a good introduction to a book of the Bible, I frequently come to this site. This will help with the Historical/Cultural Context.)
**CORRECTION**
At 34:30 I said that Israel was made up of 10 tribes before the national split. I meant to say that it was made up of 12 tribes before the split, and the 10 tribes in the north were collectively referred to as the nation of Israel while the 2 tribes in the south were collectively referred to as the nation of Judah.
Feel free to email any questions or comments you have to ijustwanttotalkabout@gmail.com. Please note that while it may take a little while to receive a response, your email is very important, and it is not being ignored.
If you feel so led, you can support the podcast by clicking HERE or by clicking the "Support the show" button above. I Just Want to Talk about the Bible is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, which means that any donations made are tax-deductible. Thank you so much for giving as the Lord leads!
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This is our first Q&A! I spend a few minutes answering the question of where a new believer should begin reading the Bible!
Here is one possible ordering of reading the Bible:
1) The Gospel according to Luke, Psalm 23, and Psalm 91
2) The Gospel according to Matthew, Mark, and John
3) Acts
4) The letters (Romans-Jude)
5) Revelation
6) Then begin reading through the Old Testament beginning with Genesis. I highly recommend listening to Episode 4 (Overview of the Old Testament) of this podcast once more when beginning this step.
At the same time, you can be reading through Proverbs at your own pace. Many people will read 1 chapter of Proverbs a day. There are 31 chapters; so, the number of chapters corresponds to the numbers of days in certain months. You can also be reading through the Psalms at your own pace.
Feel free to email any questions or comments you have to ijustwanttotalkabout@gmail.com. Please note that while it may take a little while to receive a response, your email is very important, and it is not being ignored.
If you feel so led, you can support the podcast by clicking HERE or by clicking the "Support the show" button above. I Just Want to Talk about the Bible is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, which means that any donations made are tax-deductible. Thank you so much for giving as the Lord leads!
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Thanks for listening! In this episode we are continuing the conversation on meditating upon the Scriptures. This episode focuses on how to do a word study.
Like I mentioned in the episode, here are some steps of doing a word study:
1) Identify the key word(s) in a verse or passage.
2) Look up the definition(s) of the word.
3) Look at other places where the same word is used in the Bible and how it is translated there.
4) Notice any passages that utilize parallelism to give further insight into the meaning of a word.
5) Now that you have the idea of how the word is defined and used elsewhere in the Bible, return to the original passage you are looking at and pay attention to the context that the word appears in. Context determines meaning.
6) Think about what you have learned constantly ("day and night"), asking the Lord to speak to you through the passage and help you to understand it.
7) Obey it in your life! Apply what you have learned and what the Lord has shown you.
I mentioned a resource that is EXCELLENT for doing such study. Here is the url: https://www.blueletterbible.org. You can copy and paste the in your browser and begin using the resource as well!
**ONE CORRECTION AND ONE CLARIFICATION**
Correction: At one point I said Psalm 88. I meant Psalm 77. I corrected in the episode, but still wanted to add a note.
Clarification: I said in passing that the 10 Commandments were an example of narrative. The actual 10 Commandments are technically prose/discourse, but the account of Moses climbing the mountain and receiving the 10 Commandments is narrative.
Feel free to email any questions or comments you have to ijustwanttotalkabout@gmail.com. Please note that while it may take a little while to receive a response, your email is very important, and it is not being ignored.
If you feel so led, you can support the podcast by clicking HERE or by clicking the "Support the show" button above. I Just Want to Talk about the Bible is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, which means that any donations made are tax-deductible. Thank you so much for giving as the Lord leads!
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This episode is the first part of a conversation about meditating upon the Scriptures. In this series we will explore what the Bible has to say about biblical meditation, what it means, and discuss some tools on how to do it practically.
In this first part we discuss how one of the big things the Holy Spirit does in our lives is that He takes the Scriptures and makes them real to us. He takes what is objectively true and gives us eyes to see it as a subjective reality in our own lives. It is one thing to agree with the Bible. It is another thing entirely to believe it!
**Clarification: Around 21 minutes I say something to the effect of “The Holy Spirit will take the Scriptures and move it from here to here.” During the first “here” I was pointing to my head. During the second “here” I was pointing to my heart.**
I also went through a lot of verses in this lesson, many of which the original hearers had already spent time reading and studying; so, they were already very familiar with them. I will include the verses I discuss here as well.
Ephesians 1:15-21.
1 Corinthians 2:9-13.
2 Timothy 2:7.
Psalm 119:18.
Psalm 119:130.
Luke 24:27, 32, 45.
Feel free to email any questions or comments you have to ijustwanttotalkabout@gmail.com. Please note that while it may take a little while to receive a response, your email is very important, and it is not being ignored.
If you feel so led, you can support the podcast by clicking HERE or by clicking the "Support the show" button above. I Just Want to Talk about the Bible is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, which means that any donations made are tax-deductible. Thank you so much for giving as the Lord leads!
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In this episode I share 3 things that the Lord spoke to my heart as He led me through the process of surrendering something that I did not want to let go of. Anyone who has been in a similar position will undoubtedly be able to relate to a lot of what I say in this episode, and it is my prayer that this gives you hope and confidence to take the next step in doing whatever it may be that the Lord is calling you to do.
As I share in the intro to this episode, the content was originally recorded while I was teaching during one of the weekly meetings of the ministry I'm on staff with. There is a slight change in the audio sound and there may be some background noise from the people in the room.
**CORRECTION** In the episode I cite "Luke 6:66" in passing. I meant to say "John 6:66."
Feel free to email any questions or comments you have to ijustwanttotalkabout@gmail.com. Please note that while it may take a little while to receive a response, your email is very important, and it is not being ignored.
If you feel so led, you can support the podcast by clicking HERE or by clicking the "Support the show" button above. I Just Want to Talk about the Bible is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, which means that any donations made are tax-deductible. Thank you so much for giving as the Lord leads!
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In this episode we discuss how God's grace is the solution to every problem we face. The apostle Paul learned this firsthand in the passage we are focusing on today.
One quick slight correction to something I said in this episode. When I quoted Galatians 2:20, I accidentally left out the 3 little words “in the flesh.” While this didn’t affect the point I was making in any way, I desperately want the Scriptures to be quotes correctly; so, here is the correct quotation: “I have been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me. And the life I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.”
Feel free to email any questions or comments you have to ijustwanttotalkabout@gmail.com. Please note that while it may take a little while to receive a response, your email is very important, and it is not being ignored.
If you feel so led, you can support the podcast by clicking HERE or by clicking the "Support the show" button above. I Just Want to Talk about the Bible is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, which means that any donations made are tax-deductible. Thank you so much for giving as the Lord leads!
Take care!
In this episode we discuss a VERY brief overview of the narrative of the Old Testament. The better that we understand the Old Testament, the better we will understand the New Testament!
Email your questions or thoughts to ijustwanttotalkabout@gmail.com!
You can access the picture of the chart of the kings of Israel and Judah that I mentioned by clicking HERE or copying and pasting this URL:
https://www.biblegateway.com/blog/2017/07/updated-chart-of-israels-and-judahs-kings-and-prophets/
I was originally going to include both the TaNaKh and English Old Testament ordering of books, but this description would become too cumbersome. As such, I will just include the TaNaKh ordering here and you can compare it with the Old Testament ordering in the table of contents in your Bible.
TaNaKh ordering of the Old Testament:
THE LAW:
- Genesis
- Exodus
- Leviticus
- Numbers
- Deuteronomy
THE PROPHETS:
- Joshua
- Judges
- Samuel (1 & 2)
- Kings (1 & 2)
- Isaiah
- Jeremiah
- Ezekiel
- The Twelve (the minor prophets)
THE WRITINGS:
- Psalms
- Proverbs
- Job
- Song of Songs
- Ruth
- Lamentations
- Esther
- Ecclesiastes
- Dannel
- Ezra-Nehemiah
- Chronicles (1 & 2)
**CORRECTIONS/CLARIFICATIONS**
I mentioned that the length of the exile was 70 years because the land had been deprived of its sabbath rests for 490 years; so, it was being repaid the 70 sabbaths it missed (see Leviticus 25:1-7 for the command to let the land have a sabbath rest every 7th year). I mentioned that Jeremiah explained this specifically. While Jeremiah did indeed mention the length of the exile being 70 years (See Jeremiah 25:11-12 and 29:10), it doesn't seem that Jeremiah mentions anything about the sabbath rests for the land. Second Chronicles 36:21, however, does. Maybe it was the 2 Chronicles verse that I had in mind when I said that. Even so, the text doesn't mention anything about 490 years where the land didn't have a sabbath. I think I just inferred that based on what 2 Chronicles 36:21 says. So, that point of what I said in the episode may be off. I apologize for the confusion, but I want to be diligent to be accurate!
Feel free to email any questions or comments you have to ijustwanttotalkabout@gmail.com. Please note that while it may take a little while to receive a response, your email is very important, and it is not being ignored.
If you feel so led, you can support the podcast by clicking HERE or by clicking the "Support the show" button above. I Just Want to Talk about the Bible is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, which means that any donations made are tax-deductible. Thank you so much for giving as the Lord leads!
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In this episode we discuss how taking one Scripture, passage, or principle in isolation can actually lead us to do ungodly things. This is all about keeping the totality of Scripture in our minds as we make decisions, navigate life, and seek the Lord.
Feel free to email any questions or comments you have to ijustwanttotalkabout@gmail.com. Please note that while it may take a little while to receive a response, your email is very important, and it is not being ignored.
If you feel so led, you can support the podcast by clicking HERE or by clicking the "Support the show" button above. I Just Want to Talk about the Bible is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, which means that any donations made are tax-deductible. Thank you so much for giving as the Lord leads!
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This episode takes an in-depth look at the text of James 1:2-4,12. I mention in the episode that I would include the Strong's numbers for anyone who wanted to study the Greek terms we discussed more. Here they are:
- "Count" (G2233 - hegeomai).
- "Testing" (G1383 - dokimion).
- "Steadfast" (G5278 - hypomeno).
- "Perfect" (G5046 - teleios).
- "Complete" (G3648 - holokleros).
- "Blessed" (G3107 - makarios).
Sources used:
A.L.O.E. The Giant Killer. Mount Morris, NY, Lamplighter Publishing, August 2004, pp. 186-188.
"James 1:12 Commentary." preceptaustin.org. www.preceptaustin.org/james_112. Date accessed 30 July 2020.
Feel free to email any questions or comments you have to ijustwanttotalkabout@gmail.com. Please note that while it may take a little while to receive a response, your email is very important, and it is not being ignored.
If you feel so led, you can support the podcast by clicking HERE or by clicking the "Support the show" button above. I Just Want to Talk about the Bible is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, which means that any donations made are tax-deductible. Thank you so much for giving as the Lord leads!
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Thank you for joining me!
This is an introduction to who I am and what the vision and scope of this podcast is!
Feel free to email any questions or comments you have to ijustwanttotalkabout@gmail.com. Please note that while it may take a little while to receive a response, your email is very important, and it is not being ignored.
If you feel so led, you can support the podcast by clicking HERE or by clicking the "Support the show" button above. I Just Want to Talk about the Bible is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, which means that any donations made are tax-deductible. Thank you so much for giving as the Lord leads!
Take care!