Season 3, Episode 5.

Fill Your Vessel: Waiting, Oil, and the Heart (Matthew 25–28)

Date: October 17, 2025

Duration: 49:05 minutes

Hosts: Brigette Heller, Andrew Blackwood, Tanja Bentley Ward

Episode Summary:

As we wrap up Matthew, the conversation moves from parables to passion: the ten virgins and the talents, the call to active, intimate discipleship, and the Savior’s anguish in Gethsemane. The hosts unpack the difference between regret and repentance (Judas vs. Peter), the danger of spiritual depletion, and the hope of the Resurrection—“as they went, Jesus met them.” The episode closes with comfort from the hymn His Eye Is on the Sparrow and an invitation to seek Christ daily.

Key Points Covered:

Ten Virgins (Matthew 25):

• “Vessels vs. lamps”—we are the vessel; the oil symbolizes the Holy Spirit.
• “Tarry” explored: vigilant responsibility vs. quiet waiting; waiting is active, not passive.
• Boundaries are biblical: you can’t borrow someone else’s oil; guard your spiritual reserves.
  

Talents (Matthew 25):

• Active waiting = investing what God gives; perception of the Master shapes our action.
• “Enter into the joy of thy Lord” emphasizes intimacy and ownership—your Lord.
• Serve from overflow, not depletion; multiply gifts to bless others.
  

Gethsemane (Matthew 26):

• The Savior’s humanity and anguish—“Could you not watch with me one hour?”

• Following Jesus can involve pain; intimacy is cultivated in honest surrender.
  

Peter vs. Judas (Matthew 26–27):

• Peter’s denial leads to restoration (“Do you love me?”); Judas’s remorse lacks true turning to Christ.
• Difference between regret and repentance: returning the silver isn’t reconciliation—coming to Jesus is.
  

Mob Mentality & Fear (Matthew 27):

• Fear of change fuels crowds; “His blood be on us” paradoxically names the very blessing we all need.
  

Resurrection Hope (Matthew 28):

• “As they went, Jesus met them” - seek Him and He meets you on the way.
• Daily practice: wake up with prayer and the Word; experiment upon the Word and notice the difference.
  

Hymn Reflection:

• His Eye Is on the Sparrow - assurance that Jesus is our portion and He watches over us.
• Keep your vessel filled - meet with God daily.
• Waiting on God is active: prepare, invest, cultivate intimacy.
• Healthy boundaries protect your lamp; serve others from overflow.
• True repentance turns to Jesus Himself; He restores.
• If you seek Him, He will meet you.

Links and Resources:

• Matthew 25–28 (KJV) - King James Version (KJV) Bible
• The Chosen (TV Series) – https://watch.thechosen.tv/
• Hymn: “His Eye Is on the Sparrow” 

Connect with Connected in Christ:

• Website: Coming Soon
• Social Media:

Facebook

• Instagram: @connectedinchristpodcast

Support the Show:

If you would like to support the podcast you can donate to our PayPal account: [email protected]

Call to Action:

Please subscribe, leave a review, share the episode, and follow us on social media.

Acknowledgements:

Thank you so much for listening—we pray this conversation brought you closer to Christ!

Season 3, Episode 4.

Surrender, Calling, and Kingdom Fruit (Matthew 19–24).

Date: October 17, 2025

Duration: 43:16 minutes

Hosts: Brigette Heller, Andrew Blackwood, Tanja Bentley Ward

Covering Matthew 19–24, the hosts wrestle with Jesus’ teaching on marriage, singleness, and the heart behind divorce; the rich young ruler’s call to surrender; the vineyard wages and God’s generosity; servant-leadership (not status) in the Kingdom; the triumphal entry and “Hosanna - save us”; the fruitless fig tree; the great feast; the greatest commandment; warnings to religious hypocrites; and the call to watchfulness in the last days.

Key Points Covered:

Marriage, Divorce, Singleness (Matt. 19:1–12)

• Marriage and singleness are callings to oneness with God; both require surrender.
• “Hardness of heart” explains Mosaic concessions on divorce; idolatry of marriage is a danger.
• Practical lens: put God first - without that, marriage (or singleness) falters.
  

The Rich Young Ruler (19:16–22)

• The humble prayer: “What lack I yet?” Surrender exposes the one thing we cling to.
  

Blessing the Children (19:13–15)

• Kingdom posture = childlike dependence and openness.
  

Vineyard Wages (20:1–16)

• God’s generosity offends entitlement; focus on the Giver, not comparisons.
• Doing vs. being: quality (with God) over quantity (for God).
  

Servant Leadership & Zebedee’s Sons (20:20–28)

• Greatness = serving and suffering, not titles and thrones; roles are the Father’s to assign.
  

“Hosanna” & the Triumphal Entry (21:1–11)

• “Hosanna” means “Save us.” Praise and plea meet in true worship.
  

Fig Tree & Fruit (21:18–22)

• Looking the part isn’t fruit; faith + obedience bears Kingdom fruit.
  

Two Sons / Tenants / Great Feast (21:28–32; 21:33–46; 22:1–14)

• Saying “yes” without doing isn’t obedience; refusal shifts the Kingdom invitation to responsive hearts.

• Many are called, few are chosen - response matters.
  

Greatest Commandment (22:34–40)

• Love God with all your heart, soul, mind; love neighbor as yourself—Kingdom center of gravity.
  

Woes & Hypocrisy (ch. 23)

• Individuality in God leads to oneness; performative religion divides and withers.
  

Watching for His Coming (24:36–44)

• Live awake and ready; trust Christ amid uncertainty.

Takeaways:

• Keep asking “What do I lack?” - and obey the answer.
• Don’t idolize roles (marriage, leadership); seek oneness with God first.
• Celebrate God’s generosity; drop comparisons.
• True leadership serves. True faith bears fruit.
• Praise Jesus with a sincere “Hosanna—save us.” Live watchful and ready.

Mentioned Links/Resources:

• Matthew 19–24 (KJV) - King James Version (KJV) Bible
• Parables referenced – vineyard workers, two sons, tenants, great feast 

Connect with Connected in Christ:

• Website: Coming Soon
• Social Media:

Facebook

Instagram: @connectedinchristpodcast

Call to Action:

Please subscribe, leave a review, share the episode, and follow us on social media.

Support the Show:

If you would like to support the podcast you can donate to our PayPal account: [email protected]

Acknowledgments:

Thank you so much for listening—we pray this conversation brought you closer to Christ!

Season 3, Episode 3.

Open Hearts, Real Loss, and True Discipleship (Matthew 13–18)Date: October 17, 2025

Duration: 36:45 minutes

Hosts:

Brigette Heller, Andrew Blackwood, Tanja Bentley Ward

Episode Summary:

In Matthew 13–18 the hosts trace a through-line from heart posture to holy living: why Jesus teaches in parables, how the heart receives (or resists) the Word, walking with God through grief, and learning to let Him separate wheat from weeds. They unpack what truly defiles, faith that perseveres (the Canaanite mother), taking up the cross, and becoming childlike to be found by the Good Shepherd.

Key Points Covered:

• Jesus waits; seekers come. Parables reveal to open, teachable hearts and mercifully veil truth from closed ones.

• Trust God’s timing with the weeds and wheat - He can separate without us uprooting everything.

• John the Baptist’s death: Jesus withdraws to grieve - then returns to ministry.

• Herod’s oath: a warning about saving face and choices driven by public image.
  What Truly Defiles (Matt. 15)

• People can honor with lips while hearts are far. It’s not what goes in but what comes out of the heart that defiles.

• “Sign of Jonah” foreshadows the Resurrection.

• Jesus rebukes Peter (“Get behind me, Satan”): beware well-meaning voices that oppose God’s way.

Mentioned Links:

• Matthew 13–18 (KJV) – King James Version (KJV) Bible

Season 3, Episode 2

From Judgment to Grace: The Miraculous Teachings of Christ

Date: October 17, 2025

Duration: 46:47 minutes

Hosts: Brigette Heller, Andrew Blackwood, Tanja Bentley Ward

Episode Summary

In this episode of Connected in Christ, hosts Brigette Heller, Andrew Blackwood, and Tanja Bentley Ward dive into Matthew 7–12. Together, they reflect on Jesus’ clear teachings about judgment, mercy, and grace while unpacking His miracles - thirteen in these chapters alone. The conversation moves from practical self-reflection to the power of faith, highlighting both the challenges and encouragements of following Christ.

• Judge not, lest ye be judged (Matthew 7:1): Exploring self-reflection, the standards we hold others to, and what judgment really means in the light of grace.

• The Golden Rule (Matthew 7:12): Doing unto others as you’d have them do unto you, and how Jesus repeats timeless truths in multiple ways to reach the heart.

• Pearls before swine (Matthew 7:6): Boundaries, discernment, and knowing when to withhold sacred truths from those not ready to receive them.

• Miracles of Matthew 8: Healing of the leper, the Roman officer’s servant, Peter’s mother-in-law, calming of the storm, and casting demons into swine. Discussion centers on faith, immediacy of healing, and Jesus’ willingness to say “I want to.”

• Faith of the Roman officer: Highlighted as a striking example of belief that went beyond cultural and religious expectations.

• Jesus’ authority: Unlike the scribes, He taught with real power and authenticity that astonished the crowds.

• Jesus heals the paralyzed man (Matthew 9): Unpacking the deeper meaning behind “your sins are forgiven” and the Pharisees’ self-righteous resistance.

• Mercy over sacrifice (Matthew 9:13): Christ’s call for love, mercy, and compassion instead of empty ritual.

• Calling of Matthew and the disciples (Matthew 9–10): How Jesus chooses and equips ordinary people to follow Him.

• Faith in the storm: Lessons from the calming of the storm—whether Jesus heals immediately or calls us to be still with Him in the boat.

• The Bible Project – Gospel of Matthew Overview
  

• New Living Translation (NLT) Bible
  

• King James Version (KJV) Bible
  

Connect with Connected in Christ:

- Website: Coming Soon

- Social Media:

 - [Facebook] https://www.facebook.com/ConnectedinChristpodcast

  - [Instagram] @connectedinchristpodcast

Support the Show:

- If you would like to support the podcast you can donate to our PayPal account,

[email protected]

Call to Action: 

Please subscribe, leave a review, share the episode, or follow us on social media.

Acknowledgments: 

Thank you so much for listening and we hope this episode brought you closer to Christ!.

Season 3, Episode 1

Joseph’s Yes, Herod’s Fear, and a Straight Path: Matthew 1–6

Date: October 17, 2025

Duration: 51:41 minutes

Hosts: Brigette Heller, Andrew Blackwood, Tanja Bentley Ward

Episode Summary:

Season 3 launches with a deep dive into Matthew 1–6. The hosts explore why Matthew opens with genealogy, the quiet strength of Joseph’s “yes,” Herod’s fear-driven control, the wise men’s worship, John the Baptist’s role, and Jesus’ baptism, temptation, and early ministry. The Sermon on the Mount (ch. 5–6) calls us from ego to surrender - becoming salt and light with hearts set on the Kingdom.

Key Points:

• Why Matthew starts with lineage: fulfilled prophecy, historical grounding, and Jesus’ title “Son of David.”

• Inclusion of women (e.g., Rahab) highlights God’s redemptive thread through imperfect stories.

• Joseph as foster/stepfather models obedience, compassion, and quiet leadership (“a just man…not willing to make her a public example”).
  

• Herod’s fear fuels manipulation and violence - control vs. surrender (contrast with Joseph obeying divine warnings).

• “All Jerusalem was troubled with him”: decades-long tension set the stage for Jesus’ later ministry.

• The Magi’s gifts were costly and symbolic (gold, frankincense, myrrh); question for listeners: What is your best to lay before Christ?
  

• “Prepare ye the way…make His paths straight” heard as a personal call: widen the path so others can walk it.

• John’s humility vs. Jesus’ insistence on baptism “to fulfill all righteousness”: surrender to the Father’s will even when we don’t fully understand.
  

• Jesus is Spirit-led into the wilderness; temptation is a proving ground, not an accident.

• “It is written…” - respond to lies with the Word; after resistance, angels minister.

• Pattern of ministry: separate → prepare → be strengthened → obey immediately (calling disciples “straightway”).
  

• Beatitudes as a roadmap: purity of heart to see God; kingdom character over cultural norms.

• Salt & light vs. “doing deeds to be seen”: same actions, different heart posture (God’s glory vs. self-glory).

• “Eye single” and “no man can serve two masters”: attention directs affection; seek first the Kingdom

  New way of being (old law vs. “but I say”): turn the other cheek, love enemies, give/pray/fast in secret.

• Say yes like Joseph - quiet, courageous obedience can redirect generations.

• Fear grabs for control; surrender trusts God’s plan and timing.

• Bring Jesus your best—costly, wholehearted worship.

• Resist from the Word and expect His ministering after trial.

• Be salt and light from a pure heart - seek the Kingdom first.
  

Mentioned Scriptures and Other References: 

• Matthew 1–6 (KJV) - King James Version (KJV) Bible

• The Chosen (regarding portrayals of Matthew/John) –https://watch.thechosen.tv/

• Mesa Easter Pageant – https://www.mesaeasterpageant.org

• Emily Belle Freeman - https://www.emilybellefreeman.com/

• Social Media:

• Facebook

• Instagram: @connectedinchristpodcast
  

Support the Show:

If you would like to support the podcast you can donate to our PayPal account: [email protected]

Call to Action:

Please subscribe, leave a review, share the episode, and follow us on social media.

Acknowledgements:

Thank you so much for listening—we pray this conversation brought you closer to Christ!

Season 3, Introduction

Better Together: Reading the Gospels in Rhythm

Date: October 17, 2025

Duration: 25:31 minutes

Hosts: Brigette Heller, Andrew Blackwood, Tanja Bentley Ward

Season 3 opens with a heartfelt invitation to journey through the four Gospels — Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John — one chapter at a time, together. The Connected in Christ hosts share how this 19-week deep dive brings new understanding, rhythm, and relationship with God’s Word. Brigette, Andrew, and Tanja discuss the joy of discovering verses they never noticed before, the power of reading in community, and how intentional study multiplies time, peace, and spiritual growth.

This episode sets the tone for the season: building rhythm, reflection, and relationship through Scripture — because studying the Word is truly better together.

Season 3 Overview – The Gospels in Rhythm

• A 19-week reading plan covering Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John, five to seven chapters at a time.

• Focus: Reading for context and continuity - chapter by chapter - rather than isolated verses.

Discovering New Insights

• Tanja shares how intentional reading reveals verses and stories she had skimmed over before.

• Andrew notes the joy of rediscovering where key parables and lessons are located.

• Collective study offers accountability, rhythm, and encouragement.

• When multiple people are drawn to the same verse, it confirms God’s active work in the conversation.
  

Study Habits and Spiritual Practices

• Brigette: Reads once, then listens repeatedly; highlights historical facts and Christ’s movements.

• Tanja: Listens first, takes notes on key words, explores meanings, and reflects on personal application.

• Andrew: Studies multiple translations, dives into Greek and Hebrew, and uses Bible Hub to expand context.
  

Rhythm Over Schedule

• Shifting from “schedule” to “rhythm” creates freedom in study.

• Consistency in the Word multiplies peace, time, and capacity.

• Scripture becomes part of daily life rather than an added task.
  

Asking Intentional Questions

• God welcomes curiosity -  “What are You saying to me?” instead of “Why is this happening?”

• Complaints seek to be heard; questions seek understanding.

• Faith grows through humble curiosity and patient listening.
  

Facing Opposition

• Expect resistance when committing to God’s Word -  distractions, delays, or discouragement.

• Perseverance produces fruit; even partial participation still carries power.

• “Just keep going forward,” even if you fall behind in reading.

• Read the Word in rhythm, not rush - context brings clarity.

• Study in community; shared insight deepens revelation.

• Ask questions, not complaints - God honors your curiosity.

• Expect opposition and keep pressing forward.

• Let your time in Scripture multiply your peace, energy, and understanding.

Mentioned Scriptures and Other References: 

• The Gospels: Matthew, Mark, Luke, John

• 2 Timothy 2:15 — “Study to show thyself approved.”

• Psalm 1 — “Like a tree planted by rivers of water…”

• The Chosen (TV Series) – https://watch.thechosen.tv

• Bible Hub – https://biblehub.com

• YouVersion Bible App – https://www.youversion.com/the-bible-app

• Social Media:

• Facebook

• Instagram: @connectedinchristpodcast

Support the Show:

If you would like to support the podcast you can donate to our PayPal account: [email protected]

Call to Action:

Please subscribe, leave a review, share the episode, and follow us on social media.

Acknowledgements:

Thank you so much for listening—we pray this conversation brought you closer to Christ!

May your time in God’s Word be multiplied — in peace, understanding, and joy.

Season 2, Episode 18

The Clash: Worldly Expectations vs. God’s Truth

Date: May 28, 2024

Duration: 23:27 minutes

Hosts: Brigette Heller, Jazzael Taylor, Andrew Blackwood, Tanja Bentley Ward

Episode Summary: 

In the latest episode of "Connected in Christ," hosts Tanja Bentley Ward, Coach Drew, Brigette Heller, and Jazzael Taylor dive into a discussion titled "The Clash: God's Truth vs. the World's Truth." They explore how God's truth often conflicts with societal norms, focusing on key issues like self-centeredness, suffering, community, and humility.

Key Points:

Key Scriptures:

Connect with Connected in Christ:

 -  [Website] https://thestrongandcapable.com/elementor-2125/ 

  - [Facebook] https://www.facebook.com/ConnectedinChristpodcast

  - [Instagram] @connectedinchristpodcast

Support the Show:

- If you would like to support the podcast you can donate to our PayPal account,

[email protected]

- Please subscribe, leave a review, share the episode, or follow us on social media.

Thank you so much for listening and we hope this episode brought you closer to Christ!

Season 2, Episode 17

Addressing Church Hurt

Date: May 21, 2024

Duration: 32:09 minutes

Hosts: Brigette Heller, Jazzael Taylor, Andrew Blackwood, Tanja Bentley Ward

Episode Summary: 

In this episode of "Connected in Christ," hosts Brigette Heller, Dr. Andrew Blackwood, Jazzael Taylor, and Tanja Bentley Ward dive into the topic of church hurt, sharing personal stories and offering insights on healing and forgiveness. The hosts acknowledge that everyone in the room has experienced it, emphasizing that most churches are run by well-intentioned people but are still prone to human error.

Key Points:

Key Scriptures:

Connect with Connected in Christ:

 -  [Website] https://thestrongandcapable.com/elementor-2125/ 

  - [Facebook] https://www.facebook.com/ConnectedinChristpodcast

  - [Instagram] @connectedinchristpodcast

Support the Show:

- If you would like to support the podcast you can donate to our PayPal account,

[email protected]

- Please subscribe, leave a review, share the episode, or follow us on social media.

Thank you so much for listening and we hope this episode brought you closer to Christ!

Season 2, Episode 16 - Connected in Christ

Letting Go and Letting God: Finding Peace

Date: May 7, 2024

Duration: 29:37 minutes

Hosts: Brigette Heller, Jazzael Taylor, Andrew Blackwood, Tanja Bentley Ward

Episode Summary: 

In this episode of Connected in Christ, the hosts, Brigette Heller, Tanja Bentley Ward, Andrew Blackwood, and Jazzael Taylor, reflect on the theme of letting go and letting God direct one's life. They open with the acknowledgment of a missing member, Liz Baker, who has been called to another path by God, which sets the tone for the discussion.

The conversation delves into personal experiences and reflections on surrendering to God's will, drawing insights from scripture and individual journeys. They discuss the complexities of surrender, the necessity of letting go of preconceived notions and personal ambitions, and the importance of waiting on God with patience and courage.

Key Points:

1. Surrendering to God's will involves letting go of personal desires and expectations.

2. Surrender is an ongoing process, often requiring deeper levels of release as one's understanding of God deepens.

3. Waiting on God involves being strong and courageous, trusting in His timing and plan.

4. Practices such as worship, prayer, journaling, and serving can help in letting God work in one's life.

5. Surrendering involves acknowledging God's sovereignty and trusting in His wisdom and goodness.

6. Surrendering to God's will leads to a transformation beyond what one could imagine, as illustrated by C. S. Lewis's quote about God building a palace from a humble cottage.

Key Scriptures:

1. Deuteronomy 31:6 - "Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the Lord your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you."

2. Joshua 1:9 - "Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go."

3. Psalm 27:14 - "Wait for the Lord; be strong and take heart and wait for the Lord."

4. Proverbs 3:5-6 - "Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight."

Connect with Connected in Christ:

 -  [Website] https://thestrongandcapable.com/elementor-2125/ 

  - [Facebook] https://www.facebook.com/ConnectedinChristpodcast

  - [Instagram] @connectedinchristpodcast

Support the Show:

- If you would like to support the podcast you can donate to our PayPal account,

[email protected]

- Please subscribe, leave a review, share the episode, or follow us on social media.

Thank you so much for listening and we hope this episode brought you closer to Christ!

Season 2, Episode 15

Women in the Bible

Date: April 23, 2024

Duration: 32:39 minutes

Hosts: Brigette Heller, Elizabeth Baker, Jazzael Taylor, Andrew Blackwood, Tanja Bentley Ward

Guest Host: Amber Hodges

Episode Summary: 

Did you know there are over 175 women in the scriptures?Join us today as we talk about two women in the Bible. The hosts share and talk about Tabitha and the woman caught in adultery. We share why their story mattered and point out why it was important that their story was shared. 

Key Points Covered:

Mentioned Scriptures:  

Connect with Connected in Christ:

 -  [Website] https://thestrongandcapable.com/elementor-2125/ 

  - [Facebook] https://www.facebook.com/ConnectedinChristpodcast

  - [Instagram] @connectedinchristpodcast

Connect with our Guest Host:

 -  [Website] www.amberjohodges.com

 - [Instagram] @amberjohodges

Support the Show:

- If you would like to support the podcast you can donate to our PayPal account,

[email protected]

- Please subscribe, leave a review, share the episode, or follow us on social media.

Thank you so much for listening and we hope this episode brought you closer to Christ!