Conversations About The Bible | Untwisting Scripture

Join hosts Jan and Lisa as they kick off their new series "Storytime with Jesus" exploring the rich parables of the Bible. In this episode, they dive into the themes of grace and redemption through the parables of the lost sheep, the lost coin, and the lost sons. Discover how Jesus used these powerful stories to communicate deep spiritual truths to both his followers and critics.

Show Notes

**[00:03]** Welcome to another edition of Untwisting Scripture, where we create a safe space to ask hard questions about the Bible and explore its true meaning.

**[01:31]** Jan and Lisa discuss their approach to scripture - while Lisa brings theological expertise, Jan isn't afraid to ask the challenging questions many people hesitate to voice.

**[02:15]** The hosts address how scripture is often twisted for personal agendas rather than communicating the heart of Jesus, and they commit to presenting multiple perspectives on biblical topics.

**[03:25]** Introduction to the new series "Storytime with Jesus" focusing on Jesus's parables - powerful storytelling tools He used to teach profound spiritual truths.

**[10:08]** Examining the context of Jesus's parables - who was in the audience when Jesus told these stories? The hosts discuss how Jesus addressed both the crowds and the Pharisees, with special attention to challenging religious leaders.

**[10:55]** Analysis of how Jesus directly responded to the Pharisees' criticism about Him spending time with "sinners," while ensuring His message reached everyone present.

**[36:01]** Closing prayer asking for deeper understanding, clarity, and revelation as listeners continue their journey toward Christ-likeness.

Key Takeaways

- Jesus used parables as a powerful teaching method to communicate complex spiritual truths

- Understanding the context and audience of Jesus's parables helps reveal their deeper meaning

- The parables of the lost sheep, coin, and sons beautifully illustrate God's grace and redemption

- Scripture should be approached with both scholarly understanding and an open heart for revelation

*Join us next week as we continue our "Storytime with Jesus" series, exploring more parables and their relevance to our lives today.*

#UntwistingScripture #BibleParables #StorytimeWithJesus #ChristianPodcast #BibleStudy #JesusTeachings #ParablesOfJesus

Welcome to another episode of Untwisting Scripture's special series "Storytime with Jesus" where we dive into the parables Jesus told and unpack their meaning for our lives today.

Episode Highlights:

**Introduction (00:03)**

- Welcome to episode two of our "Storytime with Jesus" series

- Brief recap of last week's episode on the Lost Things (lost sheep, lost coin, lost sons)

**Setting the Scene (03:37)**

- Jesus is tested by an expert in Jewish law

- The questioner wants to know Jesus' interpretation of God's commandments

- Context of Pharisees challenging Jesus on his observance of Jewish law

**The Expert's Question (07:33)**

- Jesus responds with his own question: "How do you read this?"

- The expert combines two commandments about loving God and neighbor

- Jesus often answers questions with questions - a technique worth learning!

**Modern Application (19:10)**

- Discussion on who God puts in our path to help

- The challenge of social media "slacktivism" versus real-world compassion

- Reflection on helping those in our immediate community

**Practical Takeaways (21:41)**

- Don't just walk by those in need

- Even if you can't fully help, acknowledge the person

- Prayer for discernment is a valid response when unsure how to help

**Closing (22:32)**

- Reference to Veggie Tales' "Busy Song" with Archibald Asparagus

- Preview of next week's potential topic on forgiveness

This episode challenges listeners to consider what it truly means to be a neighbor in today's complex world, moving beyond surface-level compassion to meaningful action for those God places in our path.

*Check the show notes for the Veggie Tales link mentioned in the episode!*

Welcome back to another episode of Untwisting Scripture! In this episode, Lisa and Jan kick off an exciting new series on the parables of Jesus. Join them as they explore the power of Jesus' storytelling and provide valuable insights on how to properly interpret these timeless teachings.

Episode Highlights:

**00:00** - Welcome back and introduction to a new series after several one-off episodes

**11:35** - Why Jesus taught in parables: The power of storytelling versus lectures

**14:01** - Discussion on how God reveals himself and the Holy Spirit's gentle nature

**15:11** - Good and bad ways to read and interpret parables

**23:37** - Preview of upcoming parables to be covered in the series

**25:17** - The big picture goal: understanding God and what it means to be a follower of Jesus

What You'll Learn:

- Why stories are more memorable than lectures or sermons

- How parables require meditation and personal application

- Practical tips for interpreting Jesus' parables correctly

- A preview of upcoming episodes featuring parables like the Lost Sheep, Lost Coin, and Prodigal Son

Join Lisa and Jan as they dive into the beautiful storytelling of Jesus and discover how these ancient parables still speak powerfully to our lives today. Don't miss this opportunity to deepen your Bible knowledge with their insightful and relatable teaching style!

Make sure to subscribe to the podcast so you don't miss any episodes in this enlightening series as we move from "rainy April into beautiful May and then summer." If you know someone who could benefit from more Bible knowledge (or just more Lisa and Jan!), please share the show with them!

#UntwistingScripture #JesusParables #BibleStudy #ChristianPodcast #ParablesOfJesus #BibleTeaching

In this enlightening episode of Untwisting Scripture, hosts Jan and Lisa dive deep into the transformative power of Jesus's resurrection and what it truly means for believers today.

Join us as we explore:

- Why Jesus chose to appear to over 500 people after His resurrection

- The compelling evidence of eyewitness accounts and their impact on early Christianity

- Fresh perspectives on how the resurrection validates the entire Christian message

- The profound comfort and hope resurrection brings to our daily struggles

Lisa shares a powerful analogy about verification: "If I told you that on April 19th in 2023, an angel appeared in the worship center of a local church, your first instinct would be to check with someone who was at that church." This illustrates why the abundance of resurrection witnesses made the early gospel message so credible - people could actually verify these accounts with living eyewitnesses.

Jan offers a thought-provoking perspective when she notes, "Christ didn't stay dead, but he also didn't have to appear to people...the same conquering death would have happened whether or not he chose to appear to 500 people. So why did he do that?" The answer reveals God's understanding of our need for tangible proof.

We also revisit the timeless truth found in the beloved hymn "Because He Lives," reminding listeners that our hope isn't abstract - it's grounded in a historical reality that continues to transform lives today.

As Jan beautifully prays at the close of our episode, we're reminded that "He who is in you is greater than he who is in the world. You have defeated death and we will live on with you for all eternity."

## Listen Now

Join us as we untangle the text of the Bible together. As we like to say on Untwisting Scripture, "The search for clarity begins and the journey of faith never ends."

*Don't forget to subscribe, rate, and share this podcast with others who might benefit from untangling Scripture together!*

#ResurrectionPower #EasterHope #ChristianPodcast #BibleStudy #FaithJourney #UntwistingScripture #ChristianLiving #GospelTruth

Join hosts Jan and Lisa as they dive deep into the significance of Holy Week in this thought-provoking episode of Untwisting Scripture. Together, they unpack the powerful events leading up to Easter, examining Jesus's journey from Palm Sunday's triumphant entry to the ultimate sacrifice on the cross.

In this episode, we explore:

- The contrast between Palm Sunday's celebration and the somber events that followed

- Fresh perspectives on Jesus's final week that might challenge your traditional understanding

- The importance of taking time to truly reflect on Christ's sacrifice

- How to meaningfully engage with Holy Week both individually and as a family

Jan and Lisa share personal insights about Holy Week traditions and offer practical suggestions for making this sacred time more meaningful in your spiritual journey. As Jan notes, "This week makes it all very real if you take the time to really ponder what Jesus went through, even before we get to the cross."

One particularly eye-opening moment comes when the hosts discuss a common interpretation of Jesus's words that Jan had never considered before: "I don't know that I have ever thought of that saying as Jesus doubting... So this is eye opening to me."

Whether you're a longtime believer or simply curious about the Christian faith, this episode provides fresh insights into the events that form the foundation of Easter celebration.

## Listen Now

Join us as we untangle the text of the Bible together. As we like to say on Untwisting Scripture, "The search for clarity begins and the journey of faith never ends."

*Don't forget to subscribe, rate, and share this podcast with others who might benefit from untangling Scripture together!*

#HolyWeek #EasterReflection #ChristianPodcast #BibleStudy #FaithJourney #UntwistingScripture #PalmSunday #Lent

From Acquaintances to Lifelong Friends: Practical Steps for Deeper Connections

Transparency: The Power of Authentic Relationships

- Self-awareness about friendship struggles

- Overcoming image management and embracing vulnerability

- Finding the balance with appropriate transparency

- How honesty creates space for genuine connection

Intentionality: The Cornerstone of Lasting Friendships

1. **Making and Sustaining Connections:**

- Being proactive in friendship development

- Research insights: It takes approximately 200 hours of investment over a few months to develop a good friendship

- Why quality friendships require consistent time investment

2. **Cultivating Healthy Relationship Dynamics:**

- Biblical guidance from Colossians 3:8-10 and 3:12-14

- Avoiding relationships built on negativity (gossip, complaints, slander)

- Real-life example: The "breakfast ladies" with a no-negativity policy

- Building connections based on compassion, kindness, and humility

Confession and Forgiveness: Healing Relationship Wounds

- The importance of keeping "short accounts" in relationships

- Biblical teachings on reconciliation (Matthew 5:23-24, Mark 11:25)

- How conflict, when handled well, can strengthen friendships

- Practical approaches to difficult conversations

Keep Going: Persistence in Friendship

- Recognizing when to fight for a friendship

- Understanding seasonal friendships versus lifelong connections

- Navigating friendship endings with grace

- The value of nurturing long-term relationships

You Are Worthy: Embracing Your Value in Friendships

- God's design for human connection

- Friendship as an extension of divine love

- Personal testimony about overcoming unworthiness in relationships

Conclusion: The STICKY Framework in Action

- Practical application steps for each element

- How these principles transform casual acquaintances into meaningful connections

- The spiritual and emotional benefits of deep friendships

PART 1: Understanding Loneliness and the Need for Connection

Combating America's Loneliness Epidemic: Building Meaningful Connections in a Disconnected World

Key Statistics:

- 46% of Americans report feeling lonely

- Our society prioritizes independence over interdependence

- Modern conveniences reduce our need for community interaction

Why We're Disconnected:

- Increased mobility and frequent relocation

- Self-sufficiency through services (handymen, DoorDash, Uber)

- Digital entertainment replacing in-person interaction

- Social media creating illusion of connection without depth

- Busy schedules leaving little time for relationship building

- Fear of vulnerability, rejection, or inconvenience

The Marriage Burden:

- How overreliance on spouses creates unhealthy relationship dynamics

- The contrast between effort put into romantic relationships versus friendships

Introducing the STICKY Framework for Lasting Friendships:

- S - Set expectations

- T - Be transparent

- I - Be intentional

- C - Confess and forgive

- K - Keep it up!

- Y - You are worthy of friendship

Setting Expectations: The Foundation of Healthy Friendships

1. **For Friendship:**

- Acknowledging our God-given need for community

- Understanding friendship's role and limitations

- Recognizing relationships require consistent effort

2. **For Friends:**

- The friendship funnel concept

- Understanding different friendship levels:

- Post-it Note People (casual acquaintances)

- Painter's Tape People (Christmas card friends)

- Scotch Tape Friends (meaningful connections)

- Packing Tape Friends (trusted companions)

- Duct Tape Friends (your 3am emergency contacts)

- Managing mismatched friendship expectations

Join us next week for Part 2, where we'll explore the remaining elements of the STICKY framework: Transparency, Intentionality, Confession/Forgiveness, Keeping it up, and understanding your worth in friendships.

Do you have questions about the Bible? So do we! Join us, Lisa Scheffler and Jan Touchberry, for a weekly conversation about understanding the Bible and the impact it can have on our lives.

We believe that even though we are not made for this world, our presence here means we need to stand firm and represent the truth of the gospel and Jesus Christ well.

This week, we explore how to navigate these tricky subjects while staying true to our faith and our witness. Whether you're wrestling with questions about living out your faith, understanding biblical teachings, or facing challenges in your Christian walk, this series is for you!

Key Takeaways:

1. Embrace the Challenge: Understand that it's okay to have questions about the Bible and faith. Our journey is about seeking answers and growing in understanding.

2. Stay Rooted in Truth: While the world may challenge our beliefs, we must remain grounded in the truth of the gospel and represent Jesus Christ authentically.

3. Engage with Grace: Approach controversial topics with a spirit of grace, love, and truth, ensuring our conversations reflect the character of Christ.

Scripture References:

• 2 Corinthians 5:16-21
• 1 Peter 2:11-12

Subscribe and Follow:

Never miss an episode! Subscribe to our podcast on Apple Podcasts and Spotify. If you want to get a text with the link every time we drop a new episode - ⁠click this link to sign up⁠ or text BIBLE to 469-359-3210.

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If you enjoy our podcast and want to support us, consider sharing it with your friends and leaving a review. Your support helps us reach more people and spread the message of truth and hope in Christ.

Join the Conversation:

We'd love to hear from you! What questions do you have about the Bible or faith? Share your thoughts, and let's explore these topics together. Reach out to us on social media.

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@JanTouchberry

In this practical episode of Untwisting Scripture, Lisa and Jan wrap up their mini-series on conflict with actionable tips for having those tough conversations we'd rather avoid. Whether you're dealing with a noisy neighbor's dog or deeper relationship issues, this episode offers Biblical wisdom for approaching conflict with grace and humility.

Key Timestamps:

[00:01] Welcome and introduction

[04:45] Setting the right goal for difficult conversations (hint: it's not about winning!)

[08:42] Understanding defensive reactions and how to handle them

[10:48] The power of humility in diffusing tension

[13:20] Getting specific about offenses without making it personal

[16:25] The Biblical mandate for forgiveness (Ephesians 4:32)

[18:24] The importance of feeling heard and acknowledged

[20:12] Avoiding gossip and maintaining healthy boundaries

[23:11] Dealing with conflict from both sides - giving and receiving

[24:54] Closing prayer for wisdom in handling conflict

Episode Highlights:

- Why winning the argument shouldn't be your goal

- Practical examples using real-life scenarios

- The crucial difference between forgiveness and reconciliation

- How to approach conflict with a servant's heart (like Jesus!)

- Tips for keeping short accounts in church and family settings

Important Note: This episode focuses on everyday conflicts. For situations involving abuse or serious harm, please seek professional help or law enforcement intervention.

Looking for more guidance on handling conflict? Check out the previous episodes in this mini-series in our show notes.

Remember: Conflict is inevitable, but how we handle it can either strengthen or damage our relationships. Let's choose to approach it with wisdom, grace, and humility.

#ChristianPodcast #ConflictResolution #BiblicalWisdom #ChristianLiving #DifficultConversations #Relationships #Faith #UntwistingScripture

In this thought-provoking episode, Jan and Lisa dive deep into the challenging topic of navigating conflict in Christian relationships. They offer biblical wisdom and practical guidance on when to address issues and when grace might be the better path.

⏱️ Episode Highlights:

[00:01] - Welcome and introduction to the series

[04:31] - How productive conflict strengthens relationships

[06:15] - Important distinction between ordinary conflict and abuse

[07:30] - First steps: examining your feelings and motivations

[09:45] - The danger of conflict avoidance and relationship damage

[12:42] - Understanding biblical peace (shalom) vs. absence of conflict

[16:14] - Setting realistic expectations for difficult conversations

[18:29] - Supporting others in conflict without taking over

[20:14] - Closing prayer and next episode preview

🔑 Key Takeaways:

- Using Proverbs 19:11 as a guide for handling offense

- The importance of distinguishing between patterns and isolated incidents

- Practical steps for evaluating if a conflict needs addressing

- Biblical perspective on peace-making (Romans 12:18)

- The value of wise counsel in navigating difficult situations

💡 Notable Quote:

"It is to one's glory to overlook an offense." - Proverbs 19:11

Next Week: Practical tips for having difficult conversations with grace and wisdom.

Want to catch up? Listen to last week's episode about handling emotions [link in show notes].

🎯 Resources Mentioned:

- Proverbs 19:11

- Romans 12:18

- First Peter (on love covering offenses)

#UntwistingScripture #ChristianPodcast #BiblicalWisdom #ConflictResolution #ChristianLiving #BiblicalCounseling #ChristianRelationships #FaithJourney