Have you ever wondered how ancient wisdom might transform your daily life? In Episode 93 of Equip the Next, we journey through 1st Thessalonians to discover timeless principles that remain revolutionary even today.

The backdrop of severe persecution sets the stage for understanding Paul's powerful message to the Thessalonian believers. We explore chapters 3 and 4, where Paul addresses two critical aspects of Christian living - holiness and purposeful work. Rather than plucking verses out of context, we dive into the fascinating cultural backdrop of Greco-Roman society, where sexual permissiveness was the norm. Against this backdrop, Paul's call to sexual purity becomes even more countercultural and powerful.

Equally profound is Paul's straightforward instruction regarding work: "If you're able-bodied and able to work, work." This teaching, often overlooked in modern pulpits, reminds us that Christianity isn't about idle spirituality but purposeful engagement with the world around us. Whether through traditional employment, homemaking, entrepreneurship, or creative endeavors, believers are called to productive contribution rather than dependency. Paul models this principle through his own tent-making trade, demonstrating that spiritual leadership doesn't exempt one from physical labor.

These ancient words speak directly to our modern struggles with sexual temptation and purposeful living in an age of distraction. Subscribe to our newsletter for weekly insights that complement these episodes, and join us next time as we continue unpacking the treasures of Thessalonians. What area of your life might be transformed by embracing Paul's call to holiness and purposeful work today?

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Ever wondered how brand-new Christians could withstand intense persecution? The story of the Thessalonian church provides a remarkable answer that still resonates today.

The Thessalonian believers were essentially spiritual infants when Paul and Silas were forced to flee their city under the cover of darkness. An angry mob had formed against these missionaries, dragging a believer named Jason before city authorities and accusing them of "turning the world upside down." Yet despite being abandoned by their spiritual mentors and facing continued hostility, these new believers didn't just survive—they thrived in their faith.

What made the difference? As we explore 1st and 2nd Thessalonians, we discover the powerful combination of authentic community and servant leadership that sustained them. These "baby saints" received the gospel "in much affliction, with joy of the Holy Spirit," examining scripture daily like the noble Bereans. Meanwhile, Paul's leadership style—devoid of glory-seeking, flattery, or greed—provided a model of humility and genuine care that empowered rather than exploited them.

Join us as we unpack these powerful epistles and discover how to cultivate the kind of faith that stands strong when the world turns against you. Subscribe to our newsletter for weekly devotionals that complement these episodes, and remember to share this podcast to help equip someone else in their spiritual journey.

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Change is coming to the Woman 31 Podcast! After three years of ministry and 91 episodes, we're unveiling a new name that better aligns with our mission of equipping believers through comprehensive Bible teaching.

The decision didn't come lightly. Though "Woman 31" holds special meaning (my husband once encouraged me by saying "you're a Proverbs 31 woman" after I had shelved the name), we've recognized a disconnect between our name and our ministry's scope. We don't exclusively focus on Proverbs 31 – we've studied women throughout scripture, explored the New Testament, and recently completed a series on effective Bible study methods. Our teaching encompasses the entirety of God's Word.

Some shared how names referencing Proverbs 31 can inadvertently create feelings of inadequacy or set an impossible standard. While no name pleases everyone, we wanted something that clearly bridges to our purpose: equipping saints to be better disciples through God's Word.

Rest assured that while our name is changing, our foundation remains unshaken. Christ is still our cornerstone.

We're also expanding to Instagram to better connect with our international audience across different time zones. This platform will allow us to share more practical discipleship resources, facilitate richer conversations about godly living, and potentially collaborate with other ministry leaders.

Thank you for joining us on this journey! We'd love to hear your thoughts – connect with us through our website, email, or our new social media. The name may be changing, but our commitment to biblical truth and equipping believers remains steadfast as ever.

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The veil between ancient times and today's world falls away as we journey into episode 90 of the Woman 31 podcast, exploring the transformative role of women in the Greco-Roman world and early Christianity. 

Have you ever wondered why Jesus speaking to a Samaritan woman at a well was so revolutionary? Historical context illuminates scripture in remarkable ways, revealing how radical the gospel message truly was. Through careful examination of the biblical text, we discover a fascinating shift beginning at Pentecost—where believers gathered "all in one accord"—that transformed rigid gender divisions into a new kingdom paradigm.

This historical understanding doesn't just satisfy curiosity—it provides profound application for today. Whether you're supporting ministries, praying faithfully, or serving in leadership, your contribution matters. The focus shifts from titles, status, and personal recognition to Christ-centered service that bears fruit. When we make our work about Jesus rather than ourselves, transformation follows. 

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Have you ever wondered why Jesus talking to the woman at the well was such a big deal? Or why Mary sitting at Jesus' feet caused such a stir? The cultural context changes everything.

In Episode 89 of the Woman 31 Podcast, we dive deep into the revolutionary ministry of Jesus toward women. Against a backdrop where women were segregated, likely illiterate, and forbidden from religious education, Christ's interactions with women weren't just kind—they were radical. When Mary sat at Jesus' feet to learn while Martha served, she broke cultural taboos. When a woman with an issue of blood touched His garment, she defied strict religious prohibitions. Yet Jesus welcomed, defended, and elevated these women.

We explore how understanding first-century Hellenistic and Jewish cultural norms transforms our reading of familiar Bible stories. From women funding Jesus' ministry to being the first witnesses of His resurrection, these weren't small moments—they were seismic shifts in how women were valued. For those living in cultures where gender separation still exists, or for anyone wondering about their worth in God's eyes, this historical context offers profound comfort.

The climate changed when Jesus entered on the scene. By examining His counter-cultural treatment of women, we gain a deeper appreciation for Scripture and a renewed understanding of how deeply Christ values each of us. 

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Have you ever wondered what life was truly like for women in biblical times? The shifting status of women from the Old Testament to the New Testament world reveals fascinating and sometimes troubling changes in how half of humanity was viewed and treated.

While exploring the Hellenistic world of the New Testament, we discover a society that increasingly isolated women, categorizing them alongside other marginalized groups like Gentiles, minors, and those with disabilities. Women vanished from public spaces unless economic necessity required them to work. They were systematically excluded from religious and public life in ways that explain why Jesus's interactions with women were so revolutionary for the time.

This cultural context makes Jesus's approach to women all the more remarkable. When he spoke to the Samaritan woman at the well, he wasn't just being kind—he was challenging the fundamental social and religious constructs of his time. 

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Have you ever wondered what daily life was really like for women in biblical times? Beyond the familiar stories, what was the actual experience of being a woman in ancient Israel?

In this episode, we take a fascinating detour from our usual book-by-book Bible study to explore the often-overlooked backdrop of women's lives throughout Scripture. Providing essential context for deeper biblical understanding.

Correction: in this episode the word Hermeneutics was mispronounced. It was pronounced Hermiletics, which is incorrect (Homiletics is more on the application of preaching and teaching, whereas Hermeneutics applies to the interpretation and study of the Bible). We basically butchered that word up, and combined the two lol. Latoya meant to say Hermeneutics. Thank you for your understand… Now get back to the podcast :) 

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Faith takes root when watered with truth. In this enlightening exploration of 2 Peter, we unpack the apostle's final written words before his martyrdom—a powerful testament to authentic faith in challenging times.

Peter, signing his letter with both his birth name (Simon/Shimon) and the name Jesus gave him (Peter/Petros), establishes his identity as both a Jewish believer and a Christian leader appointed by Christ Himself. The distinction between Peter as "Petros" (small stone) and Christ as "Petra" (large boulder) reveals profound truth about leadership in God's kingdom—we are servants within something much greater than ourselves.

The heart of Peter's message addresses a problem as relevant today as it was two millennia ago: false teaching. These deceptive voices aren't merely mistaken; they're dangerous, driven by greed, appealing to our basest desires, and leading believers astray. Peter doesn't just warn about them but equips us to recognize them through their fruits. Listen as we unpack 2 Peter together.

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What does it mean to lead faithfully during times of suffering? We're diving deep into 1 Peter 5, exploring Peter's powerful conclusion to his letter about leadership in the face of persecution.

Peter's final words carry special weight as they were written when he knew his time was short. Having personally experienced Christ's restoration after his denial, Peter understood both the crushing weight of failure and the transformative power of grace. His threefold commission from Jesus to "feed my sheep" resonates throughout this chapter as he outlines what godly leadership should look like in challenging circumstances.

Peter's urgent instructions speak directly to our contemporary crisis of leadership. Too many seek positions without understanding the spiritual responsibility they carry.  Join us as we explore these profound truths that remain as relevant today as when Peter first wrote them.

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What does it mean to find joy in suffering? When early Christians faced the horrors of Emperor Nero's persecution – being burned at stakes and crucified for their faith – they discovered profound spiritual truths that still speak powerfully today.

Continuing our journey through 1 Peter, we explore chapters 3 and 4 to understand how these ancient believers maintained their faith despite unimaginable hardship. The historical context matters deeply here. Unlike many of us who have rights and voices in society, these early Christians had none. Yet their example shines through centuries, offering wisdom for navigating our own storms.

Whether you're facing relationship challenges, financial pressure, health concerns, or persecution for your faith, this episode offers biblical perspective to help you endure with purpose. Remember, suffering is not in vain when we walk through it with Christ. Join us as we discover how to become "more than overcomers" by allowing God's Word to take priority in our lives during life's most difficult seasons.

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