In this episode, Justin Crisp and Jewelle Bickel explore Luke chapters 14 and 15, discussing more of Jesus' journey to Jerusalem, the true nature of humility, the potential cost of discipleship, and the parables of grace: the parables of the lost sheep, the lost coin, and the prodigal son. They emphasize themes of unconditional love and the irreducible dignity of every individual in God's eyes. The God of the Bible is prodigal too: He spends everything He has (and is) on bringing each and every one of us home.

In this episode, Justin and Jewelle explore the teachings of Jesus from Luke 12 and 13, focusing on themes of fearless confession, God's provision, the dangers of greed, the nature of suffering, and the importance of patience. They discuss the parable of the rich fool, the call to not worry about earthly life, and the cost of discipleship, emphasizing God's patience and grace in the face of human struggle.

In this episode, Justin Crisp and Jewelle Bickel explore Luke chapters 10 and 11, focusing on the parable of the Good Samaritan, the story of Mary and Martha, and the teachings of Jesus on prayer, including the Lord's Prayer. They discuss the significance of loving one's neighbor, the importance of prioritizing worship over busyness, and the depth of Jesus' teachings in relation to the Pharisees and the law.

In this episode of For Better, for Verse, Justin Crisp and Jewelle Bickel delve into Luke chapters 9 and 10, exploring the themes of Jesus' teachings, how his disciples act after he gives them power over nature and the spiritual world (poorly!), and the true nature of Jesus' saving power. Responding to listener feedback, they discuss the significance of turning the other cheek. They also look at the feeding of the 5,000 and the Transfiguration, while highlighting the disciples' misunderstandings of Jesus' power and authority. The conversation emphasizes the subversive nature of Jesus' message and the call to follow him in humility.

In this episode, Justin Crisp and Jewelle Bickel delve into Luke chapters 7 and 8, exploring the profound miracles of Jesus, the role of women in his ministry, the purpose of his parables, and his expansive view of family. Each of these stories emphasizes how crucial it is to understand who Jesus is, his divine identity, and the lavish forgiveness he offers. Justin and Jewelle's conversation also highlights the diverse responses Jesus evoked in his earthly tenure—and the unique ways we each, today, experience and express our faith in him.

In this episode of For Better, For Verse, Justin Crisp and Jewelle Bickel delve into Luke's account of the Sermon on the Plain, exploring its key themes such as the Blessings and Woes, the call to love one's enemies, and the nature of God's mercy. They discuss the significance of Jesus' teachings, the context of his miracles, and the unique aspects of Luke's Gospel that highlight the great reversal and God's compassion for the marginalized. Through their conversation, they emphasize the radical nature of Jesus' teachings and the fact that, in His case anyway, Jesus took Himself literally!

In this episode, Justin and Jewelle explore Luke 5-6:11, focusing on the calling of the first disciples, Jesus' proclamation of God's forgiveness, and Jesus' tense interactions with the Pharisees. Justin and Jewelle discuss the significance of faith, the social implications of Jesus' actions, and the deeper meanings behind his teachings, particularly Jesus' focus on intentions versus outcomes. The conversation highlights the radical nature of Jesus' ministry and the challenges he faced from religious authorities as he sought to focus the spiritual life on the heart rather than external rituals or actions.

In this episode, Justin Crisp and Jewelle Bickel explore Luke chapters 3 and 4, discussing the significant themes of John the Baptist's role, Jesus' temptation in the wilderness, the nature of Jesus' ministry, and the concept of the Messianic secret. They delve into the complexities of Jesus' identity and mission, contrasting it with John the Baptist's expectations, and reflect on the healing miracles and exorcisms that mark the beginning of Jesus' public ministry.

In this episode, Justin and Jewelle explore Luke chapter two, discussing the virgin birth, the significance of Mary's experience, and the theophany of angels announcing Jesus' birth to shepherds. They delve into the themes of treasuring memories, the prophecies of Simeon and Anna, and the connection between Mary and Jesus' destiny. The conversation also touches on the silent years of Jesus' life and the importance of finding God in difficult times, emphasizing the need for faith amidst uncertainty.

Justin and Jewelle introduce their quest to read the whole Bible, and take a deep dive into the first chapter of the gospel of Luke to make a start. Together, they discuss God's miraculous intervention in the lives of Zechariah and Elizabeth, giving them a child in their old age after many years of longing and praying. This rich story about faith, trust, doubt, and disbelief will inspire and challenge you as it did Justin and Jewelle.