In this episode, Justin Crisp and Jewelle Bickel explore the final chapters of the Gospel of Luke, discussing the events leading up to Jesus' crucifixion and resurrection. They delve into the significance of the Last Supper, the agony in the garden, the betrayal by Judas, the trials before various authorities, and the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus on the cross. The conversation highlights the theological implications of these events and their relevance to our faith, particularly the understanding of Jesus as the "suffering servant." Jesus' death and resurrection harness acts of great evil and turn them into the means by which God forgave and saved the world. Yet Jesus' earliest followers can't get their heads around the idea of a God who works in this way—at least, not until the very last moment. They were called to witness these events and be changed, and so are we.

In this episode, Justin Crisp and Jewelle Bickel explore the significant events surrounding Jesus’ triumphal entry into Jerusalem, the prophetic implications of his actions, and the reactions of the religious and political leaders of his day. They discuss the cleansing of the temple, the parable of the wicked tenants, and Jesus’ teachings on authority before launching into a rich discussion of the “end times,” or last things. Jesus says everything will come to an end—from the temple in Jerusalem to the world itself—but through the unexpected redemption he is about to accomplish, every end is a beginning.

In this episode, Justin Crisp and Jewelle Bickel delve into several parables from the Gospel of Luke, exploring themes of ethics, wealth, and the nature of God's kingdom. They discuss the complexities of the parable of the dishonest manager, the contrasting fates of the rich man and Lazarus, and the transformative encounter of Zacchaeus with Jesus. The conversation emphasizes the importance of understanding how Jesus taught as much as what Jesus taught, as well as the urgency of recognizing the kingdom of God in our lives.

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.