By Nicole Unice, Bible Study Coach and Author of the Alive Method of Bible Study
As Christians, we want to experience God through the Bible… we really do!
But our good intentions fall flat when reading the Bible just doesn’t seem to help us experience God in a real way.
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In this episode of How to Study the Bible, we're looking at John 9 and reading about two different cases of blindness - the blind man's journey toward physical sight and spiritual belief, and the Pharisees' descent into hard-heartedness and spiritual blindness.
Progression of Belief: The blind man's transformation is a central focus. He begins as a man who cannot see, both physically and spiritually. Through his encounter with Jesus, he experiences a profound change, culminating in his worship of Jesus. This journey reflects the idea that true belief often starts with a personal experience of God's grace and power.
Hard-heartedness of the Pharisees: In contrast, the Pharisees become increasingly blind to the truth. Their refusal to accept the miracle and their insistence on adhering to the law over compassion illustrate how rigid beliefs can lead to spiritual blindness. Their condemnation of both the man and Jesus reveals a deep-seated fear of losing their authority and control.
Nicole encourages listeners to reflect on their own lives and consider where they may be blind to God's work. She invites them to pray for open eyes and hearts, emphasizing that transformation begins with a willingness to see the world through God's perspective.
THIS WEEK'S BIBLE STUDY RESOURCES:
Sign up for Nicole's newsletter and get regular encouragement straight to your inbox: https://nicoleunice.com/realtalk/
Help! My Bible is Alive!
Nicole’s Newest Book: Not What I Signed Up For
When you go to NicoleUnice.com/notwhatisignedupfor you'll get the intro, first chapter and a free prayer guide!
Find all of Nicole's books and resources on Amazon or Barnes & Noble
Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
Jesus' Exclusive Claims About His Identity
In this week's episode, Nicole explores the profound and polarizing claims made by Jesus regarding His identity. Central to the discussion is the assertion that Jesus is not merely a good teacher or moral guide, but rather God Himself. This claim is pivotal in understanding the conflict that arose between Jesus and the religious leaders of His time.
The Nature of Jesus' Claims
Throughout the episode, it is emphasized that Jesus made exclusive claims about His identity that set Him apart from other spiritual leaders. For instance, He stated, "I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me." Such declarations are not those of a humble teacher; they are the assertions of someone who claims divine authority and a unique relationship with God. This exclusivity is what makes Jesus' identity so contentious.
In John 8:58, Jesus declares, "Before Abraham was born, I am." This statement is particularly significant because it directly links Jesus to the divine name revealed to Moses in Exodus 3:14: "I am who I am." By using this phrase, Jesus positions Himself as eternal and uncreated, further asserting His divinity. The religious leaders, recognizing the implications of this claim, react with hostility, interpreting it as blasphemy—an offense punishable by death.
The Polarizing Effect of Jesus' Claims
The episode highlights how Jesus' claims created a divide among the people. Many were drawn to His teachings and miracles, while others, particularly the religious authorities, viewed Him as a threat to their established beliefs and practices. Younis notes that Jesus was a polarizing figure; people were either for Him or against Him, with little room for neutrality. This polarization is evident in the way the Jewish leaders respond to His claims, resorting to insults and ultimately seeking to stone Him for what they perceive as blasphemy.
What Does This Mean for Me?
Jesus' claims are not just theological assertions; they demand a response from those who hear them. Will we take God at His word and accept Jesus as Lord? If you're going to follow Jesus, you have to take him at his claim, and you're going to worship him as God, because that's who he says he is. He has given us His Word, and as we dig into His Word, we are going to discover the truth. And the question is, will we let that truth set us free? Will we say yes to Jesus, surrender our life to him, know that he is the one who can truly save, redeem, and set us free from the oppression of sin? Will we say yes to that? That's the question of John 8.
THIS WEEK'S BIBLE STUDY RESOURCES:
Sign up for Nicole's newsletter and get regular encouragement straight to your inbox: https://nicoleunice.com/realtalk/
Help! My Bible is Alive!
Nicole’s Newest Book: Not What I Signed Up For
When you go to NicoleUnice.com/notwhatisignedupfor you'll get the intro, first chapter and a free prayer guide!
Find all of Nicole's books and resources on Amazon or Barnes & Noble
Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
Understanding Jesus through the Gospel of John: A Deep Dive into Chapter 7
This week, Nicole reveals an important aspect of Jesus through the lens of the Gospel of John. Chapter 7 serves as a pivotal moment in Jesus's ministry, showcasing both His authority and the varied reactions He provokes from those around Him.
The Context and Backstory of John 7
John 7 opens with a clear indication of the tension surrounding Jesus. The narrative begins with the mention that people are trying to kill Him, highlighting the serious conflict between Jesus and the religious authorities of the time. This sets the stage for understanding the gravity of Jesus's actions and teachings. Nicole points out that Jesus is not merely a beloved teacher; rather, He is a revolutionary figure whose teachings challenge established norms and interpretations of the law.
Jesus's Authority and Teaching
As Jesus navigates the festival in Judea, He encounters a mix of opinions about His identity. Some view Him as a good man, while others accuse Him of deceiving the people or even being demon-possessed. This spectrum of reactions illustrates the polarizing effect Jesus has on society. Nicole highlights that Jesus's teachings are not aimed at abolishing the law but rather at reforming the understanding of it. He confronts the religious leaders' interpretations, particularly regarding the Sabbath, and emphasizes the spirit of the law over rigid adherence to rules.
One of the key moments in this chapter is when Jesus challenges the logic of the religious leaders by pointing out their own inconsistencies. For instance, He asks them if they would circumcise a child on the Sabbath, illustrating that they themselves make exceptions to the law for the sake of tradition. This not only showcases Jesus's deep understanding of the law but also His authority to interpret it correctly.
The Invitation to All
Despite the opposition and conflict, Jesus extends a powerful invitation to everyone present. In a loud voice, He calls out to those who are thirsty, promising that anyone who believes in Him will have streams of living water flowing from within them. This metaphor signifies the transformative power of faith in Jesus, suggesting that believers will not only find refreshment for their souls but will also become sources of life and blessing to others.
Nicole emphasizes that this promise is universal, extending to all who seek Him, regardless of their previous judgments or misunderstandings about Him. It encapsulates the essence of Jesus's mission: to offer hope, healing, and a relationship with God.
THIS WEEK'S BIBLE STUDY RESOURCES:
Sign up for Nicole's newsletter and get regular encouragement straight to your inbox: https://nicoleunice.com/realtalk/
Help! My Bible is Alive!
Nicole’s Newest Book: Not What I Signed Up For
When you go to NicoleUnice.com/notwhatisignedupfor you'll get the intro, first chapter and a free prayer guide!
Find all of Nicole's books and resources on Amazon or Barnes & Noble
Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
In this week's episode, Nicole shares a recent sermon from Hill City Church on John 3:16, focusing on the first four words, "For God so loved." She emphasizes the importance of foundational knowledge in faith. Nicole explains that true love (agape) is unconditional and self-sacrificing, contrasting it with self-preservation. She highlights that God's love is expansive and transformative, urging believers to reflect and act on this love. The sermon also includes a personal testimony from Logan about his faith journey and the importance of community support during challenging times.
For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. - John 3:16
THIS WEEK'S BIBLE STUDY RESOURCES:
Sign up for Nicole's newsletter and get regular encouragement straight to your inbox: https://nicoleunice.com/realtalk/
Help! My Bible is Alive!
Nicole’s Newest Book: Not What I Signed Up For
When you go to NicoleUnice.com/notwhatisignedupfor you'll get the intro, first chapter and a free prayer guide!
Find all of Nicole's books and resources on Amazon or Barnes & Noble
Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
In this special episode of How to Study the Bible, Nicole connects with friend of the show Rachel Toone, Dean of Spiritual Formation at Montreat College, who shares her experiences during Hurricane Helene, which hit her area in Western North Carolina.
Rachel describes the devastation, including 25-30 inches of rain, downed power lines, and flooded rivers that washed out roads and homes. She highlights the community's resilience, with local churches providing essential aid. Rachel emphasizes the long-term needs, including continued support for vulnerable communities and infrastructure rebuilding. She requests prayers and assistance for the coming months, stressing the importance of not forgetting the affected area as the news cycle moves on.
How You Can Help Hurricane Recovery Efforts:
Montreat College Benevolence Fund:
https://montreatcollege.givingfuel.com/disaster-recovery-from-tropical-storm-helene
Volunteer or Give to Disaster Relief through Samaritan's Purse
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Have you ever had this thought, If only I could see Jesus face to face, if only he was with me, then I would not be afraid, or I would know He's real, or I would have more faith. If you've ever had that thought, I'm so glad you're joining us today. We are in the Gospel of John right now, talking about the idea of being rooted, rooted deeply in the truth of who God is. Today, we're going to study John 6.
Provision, Presence, and a Question: Introduction to John Chapter 6
In John 6, we read about Jesus feeding the 5000, which highlights Jesus' provision and the role of a young boy's offering. The story is connected to the Old Testament provision for the Israelites in the wilderness, emphasizing Jesus as the one who provides daily bread. Nicole explains that Jesus' miracles point to His authority to save souls and impute righteousness, not just to provide earthly needs.
Jesus' Presence: Walking on Water
Nicole transitions to the story of Jesus walking on water, emphasizing Jesus' presence and reassurance to His disciples. She explains the significance of Jesus' statement "It is I" in Greek, connecting it to God's name "I am who I am." The story illustrates Jesus' promise to be with His followers always, even in the face of fear and uncertainty. Believers are never alone when they say yes to Jesus, despite the spiritual battles they may face.
The Bread of Life: Believing in Jesus
Jesus' conversation with the crowd after feeding the 5000 is discussed, focusing on the need to believe in Him for eternal life. Nicole explains the disciples' struggle to understand Jesus' teachings about spiritual reality versus physical needs.
Jesus' statement, "I am the bread of life," is highlighted, emphasizing that He alone can satisfy the deepest desires of the soul. The importance of believing in Jesus as the one sent by God is reiterated, with a focus on faith as the ultimate work of the soul.
Hard Teaching and Faith: Believing in Jesus' Sacrifice
Nicole discusses Jesus' hard teaching about eating His flesh and drinking His blood, leading many to fall away. She explains the disciples' response to Jesus' question about leaving Him, with Simon Peter affirming his faith in Jesus.
The importance of faith in action, even in difficult times, is emphasized, with a focus on believing in Jesus' promise of life. Nicole concludes by encouraging participants to stay with Jesus through all circumstances, trusting in His provision and presence.
THIS WEEK'S RESOURCES:
Sign up for Nicole's newsletter and get regular encouragement straight to your inbox: https://nicoleunice.com/realtalk/
Help! My Bible is Alive!
Nicole’s Newest Book: Not What I Signed Up For
When you go to NicoleUnice.com/notwhatisignedupfor you'll get the intro, first chapter and a free prayer guide!
Find all of Nicole's books and resources on Amazon or Barnes & Noble
Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
The ultimate question of spiritual growth is the question posed by Jesus—"Do you want to get well?”
That is the ultimate question of our soul, the ultimate question of spiritual growth, of coming to know God, and of walking with God.
This question, posed by Jesus to the invalid man in John 5, challenges us to reflect on our desires and motivations. It invites us to consider whether we truly seek transformation or if we are comfortable remaining in our current state, which may be marked by fear, control, and self-centeredness.
Acknowledging our reality is a crucial step in this process. It requires us to confront the honest truth about ourselves, including our shortcomings, sins, and the ways we fall short of God's glory. Many people, especially in culturally Christian contexts, may use religious language without fully understanding its implications or the transformative power it holds. This disconnect can lead to a superficial faith that lacks depth and genuine connection with God.
To truly desire wellness means recognizing our utter inability to change or fix ourselves without the presence of God and the transformative power of the Holy Spirit. It involves a willingness to turn away from the shadows of our fears and insecurities and step into the light of God's love. This light not only illuminates our path but also offers healing and restoration.
This journey toward wellness is not about striving for perfection or trying to earn God's approval. Instead, it is about coming to Jesus, who offers life and freedom from condemnation. When we accept His invitation, we cross over from death to life, experiencing a profound transformation that reshapes our identity and purpose.
Ultimately, the call to spiritual growth is an invitation to fully embrace the love of God. It encourages us to engage in a relationship with Christ that leads to a deeper understanding of His grace, mercy, and love. As we navigate this journey, we are reminded that the fruit of our relationship with Christ should be love—both for ourselves and for others. This love empowers us to live open-handedly, free from the burdens of regret and insecurity, and to move toward a life characterized by sacrificial love.
The ultimate question of spiritual growth—whether we truly want to be well—challenges us to acknowledge our reality and our need for transformation through Christ. It invites us to step into the light of God's love, where true healing and wholeness await.
THIS WEEK'S RESOURCES:
Sign up for Nicole's newsletter and get regular encouragement straight to your inbox: https://nicoleunice.com/realtalk/
Help! My Bible is Alive!
Nicole’s Newest Book: Not What I Signed Up For
When you go to NicoleUnice.com/notwhatisignedupfor you'll get the intro, first chapter and a free prayer guide!
Find all of Nicole's books and resources on Amazon or Barnes & Noble
Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
The story of the healing at the pool of Bethesda profoundly illustrates the importance of engaging with Jesus and recognizing our need for healing, both physically and spiritually.
Backstory:
In John 5, we encounter a man who had been paralyzed for 38 years, lying by the pool of Bethesda, surrounded by others who were also in desperate need of healing. This setting is significant as it highlights the collective suffering and desperation of those seeking physical restoration. The pool was believed to have healing properties, with the superstition that the first person to enter the water after it was stirred would be healed. However, the man’s response to Jesus reveals a deeper issue: he felt helpless and alone, stating, "I have no one to help me into the pool." This response underscores a common human condition—feeling abandoned and powerless in the face of our struggles.
Jesus' Engagement
When Jesus approaches the man, he asks a pivotal question: "Do you want to get well?" This question is not merely about physical healing; it invites the man to engage with Jesus on a deeper level. The man’s initial response is filled with excuses, indicating a mindset focused on his limitations rather than the possibility of healing. This interaction emphasizes that recognizing our need for healing is the first step toward transformation. Jesus, the healer, is present, yet the man’s response reflects a struggle to believe in the possibility of change.
The Nature of Healing
The healing that follows is immediate and miraculous. Jesus commands the man to "Get up, pick up your mat and walk," and he does so without hesitation. This act of healing is not just physical; it symbolizes a new beginning and a call to wholeness. However, the story does not end with the miracle. After the healing, the man encounters the Jewish leaders, who are more concerned with the law than the miracle itself. They question him about carrying his mat on the Sabbath, illustrating how easily people can become entangled in rules and regulations, missing the heart of what God is doing.
What Does It Mean? Spiritual Implications
Later, Jesus finds the man again and warns him, "Stop sinning, or something worse may happen to you." While Jesus is concerned about our physical ailments, he is equally focused on our spiritual well-being. The healing at the pool reminds us that true wholeness involves both body and soul. The man’s mindset, filled with excuses and a victim mentality, reflects a deeper spiritual condition that Jesus seeks to address.
What Does It Mean for Me?
Ultimately, the story of the healing at the pool of Bethesda illustrates the necessity of engaging with Jesus and acknowledging our need for healing. It challenges listeners to consider where they might find themselves in the narrative—whether as the invalid, the bystander, or the religious leaders. Each role offers insights into our own spiritual journeys and the ways we may resist or embrace the healing that Jesus offers. God is a gracious God, full of mercy and truth, inviting us to experience life to the fullest through Jesus, our healer.
THIS WEEK'S RESOURCES:
Sign up for Nicole's newsletter and get regular encouragement straight to your inbox: https://nicoleunice.com/realtalk/
Help! My Bible is Alive!
Nicole’s Newest Book: Not What I Signed Up For
When you go to NicoleUnice.com/notwhatisignedupfor you'll get the intro, first chapter and a free prayer guide!
Find all of Nicole's books and resources on Amazon or Barnes & Noble
Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
In this episode of How to Study the Bible Nicole explores the profound theme of "taking Jesus at His word," particularly through the lens of John chapter 4, which recounts the encounter between Jesus and the Samaritan woman at the well, as well as the healing of a royal official's son. This theme is not only central to the biblical narrative but also deeply relevant to our daily lives.
Backstory: The Encounter with the Samaritan Woman
The story begins with Jesus intentionally traveling through Samaria, a route typically avoided by Jews due to cultural animosities. This choice underscores the urgency and purpose behind Jesus's mission. When Jesus meets the Samaritan woman, He breaks social norms by speaking to her, asking for a drink, and engaging her in a deep conversation. This moment is significant because it illustrates how Jesus sees and values individuals, regardless of their background or past.
What Does It Say: Living Water
During their conversation, Jesus offers the woman "living water," a metaphor for the spiritual sustenance and eternal life He provides. This concept captivates the woman, prompting her to engage further. Jesus's ability to see her true self—acknowledging her past without condemnation—demonstrates His love and acceptance. Instead of shaming her for her history of multiple husbands, He invites her into a transformative relationship.
What Does It Mean: The Woman's Testimony
The pivotal moment occurs when Jesus reveals that He is the Messiah. The woman takes Him at His word, believing in His identity and the truth of His message. She then becomes the first missionary, returning to her village to share her testimony. Her declaration, "He told me everything I did," highlights the power of being seen and known, which resonates with many who feel marginalized or ashamed. The villagers, intrigued by her transformation, come to believe in Jesus because of her testimony.
The Royal Official's Faith
The episode also recounts the story of a royal official whose son is gravely ill. In desperation, he approaches Jesus, who simply tells him, "Go, your son will live." The official takes Jesus at His word and departs, demonstrating remarkable faith. His belief in Jesus's authority and power leads to the miraculous healing of his son, reinforcing the idea that faith in Jesus's word can lead to profound changes in our lives.
What Does It Mean for Me: Can We Take Jesus at His Word?
The episode's overarching question is whether we can take Jesus at His word in our lives. Nicole emphasizes the importance of knowing Jesus's promises and grounding ourselves in the truth of His love and salvation. She encourages listeners to write down these promises and keep them visible as a reminder of God's faithfulness.
Key Takeaways
Jesus's Intentionality: Jesus's choice to engage with the Samaritan woman and the royal official illustrates His desire to reach out to all people, regardless of societal barriers.
The Power of Testimony: The transformation of the Samaritan woman into a witness for Christ shows how personal encounters with Jesus can lead to broader impacts on communities.
Faith in Action: The royal official's response to Jesus's word exemplifies the kind of faith that leads to action, encouraging us to trust in Jesus's promises even when circumstances seem dire.
Rooted in Truth: To take Jesus at His word, we must be rooted in the truth of Scripture, understanding that God loves us and desires to save us, not condemn us.
In conclusion, the episode invites us to reflect on our own faith journeys and challenges us to embrace the truth of Jesus's words. By doing so, we can experience the fullness of life that He promises, regardless of our past or present circumstances.
The story of the Samaritan woman at the well, recounted in John chapter 4, profoundly illustrates the transformative power of being seen and known by Jesus. This encounter not only changes the woman's life but also positions her as the first missionary in the New Testament, showcasing how personal transformation can lead to communal impact.
THIS WEEK'S RESOURCES:
Help! My Bible is Alive!
Nicole’s Newest Book: Not What I Signed Up For
When you go to NicoleUnice.com/notwhatisignedupfor you'll get the intro, first chapter and a free prayer guide!
Find all of Nicole's books and resources on Amazon or Barnes & Noble
Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
Exploring the Signs of Jesus' Glory in the Book of John
In the podcast episode, Nicole Unice delves into the significance of Jesus's signs in John 2 and 3. These signs not only reveal Jesus' divine nature but also illustrate profound themes of hospitality, justice, and personal transformation.
The First Miracle: Water into Wine
The episode begins with the account of Jesus' first miracle at a wedding in Cana, where He turns water into wine. This event is significant for several reasons:
Celebration and Hospitality: Weddings in Jewish culture are grand celebrations that can last several days. The absence of wine would have been a major social faux pas, reflecting poorly on the hosts. By performing this miracle, Jesus demonstrates His concern for joy and hospitality, emphasizing that He cares about the everyday moments of life, not just dire circumstances.
Abundance: The miracle is characterized by abundance; Jesus doesn't just provide a little wine but an overwhelming amount, showcasing His generosity. This theme of abundance recurs throughout the Book of John, highlighting that Jesus offers more than what is necessary.
Revelation of Glory: The miracle serves as the first sign through which Jesus reveals His glory. Interestingly, it is not the wedding guests who recognize this glory, but His disciples, who come to believe in Him as a result. This points to the idea that true understanding and faith often come from being close to Jesus and witnessing His works firsthand.
The Cleansing of the Temple
Following the wedding miracle, the narrative shifts dramatically to Jesus cleansing the temple. This event reveals another facet of Jesus' character:
Righteous Anger: Jesus' actions in the temple demonstrate His passion for justice. He is angered by the exploitation of the poor, who come to the temple to make sacrifices. The money changers and sellers are taking advantage of their need, turning a sacred space into a marketplace. This act of cleansing the temple shows that Jesus is not only a figure of hospitality but also one who stands against injustice.
Challenge to Religious Authority: When the religious leaders demand a sign to validate His authority, Jesus responds cryptically, foreshadowing His death and resurrection. He indicates that true worship will not be confined to a physical temple but will be found in Him. This confrontation sets the stage for ongoing conflict between Jesus and the religious authorities, illustrating that following Him may lead to challenges and opposition.
The Conversation with Nicodemus
The episode concludes with Jesus' conversation with Nicodemus, a Pharisee who comes to Him at night. This dialogue introduces the concept of spiritual rebirth:
Spiritual Transformation: Jesus tells Nicodemus that one must be "born again" to see the Kingdom of God. This idea of spiritual rebirth is central to understanding the transformative power of faith in Christ. It emphasizes that entering into a relationship with Jesus requires a fundamental change in one's life and perspective.
The Sign of the Cross: Jesus references the story of Moses lifting up the serpent in the wilderness, drawing a parallel to His own impending crucifixion. Just as the Israelites were healed by looking at the serpent, so too will people find eternal life by looking to Jesus on the cross. This connection underscores the simplicity and depth of the Gospel message: belief in Jesus leads to salvation.
God's Love for Humanity: The well-known verse John 3:16 encapsulates the essence of the Gospel: God's immense love for the world and His desire for all to have eternal life through faith in His Son. This message of love and hope is a cornerstone of Christian belief.
Journal your questions: Talk to God about how it feels to know the very first sign of his glory was at a party and sparked joy. Do you experience joy and hospitality in your life? How can you invite someone into that?
What signs are you asking for? When have you seen God’s glory?
Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
The podcast currently has 220 episodes available.
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