Bible Study Podcast show

Bible Study Podcast

Summary: Study the Bible with Travis Pauley and Wes McAdams. Whether you are a seasoned Christian or a new Christian, you will enjoy these Bible studies. Each week, Wes and Travis study another biblical topic, exploring the relevance Scripture has for our lives today. Though the topics vary greatly from week to week, the goal of every Bible study is the same, learn to love like Jesus. These Bible studies are brought to you by Radically Christian and the church of Christ on McDermott Road in Plano, Texas.

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 Understanding the Satan, Demons, and Spiritual Warfare with Eric Ramseur | File Type: audio/mpeg | Duration: 51:15

Spiritual warfare, what is it and how do we engage in it? The Bible has a lot to say about spiritual beings, both good and evil. However, many of us are very uncomfortable thinking about spiritual forces, especially demons and “the satan.” This episode of the Radically Christian Bible Study Podcast aims to address these perplexing issues and provide biblical insight into this often-misunderstood aspect of the Christian faith. Eric Ramsur and Wes McAdams the biblical narrative, starting from the creation account in Genesis, and explore the concept of the divine council, where God interacts with other spiritual beings called “Elohim.” The conversation also examines the rebellion of some of these beings against God’s authority and their subsequent influence on humanity and the nations. Furthermore, the episode sheds light on the role of Satan, the accuser, and the reality of demonic forces as presented in both the Old and New Testaments. Practical guidance is offered on how we can engage in spiritual warfare by aligning ourselves with the Holy Spirit. The guest for this episode is Eric Ramseur. He and his wife, Brianna, have four children. They reside in Virginia Beach and love working with the church for its growth and mending relationships in their community. Eric’s deep understanding of Scripture and his passion for exploring the often-overlooked aspects of the biblical narrative make him an excellent guide through this complex and fascinating topic. Links and Resources: * Watch this Episode on YouTube * drmsh.com – Michael Heiser’s website * The Unseen Realm by Michael Heiser * Angels by Michael Heiser * Demons by Michael Heiser * Supernatural by Michael Heiser * The Bible Unfiltered by Michael Heiser * The Divine Council in Canaanite and Early Hebrew Literature by E.T. Mullen * The Bible Project podcast series called “God” * Celebration of Discipline by Richard J. Foster Note: Some links may be affiliate links. Meaning, if you choose to buy something through these links, we receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. Transcript (Credit: Beth Tabor) Welcome to the Radically Christian Bible Study Podcast. I’m your host, Wes McAdams. Here we have one goal: Learn to love like Jesus. On today’s episode, we’re going to talk about spiritual warfare. What is it, who are we fighting against, and how is it that we go about engaging in spiritual warfare? My guest today is Eric Ramseur. He and his wife and four children live in Virginia Beach. They love working with the church for its growth and mending relationships in their community. I know that you are going to be incredibly blessed by the things that Eric has to share. He is a brilliant theologian and a wonderful disciple of Jesus, and I know that you’re all going to be blessed by his thoughts.

 The Exodus and The Gospel with Stuart Peck | File Type: audio/mpeg | Duration: 38:41

In this episode, Stuart Peck and Wes McAdams discuss the Exodus account and its relationship to the Gospel. They discuss how understanding the historical and cultural context of the ancient Israelites can deepen our appreciation for scripture and make it even more relatable to our lives today. Biblical characters grappled with very real issues in their specific historical setting, which can mirror our own struggles if understood properly. As Stuart and Wes discuss the Exodus, they reflect on the ways it is used as an archetype throughout the New Testament to illustrate the gospel message. The hosts dive into how the Exodus foreshadows Jesus’ deliverance of God’s people from bondage to sin, the wilderness testing period, and ultimately being led into the promised land. They examine how New Testament writers frequently drew parallels between Jesus and Moses, as well as Jesus and the nation of Israel itself, to show Jesus as the fulfillment of the Exodus story. The guest for this episode is Stuart Peck is the co-founder and CEO of Appian Media. He leads a team of creatives who make videos, podcasts and printed study material about the Bible. Their latest documentary “Out of Egypt” digs into the world of ancient Egypt and the culture that surrounded the Israelites as they were slaves in Egypt. The documentary follows a possible route out of Egypt to the border of Israel. Through their journey they explore the concept of the Exodus story being our story today. Links and Resources * Watch this episode on YouTube * Appian Media * Out of Egypt – Premieres March 16, 2024 * Following the Messiah * Searching for a King * Freed Hardeman University Graduate School of Theology Transcript (Credit: Beth Tabor) Welcome to the Radically Christian Bible Study podcast. I’m your host, Wes McAdams. Here we have one goal: Learn to love like Jesus. Today we’re going to talk about the story of the Exodus, how God brought the people of Israel out of Egyptian slavery and brought them to the Promised Land so that he could dwell with his people. We’re going to talk about how the Exodus story points forward to Jesus and how it teaches us what the gospel is all about and our place in the story of God and his people.  I’m going to be talking with Stuart Peck, who is the co‑founder and CEO of Appian Media. He leads a team of creatives who make videos, podcasts, and printed study material about the Bible. Their latest documentary, “Out of Egypt,” digs into the world of ancient Egypt and the culture that surrounded the Israelites as they were slaves in Egypt. The documentary follows a possible route out of Egypt to the border of Israel. Through their journey, they explore the concept of the Exodus story being our story today. I know that you will be blessed and encouraged by this conversation, but before we get there, I want to read Deuteronomy 18:15. This is Moses speaking to the people of Israel, and this promise points forward to Jesus.

 Who is Welcome at the Lord’s Table? with Boo Scott | File Type: audio/mpeg | Duration: 50:06

In today’s Bible study, Wes McAdams and Boo Scott discuss the Lord’s table. They examine Jesus’ table fellowship in the Gospel of Luke and its implications for the Lord’s Supper today. They also discuss what it really means to “discern the body” and take communion in a worthy manner. Wes and Boo take a deep dive into several key biblical texts, including Luke 14, Acts 2, and 1 Corinthians 11. They challenge some common assumptions and argue for a more evangelistic view of communion. This conversation might give you a whole new perspective on the Lord’s Table. Boo Scott is the lead minister at the National Park Church of Christ in Hot Springs, Arkansas. He shares fascinating insights from his studies on the topic of table fellowship and the Lord’s Supper. Listen as Boo’s passion for God’s word comes through in this Christ-centered and Scripture-filled discussion. Links and Resources * Watch this episode on YouTube * National Park Church * Sermon: The Road to Emmaus Transcript (Credit: Beth Tabor) WES: Welcome to the Radically Christian Bible Study Podcast. I’m your host, Wes McAdams. Here we have one goal: Learn to love like Jesus. Today we’re going to talk about communion and table fellowship. What does the Gospel of Luke, the Book of Acts, 1st Corinthians ‑‑ what do they have to teach us about what it means to be in fellowship with people, what it means to share the table and share a meal with one another and with Jesus?  Our guest today is Boo Scott, the lead minister at the National Park Church of Christ in Hot Springs, Arkansas. I know you’re really going to enjoy this conversation. It is so rich and filled with wonderful thoughts that Boo has to share with us. It’s sort of an informal conversation. Typically, we have a list of questions and an outline, but this time, Boo and I just sat down and talked about Jesus and the table and fellowship and communion and what all of those things do to shape us and form us into people who are loving our neighbors and our brothers and sisters and loving the Lord. I want to start with 1st Corinthians 11, starting in verse 33. Paul says, “So then, my brothers, when you come together to eat, wait for one another ‑‑ if anyone is hungry, let him eat at home ‑‑ so that when you come together it will not be for judgment.” Let’s talk about that. Let’s talk about all of these things in light of how do we learn to love like Jesus.  Boo Scott, welcome back to the podcast, Brother. BOO: Thanks, Wes. Thanks for having me, Bud. WES: I’m excited about this conversation. I was saying, before we recorded, this is probably the first time that I’ve ever had a guest where we don’t have an outline, we don’t have a set of questions. We’re just gonna talk about the Bible, and I’m assuming this is gonna go well because I know you and I know that we love to talk theology and love to talk scripture, and if it goes well ‑‑ you’re kind of the guinea pig here. If this goes well, we may do more episodes with different guys like this,

 Do We Need Bible Scholars? with Jeremie Beller | File Type: audio/mpeg | Duration: 51:00

Are Bible scholars and Bible experts necessary for Christians to understand Scripture? Some feel that the Bible is simple and does not require scholarly interpretation, while others find the Bible intimidating due to its ancient languages, historical context, and complex meanings. This episode explores whether “average” Christians today need Bible scholars or can simply read scripture for themselves. The conversation examines what the Bible is, looking at it as a collection of books written in particular historical contexts. It discusses how to discern reliable and formative biblical scholarship, considering the scholar’s life, motivations, and willingness to challenge tradition. The biblical concepts of taking scripture seriously, reading it in context, and interpreting it in community are emphasized. The ultimate goal of biblical study is growing in love for Jesus. The guest for this episode is Dr. Jeremie Beller, Dean of the College of Bible at Oklahoma Christian University. Dr. Beller has studied biblical languages and literature extensively. However, his focus is not on technical precision but on teaching scripture for spiritual formation and community application. His desire is for Christians to read the Bible holistically, let it shape them into Christ’s image, and apply it in life-giving ways. Links and Resources: * Watch This Episode on YouTube * Male and Female God Created Them: A Biblical Review of LGBTQ+ Claims by Rubel Shelly * Revelation (New Cambridge Bible Commentary) by Ben Witherington III * The Strength to Be Weak (Podcast Episode with Jim Martin) Note: Some links may be affiliate links. Meaning, if you choose to buy something through these links, we receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. Transcript (Credit: Beth Tabor) WES: Welcome to the Radically Christian Bible Study Podcast. I’m your host, Wes McAdams. Here we have one goal: Learn to love like Jesus. There are some Christians who feel like Bible scholarship or Bible training at an academic level is completely unnecessary, that Bible experts ‑‑ or so‑called Bible experts ‑‑ are unnecessary and are usually leading people astray. They feel like scripture is so simple that anybody ought to be able to just pick it up and read it, understand it, and obey it. And on the other hand, there are a lot of Christians who feel like the Bible is too complicated to understand, that they couldn’t possibly understand the meaning and the purpose of scripture because they’re not a Bible expert or a Bible scholar. Should we trust biblical scholarship? Should we distrust biblical scholarship? Or is there somewhere in between where we ought to land?  Today I’m going to visit with our guest, Dr. Jeremie Beller, who is the Dean of the College of Bible at Oklahoma Christian University, a wonderful follower of Jesus, and I know that you will enjoy and appreciate the things that he has to share with us and to teach us about studying scripture. I want to start today by reading 2 Timothy 3:14‑17. It says, “But as for you, continue in what you have learned and have firmly believed, knowing from whom you learned it and how from child...

 How We Read the Bible in Churches of Christ with John Mark Hicks | File Type: audio/mpeg | Duration: 58:44

How should we read and understand the Bible? Wes McAdams interviews John Mark Hicks about different ways churches of Christ have interpreted the Bible, either using a “blueprint” approach focused on patterns for the church or a more theological approach centered on God’s story and identity. They discuss key biblical concepts like reading whole books for context rather than proof-texting, seeing Scripture as intended to form Christlike character more than provide ecclesiological details, and grounding unity in the core gospel story. Concepts of a “blueprint hermeneutic” versus a “theological hermeneutic” are explained as ways churches have viewed biblical authority. McAdams and Hicks also touch on church history, the risks and benefits of both hermeneutical approaches, and the importance of Christ-centered unity. John Mark Hicks has taught full-time in higher education among Churches of Christ since 1982 and recently retired from his position as Professor of Theology at Lipscomb University in Nashville, Tennessee. He has taught in 40 states and 22 countries around the world. He has authored, co-authored, edited, or contributed to 47 books as well as contributing to both academic and popular journals. His experience gives a helpful perspective on both the historical and hermeneutical questions addressed in this episode. Resources * Watch This Episode on YouTube * Searching for the Pattern: My Journey in Interpreting the Bible by John Mark Hicks Note: Some links may be affiliate links. Meaning, if you choose to buy something through these links, we receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. Transcript (Credit: Beth Tabor) WES: Welcome to the Radically Christian Bible Study Podcast. I’m your host, Wes McAdams. Here we have one goal: Learn to love like Jesus. Today we’re going to be talking about churches of Christ, the history of churches of Christ and the future of churches of Christ, particularly how we read the Bible, how we read and understand and apply scripture to our lives, to the way that we do church, to the way that we try to love like Jesus.  Our guest today is John Mark Hicks, who has taught full‑time in higher education among churches of Christ since 1982 and recently retired from his position as professor of theology at Lipscomb University in Nashville, Tennessee. He’s taught in 40 states and 22 countries around the world. He has authored, co‑authored, edited, or contributed to 47 books, as well as contributing to both academic and popular journals. He is married to Jennifer and shares five living children and six grandchildren with her. I know that you’re going to appreciate the things that John Mark Hicks has to share with us and his perspective on how we read scripture and maybe how we can read scripture better.  I want to begin today by reading Philippians 2:1‑8, because I think this captures how we ought to read scripture. Paul says, “So if there is any encouragement in Christ, any comfort from love, any participation in the Spirit, any affection and sympathy, complete my joy by being of the same mind, having the same love, being in full accord and of one mind. Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves.

 Healthy Church Leadership with Bob Turner | File Type: audio/mpeg | Duration: 47:24

Many churches today lack strong spiritual leadership. Without godly elders to shepherd and guide them, congregations often struggle in their efforts to grow disciples and spread the gospel. In this episode, Wes McAdams discusses how to develop healthy leaders with Bob Turner. They examine Jesus’ model for training his disciples, emphasizing servant leadership and sacrificial love. You’ll gain insights into sharing wisdom between generations, as well as how to encourage every member to employ their unique gifts in the body. They offer practical steps every church can take to cultivate elders focused on nurturing spiritual growth. Bob Turner brings years of experience guiding congregations in this conversation. As director of the Sunset Academy of Leadership Training, he provides resources to strengthen leaders through workshops, seminars, and online training content. Links and Resources: * Watch This Episode on YouTube * SALT (Sunset Academy of Church Leadership) * The Multiplication Effect by Mac Lake * Bring | Teach | Keep by Chuck Anderson Note: Some links may be affiliate links. Meaning, if you choose to buy something through these links, we receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. Transcript (Credit: Beth Tabor) WES: Welcome to the Radically Christian Bible Study podcast. I’m your host, Wes McAdams. Here, we have one goal: Learn to love like Jesus. It is so important for those of us who want to learn to love like Jesus that we be part of a community, a church family where others are loving us and we are loving them and we are working out our salvation together as fellow disciples. But part of that is that every church community is supposed to have elders, is supposed to have shepherds who lead and guide and teach those in that community.  In the book of Titus, Paul writes to this young evangelist, and here’s what he says in Titus 1, starting in verse 5: “This is why I left you in Crete, so that you might put what remained into order, and appoint elders in every town as I directed you ‑‑ if anyone is above reproach, the husband of one wife, and his children are believers and not open to the charge of debauchery or insubordination. For an overseer, as God’s steward, must be above reproach. He must not be arrogant or quick‑tempered or a drunkard or violent or greedy for gain, but hospitable, a lover of good, self‑controlled, upright, holy, and disciplined. He must hold firm to the trustworthy word as taught, so that he may be able to give instruction in sound doctrine and also to rebuke those who contradict it.” But sadly, many, if not most, churches don’t have elders. They don’t have shepherds like Paul is describing to Titus. So what could we do to help make sure that every church is led by these kinds of shepherds? In order to help us answer that question, today I’m visiting with Bob Turner, who is the director of the Sunset Academy of Leadership Training. Bob is a wonderful follower of Jesus, a wonderful friend. I know that you and I both are going to enjoy this conversation, and I hope that it helps all of us to learn to love like Jesus. 

 A Biblical Response to LGBTQ+ Claims with Rubel Shelly | File Type: audio/mpeg | Duration: 1:05:34

Many Christians today feel confused and conflicted about how to respond to LGBTQ claims in a Christlike way. In this culture of shifting sexual norms, what should our posture be? Can we hold to biblical truth while also extending compassion? This timely episode tackles these critical questions head-on. Dr. Rubel Shelly, our guest, provides clarity from Scripture and history on God’s design for gender, sexuality, and marriage. Listen as Dr. Shelly and Wes McAdams discuss how to navigate these culturally controversial topics with both conviction and Christlike care. Walking through key biblical texts, Dr. Shelly insightfully presents the traditional Christian perspective on sexuality and marriage. With academic rigor yet pastoral wisdom, he examines historical context and refutes common revisionist arguments. Dr. Shelly stresses the importance of speaking truth with humility, leading with grace not condemnation. He offers hopeful counsel for those struggling with same-sex attraction or gender dysphoria. This is a podcast for anyone desiring to better understand and apply biblical teaching on sexuality and gender. Our guest Dr. Rubel Shelly has been a minister for over 60 years. He is a respected author, preacher, and professor. His recent book, “Male and Female God Created Them” provides in-depth analysis of LGBTQ+ claims from a biblical viewpoint. Dr. Shelly discusses this book as well as practical guidance for responding to a sexually confused culture with both conviction and compassion. Links and Resources: * Watch This Episode on YouTube * Male and Female God Created Them: A Biblical Review of LGBTQ+ Claims by Rubel Shelly * The Ink Is Dry: God’s Distinctive Word on Marriage, Family, and Sexual Responsibility by Rubel Shelly Transcript (Credit: Beth Tabor) Radically Christian Bible Study Podcast A Biblical Response to LGBTQ+ Claims with Rubel Shelly WES: Welcome to the Radically Christian Bible Study podcast. I’m your host, Wes McAdams. Here, we have one goal:  Learn to love like Jesus. I want to welcome everyone back to a new year and a new season of the podcast. I’m incredibly excited about some of the plans that we have and some of the guests that we have scheduled to be with us. I know that you are going to enjoy these conversations, and I hope, as always, that they help us to love like Jesus.  Today we’re going to be talking about how to respond in love to some of the theological claims of the LGBTQ community. Obviously, this is not a conversation for children, so you may want to be aware of that before we begin the interview. I also want to say I’m sorry for my sound the first couple of minutes of the interview. I forgot to move my microphone in front of me. I quickly realized and changed that. I don’t think it will affect your understanding of what’s being said, but I did want to apologize for that before we get into the interview.  Our guest today is Dr. Rubel Shelly. He’s a preacher, a prolific author, and a longtime college professor. He’s the recent author of the book, Male and Female God Created Them, A Biblical Review of LGBTQ+ Claims. We’re going to talk about the book quite a bit.

 The Strength to Be Weak with Jim Martin | File Type: audio/mpeg | Duration: 43:21

Many men struggle with fears of appearing weak or incompetent, which can inhibit personal growth, transparency in relationships, and willingness to ask for help. In this episode, Wes McAdams interviews Jim Martin to discuss cultural pressures and misconceptions around masculinity that feed these fears. They explore how scripture and the example of Jesus provide a different model of true strength through humility and vulnerability. Wes and Jim dive into passages like 2 Corinthians 12 and discuss biblical concepts including power being made perfect in weakness, boasting in weaknesses, and finding joy in transparency. They talk about rethinking prevailing notions that real men must project unwavering grit and self-reliance. The conversation covers how admitting struggles openly can build deeper connections. Jim Martin has served for 10 years as the VP of Harding School of Theology and brings a wealth of experience from 36 years in preaching ministry. He speaks candidly in this interview about some of his own journey with shame and fear of embarrassment earlier in his career. His desire is to pass on encouragement and positivity to church leaders today facing similar struggles. Links and Resources * Watch this Episode on YouTube * Man Enough by Nate Pyle * Jim Martin’s Substack Newsletter Transcript (Credit: Beth Tabor) WES: Welcome to the Radically Christian Bible Study podcast. I’m your host, Wes McAdams. Here, we have one goal: Learn to love like Jesus. Today we’re going to talk about why we should admit when we’re weak. I want to start by reading from 2 Corinthians 12:7‑10, where Paul talks about his thorn in the flesh. He says, “So to keep me from becoming conceited because of the surpassing greatness of the revelations, a thorn was given me in the flesh, a messenger of Satan to harass me, to keep me from becoming conceited. Three times I pleaded with the Lord about this, that it should leave me. But he said to me, ‘My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.’ Therefore I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest upon me. For the sake of Christ, then, I am content with weaknesses, insults, hardships, persecutions, and calamities. For when I am weak, then I am strong.” Today’s guest is my friend, Jim Martin. Jim Martin has served for 10 years as the VP of the Harding School of Theology. Prior to that, he preached for 36 years, 20 of those years in Waco, Texas. He and his wife, Charlotte, have two daughters, one son‑in‑law, and four grandchildren. I know you will enjoy this conversation, and I hope that it will help all of us learn to love like Jesus.  Jim Martin, welcome to the podcast, Brother. JIM: Well, thank you, Wes. I’m glad to be here. WES: Well, thanks so much for being here. I can’t tell you how much I appreciate you, and I can’t tell you how much I appreciate you spending some time with us. I was trying to think, just a minute ago, where the first time I saw your name might have been, and it might have been Twitter, which is a weird place to first meet someone. But as you know, Twitter can kind of be a dark place,

 Studying Romans 8 with Mitch Wiggains | File Type: audio/mpeg | Duration: 52:51

In this conversation, Mitch Wiggains and Wes McAdams discuss Mitch’s preaching series on Romans 8. They explore topics such as the evidence of transformation in the life of a Christian, the assurance of salvation, the difference between justification, sanctification, and glorification, and the importance of understanding the love of God. They also delve into the concept of adoption and the unshakable inheritance that believers have in Christ. They briefly explore the importance of interpreting scripture consistently and honestly, emphasizing the need to acknowledge biases and assumptions when approaching the text. Wes and Mitch discuss the significance of considering the whole council of scripture to gain a deeper understanding of specific passages. Mitch Wiggains is the preaching minster for the Western Heights Church of Christ in Sherman, Texas. You can find Mitch’s sermons on the Western Heights YouTube channel or on their website. Takeaways * When you say no to sin, it is not helping your salvation. It is evidence that you are saved.  * Understanding the assurance of salvation is crucial, as it is not based on our own efforts but on the work of Jesus Christ. * Justification, sanctification, and glorification are three aspects of salvation that should be understood and embraced by believers. * The love of God is demonstrated through adoption, where He chooses to love and accept us as His children. * The hope of victory over death and decay should lead Christians to live with confidence and trust in God’s promises. Links and Resources * Watch this Episode on YouTube * Reading Romans Backwards by Scot McKnight Transcript (Credit: Beth Tabor) Radically Christian Bible Study Podcast Studying Romans 8 with Mitch Wiggains WES: Welcome to the Radically Christian Bible Study Podcast. I’m your host, Wes McAdams. Here we have one goal: Learn to love like Jesus. I want to start today by reading from Romans 8:1‑5. Paul says, “There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus. For the law of the Spirit of life has set you free in Christ Jesus from the law of sin and death. For God has done what the law, weakened by the flesh, could not do. By sending his own son in the likeness of sinful flesh and for sin,  He condemned sin in the flesh, in order that the righteous requirement of the law might be fulfilled in us, who walk not according to the flesh but according to the Spirit. For those who live according to the flesh set their minds on the things of the flesh, but those who live according to the Spirit set their minds on the things of the Spirit.”  Today we’re going to talk about Romans 8 with my friend, Mitch Wiggains. Mitch is the preaching minister at the Western Heights Church of Christ in Sherman, Texas. He and his wife, Katie, have three daughters, and he is a good friend of mine, and I know that you will appreciate his thoughts on Romans 8, and I hope that this conversation will help all of us learn to love like Jesus.

 How to Dress for Worship with Chris McCurley | File Type: audio/mpeg | Duration: 38:44

How should Christians dress for worship? This episode tackles the controversial question of what we should wear to worship. It addresses common opinions and justifications used to say we must dress up, examining problems like adding traditions as requirements, showing favoritism to the well-dressed, and binding personal convictions on others. Issues like legalism, stewardship, and unity are explored as they relate to this topic. The discussion centers around biblical principles of modesty, humility, love, and avoiding distractions in our corporate worship. Concepts about the Restoration plea to focus on Scripture alone are emphasized. Perspectives are given to thoughtfully consider cultural norms and changes over time, while staying anchored in spiritual truths not bound to any time or place. This episode was originally published on Chris McCurley’s Dear Church Podcast. Chris graciously allowed us to share it with you. We hope you enjoy this conversation and that it helps all of us learn to love like Jesus. Links and Resources: * Watch this episode on YouTube * Chris McCurley’s Dear Church Podcast * Chris McCurley preaches for the Walnut Street Church of Christ Transcript (Credit: Beth Tabor) WES: Welcome to the Radically Christian Bible Study Podcast. I’m your host, Wes McAdams. Here we have one goal: Learn to love like Jesus. Today’s Bible study was actually first aired on Chris McCurley’s Dear Church podcast, and if you’re not already subscribed to that podcast, I would encourage you to check that out, but Chris and I discussed the subject of what we wear to worship. Does it matter what we wear to worship? How should we think about the clothes that we wear? How should we talk about that? How should we think about what other people are wearing to worship? That’s an interesting subject. It might be a controversial subject, certainly one on which many people have opinions, but we wanted to dive into what scripture actually says about this topic.  I want to start today by reading 1 Timothy 2, starting in verse 8. “I desire then that in every place the men should pray, lifting holy hands without anger or quarreling; likewise also, that women should adorn themselves in respectable apparel, with modesty and self‑control, not with braided hair and gold or pearls or costly attire, but with what is proper for women who profess godliness, with good works.”  As always, I hope that this Bible study and this conversation helps all of us to love like Jesus.  CHRIS: Dear Church, let’s talk about what we wear to worship. Hello, and welcome to the Dear Church Podcast. I’m your host, Chris McCurley. My good friend, Wes McAdams, joining me today.  Wes, this might as well just be kind of a host/co‑host kind of arrangement, because whether it’s your podcast or my podcast, I feel like this happens often, and, honestly, I’d be okay if it happened more often. WES: I like it. I like it. Sounds like a plan to me. CHRIS: Yeah. Thanks so much for coming in. Hey, you’re pretty happy ‑‑ your wife is even happier ‑‑ because of the Rangers winning. I mean, that was exciting. WES: No doubt, no doubt.

 Developing a Global Perspective with Dan Bouchelle | File Type: audio/mpeg | Duration: 45:50

In this episode of the Radically Christian Bible Study Podcast, Wes McAdams interviews Dan Bouchelle, president of Mission Resource Network, about gaining a global perspective on Christianity. Dan draws on his decades of experience preaching and working with churches worldwide to discuss problems facing the American church such as declining attendance, fear-based politics, and ethnocentrism. Dan and Wes explore how Christians should think about what God is doing globally rather than just focusing on an American-centric view. They discuss biblical concepts related to God's plan to bring together people from every nation into one multiethnic family in Christ. Looking at passages in Revelation and the teachings of Jesus and Paul, Wes and Dan highlight principles around ethnic inclusivity, contextualization of the gospel across cultures, and having the right restoration vision for the church. With Dan's extensive global ministry background, he provides a unique perspective on moving past an inward-focused vision to one that grasps the worldwide mission of God.

 How Christians Use Technology with Jason Helton | File Type: audio/mpeg | Duration: 52:33

In this episode, Wes McAdams and Jason Helton discuss the impacts of technology on our lives and spirituality. They address questions like how various technologies over the past century have shaped culture and individuals, how our constant connectivity online can isolate us, and how we as Christians should think about and engage with technology in a wise and discerning way. Throughout their conversation, McAdams and Helton look at biblical concepts related to technology and culture. They discuss how we try to be omnipresent and omniscient through technology but that we need to remember we are not God. They emphasize thinking about technology through the lens of God’s kingdom rather than just going along with culture and convenience. Overall, they encourage listeners to carefully consider how to engage technology in a way that forms them into the image of Christ. Jason Helton is the Media Outreach Minister for the Madison Church of Christ in Madison, AL. He has been in full-time ministry since 2007. In 2017, after 10 years in Youth Ministry, he moved into his current role. He and his wife Ellen live in Harvest with their four children. Jason has a B.A. in Youth & Family Ministry from Faulkner University and an M.A. in Online Ministry from Regent University. Links and Resources * Watch This Episode on YouTube * Madison Church of Christ * Analog Faith in Digital Babylon Information Transcript (Credit: Beth Tabor) Radically Christian Bible Study Podcast How Christians Use Technology with Jason Helton WES: Welcome to the Radically Christian Bible Study Podcast. I’m your host, Wes McAdams. Here we have one goal: Learn to love like Jesus. I want to begin, as always, with a passage of scripture.  Today I want to read from Psalm 119:33‑37. The psalmist says, “Teach me, O Lord, the way of your statutes; and I will keep it to the end. Give me understanding, that I may keep your law and observe it with my whole heart. Lead me in the path of your commandments, for I delight in it. Incline my heart to your testimonies, and not to selfish gain! Turn my eyes from looking at worthless things; and give me life in your ways.” Today we’re going to talk with Jason Helton about technology, how it’s shaping us, and how we, as Christians, as followers of Jesus, need to be wise and discerning about what technology we use and how we use it. Jason Helton is the media outreach minister for the Madison Church of Christ in Madison, Alabama. He has been in full‑time ministry since 2007. In 2017, after 10 years in youth ministry, he moved into his current role. He and his wife, Ellen, live in Harvest with their four children. Jason has a bachelor’s in youth and family ministry from Faulkner University, and a master’s in online ministry from Regent University. I know that you will enjoy this conversation that I had with Jason Helton, and I hope, as always, it helps all of us to love like Jesus. Jason, welcome to the podcast, Brother. JASON: Hey, thanks so much for having me, Wes. WES: Thanks so much for being here. I’ve really enjoyed listening. You’ve sent me some of your lessons from your class that you’ve t...

 Studying the Gospel of John with Dan Chambers | File Type: audio/mpeg | Duration: 46:40

In this episode of the Radically Christian Bible Study Podcast, Wes McAdams interviews Dan Chambers about his current preaching series on the Gospel of John. They discuss some of the deeper theological themes and symbols that are found in John’s account, including how Jesus’ first miracle of turning water into wine foreshadows the coming Messianic banquet. The conversation focuses on how Jesus fulfills Old Testament prophecies and institutions like the temple, and how believing in Christ is the only way to find lasting satisfaction and quench our deepest spiritual thirst. Throughout the episode, Wes and Dan explore several passages from John, analyzing the rich symbolism and connections to the Old Testament. They talk about how Jesus is the ultimate fulfillment of things like the temple and the law, and how the gospel of John repeatedly points people to find hope, meaning, and purpose in Christ alone. Even for those familiar with this gospel account, this conversation sheds new light on the profound truths found in John’s gospel. Dan Chambers has been preaching and teaching the Bible for 15 years at the Concord Road Church of Christ. He holds a doctorate in applied theology and has written several books, including Churches in the Shape of Scripture and Bring on Heaven! Dan brings deep insight into the biblical text, challenging listeners to not just understand the gospel intellectually but to let its truth penetrate their hearts so that it transforms how they live. Links and Resources: * Watch this episode on YouTube * Concord Road Church of Christ Notice: This site contains affiliate links. This means that if you click on a product link and purchase the item, I will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. I only recommend books and products I believe will add value to your life. This support helps offset a small part of what it costs to keep this site running. Transcript (Credit: Beth Tabor) WES: Welcome to the Radically Christian Bible Study podcast. I’m your host, Wes McAdams. Here, we have one goal: Learn to love like Jesus. I want to start today by reading from John 1:1‑5. John writes, “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was in the beginning with God. All things were made through him, and without him was not any thing made that was made. In him was life, and the life was the light of men. The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.” Today I’m going to be visiting with and studying with my friend, Dan Chambers, about his preaching and teaching from the book of John. But, first, I want to read for you Dan’s biography. Dan Chambers loves to preach and teach the Bible and does so every chance he gets. For the last 15 years, he’s been living his ministry dream as the preaching minister of the Concord Road Church of Christ in the Nashville area. He holds a doctorate, a D.Min. in applied theology, and has written several books, including Churches in the Shape of Scripture and Bring on Heaven! He and his wife, Leola, have two grown children, a son‑in‑law, a daughter‑in‑law, and one perfect grandchild. He likes watching action movies, good documentaries, and NFL football. He also loves reading books about history and culture, and he and his wife are a couple of certified travel nuts who a...

 Studying Grace, Faith, and Works with Kris Emerson | File Type: audio/mpeg | Duration: 59:04

In this episode of the Radically Christian Bible Study Podcast, Wes McAdams has a conversation with Kris Emerson about grace, faith, and works. Many Christians struggle to understand the relationship between God’s grace, our faith, and living a life of good works. Do we earn salvation by our righteous deeds? Does God’s grace mean we don’t have to work at all? In this episode, Wes McAdams interviews Kris Emerson about this important topic. They discuss common pitfalls like pride, burnout, and discouragement that happen when we don’t understand the grace of God. Wes and Kris unpack key passages like Ephesians 2:8-10. They discuss how we must people of good works, but good works don’t earn our salvation; they are the natural response to what God has freely given us. With humor and vulnerability, Kris shares how appreciating the sequence of grace, faith, and works has revolutionized his spiritual life and ministry. Kris Emerson hosts the Excel Still More podcast and preaches for the Lindale Church of Christ. He is passionate about helping Christians grow in their love for God and others by properly understanding biblical truths about grace, faith, and works. Links and Resources: * Watch This Episode on YouTube * Excel Still More Podcast * Sermon: “Salvation by Grace” by Kris Emerson * Lindale Church of Christ website Transcript (Credit: Beth Tabor) WES: Welcome to the Radically Christian Bible Study Podcast. I’m your host, Wes McAdams. Here we have one goal: Learn to love like Jesus. I want to start today by reading from Ephesians 2, starting in verse 1. Paul writes, “And you were dead in the trespasses and the sins in which you once walked, following the course of this world, following the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that is now at work in the sons of disobedience, among whom we all once lived in the passions of our flesh, carrying out the desires of the body and the mind, and were by nature children of wrath, like the rest of mankind. But God, being rich in mercy, because of the great love with which he loved us, even when we were dead in our trespasses, made us alive together with Christ ‑‑ by grace you have been saved ‑‑ and raised us up with him and seated us with him in the heavenly places in Christ Jesus, so that in the coming ages he might show the immeasurable riches of his grace in kindness toward us in Christ Jesus. For by grace you have been saved through faith.  And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not as a result of works, so that no one may boast. For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them.”  Our special guest today is Kris Emerson, the host of the podcast Excel Still More, and he is also the preacher for the Lindale Church of Christ. We’re going to talk about grace and faith and our life, our works in Christ Jesus. We hope that you enjoy this podcast, this conversation, and we hope, as always, that it helps all of us to love like Jesus.  Kris Emerson, welcome to the podcast, Brother. KRIS: Hey, glad to be here, Wes. Thanks for letting me join you today. WES: Thank you so much.

 Adoption as a Picture of the Gospel | File Type: audio/mpeg | Duration: 42:51

What can adoption teach us about the Gospel? In this episode of the Radically Christian Bible Study podcast Kyle and Leah Beard join Wes McAdams to share their story of building their family through adoption. They share how their faith motivated their decision and what it has taught them about God. Kyle and Leah open up about the emotional journey of foster care and adoption. They discuss having to surrender their own desires and trust God’s plan for each child. Adoption gave them a deeper understanding of God’s unconditional love for all people. It also showed the redemptive power of God turning broken situations into beautiful stories. This is a moving episode sharing an intimate adoption journey and the lessons it teaches about God’s redeeming love. Links and Resources * Watch This Episode on YouTube Transcript (Credit: Beth Tabor) WES: Welcome to the Radically Christian Bible Study podcast. I’m your host, Wes McAdams. Here we have one goal: Learn to love like Jesus. I want to begin today by reading from Ephesians 1, starting in verse 3. Paul writes, “Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us in Christ with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places, even as he chose us in him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and blameless before him. In love he predestined us for adoption to himself as sons through Jesus Christ, according to the purpose of his will, to the praise of his glorious grace, with which he has blessed us in the beloved. In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of our trespasses, according to the riches of his grace, which he lavished upon us, in all wisdom and insight making known to us the mystery of his will, according to his purpose, which he set forth in Christ as a plan for the fullness of time, to unite all things in him, things in heaven and things on earth.”  Today we’re going to talk with Kyle and Leah Beard about adoption and what they’ve learned about God and about the gospel because of their experience with adoption. I hope that you enjoy this conversation, and, as always, I hope this conversation helps all of us learn to love like Jesus.  Well, Kyle and Leah Beard, welcome to the podcast. Kyle: Thank you for having us. LEAH: Thank you. WES: Thank you guys for joining me. I’m pretty sure that Kyle has probably been on the podcast before, but I’m confident this is Leah’s first time, so I’m excited to have the entire Beard team. Well, not the entire Beard team, but the mom and dad of the Beard team. Kyle: Yeah, yeah. WES: Fantastic. Well, why don’t we start by just having y’all introduce yourselves and tell us about yourselves and your kids and introduce us to who are the Beards. Kyle: So I’m Kyle Beard. I have the privilege of working with Wes at the church of Christ on McDermott Road, working with middle school and high school students, and I have to say it, I’m from California, so that’s usually part of my first introduction.   WES: You always have to get that in there. Kyle: I always have to. It’s just ‑‑ that’s just who I am. And we’ve been married to Leah ‑‑ I’ve been married to Leah for 14 years.

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