Bible Study Podcast

In today’s Bible study, Wes and Travis discuss the flesh and the Spirit. The apostle Paul taught that there is sin dwelling in the “flesh” of every person. Because of the sin in our flesh, even when we want to do what is right, we lack “the ability to carry it out” (Romans 7:18). Every human being is trapped in a cycle of sin and death. However, Jesus sent the Holy Spirit to live inside his disciples. And the Holy Spirit has already begun to transform God’s people. His fruit is manifest in our lives, when we walk by the Spirit and not by the flesh (Galatians 5:16-22). Wes and Travis discuss all of this and more in today’s Bible study. We hope this study is an encouragement to you to walk by the Spirit and not by the flesh. Links and Resources: * Video: Watch This Episode on YouTube* Podcast: How Does the Holy Spirit Speak to Us Today? * Podcast: Washing of Regeneration and Renewal of the Holy Spirit

This discussion on persecution is part two of a two-part series. If you haven’t already done so, you may want to listen to the first episode in this series: “Is Political Privilege Harmful to Christianity?“ Last week we began considering the question, “Why is Christianity growing in some countries but declining in others?” In that Bible study, Wes and Travis discussed an article by Nilya Saiya, who argues that state support that is one of the biggest threats to the growth of Christianity. Saiya’s research indicates, “As governmental support for Christianity increases, the number of Christians declines significantly.” Saiya outlines three paradoxes: pluralism, privilege, and persecution. In part one, Wes and Travis discussed pluralism and privilege. In this episode, they discuss persecution. What does the Bible say about times of persecution? How should Christians think about persecution? Is it possible for the church to thrive and grow when persecuted? We hope this Bible study and discussion is an encouragement to you. Links and Resources: * Video: Watch this episode on YouTube* Article: Christianity Today article by Nilya Saiya* Audio Book: Beyond the Verse by Wes McAdams

“Why is Christianity growing in some countries but declining in others?” That’s the question Wes and Travis discuss in today’s Bible study. According to an article by Nilya Saiya, the answer is “political privilege.” Saiya argues that it is not governmental persecution, but rather governmental support that is one of the biggest threats to the growth of Christianity in a country. Saiya reports, “As governmental support for Christianity increases, the number of Christians declines significantly.” In other words, when the government favors Christianity, giving special privileges and protections to Christians, one might think it would cause Christianity to grow. However, the opposite seems to be the case. Christianity almost always declines in such environments. Saiya outlines three paradoxes: pluralism, privilege, and persecution. In this episode, part one, we discuss pluralism and privilege. In part two, we will discuss persecution. What does the Bible say about these so-called paradoxes? Does the Bible support the idea that political privilege is not something Christians should pursue? Does Christianity really grow best in environments where is it not favored? We hope you enjoy this Bible study and discussion. Links and Resources: * Video: Watch this episode on YouTube

Many congregations preface Communion with short Communion talks. This Communion talk typically consists of a Scripture reading and a few thoughts to help the church prepare emotionally and mentally for sharing the bread and the cup. Today’s Bible study will hopefully be an encouragement to those who lead in this capacity. Special guests, Caleb Cochran and Steven Cuffle join Wes McAdams to discuss how to give better communion talks. Are there some passages of Scripture that naturally lend themselves to this role? What sorts of emotions should be evoked? Are there certain things we should NOT say? This conversation offers some helpful advice. First, Wes, Caleb, and Steven discuss things to avoid when giving a Communion talk: * Distracting stories, facts, etc. * Speaking for a long time * False analogies Finally, on a more positive note, they also discuss things to do when giving a Communion talk: * Talk about Jesus and focus on him * Talk about the supper and focus on it * Talk about the church and the purpose of the supper * Read and discuss applicable passages from the Bible Communion does not have to feel like a funeral service. There is certainly a time to focus on the cross, but there is also a time to focus on the joy of what Jesus has accomplished through the cross. We hope this Bible study encourages those who lead during Communion, but also every Christian who participates in this ancient feast. Links and Resources: * Video: Watch This Episode on YouTube* Steven Cuffle is an Evangelist at the Brentwood Church of Christ* Caleb Cochran is an Evangelist at the College Ave. Church of Christ* Article: 3 Suggestions for the Lord’s Supper

What is the best marriage advice in the Bible? It may not be what you think. Hollee and Wes McAdams discuss why much of the marriage advice given today in books, seminars, and by well-meaning individuals often does not get to the heart of the issue. Many people are looking for simple tips, tricks, and techniques to improve their marriage. However, the marriage advice in the Bible (the marriage advice we really need) is not so simple. It’s not simple at all, it’s spiritual. It’s also not uncommon to look for marriage advice that will guarantee a healthier and happier marriage. Sadly, such advice does not exist. What we should all be looking for is advice on how to be a better spouse. Being a better spouse does not guarantee a better marriage, but it is the right thing to do. So, the real question is, what does the Bible teach us about being a better spouse? That is what Wes and Hollee discuss in this episode. We hope you enjoy this conversation and Bible study. Links and Resources: * Video: Watch this Episode on YouTube* Book Recommendation: The Meaning of Marriage by Timothy and Kathy Keller* Article: What the Bible Really Says About Marriage

Forgiven people forgive people. In today’s Bible Study, Wes McAdams discusses forgiveness with Billy McGuiggan. For followers of Jesus, it is important that we both experience and extend forgiveness. Unfortunately, many of us tend to struggle with both of these aspects of forgiveness. First, we must accept the fact that we are truly and totally forgiven in Christ. Sadly, many of us struggle to believe we are actually forgiven. Billy and Wes discuss why Christians doubt our salvation and the consequences of that doubt. Second, Jesus makes it clear that forgiven people must also forgive others. If we withhold forgiveness from people, forgiveness will also be withheld from us. One of the key passages discussed in this Bible study is Matthew 18:21-35. Billy McGuiggan is the preaching minister at the Three Chopt Church of Christ in Richmond, VA. Links and Resources: * Video: Watch This Episode on YouTube* Three Chopt Church of Christ* Sermon: “I Promise My Forgiveness is Enough”

Today’s Bible Study question, “What is an evangelist?” comes from Jeff, who asks: “Over the past year or two, I’ve thought a lot about the role of the evangelist and what exactly Paul means to ‘do the work of the evangelist’ (2 Tim 4:5). It’s interesting that the word form εὐαγγελιστής is only used 3x in the NT, yet we build a lot of our congregational ministry in the churches of Christ around that role/office. I’m curious to know if you have an episode on the role of the evangelist specifically, or if you’d be interested in publishing one? I’d love to hear your thoughts. I think that if one reclaims a biblical view of ‘gospel,’ as you unpacked in your podcast, then the concept/definition of the role of ‘evangelist’ would necessarily be impacted as well. What is the role of the evangelist? How does preaching the gospel impact that role? If the gospel is more holistic than evangelizing the lost, how does that impact the role of the evangelist? What is the dynamic/authority between the evangelist and the shepherd? Does one have authority over the other? Do they share authority? Does an evangelist travel or is he located? Etc. Appreciate you and your podcast. Thanks.”– Jeff Though it is hard to tell in English, in Greek, the words “gospel” (εὐαγγέλιον) and “evangelist” (εὐαγγελιστής) are related words. So, we must first define, “gospel.” Wes defines the gospel as, “The Good News that Jesus, the long-awaited Priestly King of Israel, has made atonement for sins and has been victorious over death; he will eventually destroy sin and death and will bring all things under God’s rule.” If this is the Good News, what should the role of an evangelist look like? We hope you enjoy this discussion. Bible Passages Discussed: * 1 Corinthians 15* Acts 21:8* 2 Timothy 4:1-5* Galatians 2:11-14* Ephesians 4:11-16 Links and Resources: * Video: What This Episode on YouTube* Article: What is Gospel – God is All in All* Article: “The Work of an Evangelist” by Mark Roberts* Podcast: What Does “Gospel” Mean in the Bible?* Book: King Jesus Gospel by Scot McKnight (Amazon affliate link)

Every follower of Jesus should hold himself or herself to a higher standard than they hold anyone else. Today’s Bible study was prompted by one of Travis Pauley’s favorite quotes from “The Chosen” television series. In Season Two, Episode 1, Jesus says, “I ask a lot of those who follow me, but I ask little of those who do not.” Wes McAdams and Travis Pauley discuss why, as followers of Jesus, we must hold ourselves to a higher standard than we hold anyone else. First, we must hold ourselves to a higher standard than we hold unbelievers. Second, we must even hold ourselves to a higher standard than we hold other Christians. It’s one thing to give up hypocrisy and “double standards” (holding others to a higher standard than we hold ourselves). But followers of Jesus must go further. We must ask more of ourselves than we ask of anyone else. We will talk about several passages in the New Testament that teach this idea. Bible Passages Discussed: * Matthew 23:1-4* 1 Corinthians 5:9-13* Romans 14:1-12* Matthew 7:1-5 Links and Resources: * Video: Watch This Episode on YouTube* TV Series: The Chosen

What is karma? What does the Bible say about karma? Should Christians believe in karma? These are some of the questions Wes McAdams and Travis Pauley discuss in today’s Bible study. This episode was prompted by a listener named Jonathan. Buddhism and Hinduism teach karma in connection with reincarnation. These religions believe your current life circumstances were determined by your actions in a previous life. If you had acted better in that previous life, perhaps you would find yourself in a better situation today. But most people do not have reincarnation in mind when they talk about karma. Most people simply mean something like, things generally go well for good people and poorly for bad people. In this sense, what does the Bible say about karma? Should we believe the trials we are enduring now are punishment for bad things we did years ago? Should we believe fortunate things that happen are a reward for doing good things years ago? We hope this is an encouraging Bible study. Bible Passages Discussed: * Galatians 6:7-10 * John 9:1-7 * Matthew 5:45 * The Book of Job Links and Resources: Video: Watch This Episode on YouTube Podcast: Is Stoicism Compatible with Christianity?

What if someone is baptized for the wrong reason? What does the Bible say about the validity of a baptism that was for the wrong reason? Christians have debated these types of questions for centuries. People worry whether they knew enough, believed the right things, or did everything in the right way for their baptism to be valid. One of the often debated issues revolves around the phrase, “for the forgiveness of sins” in Acts 2:38. If someone was baptized because they wanted to obey God, but did not understand that baptism is “for the forgiveness of sins,” is their baptism invalid? Do they need to be baptized again? Wes and Travis discuss what it really means to be baptized for the wrong reason in today’s Bible study. Bible Passages Discussed: * Acts 2:38* Colossians 2:10-12* Galatians 3:27-29* Acts 19:1-7 Links and Resources: * Video: Watch This Episode on YouTube* Article: David Lipscomb versus George W. Savage on Baptism* Book: Who is My Brother by F. Lagard Smith

Wes McAdams interviews Michael Whitworth about his new book, The Son’s Supremacy: A Guide to Hebrews. If you are interested in an encouraging and in-depth study of Hebrews, “The Son’s Supremacy” is an excellent help. Whitworth is an incredibly talented, knowledgable, and engaging author. His book will help many better understand the book of Hebrews. During this interview, Wes and Michael discuss some of the features that make The Son’s Supremacy a unique and engaging guide to Hebrews. One of those features is the combination of commentary and historical narrative. Michael masterfully weaves the story of a fictional first-century man, Judah, into his study guide to help bring the commentary to life. This unique style helps readers imagine what early Christians might have been thinking and feeling when they first heard the words of Hebrews. For centuries, Christians have wondered who wrote the book of Hebrews. Michael shares his thoughts on the authorship of Hebrews and why he believes Hebrews was first preached as a sermon. The book of Hebrews has helped many disciples fix their eyes on Jesus and remain faithful. We hope this conversation encourages you to do the same. Resources and Links: * Video: Watch this Episode on YouTube* Shop: The Son’s Supremacy: A Guide to Hebrews* Michael Whitworth’s Start2Finish Books

1 John 3:20 says, “…whenever our heart condemns us, God is greater than our heart”? What does John mean by this? That is the question Wes McAdams and Travis Pauley discuss in today’s Bible study. This discussion was prompted by a listener named Jacob. Jacob asked, “One passage that really is giving me fits in trying to understand and unpack the author’s intent is 1 John 3:19-20. In particular, I am wondering what kind of condemnation of the heart John is referring to. These verses do give me confidence that I am not God, so when I label myself one thing, God probably does not see me the way I am seeing myself – and His thoughts are what matters!. I was wondering if you could help me put these verses in context and shed some light on this passage and what these verses mean for followers of Jesus?” Wes and Travis discuss different interpretations of the phrase, “when our heart condemns us.” What does this phrase mean in context? What does it mean in practical application? How does this phrase relate to our confidence? Can we ever be confident that we are saved? We hope and pray this Bible study is an encouragement to you. Bible Passages Discussed: * Ephesians 2:1-10* Romans 8:1* 1 John 3:9-24 Links and Resources: * Video: Watch This Episode on YouTube

Is stoicism compatible with Christianity? In what ways does stoic philosophy agree with Christian thought? In what ways does stoic philosophy contradict Christian thought? These are some of the questions Wes McAdams and Travis Pauley discuss on today’s podcast. This discussion was prompted by one of our listeners, Ryan, who has noticed an increasing number of social media influencers who promote a modern version of stoic philosophy. Christians must have a discerning ear. We must be very careful that we do not adopt certain philosophies simply because we find them to be logical. Just because a philosophy “makes sense,” doesn’t mean it is true. In Paul’s letter to the Colossian church, he warned against the danger of supplementing the Christian faith with worldly philosophies. Stoicism might very well be one such philosophy. Before we adopt any philosophy (or even parts of a philosophy), we must critically examine its assumptions and its claims. That is why this question, “Is stoicism compatible with Christianity?” is particularly pressing as we see more and more people promoting the tenets of stoic thought. We hope you find this Bible study encouraging and helpful. Bible Passages Discussed: * Romans 2:14-16* 1 Corinthians 1:18-25* 1 Corinthians 2:12-16* Hebrews 2:14-15* James 3:17-18 Links and Resources: * Video: Watch this Episode on YouTube* Article: Why I Would Become a Stoic: If Jesus Hadn’t Risen from the Dead* Television Series: The Chosen

What is the “perfect” in 1 Corinthians 13:10? That is the question that Wes and Travis tackle in today’s Bible study. This question was raised by a listner, who wrote, “1 Corinthians 13:10 says, ‘but when the perfect comes, the partial will pass away.’ I’ve always heard (and my husband still firmly believes) ‘the perfect’ mentioned here is referring to the written Word of God or the Bible. Recently I’ve heard from 3 different sources that ‘the perfect’ is when Christ returns. This explanation actually makes sense to me, but I’d like your opinion about it. Thank you for your time and your podcast.” The Greek word translated, “perfect” (τέλειος) generally means, “attaining an end or purpose, complete” (BDAG Lexicon). With that definition in mind, Wes and Travis study the context of 1 Corinthians 13:10, as well as several other passages that discuss the “end” or “purpose” for disciples. What “end or purpose” did the miraculous gifts serve? To what “end or purpose” are Christians supposed to be striving? Another Greek word discussed in this episode is κατεργάζομαι, which is translated, “work out” in Philippians 2:12. Paul tells the Philippian church, “Work out your own salvation with fear and trembling.” By this, he seems to mean they should live out their salvation or bring their salvation into full effect. What does salvation look like when it is fully realized, when it reaches its fulfillment? What would our salvation look like if it was “made perfect” in our lives? These are some of the thoughts and ideas with which we wrestle in today’s Bible Study Podcast. We hope it is a blessing to you. Bible Passages Discussed * 1 Corinthians 13* Ephesians 4:11-15* Philippians 2:1-16 Links and Resources: * Video: Watch This Episode on YouTube* Bible Study Resources: Logos Bible Software

Today’s question comes from Stephen Scaggs, who writes, “Paul often gives a theology to work. Will we work in the new creation? What does it mean ‘their work follows them’? In connection to the bodily resurrection, what does it mean when Paul says our work is ‘not in vain’? Should we love our work?” In response to these excellent questions, Wes and Travis discuss work, career, and vocation. According to the Bible, work is part of creation and not part of the curse. But if that is true, how did the Fall affect mankind’s work? The most important part of this Bible study is how the Good News of God’s new creation impacts the way we work. We hope you find this conversation encouraging. Bible Passages Discussed: * Revelation 14:12–13* Genesis 2:15* 1 Corinthians 3:10–17* 1 Corinthians 15:57–58 Links and Resources: * Video: Watch this Episode on YouTube