“The minute you have asked ‘why?’ – you have become a theologian.”  – Carolyn Custis James

First, the bad news: you might be a little uncomfortable with this part, at least a first. But the good news (and it really is good news!) is that as you know more, it more it becomes easier to pull the principle out of Scripture. 

In this episode, Nicole talks about the five filters we use to understand what a passage is teaching us about God, ourselves, and the world we live in:

1. Is the principle or theory reflected in the passage?
2. Is the principle timeless?
3. Does the principle transcend culture, gender, age, status, etc.?
4. Is the principle harmonious with the rest of Scripture?
5. Is this principle relevant then and relevant now?

For more, check out:
Take the 30-Day 'Help, My Bible Is Alive' Challenge: http://urlme.cc/vzQp

Grasping God’s Word by Duvall and Hays: http://urlme.cc/DNlP

You can find more from Nicole at https://nicoleunice.com/ and on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/nicoleunice

“The minute you have asked ‘why?’ – you have become a theologian.” – Carolyn Custis James First, the bad news: you might be a little uncomfortable with this part, at least a first. But the good news (and it really is good news!) is that as you know more, it more it becomes easier to pull the principle out of Scripture. In this episode, Nicole talks about the five filters we use to understand what a passage is teaching us about God, ourselves, and the world we live in: 1. Is the principle or theory reflected in the passage? 2. Is the principle timeless? 3. Does the principle transcend culture, gender, age, status, etc.? 4. Is the principle harmonious with the rest of Scripture? 5. Is this principle relevant then and relevant now? For more, check out: Take the 30-Day 'Help, My Bible Is Alive' Challenge: <a href="http://urlme.cc/vzQp" rel="noopener">http://urlme.cc/vzQp</a> Grasping God’s Word by Duvall and Hays: <a href="http://urlme.cc/DNlP" rel="noopener">http://urlme.cc/DNlP</a> You can find more from Nicole at <a href="https://nicoleunice.com/" rel="noopener">https://nicoleunice.com/</a> and on YouTube: <a href="https://www.youtube.com/nicoleunice" rel="noopener">https://www.youtube.com/nicoleunice</a>

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. What should feel dynamic and important and alive often feels confusing and boring and irrelevant. But it doesn’t have to feel this way.

In this bible study podcast, pastor and Bible teacher Nicole Unice brings life back to reading the Bible by walking listeners through her Alive Method of Bible study, helping us personally encounter God through His Word by giving us a practical, clear road map for understanding, interpreting and applying Scripture to our lives. 

Topics covered in this podcast:

💡 Three Common Obstacles to Understanding the Bible
💡The Basics of Bible Study (Observation, Interpretation) and How to Apple the Bible to Your Life
💡Deep Dive into Bible Studies by Books of the Bible (We've covered Ecclesiastes, Romans, Matthew, and more!)
💡 Topical Bible study lessons on Joy, Contentment, Prayer and more
💡 Spiritual Rhythms: Creating New Rhythms in Your Life
💡 4 Principles You Need to Interpret Difficult Scripture

To find more from Nicole, visit https://nicoleunice.com/.

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. What should feel dynamic and important and alive often feels confusing and boring and irrelevant. But it doesn’t have to feel this way. In this bible study podcast, pastor and Bible teacher Nicole Unice brings life back to reading the Bible by walking listeners through her Alive Method of Bible study, helping us personally encounter God through His Word by giving us a practical, clear road map for understanding, interpreting and applying Scripture to our lives. 
Topics covered in this podcast:
💡 Three Common Obstacles to Understanding the Bible 💡The Basics of Bible Study (Observation, Interpretation) and How to Apple the Bible to Your Life 💡Deep Dive into Bible Studies by Books of the Bible (We've covered Ecclesiastes, Romans, Matthew, and more!) 💡 Topical Bible study lessons on Joy, Contentment, Prayer and more 💡 Spiritual Rhythms: Creating New Rhythms in Your Life 💡 4 Principles You Need to Interpret Difficult Scripture
To find more from Nicole, visit <a href="https://nicoleunice.com/">https://nicoleunice.com/</a>.

How to Study the Bible - Bible Study Made Simple

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. What should feel dynamic and important and alive often feels confusing and boring and irrelevant. But it doesn’t have to feel this way.

In this bible study podcast, pastor and Bible teacher Nicole Unice brings life back to reading the Bible by walking listeners through her Alive Method of Bible study, helping us personally encounter God through His Word by giving us a practical, clear road map for understanding, interpreting and applying Scripture to our lives. 

Topics covered in this podcast:

💡 Common Obstacles to Understanding the Bible
💡The Basics of Bible Study (Observation, Interpretation) and How to Apple the Bible to Your Life
💡Deep Dive into Bible Studies by Books of the Bible (We've covered Ecclesiastes, Romans, Matthew, and more!)
💡 Topical Bible Study Lessons on Joy, Contentment, Prayer and More
💡 Spiritual Rhythms: Creating New Rhythms in Your Life
💡 Principles You Need to Interpret Difficult Scripture

To find more from Nicole, visit https://nicoleunice.com/.

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. What should feel dynamic and important and alive often feels confusing and boring and irrelevant. But it doesn’t have to feel this way. In this bible study podcast, pastor and Bible teacher Nicole Unice brings life back to reading the Bible by walking listeners through her Alive Method of Bible study, helping us personally encounter God through His Word by giving us a practical, clear road map for understanding, interpreting and applying Scripture to our lives. 
Topics covered in this podcast:
💡 Common Obstacles to Understanding the Bible 💡The Basics of Bible Study (Observation, Interpretation) and How to Apple the Bible to Your Life 💡Deep Dive into Bible Studies by Books of the Bible (We've covered Ecclesiastes, Romans, Matthew, and more!) 💡 Topical Bible Study Lessons on Joy, Contentment, Prayer and More 💡 Spiritual Rhythms: Creating New Rhythms in Your Life 💡 Principles You Need to Interpret Difficult Scripture
To find more from Nicole, visit <a href="https://nicoleunice.com/">https://nicoleunice.com/</a>.

How To Study The Bible - Bible Study Made Simple

“The minute you have asked ‘why?’ – you have become a theologian.”  – Carolyn Custis James

First, the bad news: you might be a little uncomfortable with this part, at least a first. But the good news (and it really is good news!) is that as you know...

Episode 4: Unpacking Principles and Finding Meaning

In this special in-between episode, we're going to explore the spiritual practice of gratitude and its significance in our everyday lives, especially during challenging times. We're going to talk about four ways to choose gratitude. One of the things that's always been really challenging for me as a believer is separating my gratitude and thanksgiving from my circumstances. And I wish after all these years of walking with God that I had improved in this area, I think maybe I'm growing in this area, but the reality is I know my own heart, and I know that when things are in a joyful place circumstantially, In fact, I wrote in my journal this morning, Lord, help me to have as much joy for you in the hard times as I do in the good times. And I wanted to bring us to, you know, we hear all about choosing gratitude and about being thankful to God. So that's what we're going to talk about today as we move into the Christmas season and transition into our Advent series on John. We're going to look at 10 verses in the Bible where God instructs us to choose gratitude, no matter what circumstances we're facing.

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

There is so much pain and hopelessness in our world. Men or women, young or old, rich or poor—pain doesn’t discriminate, and the problem of addiction is prevalent. It can feel like there’s no way out.

Whether you are in a dark valley or walking with someone through theirs, the Bible can be your companion to recovery and restoration. Millions of people have chosen the Life Recovery Bible and have been led to the true source of recovery—God himself.

Within its pages, you’ll find a powerful foundation for recovery with spiritual care, practical wisdom, and the life-changing Word of God. Guidance, support, and hope are here.

The Life Recovery Bible is packed with practical notes, helps, and themes that are fully integrated with the twelve-step program and point you back to your Creator, who alone is the source of freedom, hope, and victory.

Begin your journey today at LifeRecoveryBible.com.

<p data-pm-slice="1 1 [&quot;aiblock&quot;,{&quot;prompt&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;preview&quot;:false,&quot;block&quot;:{&quot;id&quot;:&quot;blk_01JE3EGYHRYSS8FMQAW6KR0NHJ&quot;,&quot;status&quot;:&quot;succeeded&quot;,&quot;type&quot;:&quot;summary&quot;,&quot;selected_variation&quot;:0,&quot;variations&quot;:[&quot;In this episode of \&quot;How to Say the Bible,\&quot; host Nicole Younis explores the spiritual practice of gratitude and its significance in our everyday lives, especially during challenging times. She emphasizes the importance of recognizing the small blessings, such as the sunrise and breath in our lungs, as reminders of God's sustenance. Nicole shares her experience with technical difficulties but remains committed to delivering this important message. As the podcast transitions from the Gospel of John to the Advent season, she invites listeners to reflect on gratitude and its role in deepening their relationship with God. Tune in for an inspiring discussion on cultivating a thankful heart amidst life's challenges.&quot;],&quot;configuration&quot;:null,&quot;prosemirror&quot;:[{&quot;type&quot;:&quot;rootblock&quot;,&quot;content&quot;:[{&quot;type&quot;:&quot;paragraph&quot;,&quot;content&quot;:[{&quot;type&quot;:&quot;text&quot;,&quot;text&quot;:&quot;In this episode of \&quot;How to Say the Bible,\&quot; host Nicole Younis explores the spiritual practice of gratitude and its significance in our everyday lives, especially during challenging times. She emphasizes the importance of recognizing the small blessings, such as the sunrise and breath in our lungs, as reminders of God's sustenance. Nicole shares her experience with technical difficulties but remains committed to delivering this important message. As the podcast transitions from the Gospel of John to the Advent season, she invites listeners to reflect on gratitude and its role in deepening their relationship with God. Tune in for an inspiring discussion on cultivating a thankful heart amidst life's challenges.&quot;}]}]}],&quot;previous_block&quot;:null,&quot;next_block&quot;:null,&quot;error_code&quot;:null,&quot;feedback&quot;:null},&quot;template&quot;:{&quot;type&quot;:&quot;summary&quot;}},&quot;rootblock&quot;,null]">In this special in-between episode, we're going to explore the spiritual practice of gratitude and its significance in our everyday lives, especially during challenging times. We're going to talk about four ways to choose gratitude. One of the things that's always been really challenging for me as a believer is separating my gratitude and thanksgiving from my circumstances. And I wish after all these years of walking with God that I had improved in this area, I think maybe I'm growing in this area, but the reality is I know my own heart, and I know that when things are in a joyful place circumstantially, In fact, I wrote in my journal this morning, Lord, help me to have as much joy for you in the hard times as I do in the good times. And I wanted to bring us to, you know, we hear all about choosing gratitude and about being thankful to God. So that's what we're going to talk about today as we move into the Christmas season and transition into our Advent series on John. We're going to look at 10 verses in the Bible where God instructs us to choose gratitude, no matter what circumstances we're facing.
THIS WEEK'S BIBLE STUDY RESOURCES:
Sign up for Nicole's newsletter and get regular encouragement straight to your inbox: <a href="https://nicoleunice.com/realtalk/" data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://nicoleunice.com/realtalk/&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1727966241794000&amp;usg=AOvVaw0tVRclOME9LHyn54IIEPfh">https://nicoleunice.com/realtalk/</a>
<a href="https://www.amazon.com/Help-My-Bible-Alive-Understand/dp/1641580216">Help! My Bible is Alive!</a>
Nicole’s Newest Book: <a href="https://www.christianbook.com/not-what-finding-strength-purpose-through/9781496448651/pd/44865X">Not What I Signed Up For </a>
When you go to <a href="https://nicoleunice.com/notwhatisignedupfor/">NicoleUnice.com/notwhatisignedupfor</a> you'll get the intro, first chapter and a free prayer guide! 
Find all of Nicole's books and resources on<a href="https://www.amazon.com/shop/nicoleunice/list/1RSVU2ZK7YHKC?linkCode=spc&amp;tag=nicoleunice-20&amp;domainId=influencer&amp;asc_contentid=amzn1.ideas.1RSVU2ZK7YHKC"> Amazon </a>or <a href="https://www.barnesandnoble.com/s/Nicole%20unice">Barnes &amp; Noble</a>
<hr>
There is so much pain and hopelessness in our world. Men or women, young or old, rich or poor—pain doesn’t discriminate, and the problem of addiction is prevalent. It can feel like there’s no way out.
Whether you are in a dark valley or walking with someone through theirs, the Bible can be your companion to recovery and restoration. Millions of people have chosen the <a href="https://hubs.la/Q02WRCtJ0">Life Recovery Bible</a> and have been led to the true source of recovery—God himself.
Within its pages, you’ll find a powerful foundation for recovery with spiritual care, practical wisdom, and the life-changing Word of God. Guidance, support, and hope are here.
The <a href="https://hubs.la/Q02WRCtJ0">Life Recovery Bible</a> is packed with practical notes, helps, and themes that are fully integrated with the twelve-step program and point you back to your Creator, who alone is the source of freedom, hope, and victory.
Begin your journey today at <a href="https://hubs.la/Q02WRCtJ0">LifeRecoveryBible.com</a>.

10 Bible Verses that Help Us Choose Gratitude, Even in Difficult Circumstances

Jesus as the Gate and the Good Shepherd

In this week's episode, Nicole explores the profound significance of Jesus identifying himself as both the gate and the good shepherd, emphasizing the exclusivity of his role in providing salvation and safety for his followers. This dual identity is rooted in the teachings found in John 10, where Jesus makes two critical "I Am" statements: "I am the gate" and "I am the good shepherd."

The Gate

When Jesus refers to himself as the gate, he establishes a clear boundary for His followers. The gate symbolizes access to safety, security, and sustenance. Jesus does not say he is "a gate" but rather "the gate," indicating that he is the only way into the safety of God's pasture. This exclusivity is crucial for understanding the nature of salvation; it is not a universal access point but a specific entry through Jesus himself.

The concept of the gate also counters the idea of universalism, which suggests that all paths lead to God. Instead, Jesus asserts that there is a definitive way to enter into a relationship with God, and that is through Him. Nicole notes that this boundary is not meant to exclude but to define a safe space where believers can experience the fullness of life that Jesus promises.

The Good Shepherd

In addition to being the gate, Jesus identifies as the good shepherd, a role that carries deep significance in biblical tradition. Nicole draws parallels between Jesus and the Old Testament depiction of God as a shepherd, particularly referencing Psalm 23. The good shepherd is characterized by his willingness to lay down his life for the sheep, demonstrating a profound commitment to their well-being.

The distinction between the good shepherd and the hired hand is also highlighted. While a hired hand may abandon the sheep in times of danger, the good shepherd remains steadfast, prioritizing the safety of his flock above his own life. This self-sacrificial love is a cornerstone of Jesus' mission and underscores the depth of his care for his followers.

One Flock, One Shepherd

Jesus mentions having "other sheep" from different pens. Jesus' role as the good shepherd extends beyond a single group; he is committed to gathering all who will listen to his voice into one flock. Nicole emphasizes that this unity transcends cultural, racial, and geographical divides, pointing to a future where all believers will worship together.

Conclusion

In summary, Jesus' identification as both the gate and the good shepherd encapsulates the exclusivity and depth of his role in providing salvation and safety for his followers. he is the only way to enter into a relationship with God, offering a safe pasture where believers can find life to the full. His commitment to his flock is unwavering, as he lays down his life for their sake, ensuring that they are protected and united under his care. This message of hope and security is central to the Christian faith, inviting all to come through the gate and experience the love of the Good Shepherd.

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

Jesus as the Gate and the Good Shepherd
In this week's episode, Nicole explores the profound significance of Jesus identifying himself as both the gate and the good shepherd, emphasizing the exclusivity of his role in providing salvation and safety for his followers. This dual identity is rooted in the teachings found in John 10, where Jesus makes two critical "I Am" statements: "I am the gate" and "I am the good shepherd."
The Gate
When Jesus refers to himself as the gate, he establishes a clear boundary for His followers. The gate symbolizes access to safety, security, and sustenance. Jesus does not say he is "a gate" but rather "the gate," indicating that he is the only way into the safety of God's pasture. This exclusivity is crucial for understanding the nature of salvation; it is not a universal access point but a specific entry through Jesus himself.
The concept of the gate also counters the idea of universalism, which suggests that all paths lead to God. Instead, Jesus asserts that there is a definitive way to enter into a relationship with God, and that is through Him. Nicole notes that this boundary is not meant to exclude but to define a safe space where believers can experience the fullness of life that Jesus promises.
The Good Shepherd
In addition to being the gate, Jesus identifies as the good shepherd, a role that carries deep significance in biblical tradition. Nicole draws parallels between Jesus and the Old Testament depiction of God as a shepherd, particularly referencing Psalm 23. The good shepherd is characterized by his willingness to lay down his life for the sheep, demonstrating a profound commitment to their well-being.
The distinction between the good shepherd and the hired hand is also highlighted. While a hired hand may abandon the sheep in times of danger, the good shepherd remains steadfast, prioritizing the safety of his flock above his own life. This self-sacrificial love is a cornerstone of Jesus' mission and underscores the depth of his care for his followers.
One Flock, One Shepherd
Jesus mentions having "other sheep" from different pens. Jesus' role as the good shepherd extends beyond a single group; he is committed to gathering all who will listen to his voice into one flock. Nicole emphasizes that this unity transcends cultural, racial, and geographical divides, pointing to a future where all believers will worship together.
Conclusion
In summary, Jesus' identification as both the gate and the good shepherd encapsulates the exclusivity and depth of his role in providing salvation and safety for his followers. he is the only way to enter into a relationship with God, offering a safe pasture where believers can find life to the full. His commitment to his flock is unwavering, as he lays down his life for their sake, ensuring that they are protected and united under his care. This message of hope and security is central to the Christian faith, inviting all to come through the gate and experience the love of the Good Shepherd.
THIS WEEK'S BIBLE STUDY RESOURCES:
Sign up for Nicole's newsletter and get regular encouragement straight to your inbox: <a href="https://nicoleunice.com/realtalk/" data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://nicoleunice.com/realtalk/&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1727966241794000&amp;usg=AOvVaw0tVRclOME9LHyn54IIEPfh">https://nicoleunice.com/realtalk/</a>
<a href="https://www.amazon.com/Help-My-Bible-Alive-Understand/dp/1641580216">Help! My Bible is Alive!</a>
Nicole’s Newest Book: <a href="https://www.christianbook.com/not-what-finding-strength-purpose-through/9781496448651/pd/44865X">Not What I Signed Up For </a>
When you go to <a href="https://nicoleunice.com/notwhatisignedupfor/">NicoleUnice.com/notwhatisignedupfor</a> you'll get the intro, first chapter and a free prayer guide! 
Find all of Nicole's books and resources on<a href="https://www.amazon.com/shop/nicoleunice/list/1RSVU2ZK7YHKC?linkCode=spc&amp;tag=nicoleunice-20&amp;domainId=influencer&amp;asc_contentid=amzn1.ideas.1RSVU2ZK7YHKC"> Amazon </a>or <a href="https://www.barnesandnoble.com/s/Nicole%20unice">Barnes &amp; Noble</a>

The Gate & the Good Shepherd: Understanding Jesus' Promises in John 10

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

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.
<ul>
<li>
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.
</li>
<li>
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.
</li>
</ul>
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: <a href="https://nicoleunice.com/realtalk/" data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://nicoleunice.com/realtalk/&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1727966241794000&amp;usg=AOvVaw0tVRclOME9LHyn54IIEPfh">https://nicoleunice.com/realtalk/</a>
<a href="https://www.amazon.com/Help-My-Bible-Alive-Understand/dp/1641580216">Help! My Bible is Alive!</a>
Nicole’s Newest Book: <a href="https://www.christianbook.com/not-what-finding-strength-purpose-through/9781496448651/pd/44865X">Not What I Signed Up For </a>
When you go to <a href="https://nicoleunice.com/notwhatisignedupfor/">NicoleUnice.com/notwhatisignedupfor</a> you'll get the intro, first chapter and a free prayer guide! 
Find all of Nicole's books and resources on<a href="https://www.amazon.com/shop/nicoleunice/list/1RSVU2ZK7YHKC?linkCode=spc&amp;tag=nicoleunice-20&amp;domainId=influencer&amp;asc_contentid=amzn1.ideas.1RSVU2ZK7YHKC"> Amazon </a>or <a href="https://www.barnesandnoble.com/s/Nicole%20unice">Barnes &amp; Noble</a>

Episode 4: Unpacking Principles and Finding Meaning

In 1 playlist(s)

How To Study The Bible - Bible Study Made Simple

Social links

Follow podcast

Recent clips