“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 episode of How to Study the Bible Nicole explores the profound theme of "taking Jesus at His word," particularly through the lens of John chapter 4, which recounts the encounter between Jesus and the Samaritan woman at the well, as well as the healing of a royal official's son. This theme is not only central to the biblical narrative but also deeply relevant to our daily lives.

Backstory: The Encounter with the Samaritan Woman

The story begins with Jesus intentionally traveling through Samaria, a route typically avoided by Jews due to cultural animosities. This choice underscores the urgency and purpose behind Jesus's mission. When Jesus meets the Samaritan woman, He breaks social norms by speaking to her, asking for a drink, and engaging her in a deep conversation. This moment is significant because it illustrates how Jesus sees and values individuals, regardless of their background or past.

What Does It Say: Living Water

During their conversation, Jesus offers the woman "living water," a metaphor for the spiritual sustenance and eternal life He provides. This concept captivates the woman, prompting her to engage further. Jesus's ability to see her true self—acknowledging her past without condemnation—demonstrates His love and acceptance. Instead of shaming her for her history of multiple husbands, He invites her into a transformative relationship.

What Does It Mean: The Woman's Testimony

The pivotal moment occurs when Jesus reveals that He is the Messiah. The woman takes Him at His word, believing in His identity and the truth of His message. She then becomes the first missionary, returning to her village to share her testimony. Her declaration, "He told me everything I did," highlights the power of being seen and known, which resonates with many who feel marginalized or ashamed. The villagers, intrigued by her transformation, come to believe in Jesus because of her testimony.

The Royal Official's Faith

The episode also recounts the story of a royal official whose son is gravely ill. In desperation, he approaches Jesus, who simply tells him, "Go, your son will live." The official takes Jesus at His word and departs, demonstrating remarkable faith. His belief in Jesus's authority and power leads to the miraculous healing of his son, reinforcing the idea that faith in Jesus's word can lead to profound changes in our lives.

What Does It Mean for Me: Can We Take Jesus at His Word?

The episode's overarching question is whether we can take Jesus at His word in our lives. Nicole emphasizes the importance of knowing Jesus's promises and grounding ourselves in the truth of His love and salvation. She encourages listeners to write down these promises and keep them visible as a reminder of God's faithfulness.

Key Takeaways


Jesus's Intentionality: Jesus's choice to engage with the Samaritan woman and the royal official illustrates His desire to reach out to all people, regardless of societal barriers.


The Power of Testimony: The transformation of the Samaritan woman into a witness for Christ shows how personal encounters with Jesus can lead to broader impacts on communities.


Faith in Action: The royal official's response to Jesus's word exemplifies the kind of faith that leads to action, encouraging us to trust in Jesus's promises even when circumstances seem dire.


Rooted in Truth: To take Jesus at His word, we must be rooted in the truth of Scripture, understanding that God loves us and desires to save us, not condemn us.

In conclusion, the episode invites us to reflect on our own faith journeys and challenges us to embrace the truth of Jesus's words. By doing so, we can experience the fullness of life that He promises, regardless of our past or present circumstances.

The story of the Samaritan woman at the well, recounted in John chapter 4, profoundly illustrates the transformative power of being seen and known by Jesus. This encounter not only changes the woman's life but also positions her as the first missionary in the New Testament, showcasing how personal transformation can lead to communal impact.

THIS WEEK'S RESOURCES:

Help! My Bible is Alive!

Nicole’s Newest Book: Not What I Signed Up For 

When you go to NicoleUnice.com/notwhatisignedupfor you'll get the intro, first chapter and a free prayer guide! 

Find all of Nicole's books and resources on Amazon or Barnes & Noble

In this episode of How to Study the Bible Nicole explores the profound theme of "taking Jesus at His word," particularly through the lens of John chapter 4, which recounts the encounter between Jesus and the Samaritan woman at the well, as well as the healing of a royal official's son. This theme is not only central to the biblical narrative but also deeply relevant to our daily lives.
Backstory: The Encounter with the Samaritan Woman
The story begins with Jesus intentionally traveling through Samaria, a route typically avoided by Jews due to cultural animosities. This choice underscores the urgency and purpose behind Jesus's mission. When Jesus meets the Samaritan woman, He breaks social norms by speaking to her, asking for a drink, and engaging her in a deep conversation. This moment is significant because it illustrates how Jesus sees and values individuals, regardless of their background or past.
What Does It Say: Living Water
During their conversation, Jesus offers the woman "living water," a metaphor for the spiritual sustenance and eternal life He provides. This concept captivates the woman, prompting her to engage further. Jesus's ability to see her true self—acknowledging her past without condemnation—demonstrates His love and acceptance. Instead of shaming her for her history of multiple husbands, He invites her into a transformative relationship.
What Does It Mean: The Woman's Testimony
The pivotal moment occurs when Jesus reveals that He is the Messiah. The woman takes Him at His word, believing in His identity and the truth of His message. She then becomes the first missionary, returning to her village to share her testimony. Her declaration, "He told me everything I did," highlights the power of being seen and known, which resonates with many who feel marginalized or ashamed. The villagers, intrigued by her transformation, come to believe in Jesus because of her testimony.
The Royal Official's Faith
The episode also recounts the story of a royal official whose son is gravely ill. In desperation, he approaches Jesus, who simply tells him, "Go, your son will live." The official takes Jesus at His word and departs, demonstrating remarkable faith. His belief in Jesus's authority and power leads to the miraculous healing of his son, reinforcing the idea that faith in Jesus's word can lead to profound changes in our lives.
What Does It Mean for Me: Can We Take Jesus at His Word?
The episode's overarching question is whether we can take Jesus at His word in our lives. Nicole emphasizes the importance of knowing Jesus's promises and grounding ourselves in the truth of His love and salvation. She encourages listeners to write down these promises and keep them visible as a reminder of God's faithfulness.
Key Takeaways
<ol>
<li>
Jesus's Intentionality: Jesus's choice to engage with the Samaritan woman and the royal official illustrates His desire to reach out to all people, regardless of societal barriers.
</li>
<li>
The Power of Testimony: The transformation of the Samaritan woman into a witness for Christ shows how personal encounters with Jesus can lead to broader impacts on communities.
</li>
<li>
Faith in Action: The royal official's response to Jesus's word exemplifies the kind of faith that leads to action, encouraging us to trust in Jesus's promises even when circumstances seem dire.
</li>
<li>
Rooted in Truth: To take Jesus at His word, we must be rooted in the truth of Scripture, understanding that God loves us and desires to save us, not condemn us.
</li>
</ol>
In conclusion, the episode invites us to reflect on our own faith journeys and challenges us to embrace the truth of Jesus's words. By doing so, we can experience the fullness of life that He promises, regardless of our past or present circumstances.
The story of the Samaritan woman at the well, recounted in John chapter 4, profoundly illustrates the transformative power of being seen and known by Jesus. This encounter not only changes the woman's life but also positions her as the first missionary in the New Testament, showcasing how personal transformation can lead to communal impact.
THIS WEEK'S RESOURCES:
<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>

Taking Jesus at His Word: Lessons from the Woman at the Well (A Bible Study on John 4)

Exploring the Signs of Jesus' Glory in the Book of John

In the podcast episode, Nicole Unice delves into the significance of Jesus's signs in John 2 and 3. These signs not only reveal Jesus' divine nature but also illustrate profound themes of hospitality, justice, and personal transformation.

The First Miracle: Water into Wine

The episode begins with the account of Jesus' first miracle at a wedding in Cana, where He turns water into wine. This event is significant for several reasons:


Celebration and Hospitality: Weddings in Jewish culture are grand celebrations that can last several days. The absence of wine would have been a major social faux pas, reflecting poorly on the hosts. By performing this miracle, Jesus demonstrates His concern for joy and hospitality, emphasizing that He cares about the everyday moments of life, not just dire circumstances.


Abundance: The miracle is characterized by abundance; Jesus doesn't just provide a little wine but an overwhelming amount, showcasing His generosity. This theme of abundance recurs throughout the Book of John, highlighting that Jesus offers more than what is necessary.


Revelation of Glory: The miracle serves as the first sign through which Jesus reveals His glory. Interestingly, it is not the wedding guests who recognize this glory, but His disciples, who come to believe in Him as a result. This points to the idea that true understanding and faith often come from being close to Jesus and witnessing His works firsthand.

The Cleansing of the Temple

Following the wedding miracle, the narrative shifts dramatically to Jesus cleansing the temple. This event reveals another facet of Jesus' character:


Righteous Anger: Jesus' actions in the temple demonstrate His passion for justice. He is angered by the exploitation of the poor, who come to the temple to make sacrifices. The money changers and sellers are taking advantage of their need, turning a sacred space into a marketplace. This act of cleansing the temple shows that Jesus is not only a figure of hospitality but also one who stands against injustice.


Challenge to Religious Authority: When the religious leaders demand a sign to validate His authority, Jesus responds cryptically, foreshadowing His death and resurrection. He indicates that true worship will not be confined to a physical temple but will be found in Him. This confrontation sets the stage for ongoing conflict between Jesus and the religious authorities, illustrating that following Him may lead to challenges and opposition.

The Conversation with Nicodemus

The episode concludes with Jesus' conversation with Nicodemus, a Pharisee who comes to Him at night. This dialogue introduces the concept of spiritual rebirth:


Spiritual Transformation: Jesus tells Nicodemus that one must be "born again" to see the Kingdom of God. This idea of spiritual rebirth is central to understanding the transformative power of faith in Christ. It emphasizes that entering into a relationship with Jesus requires a fundamental change in one's life and perspective.


The Sign of the Cross: Jesus references the story of Moses lifting up the serpent in the wilderness, drawing a parallel to His own impending crucifixion. Just as the Israelites were healed by looking at the serpent, so too will people find eternal life by looking to Jesus on the cross. This connection underscores the simplicity and depth of the Gospel message: belief in Jesus leads to salvation.


God's Love for Humanity: The well-known verse John 3:16 encapsulates the essence of the Gospel: God's immense love for the world and His desire for all to have eternal life through faith in His Son. This message of love and hope is a cornerstone of Christian belief.

Journal your questions: Talk to God about how it feels to know the very first sign of his glory was at a party and sparked joy. Do you experience joy and hospitality in your life? How can you invite someone into that?

What signs are you asking for? When have you seen God’s glory?

Exploring the Signs of Jesus' Glory in the Book of John
In the podcast episode, Nicole Unice delves into the significance of Jesus's signs in John 2 and 3. These signs not only reveal Jesus' divine nature but also illustrate profound themes of hospitality, justice, and personal transformation.
The First Miracle: Water into Wine
The episode begins with the account of Jesus' first miracle at a wedding in Cana, where He turns water into wine. This event is significant for several reasons:
<ol>
<li>
Celebration and Hospitality: Weddings in Jewish culture are grand celebrations that can last several days. The absence of wine would have been a major social faux pas, reflecting poorly on the hosts. By performing this miracle, Jesus demonstrates His concern for joy and hospitality, emphasizing that He cares about the everyday moments of life, not just dire circumstances.
</li>
<li>
Abundance: The miracle is characterized by abundance; Jesus doesn't just provide a little wine but an overwhelming amount, showcasing His generosity. This theme of abundance recurs throughout the Book of John, highlighting that Jesus offers more than what is necessary.
</li>
<li>
Revelation of Glory: The miracle serves as the first sign through which Jesus reveals His glory. Interestingly, it is not the wedding guests who recognize this glory, but His disciples, who come to believe in Him as a result. This points to the idea that true understanding and faith often come from being close to Jesus and witnessing His works firsthand.
</li>
</ol>
The Cleansing of the Temple
Following the wedding miracle, the narrative shifts dramatically to Jesus cleansing the temple. This event reveals another facet of Jesus' character:
<ol>
<li>
Righteous Anger: Jesus' actions in the temple demonstrate His passion for justice. He is angered by the exploitation of the poor, who come to the temple to make sacrifices. The money changers and sellers are taking advantage of their need, turning a sacred space into a marketplace. This act of cleansing the temple shows that Jesus is not only a figure of hospitality but also one who stands against injustice.
</li>
<li>
Challenge to Religious Authority: When the religious leaders demand a sign to validate His authority, Jesus responds cryptically, foreshadowing His death and resurrection. He indicates that true worship will not be confined to a physical temple but will be found in Him. This confrontation sets the stage for ongoing conflict between Jesus and the religious authorities, illustrating that following Him may lead to challenges and opposition.
</li>
</ol>
The Conversation with Nicodemus
The episode concludes with Jesus' conversation with Nicodemus, a Pharisee who comes to Him at night. This dialogue introduces the concept of spiritual rebirth:
<ol>
<li>
Spiritual Transformation: Jesus tells Nicodemus that one must be "born again" to see the Kingdom of God. This idea of spiritual rebirth is central to understanding the transformative power of faith in Christ. It emphasizes that entering into a relationship with Jesus requires a fundamental change in one's life and perspective.
</li>
<li>
The Sign of the Cross: Jesus references the story of Moses lifting up the serpent in the wilderness, drawing a parallel to His own impending crucifixion. Just as the Israelites were healed by looking at the serpent, so too will people find eternal life by looking to Jesus on the cross. This connection underscores the simplicity and depth of the Gospel message: belief in Jesus leads to salvation.
</li>
<li>
God's Love for Humanity: The well-known verse John 3:16 encapsulates the essence of the Gospel: God's immense love for the world and His desire for all to have eternal life through faith in His Son. This message of love and hope is a cornerstone of Christian belief.
</li>
</ol>
Journal your questions: Talk to God about how it feels to know the very first sign of his glory was at a party and sparked joy. Do you experience joy and hospitality in your life? How can you invite someone into that?
What signs are you asking for? When have you seen God’s glory?

From Wedding Joy to Temple Righteousness: Unpacking Jesus' Signs in John 2 and 3

In this episode, we dive into John 1 and discover the richness of God's relational nature as revealed in the Gospel of John. 

John's Gospel emphasizes the relational aspect of God, who asks us, "What do you want?" This question serves to engage us in a personal relationship and invites us to explore our desires and needs. This theme is beautifully illustrated in the opening chapters of John, where the nature of Jesus as the Word is introduced, highlighting His divine identity and His intimate connection with humanity.

Exploring the Invitation of Jesus: "What Do You Want?"

In the podcast episode, the host delves into the profound question posed by Jesus: "What do you want?" This question is not just a casual inquiry; it serves as a pivotal moment in the Gospel of John, inviting listeners to reflect on their own desires and spiritual journeys.

The Context of the Question

The question arises in John chapter 1, where two of John the Baptist's disciples begin to follow Jesus. When they approach Him, Jesus turns and asks, "What do you want?" This moment is significant because it marks the beginning of Jesus's ministry and His first interaction with those who would become His followers. The disciples' response, "Rabbi, where are you staying?" is somewhat unexpected and highlights the often complex nature of human desire and understanding.

The Relational Nature of God

The host emphasizes that this question from Jesus is deeply relational. It reflects God's desire to engage with humanity on a personal level. Unlike other religions that may present a distant deity, Christianity offers a God who is intimately involved in the lives of individuals. The act of asking questions is portrayed as humble and vulnerable, showcasing God's willingness to connect with us.

The Deeper Meaning Behind Our Desires

As the discussion unfolds, the host encourages listeners to dig deeper into their own desires. When faced with the question "What do you want?" it is essential to consider what lies beneath the surface. For many, the immediate response may revolve around alleviating pain or changing circumstances. However, the host urges listeners to explore what these desires represent.

At the core, many of our desires stem from fundamental human needs: the need to be known, loved, and to have a sense of belonging and purpose. The podcast suggests that these deeper longings are what God seeks to fulfill in our lives.

The Invitation to "Come and See"

Following the question, Jesus invites the disciples to "come and see." This invitation is extended to all listeners, regardless of their familiarity with the Bible or their relationship with Jesus. The host encourages everyone to explore who Jesus is and what He offers.

This invitation is not merely about gaining knowledge; it is about experiencing the abundant life that Jesus promises. The host reiterates that the overarching goal of studying the Gospel of John is to understand that Jesus is the Messiah, the Son of God, and that through believing in Him, we can have life in His name.

The question "What do you want?" serves as a powerful starting point for self-reflection and spiritual growth. It invites individuals to consider their deepest desires and to recognize that these longings can lead them to a more profound relationship with God. As listeners engage with the Gospel of John, they are encouraged to accept Jesus's invitation to "come and see," exploring the richness of life that He offers. This journey is not just about understanding Scripture but about experiencing the transformative power of faith in everyday life.

THIS WEEK'S RESOURCES:

Help! My Bible is Alive!

Nicole’s Newest Book: Not What I Signed Up For 

When you go to NicoleUnice.com/notwhatisignedupfor you'll get the intro, first chapter and a free prayer guide! 

Find all of Nicole's books and resources on Amazon or Barnes & Noble

<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_01J78D75AJSMA1YX7J52HJGVWW&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 Study the Bible,\&quot; we dive into the richness of God's relational nature as revealed in the Gospel of John. The host emphasizes how God invites us into a personal relationship, asking us what we want and guiding us to discover the answers through His Word. Listeners are reminded that our emotions and mindset can be shaped by Scripture, allowing us to experience the abundant life God intends for us. The series is titled \&quot;Rooted, Abundant, and Free,\&quot; and promises to explore how we can grow in our faith and become more like Christ. Join us for a transformative journey through the Gospel of John!&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 Study the Bible,\&quot; we dive into the richness of God's relational nature as revealed in the Gospel of John. The host emphasizes how God invites us into a personal relationship, asking us what we want and guiding us to discover the answers through His Word. Listeners are reminded that our emotions and mindset can be shaped by Scripture, allowing us to experience the abundant life God intends for us. The series is titled \&quot;Rooted, Abundant, and Free,\&quot; and promises to explore how we can grow in our faith and become more like Christ. Join us for a transformative journey through the Gospel of John!&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 episode, we dive into John 1 and discover the richness of God's relational nature as revealed in the Gospel of John. 
John's Gospel emphasizes the relational aspect of God, who asks us, "What do you want?" This question serves to engage us in a personal relationship and invites us to explore our desires and needs. This theme is beautifully illustrated in the opening chapters of John, where the nature of Jesus as the Word is introduced, highlighting His divine identity and His intimate connection with humanity.
Exploring the Invitation of Jesus: "What Do You Want?"
In the podcast episode, the host delves into the profound question posed by Jesus: "What do you want?" This question is not just a casual inquiry; it serves as a pivotal moment in the Gospel of John, inviting listeners to reflect on their own desires and spiritual journeys.
The Context of the Question
The question arises in John chapter 1, where two of John the Baptist's disciples begin to follow Jesus. When they approach Him, Jesus turns and asks, "What do you want?" This moment is significant because it marks the beginning of Jesus's ministry and His first interaction with those who would become His followers. The disciples' response, "Rabbi, where are you staying?" is somewhat unexpected and highlights the often complex nature of human desire and understanding.
The Relational Nature of God
The host emphasizes that this question from Jesus is deeply relational. It reflects God's desire to engage with humanity on a personal level. Unlike other religions that may present a distant deity, Christianity offers a God who is intimately involved in the lives of individuals. The act of asking questions is portrayed as humble and vulnerable, showcasing God's willingness to connect with us.
The Deeper Meaning Behind Our Desires
As the discussion unfolds, the host encourages listeners to dig deeper into their own desires. When faced with the question "What do you want?" it is essential to consider what lies beneath the surface. For many, the immediate response may revolve around alleviating pain or changing circumstances. However, the host urges listeners to explore what these desires represent.
At the core, many of our desires stem from fundamental human needs: the need to be known, loved, and to have a sense of belonging and purpose. The podcast suggests that these deeper longings are what God seeks to fulfill in our lives.
The Invitation to "Come and See"
Following the question, Jesus invites the disciples to "come and see." This invitation is extended to all listeners, regardless of their familiarity with the Bible or their relationship with Jesus. The host encourages everyone to explore who Jesus is and what He offers.
This invitation is not merely about gaining knowledge; it is about experiencing the abundant life that Jesus promises. The host reiterates that the overarching goal of studying the Gospel of John is to understand that Jesus is the Messiah, the Son of God, and that through believing in Him, we can have life in His name.
The question "What do you want?" serves as a powerful starting point for self-reflection and spiritual growth. It invites individuals to consider their deepest desires and to recognize that these longings can lead them to a more profound relationship with God. As listeners engage with the Gospel of John, they are encouraged to accept Jesus's invitation to "come and see," exploring the richness of life that He offers. This journey is not just about understanding Scripture but about experiencing the transformative power of faith in everyday life.
THIS WEEK'S RESOURCES:
<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

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How To Study The Bible - Bible Study Made Simple

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