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Jesus isn’t just claiming to be the Messiah—He’s proving it through His actions, teaching, and fulfillment of prophecy. In Matthew 9-12, we see how Jesus’ miracles, His response to John the Baptist, and the reactions of the Pharisees all point to His true identity. But what happens when Jesus doesn’t meet our personal expectations? Let’s dive in.
✈️ Overview:
• Matthew structures his Gospel to show Jesus as the new Moses, organizing His teachings into five major blocks (mirroring the Torah).
• In Matthew 8-10, Jesus demonstrates the kingdom: healing the sick, calming storms, casting out demons, and restoring the broken.
• In Matthew 11-12, responses to Jesus range from faith to doubt to outright rejection—even John the Baptist questions if Jesus is the one.
• Jesus doesn’t just talk—His miracles validate His claim as Messiah, but they also challenge expectations.
🔎 Context Clues:
• “When Jesus finished…” - Matthew marks each major teaching section with this phrase, showing five structured discourses in the book.
• Jesus’ miracles weren’t just random acts of kindness—they were signs of the kingdom, proving His authority over sickness, nature, demons, and even death.
• John the Baptist asks, “Are you the one?” (Matt. 11:3). Jesus responds by referencing Isaiah’s prophecies—except He leaves out the promise of freeing captives, signaling that John’s personal rescue isn’t part of the plan.
🤓 Nerdy Nuggets:
• Matthew’s Gospel aligns with Jewish symbolism—five teaching blocks (like the Torah) and portraying Jesus as the new Moses.
• The four Gospels reflect Ezekiel & Revelation’s four creatures:
• Matthew = Lion (Jesus as King)
• Mark = Ox (Jesus as Servant)
• Luke = Man (Jesus as fully human)
• John = Eagle (Jesus as divine)
• Jesus’ words in Matthew 11 subtly challenge John’s expectations—He is the Messiah, but not the kind of political liberator many expected.
✅ Timeless Truths:
• Faith isn’t based on personal experience alone. Jesus is Messiah whether or not He meets our personal expectations (Matt. 11:6).
• The Kingdom of God is upside-down. Jesus’ rule isn’t about military conquest—it’s about healing, justice, and transformation.
• Jesus’ identity isn’t based on what He does for us—it’s rooted in who He is. He is the fulfillment of prophecy, whether or not we see Him move in the way we expect.
John the Baptist’s question still lingers today—Is Jesus really the one? His words, His miracles, and the fulfillment of Scripture leave no doubt. But the real challenge is this: Will we trust Him, even when He doesn’t do what we want?
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Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount isn’t just a nice speech—it’s a radical, upside-down manifesto for kingdom living. In Matthew 5-8, Jesus flips the script on everything the world values, challenging us to embrace a righteousness that goes deeper than outward behavior. From the Beatitudes to the Lord’s Prayer, this sermon still challenges us today.
✈️ Overview:
• Jesus delivers the Sermon on the Mount, redefining the Torah’s teachings with phrases like “You’ve heard it said… but I say to you.”
• The Beatitudes (Matt. 5:3-12) bless the poor, meek, and persecuted—those the world overlooks.
• Jesus emphasizes heart transformation, teaching that anger equals murder and lust equals adultery.
• The Lord’s Prayer (Matt. 6:9-13) becomes the model for kingdom-centered, humble prayer.
🔎 Context Clues:
• Mountain or Plain? Matthew places Jesus on a mountain (Matt. 5:1) to portray Him as the new Moses, delivering God’s law like at Mount Sinai. Luke, writing to Gentiles, places the sermon on a plain (Luke 6:17).
• Jesus fulfills Old Testament law, not by erasing it but by transforming hearts to obey it (Matt. 5:17; Jer. 31:33).
• The sermon is less about rules and more about inward righteousness that exceeds the Pharisees’ outward piety (Matt. 5:20).
🤓 Nerdy Nuggets:
• The Greek word for “fulfill” (plēroō) ties Jesus’ ministry to Old Testament prophecy (Matt. 1:22, 2:15, 2:23, 8:17).
• Jesus’ reinterpretation of Torah includes six “You’ve heard it said” statements (Matt. 5:21-43), showing His authority as the lawgiver.
• The Sermon echoes Moses’ covenant moment but introduces a new covenant, fulfilling Jeremiah 31 and Ezekiel 36.
✅ Timeless Truths:
• The Lord’s Prayer reminds us to prioritize God’s kingdom, seek daily provision, practice forgiveness, and resist temptation (Matt. 6:9-13).
• True righteousness starts in the heart—not just avoiding sin but desiring holiness.
• God calls us to humility in prayer, fasting, and giving, avoiding performance-driven religion (Matt. 6:1-18).
Jesus didn’t lower the bar—He raised it, but He also provided the Spirit to help us live it out. The Sermon on the Mount still calls us to radical, countercultural living. See you tomorrow for Matthew 9-12 as we continue the journey!
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Jesus’ genealogy isn’t just a list of names—it’s packed with scandal, identity, and purpose. In Matthew 1-4, we discover why Matthew highlights 14 generations, includes unexpected women, and connects Jesus to both Genesis and Exodus. Buckle up for the wild, upside-down story of how God works through imperfect people to fulfill a perfect plan.
✈️ Overview:
• Matthew’s genealogy highlights 14 generations—the numeric value of David’s name—showing Jesus as the true King of Israel.
• Four women—Tamar, Rahab, Ruth, and Bathsheba—appear in Jesus’ family line, each representing scandal and redemption.
• Jesus’ birth fulfills the name Emmanuel, but not in the way people expected. God doesn’t prevent suffering—He is present in it.
• The Magi’s visit wasn’t just three guys with gifts—it was likely a massive caravan of Persian astrologers recognizing the Messiah.
🔎 Context Clues:
• Genealogies in the ancient world equaled identity. Matthew isn’t listing facts—he’s revealing who Jesus is.
• Jesus’ story mirrors Exodus: fleeing to Egypt, a tyrant king (Herod vs. Pharaoh), and passing through water (Jordan vs. Red Sea).
• God’s promise wasn’t to prevent hardship but to be present—through unplanned moves, danger, and uncertainty.
🤓 Nerdy Nuggets:
• The Greek word for genealogy is Genesis, tying Jesus to the creation story.
• Matthew shows how Jesus’ birth contrasts Roman myths of demigods. Jesus is 100% God and 100% human, not a hybrid.
• The Magi weren’t just wise men—they were Persian astrologers interpreting signs.
✅ Timeless Truths:
• God works through messy, imperfect situations. Mary’s “scandalous” pregnancy fits right into the family tree of Jesus.
• Jesus fulfills the chaos cycle seen throughout the Bible—facing the test and passing where every other human failed.
• God’s presence is better than prevention. Life won’t be easy, but He promises to walk with us through it all.
Matthew 1-4 reminds us that Jesus doesn’t avoid the mess—He enters it, redeems it, and brings order from chaos. See you tomorrow for Matthew 5-8 as we dive into the Sermon on the Mount!
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False teachers were everywhere in the early church—and Peter and Jude weren’t having it. Today’s reading, 2 Peter 1-3 and Jude, breaks down how to spot false teachers and why their behavior exposes their bad theology. If their lives don’t reflect the gospel, their words won’t either. Let’s dive in and see how Peter and Jude call them out.
✈️ Overview:
• 2 Peter and Jude are nearly identical in content, both written to warn against false teachers creeping into the church.
• Peter focuses less on doctrinal debate and more on the behavior of these teachers—because wrong belief leads to wrong behavior.
• Jude, the half-brother of Jesus, echoes Peter’s concerns, calling out leaders who abuse grace to justify sin.
🔎 Context Clues:
• The Guild Feasts were common in the Greco-Roman world—monthly gatherings for trade guilds that involved idol worship, raw meat sacrifices, heavy drinking, and sexual immorality.
• False teachers encouraged Christians to participate in these feasts, claiming it was “freedom.”
• Both Peter and Jude condemn this behavior, tying it to idolatry, greed, and power.
🤓 Nerdy Nuggets:
• Both books rely heavily on the Apocrypha, especially 1 Enoch and the Assumption of Moses. Jude 9 mentions Michael disputing the devil for Moses’ body—an apocryphal reference not found in the Old Testament.
• Both books also reference Old Testament examples like Balaam, Lot, and Sodom and Gomorrah, showing how God consistently judges sin.
✅ Timeless Truths:
• Behavior reveals belief. False teaching always leads to ungodly living—sensuality, greed, and idolatry. (2 Peter 2:1-3)
• Freedom isn’t what you think. “Whatever overcomes a person, to that he is enslaved.” (2 Peter 2:19) True freedom means being free from sin, not indulging in it.
• Twisting Scripture is dangerous. Peter warns against distorting Paul’s writings to justify sin. (2 Peter 3:16)
False teachers promise freedom, but Peter and Jude remind us: If sin controls you, you’re not free. Stay rooted in truth and don’t be fooled. See you tomorrow as we kick off the Gospel of Matthew!
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Should Christians obey corrupt leaders? In 1 Peter 4-5, Peter writes to persecuted believers under Nero’s reign, urging them to suffer well, stay united, and trust God’s justice. This episode breaks down Peter’s advice for navigating unjust authority while staying faithful.
✈️ Overview:
• 1 Peter 4-5 is Peter’s final word to persecuted Christians, encouraging them to embrace suffering like Christ and remain faithful under corrupt leadership.
• Peter reminds believers that suffering tests faith and purifies character, like gold refined by fire.
• The heart of the message? Live as living stones, built together as God’s house, representing Christ as a unified community.
🔎 Context Clues:
• Written around AD 64, after Nero blamed Christians for the Great Fire of Rome, sparking intense persecution.
• Peter himself, once quick to fight (John 18:10), now advocates peace, unity, and resilience.
• Rome viewed Christians as threats for promoting equality and proclaiming Jesus—not Caesar—as Lord.
🤓 Nerdy Nuggets:
• Fiery Trials: Peter uses “fire” intentionally (1 Peter 1:7, 4:12), alluding to both literal and metaphorical refining.
• Living Stones: Believers are compared to stones building God’s temple—emphasizing collective strength, not isolated faith (1 Peter 2:5).
• Peter subtly contrasts Nero’s destructive fire with God’s refining fire, showing how suffering purifies rather than destroys.
✅ Timeless Truths:
• Suffering Tests Faith: Trials reveal the genuineness of faith and refine character (1 Peter 1:7).
• Suffer Like Christ: Believers follow Jesus’ example—not retaliating, but entrusting themselves to God (1 Peter 2:21).
• Unity Over Individualism: Christians are living stones, called to respond to suffering as a united front, not lone individuals (1 Peter 2:5).
• Glory Follows Suffering: Earthly suffering prepares us for eternal glory (1 Peter 5:1).
Christians are called to live differently, even under corrupt leadership. The way we suffer speaks volumes. See you tomorrow for 2 Peter!
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Rome is burning, and Christians are getting blamed. After the Great Fire of Rome in AD 64, Nero pinned the disaster on Christians, launching widespread persecution. That’s the backdrop for 1 Peter 1-3, where Peter writes to scattered believers, encouraging them to suffer well and stay faithful. Today, we’ll break down the context behind this letter and the powerful truths Peter shares about enduring trials.
✈️ Overview:
• 1 Peter is written around AD 64-65, shortly after the Great Fire of Rome.
• Nero blamed Christians for the fire, making Christianity illegal and sparking intense persecution.
• Peter writes to scattered believers in Asia Minor (modern-day Turkey), urging them to remain faithful despite suffering.
• This letter highlights how Christians can respond to injustice without compromising their witness.
🔎 Context Clues:
• Before AD 64, Christianity was a permitted religion under Judaism. Nero’s blame shifted Christians into an illegal, persecuted minority.
• False accusations spread: Romans claimed Christians were cannibals (due to Communion) and practiced incest (calling each other “brother” and “sister”).
• Peter refers to Rome as “Babylon” (1 Peter 5:13), a symbolic name for oppressive empires.
• Unlike previous Jewish-led persecution, this marked the first widespread Roman oppression of Christians.
🤓 Nerdy Nuggets:
• Peter writes primarily to Gentile believers, though he uses Jewish terms like “chosen race” and “royal priesthood” (1 Peter 2:9).
• His readers were former pagans (1 Peter 4:3), now facing rejection for their new faith.
• Peter redefines identity: Christians are grafted into God’s people, regardless of ethnicity.
• The phrase “exiles of the dispersion” (1 Peter 1:1) reflects how persecution scattered believers throughout the Roman world.
✅ Timeless Truths:
• Suffering tests the genuineness of faith (1 Peter 1:6-7). Trials refine us, like gold in fire.
• Christians suffer not just for faith but as a witness, following Jesus’ example (1 Peter 2:21).
• Our response to hardship speaks volumes. Live honorably among non-believers (1 Peter 2:12).
• If suffering is inevitable, suffer for doing good—not for wrongdoing (1 Peter 3:17).
Peter’s message is clear: suffering is part of the Christian life, but it’s not wasted. It refines our faith, strengthens our witness, and connects us with Christ’s own path. Stay strong, stay faithful, and we’ll see you tomorrow for Day 53 as we finish 1 Peter!
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The crucifixion of Jesus wasn’t just an execution—it was a coronation. In Mark 15, every detail mirrors the Roman ceremony for crowning an emperor. But instead of power and glory, Jesus’ coronation comes through suffering and sacrifice. This upside-down kingdom is the heart of the Gospel, and Mark frames it brilliantly for his Roman audience. Today, we break down how Jesus was crowned as King on the cross.
✈️ Overview:
• Mark 15 parallels a Roman emperor’s coronation step by step, revealing Jesus as a different kind of King.
• Jesus’ crucifixion follows the nine stages of Roman coronation, from the Praetorian guard gathering to the final “sign” in the sky.
• Instead of praise and power, Jesus’ coronation is marked by mockery, rejection, and suffering—a radical message for Roman readers.
• The upside-down kingdom challenges everything: life comes through death, greatness through service, and glory through sacrifice.
🔎 Context Clues:
• Mark writes to a Roman audience steeped in Hellenistic culture—familiar with coronations, power displays, and emperor worship.
• Golgotha (the “Place of the Skull”) parallels Capitoline Hill (“Head Hill”) in Rome, the traditional site for imperial coronations.
• The phrase “wine mixed with myrrh” (Mark 15:23) reflects the luxurious drink offered to Roman emperors, which Jesus refuses, symbolizing his self-sufficiency and sacrifice.
• The eclipse during Jesus’ death mirrors the solar eclipse that marked Nero’s coronation, serving as the ultimate “sign” from heaven.
🤓 Nerdy Nuggets:
Mark highlights nine specific steps of a Roman emperor’s coronation, showing how Jesus’ crucifixion was actually his enthronement as King:
1. Praetorian Guard Gathers: Roman soldiers surround Jesus (Mark 15:16).
2. Royal Robes & Crown: They place a purple robe and crown of thorns on him (Mark 15:17).
3. Procession: Jesus is led through the streets like an emperor (Mark 15:20).
4. Instrument of Death: Simon of Cyrene carries Jesus’ cross, like a bull led to sacrifice (Mark 15:21).
5. Head Hill: Jesus is taken to Golgotha, the “Place of the Skull” (Mark 15:22).
6. Wine Mixed with Myrrh: Jesus is offered this royal drink but refuses it (Mark 15:23).
7. Right & Left Placement: Two criminals are crucified beside him (Mark 15:27).
8. Mocking & Praise: Instead of praise, Jesus is mocked as “King of the Jews” (Mark 15:29-32).
9. The Sign: Darkness covers the land for three hours, just like the eclipse during Nero’s coronation (Mark 15:33).
✅ Timeless Truths:
• Jesus redefines leadership: True power is found in service, sacrifice, and humility, not dominance or control (Mark 10:45).
• The cross is not a defeat but a throne. Jesus rules not through force but through self-giving love.
• God’s kingdom turns the world’s values upside down—if you want to be first, you must be last; if you want to live, you must die to yourself (Mark 9:35).
• Evangelism means translating the unchanging Gospel into formats that resonate with culture, just as Mark did for Roman readers.
Mark’s Gospel ends not with defeat but with the victory of an unexpected King. Jesus’ coronation on the cross challenges us to live differently, embracing the paradox of God’s kingdom. As we move into 1 and 2 Peter, we’ll see how the early church lived out this radical message. See you tomorrow!
🚀 START HERE!
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Jesus’ kingdom doesn’t work like the world’s. In Mark 9-12, he flips expectations upside down—teaching that true greatness is found in serving others, that the first will be last, and that his throne is a cross. Today, we break down why the disciples were so confused and how Jesus redefines power, leadership, and authority.
✈️ Overview:
• Jesus continues preparing his disciples for his death, but they don’t understand what he’s saying.
• The Transfiguration (Mark 9) reveals Jesus’ divine glory, yet the disciples are still confused about his mission.
• Jesus repeatedly teaches that his kingdom is about servanthood, not power, but his disciples keep missing the point.
• In Mark 10, James and John ask to sit at Jesus’ right and left in his kingdom—only to later find out those spots belong to two criminals crucified beside him.
• Jesus flips leadership upside down: “Whoever wants to be great must be your servant.” (Mark 10:43)
🔎 Context Clues:
• Mark’s Roman audience would have been familiar with the brutal hierarchy of power in the empire. Jesus’ teachings on leadership were radical.
• The phrase “Son of Man” (Mark 10:45) ties back to Daniel 7, but instead of conquering, Jesus says the Son of Man came to suffer.
• The disciples’ confusion highlights how deeply ingrained their expectations were—they couldn’t fathom a Messiah who would die.
• Jesus’ harsh words in Mark 9:42 about harming children are especially relevant to Mark’s Roman readers, where pederasty was common.
🤓 Nerdy Nuggets:
• Jesus predicts his death three times in this section (Mark 8:31, 9:31, 10:33), but the disciples don’t grasp it.
• Mark uses literary “sandwiches” (intercalation), such as pairing the story of James and John’s request with Jesus’ crucifixion.
• The “Messianic Secret” continues—Jesus repeatedly tells people not to reveal his identity until after his resurrection.
• The Transfiguration (Mark 9) is later referenced by Peter in 2 Peter 1:16-18, showing how deeply it impacted him.
✅ Timeless Truths:
• Leadership in God’s kingdom is about serving, not status—Jesus redefines greatness through humility.
• The way up is down—Jesus’ throne is a cross, proving that real power is found in self-sacrifice.
• We often misunderstand God’s plans, just like the disciples—trusting in his wisdom requires humility.
• True faith isn’t about influence or position; it’s about obedience and serving others.
Jesus’ teachings were shocking then, and they still challenge us today. Tomorrow, we finish Mark’s Gospel by looking at the crucifixion. See you there!
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Why did Jesus keep telling people to stay silent about His identity? In Mark 5-8, we unpack the Messianic Secret—why Jesus repeatedly commands people not to reveal who He is. The answer has everything to do with misunderstood expectations, cultural context, and the radical nature of Jesus’ mission.
✈️ Overview:
• Jesus performs miracles, exorcisms, and healings—yet repeatedly tells people not to spread the news.
• The Messianic Secret—Jesus knew people expected a political warrior-king, but his mission was completely different.
• Peter’s confession (Mark 8:27-30): He correctly identifies Jesus as the Messiah but gets rebuked for misunderstanding what that means.
• Jesus redefines holiness—where unclean things don’t taint him, but his holiness transforms them.
🔎 Context Clues:
• Roman Expectations: People thought the Messiah would overthrow Rome—Jesus came to defeat sin and death.
• Jewish Purity Laws: Jesus breaks taboos by interacting with unclean people (a bleeding woman, a demon-possessed man, a dead girl).
• Messianic Confusion: The disciples struggle to grasp that the Messiah must suffer and die, not conquer militarily.
• Mark’s Literary Style: Uses “Intercalations” (sandwich stories) to emphasize deeper truths.
🤓 Nerdy Nuggets:
• The Messianic Secret—Jesus often silenced demons, healed people privately, and told others not to spread his miracles.
• Mark’s Immediately Gospel—everything happens fast, showing Jesus’ divine authority to a Roman audience.
• Markan Sandwiches—five literary intercalations where one story is inside another, revealing deeper connections.
• Son of Man vs. Messiah—Jesus chooses Son of Man (Daniel 7:13-14) over Messiah to avoid political misunderstanding.
✅ Timeless Truths:
• God’s kingdom is upside-down. Power isn’t about domination, but suffering, service, and sacrifice.
• Redefining holiness. In the Old Testament, impurity spreads. In the New Testament, Jesus’ holiness transforms others.
• True discipleship is costly. Jesus calls his followers to take up their cross and follow him, not chase power.
• Do we truly recognize Jesus? Many had the right words but the wrong expectations. Are we seeing Jesus clearly?
The Gospel of Mark keeps challenging assumptions—both then and now. As we continue through Mark’s fast-paced account, we’ll see how Jesus’ radical mission turns everything upside down. See you tomorrow for Mark 9-12!
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Mark’s Gospel is FAST. Unlike the other Gospels, Mark skips over Jesus’ birth and jumps right into action. Why? Because he’s writing to a Roman audience who values power, authority, and results. Today, we break down why Mark loves the word immediately and how his focus on urgency and authority shapes the entire Gospel.
✈️ Overview:
• Mark is the most Roman of the four Gospels, written to an audience that valued strength, authority, and efficiency.
• The word immediately appears over and over, emphasizing Jesus’ power and ability to act decisively.
• Mark highlights Jesus’ authority—over sickness, demons, sin, nature, and even religious leaders.
• The main question driving the book: Who is Jesus? The disciples, religious leaders, and even demons wrestle with his identity.
🔎 Context Clues:
• Mark’s Gospel is based on Peter’s eyewitness account—some even call it “The Gospel of Peter.”
• The book is structured geographically: Chapters 1-8 take place in Galilee, 8-10 follow Jesus’ journey to Jerusalem, and 11-16 happen in Jerusalem.
• Unlike Matthew and Luke, Mark doesn’t include Jesus’ genealogy or birth story—he goes straight to action.
• The audience? Romans. Mark writes in a way that connects with their culture, focusing on power and movement.
🤓 Nerdy Nuggets:
• The words immediately and authority are used repeatedly—key themes for a Roman audience.
• Jesus avoids the title Messiah because of its political connotations, instead calling himself the Son of Man (used 14 times in Mark).
• The first people to recognize Jesus’ true identity? Demons. Meanwhile, religious leaders and even the disciples remain confused.
• Mark’s rapid pacing gives a sense of urgency, portraying Jesus as a decisive leader whose words and actions demand a response.
✅ Timeless Truths:
• Unity is powerful. Jesus warns that a house divided cannot stand (Mark 3:24-25). If even Satan understands this, how much more should we strive for unity in our faith, families, and churches?
• Authority isn’t just about power—it’s about purpose. Jesus didn’t just teach with authority; he acted with it. His authority is still at work today.
• Faith requires action. Mark’s Gospel reminds us that knowing Jesus isn’t just about belief—it’s about following him in obedience, immediately.
Mark wastes no time, and neither should we. As we continue through this fast-paced Gospel, keep an eye on how Jesus’ authority is revealed. See you tomorrow for Mark 5-8!
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Paul’s final words before his execution are some of the most emotional and powerful in all of Scripture. In 2 Timothy 3-4, he reflects on his life, warns against false teaching, and urges Timothy to preach the Word and stay faithful—even in suffering. This is the end of Paul’s journey and a sobering moment in our Bible reading plan. Today, we break down his famous last words and what they mean for us today.
✈️ Overview:
• Paul’s last letter before his death, written in AD 67 from a cold Roman prison cell.
• He urges Timothy to remain faithful, preach the truth, and endure suffering.
• Paul shares his emotional farewell: “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.” (2 Tim. 4:7)
• He warns that people will turn from sound doctrine and seek teachers who tell them what they want to hear (2 Tim. 4:3-4).
🔎 Context Clues:
• Paul is facing execution under Emperor Nero, who blamed Christians for the Great Fire of Rome.
• Timothy is urged to visit Paul quickly—Paul knows his time is short.
• Unlike his house arrest in Acts 28, Paul is now chained in a dark, underground cell with little hope of release.
• Many have abandoned Paul out of fear, but Luke remains with him (2 Tim. 4:11).
🤓 Nerdy Nuggets:
• Paul asks for his cloak and scrolls (2 Tim. 4:13), a heartbreaking detail showing his poor prison conditions.
• The phrase “poured out like a drink offering” (2 Tim. 4:6) is a powerful metaphor for martyrdom in Jewish and Greco-Roman culture.
• Paul’s words in 2 Timothy 4:7 mirror his earlier encouragement to Timothy in 1 Timothy 6:12—proving he practiced what he preached.
• Hebrews 13:23 suggests Timothy was later imprisoned, showing Paul’s encouragement prepared him for future trials.
✅ Timeless Truths:
• Faithfulness matters more than fame—Paul’s success wasn’t in popularity but in his obedience to Christ.
• Suffering is part of following Jesus—Paul was deserted, imprisoned, and ultimately martyred for his faith.
• Preach the Word, no matter what—Paul’s final charge to Timothy (2 Tim. 4:2) reminds us that God’s truth must be boldly proclaimed, even when it’s unpopular.
• We should live with the assurance of eternity—Paul was confident in his reward in heaven and didn’t fear death.
Paul’s famous last words challenge us to stay faithful, preach truth, and endure hardships with courage. As we close Paul’s writings, we now turn to the Gospel of Mark. See you tomorrow as we dive into the life and ministry of Jesus!
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Most people assume following Jesus leads to blessings, success, and comfort. But what if faithfulness to the gospel actually costs you everything? As Paul sits in a Roman prison, abandoned by nearly everyone, he writes his final letter to Timothy—urging him to embrace suffering. Today, we break down 2 Timothy 1-2 and the hard reality of following Jesus.
✈️ Overview:
• Paul’s final letter—written from a Roman dungeon, knowing his execution is near.
• He urges Timothy not to be ashamed of Christ or Paul, even though suffering is inevitable (2 Tim. 1:8).
• The gospel is costly, and Paul warns Timothy to endure hardship like a soldier, athlete, and farmer (2 Tim. 2:3-6).
🔎 Context Clues:
• Paul is alone. Many believers have abandoned him, not wanting to be associated with a prisoner (2 Tim. 4:16).
• In the ancient world, imprisonment was a sign of failure—most wouldn’t follow a leader who kept getting arrested.
• Timothy faces pressure to soften the message to avoid persecution, but Paul tells him to stand firm.
🤓 Nerdy Nuggets:
• Paul calls out deserters by name—Phygelus, Hermogenes, Hymenaeus, and Philetus (2 Tim. 1:15, 2:17). Their betrayal is recorded permanently in Scripture.
• Paul’s metaphors matter: Soldiers endure hardship, athletes train with discipline, and farmers work with patience—traits Timothy will need.
• Paul is likely in a dark, filthy pit, surviving on minimal food, yet his focus is on Timothy’s faithfulness, not his own suffering.
✅ Timeless Truths:
• Faithfulness > Fame. Many abandoned Paul because they valued worldly success over eternal reward (2 Tim. 4:10).
• Suffering is part of the gospel. If you’re chasing comfort, you may not be following Jesus the way Paul did.
• Truth matters. Paul urges Timothy to handle the Word correctly—because bad theology leads people astray (2 Tim. 2:15).
• Don’t be ashamed of Jesus. The world may reject the gospel, but suffering for Christ is never wasted.
Paul’s final words prepare us for the cost of following Jesus. The question isn’t if suffering will come—it’s when. Will you stay faithful when it does?
📖 Keep going! Tomorrow, we finish 2 Timothy and say goodbye to Paul’s letters. See you then!
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We live in a culture obsessed with platforms, influence, and instant success—but Paul’s words to Timothy paint a different picture of leadership. In 1 Timothy 4-6, Paul warns against chasing the spotlight too soon, placing unqualified people in leadership, and treating godliness as a means of financial gain. Instead, he emphasizes character, patience, and a long-term commitment to truth.
Today, we break down Paul’s blueprint for young leaders and why slow and steady beats fast and flashy every time.
✈️ Overview:
• Timothy spent a decade under Paul’s leadership before stepping into ministry—proof that calling requires time and testing.
• Paul warns against rushing ordinations—not everyone who looks the part is ready for the responsibility (1 Tim. 5:22).
• Leadership isn’t about money or influence; godliness with contentment is great gain (1 Tim. 6:6).
🔎 Context Clues:
• Timothy was young and often underestimated, which is why Paul tells him, “Let no one despise your youth” (1 Tim. 4:12).
• Ephesus was full of philosophers, debaters, and public speakers who made money off their influence—Paul warns against pastors who use ministry for financial gain.
• False teachers in Ephesus were obsessed with arguments and controversy, leading Paul to emphasize sound doctrine over speculation.
🤓 Nerdy Nuggets:
• Paul’s views on the Law evolve from Galatians to 1 Timothy—showing how even great leaders grow in understanding over time.
• The phrase “godliness as a means of gain” (1 Tim. 6:5) directly challenges the idea that faith is a tool for wealth.
• Ancient Sophists (public speakers in Paul’s time) made fortunes through persuasive speeches—Paul tells Timothy to avoid becoming a “celebrity pastor.”
✅ Timeless Truths:
• Fast success isn’t always real success. True leadership takes time, testing, and faithfulness.
• Money isn’t the problem—greed is. Paul teaches that a healthy balance between honoring leaders and rejecting greed is key (1 Tim. 5:17-18).
• “Pay close attention to yourself and your teaching.” Personal integrity and sound doctrine are non-negotiable for anyone in ministry (1 Tim. 4:16).
• Fame fades, but faithfulness lasts. The goal isn’t getting the mic—it’s becoming the kind of person who can be trusted with it.
📖 Keep going! Tomorrow, we dive into 2 Timothy—Paul’s final letter before his execution. You don’t want to miss this one! See you then!
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Can women preach in church? It’s one of the most debated topics in Christianity, and 1 Timothy 2 is at the center of the discussion. Was Paul giving a universal command for all time, or was he addressing a specific issue in Ephesus? Today, we dive into the cultural and historical context of Paul’s letter to Timothy and break down what these verses really mean.
✈️ Overview:
• Paul writes 1 Timothy to his spiritual son, Timothy, who is leading the church in Ephesus, the second-largest city in the Roman Empire.
• Ephesus was home to the massive Temple of Artemis, a center for goddess worship that influenced local culture.
• Women in Ephesus were used to leadership roles in religion and were teaching distorted doctrines—Paul’s instructions must be read in light of this.
🔎 Context Clues:
• Timothy was raised by a Jewish mother and Greek father—Paul circumcised him to remove barriers when ministering to Jews (Acts 16:1-5).
• Unlike his other letters to churches, 1 Timothy is a personal letter with pastoral guidance on church leadership and false teaching.
• The Artemis cult, led by women, taught that women were superior and men were created second. Paul corrects this by referencing Adam and Eve.
🤓 Nerdy Nuggets:
• Paul’s command about women’s hair, gold, and pearls isn’t random—it directly counters Artemis worship, where braided hair and wealth signified religious status.
• The phrase “saved through childbearing” (1 Tim. 2:15) reassures women that Artemis is not their protector—God is.
• The Greek word for “authority” in 1 Timothy 2:12 (authentein) is rare and often means domineering or usurping authority—suggesting Paul was addressing a specific abuse of power, not banning women from teaching altogether.
✅ Timeless Truths:
• The Bible isn’t a weapon for culture wars—it’s for training in godliness. Paul warns against speculations, myths, and distractions (1 Tim. 1:4).
• Church leadership should be based on character, not just talent. Paul lays out clear qualifications for elders and deacons (1 Tim. 3).
• We must approach Scripture with humility. The issue of women in ministry requires wisdom, grace, and careful study—not just soundbites.
🔥 Want to go deeper? Check out the Women in Ministry course from https://armacourses.com where Dr. Manny breaks down this topic with even more depth. If you’ve wrestled with this issue or want a well-researched biblical perspective, this course is a must-watch! When we understand why Paul wrote this letter, we gain clarity on how to apply it today. Instead of using 1 Timothy 2 as a proof text, we should engage with the full cultural and biblical context.
📖 Tomorrow, we finish 1 Timothy! Let’s keep going strong in our Bible Reading Plan. See you then!
🚀 START HERE!
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What if the key to changing the world isn’t fighting culture wars or blending in—but building strong families and real leaders? In Paul’s letter to Titus, he lays out a strategy for transforming Crete, a culture known for deception, immorality, and rebellion. His answer? Raise up godly leaders and teach people how to lead healthy households. Today, we unpack this powerful blueprint for lasting change.
✈️ Overview:
• Paul leaves Titus on the island of Crete, a place with a rough reputation, to strengthen the church and train up leaders.
• The Cretans were known for lying, laziness, and corruption—Paul directly calls them out and charges Titus to establish a different kind of culture.
• Instead of engaging in a culture war or conforming to society, Paul’s plan for transformation starts with the church and extends into the home.
🔎 Context Clues:
• Titus is a trusted leader and a Gentile believer—unlike Timothy, Paul never required him to be circumcised (Gal. 2:3-5).
• Crete had a long history of being home to mercenaries—hardened warriors who fought for money, not conviction.
• The Cretans believed Zeus was born on their island, and their culture reflected his deceptive and immoral character. Paul emphasizes that the true God does not lie (Titus 1:2), setting the stage for a radically different moral foundation.
🤓 Nerdy Nuggets:
• The phrase “Cretan” was an insult in the ancient world—it literally meant “liar.” Paul flips this stereotype by calling believers to be known for truth and integrity.
• Paul warns against both legalism and lawlessness—two extremes that lead people away from genuine faith (Titus 1:10-16).
• Paul’s strategy isn’t about fighting the culture with protests or arguments—it’s about creating a counter-cultural community of strong leaders and healthy families.
✅ Timeless Truths:
• Real change happens from the inside out—Paul doesn’t tell Titus to fight Crete’s corruption through politics or protest but through discipleship.
• Character matters more than charisma. Paul prioritizes appointing leaders who are faithful, self-controlled, and full of integrity (Titus 1:6-9).
• Strong families create strong societies. Paul instructs older men and women to train younger generations in godliness, marriage, and parenting (Titus 2:1-8).
• The best way to change the world? Go home and love your family. A godly home is the foundation of a godly culture.
Paul’s wisdom to Titus is just as relevant today. If we want to see transformation in our communities, it starts with strong churches, strong leaders, and strong families.
📖 Keep going! Tomorrow, we start 1 Timothy—another letter packed with leadership wisdom. See you then!
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The letter to Philemon is one of the shortest books in the Bible, but it carries a powerful message about reconciliation, forgiveness, and the radical way Paul challenged the social structures of his time. Today, we break down this personal letter to a slave owner and what it teaches us about the gospel’s power to transform relationships.
✈️ Overview:
• Philemon was a wealthy Christian and slave owner in Colossae, and his runaway slave, Onesimus, had become a believer under Paul’s ministry.
• Paul sends Onesimus back to Philemon—not as a slave but as a brother in Christ—challenging the very foundations of slavery in the Roman world.
• This letter is a masterclass in reconciliation, showing how the gospel reshapes social relationships and identity.
🔎 Context Clues:
• Roman slavery was not race-based like American chattel slavery. Many slaves were skilled workers, educators, or people paying off debts. However, they were still considered property under Roman law.
• Harboring a runaway slave was illegal, and Philemon had the legal right to punish Onesimus severely—possibly even with death.
• Paul refers to himself as a prisoner three times in this short letter, subtly reminding Philemon that both he and Onesimus share the same status—bound, but free in Christ.
🤓 Nerdy Nuggets:
• Paul never outright commands Philemon to free Onesimus, but his wording strongly suggests it. He calls Onesimus “my very heart” (Philemon 12) and urges Philemon to welcome him as he would welcome Paul himself (Philemon 17).
• The phrase “charge it to me” (Philemon 18) echoes the gospel—just as Paul offers to pay Onesimus’ debt, Jesus pays our spiritual debt.
• Paul ends with a subtle but direct move: He tells Philemon to prepare a guest room for him (Philemon 22). Translation? Paul plans to check in and make sure Onesimus is treated well.
✅ Timeless Truths:
• The gospel transforms relationships. Paul doesn’t push for a political revolution—he pushes for a personal, radical change in how people see and treat each other.
• Christian leadership isn’t about power—it’s about influence. Paul doesn’t demand Philemon’s obedience but appeals to love and brotherhood.
• Reconciliation is central to the Christian faith. Paul builds a bridge between Philemon and Onesimus, showing that the gospel calls us to restore broken relationships.
• In Christ, no one is lesser. Paul erases social status by calling Onesimus a brother—a revolutionary statement in a world where slaves were seen as property.
The letter to Philemon may be short, but its message is massive. It challenges us to see people not through the world’s hierarchies but through the lens of Christ’s love. True transformation doesn’t come through force but through a changed heart—something only the gospel can do.
📖 Keep going! Tomorrow, we begin the pastoral letters with Titus. See you then!
🚀 START HERE!
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Power struggles in marriage, debates over roles, and arguments about authority—these conversations miss the real point. In Colossians 3-4, Paul addresses household relationships in a way that challenged the Roman world. Instead of focusing on who’s in charge, Paul calls for a new dynamic: love, respect, and mutual service. Let’s break it down.
✈️ Overview:
• Paul isn’t creating a new family structure—he’s reshaping an existing Roman system with Christian values.
• Instead of reinforcing dominance, Paul calls for love, respect, and responsibility from both spouses, parents, and even masters and slaves.
• The focus isn’t who leads—it’s how each person honors Christ in their role.
🔎 Context Clues:
• Household codes were standard in Roman culture, reinforcing hierarchy. Paul doesn’t remove the structure but redefines the relationships.
• Slavery was an ingrained part of Roman society. Paul doesn’t politically challenge it (which would have made Christianity a political threat) but radically shifts the relationship by commanding masters to treat slaves with fairness (Col. 4:1).
• Paul’s words challenged a society that prized authority—husbands were now required to love their wives and not be harsh, and fathers were told not to provoke their children (Col. 3:19, 21).
🤓 Nerdy Nuggets:
• “Work heartily, as for the Lord” (Col. 3:23) was written to slaves, showing that even unjust work could be meaningful when done for God.
• In Colossians 3:11, Paul declares that in Christ, “there is no Greek and Jew, circumcised and uncircumcised, slave or free.” This dismantles social divisions, pointing to true unity in Christ.
• Paul says “wives, submit” (Col. 3:18), not “obey.” The Greek word for submission implies voluntary partnership, not forced control.
✅ Timeless Truths:
• The spirit of a relationship matters more than the structure. A marriage built on control will fail, but one built on love and mutual respect will thrive.
• Leadership in the home isn’t about power—it’s about servanthood. Husbands are called to love sacrificially, as Christ loved the church (Eph. 5:25).
• Work has meaning, no matter how small. Colossians 3:23 reminds us that all work can be an act of worship.
• True transformation isn’t about legalism but about putting to death the sinful nature and living in Christ (Col. 3:5-10). Holiness is not just about what we avoid but how we actively live with love, kindness, and humility.
Paul’s teaching isn’t about who has the final say—it’s about how we treat each other. In marriage, family, and work, our goal is to reflect Christ through love and humility.
📖 Tomorrow, we dive into Philemon—one of the most radical books in the New Testament. See you then!
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What if one of the most dangerous teachings in the early church is still creeping into modern Christianity? Gnosticism—the belief that secret knowledge leads to salvation and that the physical world is inferior to the spiritual—was a major issue in Colossae. Paul wrote Colossians 1-2 to confront this toxic teaching head-on. Today, we break down how Gnosticism distorts the gospel and why Paul’s message still matters.
✈️ Overview:
• The Colossians were influenced by Greek philosophy, which taught that the physical world was evil and that spiritual knowledge (gnosis) was the key to salvation.
• Paul refutes this by declaring that Jesus is the fullness of God in bodily form (Col. 2:9), shutting down the idea that the material world is corrupt.
• The Colossians were tempted by mysticism, legalism, and extreme self-denial, but Paul reminds them that true wisdom is already revealed in Christ (Col. 2:3).
🔎 Context Clues:
• Colossae was a small, off-the-beaten-path town. Paul never visited, but he wrote to them because false teachings were spreading.
• Gnosticism was rooted in Greek dualism, which taught that the spiritual realm was good and the physical world was corrupt. This led some to indulge in sin (since the body didn’t matter) and others to reject all pleasure through extreme self-denial.
• The Colossians were pressured to follow human traditions to appear more spiritual. Paul warns against this in Col. 2:8, saying not to be taken captive by deceptive philosophy.
🤓 Nerdy Nuggets:
• Paul calls Jesus “the fullness” of God (Col. 1:19, 2:9)—a direct counter to Gnostics, who believed divine fullness was scattered among spiritual beings.
• The term “mystery” (Col. 1:26-27) was a jab at Gnosticism. They believed in hidden knowledge, but Paul says the real “mystery” is Christ in you, the hope of glory.
• Paul dismantles asceticism in Col. 2:20-23. Some Gnostics taught that severe self-denial made people holier, but Paul calls it self-made religion that doesn’t actually stop sin.
✅ Timeless Truths:
• True wisdom isn’t hidden—it’s found in Christ. You don’t need secret knowledge or mystical experiences to grow in faith; Jesus has already revealed everything we need (Col. 2:3).
• Spirituality isn’t about escaping the world—it’s about living for Christ within it. Gnostics wanted to flee the material world, but Paul teaches that God created it, and it’s good when used for His glory (Col. 1:16-17).
• Legalism and harsh self-denial don’t make us holy. “Do not handle, do not taste, do not touch” rules may seem wise but don’t actually stop sin (Col. 2:21-23).
• Your body and your life matter to God. Paul reminds us that Jesus came in a real body, and our daily lives—including work, relationships, and choices—should reflect Him.
Gnosticism didn’t stay in the first century—it still influences how people think about faith today. Paul’s message to the Colossians is clear: Jesus is enough. We don’t need secret wisdom, extra rules, or mystical experiences—everything we need is already found in Him.
📖 Keep going! Tomorrow, we finish Colossians with chapters 3-4. Stay in the Word, and I’ll see you then!
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What if one of the most quoted Bible verses was actually one of the most misunderstood? Philippians 4:13—“I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me”—is slapped on gym walls, Instagram bios, and even used as a pep talk before big games. But did Paul really mean we can do anything with enough faith? Today, we break down Philippians 3-4 and put this verse back in its proper context.
✈️ Overview:
• Paul is writing from prison, yet he’s filled with joy, teaching us about true contentment.
• Philippians 4:13 isn’t about superpowers—it’s about enduring life’s highs and lows with Christ’s strength.
• This letter is deeply personal, showing Paul’s love for the Philippians and their generosity toward him.
🔎 Context Clues:
• Philippi was a Roman colony with a strong sense of nationalism—Paul intentionally reminds them that their true citizenship is in heaven (Phil. 3:20).
• The Philippians had sent financial support to Paul while he was imprisoned—this letter is, in part, a thank-you note.
• Roman prisons provided no food or care—prisoners relied on outside support, making the Philippians’ generosity even more significant.
🤓 Nerdy Nuggets:
• The phrase “I can do all things” follows a list of hardships—Paul is saying he can be content whether in abundance or lack, not that he can win a marathon or ace a test through sheer faith.
• Paul’s call to rejoice always (Phil. 4:4) isn’t based on good circumstances—it’s a conscious decision to trust God in every situation.
• Forgetting what lies behind and straining forward (Phil. 3:13) means we aren’t defined by past failures or even past successes—we keep pressing toward Christ.
• Paul uses the term citizenship in heaven to subtly challenge Philippians’ nationalistic pride, reminding them their first allegiance is to God.
✅ Timeless Truths:
• Contentment isn’t about circumstances—it’s about dependence on Christ.
• Our thought life matters. Fixing our minds on what is pure, lovely, and praiseworthy (Phil. 4:8) shapes our perspective.
• Joy is a choice. Paul is in chains, yet he chooses to rejoice. So can we.
• Strength in Christ isn’t about achieving personal goals—it’s about enduring life’s challenges with faith and perseverance.
Philippians 4:13 is even more powerful in context than when it’s taken out of it. This verse isn’t a motivational catchphrase—it’s a deep, transformative truth about trusting Christ no matter what life throws at us.
📖 Keep going! Tomorrow we start Colossians—another powerful letter from Paul’s time in prison. See you then!
🚀 START HERE!
Want to join us on the journey? Check out the Start Page! You can start from Episode 001 on January 1st or jump in to follow along with us, your choice.
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In today’s episode, we dive into Philippians 1-2 and explore how Paul’s radical perspective on suffering, joy, and purpose can reshape how we handle challenges. This letter, written from a Roman prison, overflows with thanksgiving and reveals the secret to contentment in all circumstances. Plus, we break down the most powerful hymn about Jesus in the Bible and what it means for us today.
✈️ Overview:
• Philippians is a letter of joy, written from prison, showing how gratitude and perspective shape our faith.
• Paul challenges believers to see suffering as an opportunity for the gospel to advance.
• The letter centers on a powerful hymn (Philippians 2:6-11) that explains Jesus’ humility and exaltation.
• Paul models how to live with purpose, whether through life or death, showing how to create a “win-win” faith mindset.
🔎 Context Clues:
• Philippi was a Roman colony with strong nationalist pride—declaring “Jesus is Lord” was a direct challenge to Caesar.
• Roman prisons didn’t provide basic needs—prisoners relied on outside support. The Philippians sent a generous gift to Paul, prompting this letter.
• Epaphroditus delivered this letter but fell ill in Rome, and Paul reassures the Philippians of his recovery.
• Philippians is one of Paul’s four “prison epistles,” written alongside Ephesians, Colossians, and Philemon.
🤓 Nerdy Nuggets:
• The phrase “in Christ” is repeated multiple times in this letter, emphasizing our identity and unity with Jesus.
• Philippians 2:6-11 is an early Christian hymn that unpacks Jesus’ self-emptying, humility, and ultimate exaltation.
• Paul’s famous line, “To live is Christ, to die is gain” (Philippians 1:21), is a radical perspective shift—turning every outcome into a victory.
• The Greek word for “joy” (chara) appears throughout this letter, showing that joy is rooted in Christ, not circumstances.
✅ Timeless Truths:
• Joy is a choice—Paul shows that circumstances don’t dictate our ability to rejoice.
• A life of service is more difficult (and meaningful) than a single act of sacrifice. It’s not just about dying for Christ, but living for Him daily.
• Creating a “win-win” mindset in faith helps us trust God’s plan—whether in suffering, success, or uncertainty.
• Our greatest purpose is found in selflessness, reflecting the humility and love of Jesus.
Paul’s letter to the Philippians reminds us that true joy comes from Christ, not comfort. Whether in trials or triumphs, we can embrace a life of gratitude, purpose, and faith. Keep your streak going in the Bible reading plan—join us tomorrow for Philippians 3-4!
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🚀 START HERE!
Want to join us on the journey? Check out the Start Page! You can start from Episode 001 on January 1st or jump in to follow along with us, your choice.
📖 DOWNLOAD THE PLAN:
Whether you’re new to the Bible or ready for a fresh start in 2025, this plan is for YOU. And the best part? The plan is FREE! Download it now and start your journey today.
🤓 WANT MORE BIBLE NERD RESOURCES?
Check out armacourses.com for biblical literacy resources, courses, and a community to grow with! Learn the Bible for yourself with 60+ courses and counting for only $13 / Month. Also, your first 30 days are on us. Join ARMA for FREE!
👍 NEVER MISS AN EPISODE! LIKE & SUBSCRIBE:
The Bible Dept. | YouTubeThe Bible Dept. | SpotifyThe Bible Dept. | Apple Podcasts📱 STAY CONNECTED:
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Got questions or want to share your thoughts? Email us at [email protected].
💥 MORE RESOURCES:
Amazon Store | Shop The Bible Dept. EssentialsDr. Manny Arango’s Book | BrainwashedBook Dr. Manny to Speak🌱 WE’RE PLANTING A CHURCH!
The Garden | Houston, TXThe Garden | InstagramThe Garden | Facebook
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