For Better, For Verse

In their latest episode of For Better, For Verse, Justin and Jewelle dive deep into the complexities of Isaiah, exploring its dual narratives of judgment and consolation. From the prophetic words that have shaped our understanding of the Messiah to the rich context of its writing, there’s so much to uncover! One of the most significant aspects of Isaiah is its messianic prophecies, which have been...

This episode explores the rich narratives of First and Second Kings, highlighting the lives of key figures like David, Solomon, Elijah, and Elisha. It emphasizes that what God wants most with humankind is a relationship, one which at this point in the Biblical story is only ever realized by individuals like King David and the prophets Elijah and Elisha, but which, in time and by God's grace, will...

The books of 1 and 2 Samuel bridge the era of judges and the establishment of the monarchy in Israel. These narratives not only depict the rise and fall of Saul and David but also reflect the struggles of a people seeking identity and stability after years of turmoil. Their significance extends beyond mere historical events; 1 and 2 Samuel invite us to reflect on what it means to listen to God and...

In this episode on Judges and Ruth, Justin and Jewelle explore how the Biblical writers are gradually becoming aware that God works in the world in many varied and complicated ways. In Judges, we see God rewarding holiness and punishing wrongdoing, but we also see God partnering with flawed people, striving to rack up little wins even in the midst of big failures, and conspiring to help good peopl...

Justin Crisp and Jewelle Bickel explore the depths of Deuteronomy and Joshua, examining biblical history, theology, and moral questions surrounding divine revelation, the conquest of Canaan, and how justly to organize a whole civilization. Together they try to discern what the divine author, the Holy Spirit, is telling us through the conflicting, confusing (and maybe even confused!) testimonies of...

In this episode, Justin Crisp and Jewelle Bickel explore the rich narratives and theological themes of the Book of Numbers, including its realistic account of human nature, the contradiction between God's love and God's justice, the nature of God, and the surprising ways God reveals Himself beyond the people and practices of His covenant with Israel. Discover insights into biblical leadership, hum...

In this episode, Justin and Jewelle explore the conclusion of Exodus and the whole book of Leviticus, focusing on the Golden Calf episode, God's loving determination to keep his covenant with Israel in spite of their wrongdoing, the nature of idolatry, the significance of sacrifice, and how we must distinguish between what's universal and contingent, applicable and inapplicable, in the Scriptures....

In this episode, Justin and Jewelle explore Exodus 13–31, discussing the exodus of the Israelites from Egypt, the significance of the Ten Plagues, the Passover, the giving of the Law at Mount Sinai, the establishment of the priesthood, and the construction of the Tabernacle. They delve into themes like the relationship between God's mercy and God's justice, the hardening of Pharaoh's heart (and he...

In this episode, Justin Crisp and Jewelle Bickel explore the narratives from Genesis 43 to Exodus 12, focusing on the stories of Joseph and Moses. Whereas the book of Genesis begins with Cain betraying Abel, it ends with Joseph forgiving his brothers, and then launches into the narrative of Exodus, whose protagonist feels unqualified to play the role God's asked him to play. Inspired by these rich...

In this episode, Justin and Jewelle explore Genesis chapters 22 to 42, discussing the themes of sacrifice, deceit, and God's faithfulness. They delve into the story of Abraham's near-sacrifice of Isaac, the prosperity of Isaac and Jacob, and the complex relationships within Jacob's family, including his deceitful dealings with his father-in-law, Laban. Weaving together a close reading of the psych...

Summary In this episode, Justin Crisp and Jewelle Bickel launch their yearlong read through the Bible by exploring the first chapters of Genesis. They focus on the creation stories, the fall of humanity, the story of the flood, and God's covenants with Noah and Abram. They emphasize the way Genesis highlights the personal nature of God, the complexities of human relationships, and the overarching...

In this episode, Justin Crisp and Jewelle Bickel explore the final chapters of the Gospel of Luke, discussing the events leading up to Jesus' crucifixion and resurrection. They delve into the significance of the Last Supper, the agony in the garden, the betrayal by Judas, the trials before various authorities, and the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus on the cross. The conversation highlights the theolo...

In this episode, Justin Crisp and Jewelle Bickel explore the significant events surrounding Jesus’ triumphal entry into Jerusalem, the prophetic implications of his actions, and the reactions of the religious and political leaders of his day. They discuss the cleansing of the temple, the parable of the wicked tenants, and Jesus’ teachings on authority before launching into a rich discussion of the...

In this episode, Justin Crisp and Jewelle Bickel delve into several parables from the Gospel of Luke, exploring themes of ethics, wealth, and the nature of God's kingdom. They discuss the complexities of the parable of the dishonest manager, the contrasting fates of the rich man and Lazarus, and the transformative encounter of Zacchaeus with Jesus. The conversation emphasizes the importance of und...

In this episode, Justin Crisp and Jewelle Bickel explore Luke chapters 14 and 15, discussing more of Jesus' journey to Jerusalem, the true nature of humility, the potential cost of discipleship, and the parables of grace: the parables of the lost sheep, the lost coin, and the prodigal son. They emphasize themes of unconditional love and the irreducible dignity of every individual in God's eyes. Th...

In this episode, Justin and Jewelle explore the teachings of Jesus from Luke 12 and 13, focusing on themes of fearless confession, God's provision, the dangers of greed, the nature of suffering, and the importance of patience. They discuss the parable of the rich fool, the call to not worry about earthly life, and the cost of discipleship, emphasizing God's patience and grace in the face of human...

In this episode, Justin Crisp and Jewelle Bickel explore Luke chapters 10 and 11, focusing on the parable of the Good Samaritan, the story of Mary and Martha, and the teachings of Jesus on prayer, including the Lord's Prayer. They discuss the significance of loving one's neighbor, the importance of prioritizing worship over busyness, and the depth of Jesus' teachings in relation to the Pharisees a...

In this episode of For Better, for Verse, Justin Crisp and Jewelle Bickel delve into Luke chapters 9 and 10, exploring the themes of Jesus' teachings, how his disciples act after he gives them power over nature and the spiritual world (poorly!), and the true nature of Jesus' saving power. Responding to listener feedback, they discuss the significance of turning the other cheek. They also look at t...

In this episode, Justin Crisp and Jewelle Bickel delve into Luke chapters 7 and 8, exploring the profound miracles of Jesus, the role of women in his ministry, the purpose of his parables, and his expansive view of family. Each of these stories emphasizes how crucial it is to understand who Jesus is, his divine identity, and the lavish forgiveness he offers. Justin and Jewelle's conversation also...

In this episode of For Better, For Verse, Justin Crisp and Jewelle Bickel delve into Luke's account of the Sermon on the Plain, exploring its key themes such as the Blessings and Woes, the call to love one's enemies, and the nature of God's mercy. They discuss the significance of Jesus' teachings, the context of his miracles, and the unique aspects of Luke's Gospel that highlight the great reversa...

In this episode, Justin and Jewelle explore Luke 5-6:11, focusing on the calling of the first disciples, Jesus' proclamation of God's forgiveness, and Jesus' tense interactions with the Pharisees. Justin and Jewelle discuss the significance of faith, the social implications of Jesus' actions, and the deeper meanings behind his teachings, particularly Jesus' focus on intentions versus outcomes. The...

In this episode, Justin Crisp and Jewelle Bickel explore Luke chapters 3 and 4, discussing the significant themes of John the Baptist's role, Jesus' temptation in the wilderness, the nature of Jesus' ministry, and the concept of the Messianic secret. They delve into the complexities of Jesus' identity and mission, contrasting it with John the Baptist's expectations, and reflect on the healing mira...

In this episode, Justin and Jewelle explore Luke chapter two, discussing the virgin birth, the significance of Mary's experience, and the theophany of angels announcing Jesus' birth to shepherds. They delve into the themes of treasuring memories, the prophecies of Simeon and Anna, and the connection between Mary and Jesus' destiny. The conversation also touches on the silent years of Jesus' life a...

Justin and Jewelle introduce their quest to read the whole Bible, and take a deep dive into the first chapter of the gospel of Luke to make a start. Together, they discuss God's miraculous intervention in the lives of Zechariah and Elizabeth, giving them a child in their old age after many years of longing and praying. This rich story about faith, trust, doubt, and disbelief will inspire and chall...