The Bible in Small Steps

Romans 9 - God’s Plan Is Working As Expected In this episode, we explore the complexities of Romans 9, a chapter that deals with profound theological themes such as God’s sovereignty, righteousness, and the role of Israel in His divine plan. We look at Paul’s message to the early church and discuss how these teachings apply to believers today. Whether you’re new to Romans or familiar with its less...

Romans 8 - A Life in the Spirit In this episode, we dive deep into Romans 8, a chapter that highlights the transformative power of living in the Spirit. Paul’s powerful message reveals how we are no longer condemned because of Christ, and how the Holy Spirit sets us free from sin and death. We discuss the nature of our adoption as children of God and how this impacts our identity and hope for the...

Romans 7 - The Relationship Between Law and Sin Romans 7 dives deep into the complex relationship between the law and sin, using the apostle Paul’s reflections to help Christians understand how the law reveals sin and our inherent rebellious nature. Paul explains that while the law is holy and good, it paradoxically provokes sinful behavior because of our innate desire to rebel. This chapter revea...

Romans 6 - Dead to Sin, Alive to God In this episode, read into Romans 6, exploring the powerful teachings of the apostle Paul about dying to sin and living for God. Paul opens with a question that resonates with many of us: “Should we continue in sin so that grace may abound?” His emphatic “By no means!” sets the stage for a discussion on the transformative power of Christ’s death and resurrectio...

Romans 5 - Life and Death In this episode, we dive into Romans 5, a chapter that is particularly cherished by theologians like Martin Luther. The focus is on finding peace with God through faith, not by works or actions, but through the sacrifice of Jesus Christ. Romans 5 is a short but dense chapter filled with profound theological insights. This episode explores themes like justification by fait...

Romans 4 - Abraham Justified by Faith In this episode, we dive into Romans 4, where Paul uses the example of Abraham to teach us about grace and faith. We explore how Abraham, the father of many nations, was considered righteous not because of his works, but because of his unwavering faith in God’s promises. This powerful chapter reminds us that grace is available to everyone, both Jews and Gentil...

Romans 3 - God’s Justice, Mercy, and Atonement In this episode, we read Romans 3, a chapter that unpacks some of the most foundational principles of the Christian faith. We explore the themes of human sinfulness, God’s justice, and the incredible gift of atonement through Jesus Christ. This episode takes you through Paul’s reflections on how God’s promises endure, even when humans falter, and why...

Romans 2 - The Judgement and Righteousness In this episode, we explore Romans 2’s profound teachings. Paul delves into the topics of judgment, righteousness, and the law. He emphasizes that none of us can escape judgment, as we all fall short, whether Jew or Gentile, under the law or not. This chapter challenges our understanding of righteousness and the role of works in our salvation. Hypocrisy i...

Romans 1 - Wanting to Be In Rome In this episode, we start off with Romans 1, where Paul lays out the foundational truths of the Christian faith. The letter, written around 56 AD, sets the stage for understanding humanity’s relationship with God, the consequences of sin, and the power of the gospel to save. Paul’s message is both a warning against ungodliness and a powerful invitation to embrace s...

Romans: One Gospel, One Body In this episode, we explore the historical and spiritual background of the Book of Romans. Set in the bustling heart of the Roman Empire around 57 A.D., this letter written by Paul was not only a theological masterpiece but also a timely guide to a fractured and diverse Christian community. I unpack what made this letter so essential then—and why it remains vital for u...

Understanding Paul: From Persecutor to Preacher In this episode, I explore the life and legacy of the Apostle Paul—one of the most influential figures in Christian history. From his beginnings as a Pharisee named Saul to his powerful role as a missionary and author of much of the New Testament, Paul’s story is one of transformation, grace, and bold conviction. This episode serves as a foundational...

Acts 28: Paul’s Journey to Rome In this episode, we explore Acts 28, the final chapter of the Acts of the Apostles. After surviving a shipwreck, Paul and his fellow passengers find refuge on the island of Malta. From a snake bite that should have been fatal to healing many on the island, Paul’s journey is filled with miraculous moments. Eventually, Paul reaches Rome, fulfilling his long-standing d...

Acts 27 - Paul’s Shipwreck In this episode, we read about the dramatic story of Paul’s shipwreck in Acts 27. As a prisoner aboard a ship bound for Rome, Paul faces a violent storm that threatens the lives of all 276 passengers. Despite the chaos, Paul remains calm, offering encouragement and guidance to those around him, demonstrating unwavering faith in God’s plan. The Journey Begins: Paul, along...

Acts 26 - Paul Appeals to Caesar In this episode, we dive into Acts 25, where Paul faces yet another legal battle. Governor Festus, newly appointed to Judea, is pressured by Jewish leaders who seek Paul’s death. Despite their persistence, Festus upholds Roman law by denying their request to transfer Paul to Jerusalem, knowing they plan to ambush him. Instead, he invites the Jewish leaders to bring...

Acts 25 - Paul’s Unwavering Faith Paul faces yet another legal battle. Governor Festus, newly appointed to Judea, is pressured by Jewish leaders who seek Paul’s death. Despite their persistence, Festus upholds Roman law by denying their request to transfer Paul to Jerusalem, knowing they plan to ambush him. Instead, he invites the Jewish leaders to bring their charges against Paul in Caesarea. Pau...

Acts 24: Turning Adversity into Opportunity The Apostle Paul’s trial before Governor Felix is highlighted in Acts 24. Falsely accused of causing unrest and desecrating the temple, Paul faces his accuser, Tertullus, a skilled orator who presents a distorted case. Despite the false charges, Paul remains calm and delivers a thoughtful defense. Paul’s Defense Against False Accusations : Paul faces cha...

Acts 23 - Paul’s Defense and Strategy Paul faces the Sanhedrin and uses the division between the Pharisees and Sadducees to his advantage. We discuss how Paul navigates his trial before the council, his sharp rebuke of the high priest, and the divine protection that keeps him safe despite a dangerous assassination plot. Paul Before the Council: Paul stands before the religious leaders and begins b...

Acts 22 - Paul’s Dramatic Testimony Paul shares his powerful testimony with the people of Jerusalem. Speaking in Hebrew, Paul recounts his past as a fierce persecutor of Christians and his incredible encounter with Jesus on the road to Damascus. We explore the resistance Paul faced as he revealed his mission to the Gentiles and the legal protection he invoked as a Roman citizen. Through Paul’s sto...

Acts 21 - Paul’s Journey to Jerusalem Paul embarks on a dangerous mission to Jerusalem. Despite warnings and prophecies of imprisonment, Paul remains resolute in his faith. Join us as we explore his courageous decision to follow God’s will, even in the face of danger, and the events that unfold during his time in Jerusalem. Paul’s Determination Despite Warnings: Paul’s friends and followers, throu...

Acts 20 - Encouragement, Danger, and Faith In today’s episode, we dive into Acts 20, where Paul continues his missionary work despite constant opposition. After the uproar in Ephesus, Paul embarks on a journey through Macedonia and Greece, offering encouragement and guidance to early Christian communities. We explore Paul’s steadfast leadership and how he nurtures the young churches to help them g...

Acts 19 - The Power of True Faith In this episode, we explore the key events in Acts 19, focusing on Paul’s ministry in Ephesus and the remarkable story of the Sons of Sceva. From miraculous healings to an important lesson on the dangers of using faith as a tool, this chapter offers plenty of valuable insights for modern believers. Paul in Ephesus: Paul arrives in Ephesus and encounters disciples...

Acts 18 - Preaching in the Face of Opposition In this episode, we dive into Acts 18, where Paul arrives in the city of Corinth after leaving Athens. Corinth was a challenging environment, notorious for its immorality, yet it became a pivotal location for Paul’s ministry. Listen as we explore his encounters, including his meeting with Aquila and Priscilla, his persistence in preaching the gospel, a...

Acts 17 - Paul Talks to People We look at Paul’s mission in Thessalonica, Berea, and Athens, as recorded in Acts 17. We explore how Paul adjusts his approach to share the gospel with different audiences, showcasing his wisdom and resilience in the face of challenges. Thessalonica: Paul begins by reasoning with the Jewish community from the Old Testament, showing them how the prophecies point to Je...

Acts 16 - Timothy Joins Paul Acts Chapter 16 explores the significant encounters and events that shaped the early Christian mission. From the introduction of Timothy to the dramatic conversion of the Philippian jailer, this chapter is a powerful testament to the transformative power of the Gospel. The Meeting of Timothy: Paul’s encounter with Timothy in Lystra introduces a key figure in the New Te...

Acts 15 - The Jerusalem Council Makes Decisions In this episode, we dive into Acts 15, where the early Christian church faces a pivotal decision that will shape its future. The Jerusalem Council convenes to address whether Gentile converts must follow Jewish customs, particularly circumcision, to be saved. This debate reveals the challenges of merging different cultural backgrounds within a unifie...