Clear Creek Resources - A Podcast of Clear Creek Community Church

In this episode of the Story of Scripture, Ted Ryskoski, Lance Lawson, and Rachel Chester discuss the downfall of Saul, first king of Israel. Why is David marrying a new wife, what is going on with Samuel coming back from the dead, and what could this possibly all have to do with our own faith? 

In this episode of The Story of Scripture, Ted Ryskoski, Lance Lawson, and Rachel Chester discuss the juxtaposed hearts of Saul and David. What makes David a worthy king? Why won't Saul accept his fate? What is really going on between David and Jonathan? These famous stories have an historical context, but are still relevant today.

In this episode of The Story of Scripture, Ted Ryskoski, Lance Lawson, and Rachel Chester discuss the downfall of Saul, Israel's first king. Disobedience, distrust, jealous, and violence define the reign of the king the people chose. But, was it Saul's fault really? Was he that bad? 

In this episode of The Story of Scripture, Ted Ryskoski, Lane Lawson, and Rachel Chester discuss the Israelites continued struggle with conforming to the nations around them instead of being a blessing to the nations. They treat the ark of the covenant as if it was a magic talisman and reject God as their king. God, in his abundant patience, agrees to give the people the king they desire- tall, handsome, and wealthy. Israel's monarchy is established, but it shakily begins through misguided motivations and an uncertain king.

In this episode of The Story of Scripture, Ted Ryskoski, Lane Lawson, and Rachel Chester discuss the courage and faithful obedience of Ruth, Noami, and Hannah in the books of Ruth and 1 Samuel. Through the seemingly private suffering and faith of these women, God begins a new chapter in his Story of Redemption: a king for his people. 

In this episode of The Story of Scripture, the Israelites go from bad to worse. By the end of the book, the God's chosen people reflect the character and values of their idolatrous, violent neighbors, instead of Yahweh. Ted Ryskoski, Lance Lawson, and Rachel Chester discuss what we can learn from these tragic narratives and how it connects with the book of Ruth.

In this episode of The Story of Scripture, Ted Rysksoski, Lance Lawson, and Rachel Chester discuss the increasingly disappointing and disturbing history of God's people during the time of the judges. Ted wears pink in solidarity with the women who experience the worst effects of the sin of the Israelites, Rachel admits this is not her favorite book of Scripture, and Lance reminds them of our need for a good King.

In this episode of The Story of Scripture, Ted Ryskoski, Lance Lawson, and Rachel Chester discuss Gideon and Jepthah. These two judges of Israel seem to be faithful leaders, but inevitably lead God's people further into idolatry and violence. In these hard-to-read stories, there is both the depth of human depravity, and the surprising, patient faithfulness of God.

In this episode of the Bible Reading Plan Recap, Ted Ryskoski, Lance Lawson, and Rachel Chester jump into a new part of the Story of Scripture in the book of Judges. God has delivered the descendants of Abraham from slavery, made him his people, promised them blessing, and led them to the promised land. How will the people of God respond?

In this episode of The Story of Scripture, Ted Ryskoski, Lance Lawson, and Rachel Chester discuss the passage of Scripture that is most quoted by Scripture itself: when God reveals his name and character to his people. Who is Yahweh and is he really anything at all like the Jesus of the New Testament? 

In this episode of the Story of Scripture, Ted Ryskoski, Lance Lawson, and Rachel Chester discuss the significance of the detailed descriptions and instructions concerning the Tabernacle and the priesthood. The covenant has been ratified, the dwelling place for God and his priesthood has been commissioned, but the newly created people of God don't even make it 40 days before the fall into the familiar pattern of rebellion and rejection of God. So how does God respond?     

In this episode of The Story of Scripture, Ted, Lance, and Rachel discuss what it means to be the "treasured possession" of Yahweh. How should we think about the 10 Commandments? Is the law good, bad, or outdated? These well-known passages are far-reaching, not just for courtrooms or as a failed "plan A" of God, but for how we understand our identity and mission as God's people today.

The final, devastating plague that forces Pharoah's hand: the death of every firstborn son in Egypt. The Passover ritual and reality that defines and orients the people of Israel even to this day. God's presence with the Israelites in pillars of cloud and fire. Bread provided from heaven. In this episode of The Story of Scripture, Ted Ryskoski, Lance Lawson, and Rachel Chester discuss the protection, presence, and provision of God in this epic story and how each moment intentionally points to Jesus.

The final, devastating plague that forces Pharoah's hand: the death of every firstborn son in Egypt. The Passover ritual and reality that defines and orients the people of Israel even to this day. God's presence with the Israelites in pillars of cloud and fire. Bread provided from heaven. In this episode of The Story of Scripture, Ted Ryskoski, Lance Lawson, and Rachel Chester discuss the protection, presence, and provision of God in this epic story and how each moment intentionally points to Jesus.

The foundation of the Story of Scripture has ended. In this episode of the Bible Reading Recap, Ted Ryskoski, Lance Lawson, and Rachel Chester discuss the "pattern" of God's kingdom, the depth of brokenness seen in mankind rebellion, and the promises of God to restore all things. God's has made a covenant with the Israelites, who are flourishing in Egypt at the end of Genesis, but then oppressed and persecuted when we turn the page to Exodus.

Despite the suffering in his life, Jospeh continues to trust in God. He is finally set free. When he is finally reunited with the brothers who rejected and betrayed them, he shows mercy and grace and saves them from death. In this episode of the Bible Reading Podcast, Ted Ryskoski, Lance Lawson, and Rachel Chester discuss the climax of Joseph's story that will take us into the next chapter for God's chosen people.

In this episode of the Bible Reading Recap, Ted Ryskoski, Lance Lawson, and Rachel Chester discuss the return of Jacob to his home and are introduced to one of his sons, Joseph. Jospeh's story is one of the most well-known in Scripture, but how does it point back to the Garden and forward to Jesus?

In this episode of the Bible Reading Recap, we get to the heart of Jacob's story. God's chosen brother, is deceived, deceives again, and eventually has to wrestle with God. Will Jacob ever change? How can this uneven man be the one to continue God's plan of redemption for the world?

Abraham lies about his wife again, Hagar is sent away again, and then, wait, Isaac also lies about his wife? The chosen people of God seem to be making the same mistakes again and again. In the middle of this week's reading and these painful, but hopeful cycles, is the famous story of Abraham being asked to sacrifice his promised son. What is the point of these stories and how can God ask Abraham to do something so horrific? In this episode of the Bible Reading Recap, Ted Ryskoski, Lance Lawson, and Rachel Chester discuss these questions and more.

In this episode of the Bible Reading Recap Podcast, Ted Ryskoski, Lance Lawson, and Rachel Chester discuss one of the central promises in Scripture. What is a covenant? What was happening in this covenantal ceremony? What does this have to do with Jesus?

In this episode of the Bible Reading Recap, Ted Ryskoski, Lance Lawson, and Rachel Chester discuss the sweeping stories of Genesis 4-13. Outside of Eden, there are rival brothers, cosmic floods, rebellious towers, and much more. But throughout these stories within our Story, one thing remains the same: the grace and faithfulness of God.

What is the point of Genesis? What questions should we ask and how does that affect how we read and apply this foundational book of the Bible? In this episode of the Bible Reading Recap, the Story of Scripture begins with the Pattern of the Kingdom of God in Genesis 1 and 2: God's people in his place, with his presence. But it doesn't last long. Given a choice, Adam and Eve choose to define good and evil on their own terms, and the kingdom is perished. Ted Ryskoski, Lance Lawson, and Rachel Chester discuss Genesis 1-3. How to read, study, and apply these chapters that are the background and foundation of the Bible Reading Plan in 2025.

The final episode of the Bible Reading Recap for 2024! Ted Ryskoski, Lance Lawson, and Rachel Chester contemplate not only the power of the final chapters in the gospel of John, but what God has done for each of them through his Word in 2024. 

On this episode of the Bible Reading Recap, Ted Ryskoski, Lance Lawson, and Rachel Chester discuss the final sign of Jesus in the Gospel of John. His deity is displayed when he resurrects his friend from death, and yet he is also the God who washes the feet of his followers and lays down his life for the world. 

On this episode of the Bible Reading Recap, Ted Ryskoski, Lance Lawson, and Rachel Chester continue discussing the Gospel of John. Jesus performs more signs, gives more I Am statements, and many more Old Testament references . . . all leading to the astonishing claim that he is the very presence of God on earth. Click here to view The Bible Project's poster illustrating the overview of the Gospel of John that Lance mentioned!

On this episode of the Bible Reading Recap, Ted Ryskoski, Lance Lawson, and Rachel Chester discuss the final book in the reading plan for 2024, the gospel of John! The apostle John's gospel is unique amongst the four gospels in its emphasis on the divinity of Jesus. The one who was in the beginning, Creator of all, the very place where heaven meets earth . . . and also compassionate, generous, and personal with all he encounters.   Check out the Bible Project Video that Lance references during the podcast below! The Gospel of John

On this episode of the Bible Reading Recap Podcast, we are at the end of not only the book of Revelation, but the end of the entire Biblical Story. Ted Ryskoski, Lance Lawson, and Rachel Chester discuss the future, eternal promises depicted in these final chapters. The thousand year reign, the new Jerusalem that is also a temple, no more sea, sun, or suffering. What does it all mean and how we can live in light of this future hope?

In this episode of the Bible Reading Recap, Ted Ryskoski, Lance Lawson, and Rachel Chester discuss how God's Word reveals the spiritual battle between good and evil that has been raging since before Eden and continues to rage today. Satan has lost, definitively, thought the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus, but he still prowls, seeking to deceive and devour. How can we recognize the beast in our own culture, endure the tensions of the already-not-yet, and rest in the hope of future and final judgment?    For a deeper dive into these chapters, check out these sermons:  Don't Be Deceived: Follow the Lamb: Revelation 12 - 14; 15:2-4 Judgment Comes: The Seven Bowls: Revelation 15-16

A 144,000 person army, the 7th seal and 7 trumpets, 2 witnesses, 4 angels, and lots of questions. What do all of these numbers and symbols mean and how do we understand how to respond faithfully to God's Word?  In this episode, Ted Ryksoksi, Lance Lawson, and Rachel Chester discuss the heart of Revelation and its connection to the rest of the New Testament.   For a deeper dive into these five chapters, check out these past sermons from Clear Creek Community Church's sermon series on Revelation: How Do You Feel About Judgment: The Seven Seals Courageous Witness: The Seven Trumpets

Armageddon, apocalypse, end-times – concepts that evoke curiosity, wonder, and fear – but what if that's not the point? In this episode of the Bible Reading Recap, Ted Ryskoski, Lance Lawson, and Rachel Chester begin the journey into one of the most discussed and misunderstood books in God's Word.    For a deeper dive into these first 6 chapters, check out these past sermons covering the introduction and themes of Revelation:  Reading Revelation Well - Clear Creek Community Church The Seven Letters - Clear Creek Community Church The Worship of Heaven and Earth - Clear Creek Community Church

In this episode of the Bible Reading Recap, Ted Ryskoski, Lance Lawson, and Rachel Chester walk through the last epistles of the New Testament. What is Peter's final word to the church before he is crucified?  What does the apostle whom Jesus loved, John, say life as a Christian looks like?  How does Jesus' brother, Jude, persevere in the midst of suffering? These final letters offer of us a unique glimpse into the faith of those who walked the closest to Jesus thousands of years ago and still encourage and challenge us today.   

On this episode of the Bible Reading Recap, Ted Ryskoski, Lance Lawson, and Rachel Chester discuss Peter's final exhortations to the church before he is martyred and the first letter written by the apostle Jesus loved, John. Each letter is short, but powerful, reminding us to live in light of who Jesus is and our certain, future, hope in him.

In this episode Ted Ryskoski, Lance Lawson, and Rachel Chester discuss the apostle Peter's first letter, written to a persecuted group of Gentile churches. Peter gives a challenging and comforting reminder of who we are and all we have in Christ. No matter what situations we find ourselves in, we can be a people of hope, as we set our minds, hearts, and lives on the example of Jesus and the promise of his return.

In this episode of the Bible Reading Recap, Ted Ryskoski, Lance Lawson, and Rachel Chester discuss the wisdom of James, the brother of Jesus and leader of the first church in Jerusalem. What does it look like to be an authentic Christian? How does our belief in Jesus shape who we are? In the book of James, Jesus' Sermon on the Mount is echoed and given direct application for the church, as relevant today as 2000 years ago.

In this episode of the Bible Reading Recap, Ted Ryskoski, Lance Lawson, and Rachel Chester discuss the last chapters of Hebrews. This big picture sermon reminds us of the character of God, the need for forgiveness, and the necessity to make a decision about whether to follow Jesus. 

Jesus is the true and greater King, Prophet, and Priest, but what does this have to do with his suffering, and who is Melchizedek anyway?! In this episode, Ted Ryskoski, Lance Lawson, and Rachel Chester discuss the new and better covenant, the suffering of Jesus, and why we have hope when we find ourselves in the wilderness today.

In this episode of the Bible Reading Recap, Ted Ryskoski, Lance Lawson, and Rachel Chester begin walking through the book of Hebrews. In what is essentially a first century sermon, Hebrews describes and meditates on the majesty of all Jesus is and all he has done for his people. The Creator and Sustainer of the universe, the greater and final prophet, the exact image of God, the High Priest and King who mediates for all and rules over all . . . and that's only the first four verses.  

On this BONUS episode of the Bible Reading Recap podcast, Ted Ryskoski, Lance Lawson, and Rachel Chester discuss the resurrection of Jesus and the Great Commission that concludes the gospel of Matthew. The end of the gospel takes us back to the beginning and the heart of Jesus' teaching and mission - the Sermon on the Mount.

In this episode Ted Ryskoski, Lance Lawson, and Rachel Chester discuss the final days in the life of Jesus. Jesus prepares his disciples for what he knows must happen, prays for strength, and then confronts the power and evil of the world in his trial and crucifixion.

Jesus finally openly reveals who he is to his disciples and then the world as he continues to heal the sick, rebuke the religious hypocrites, and teach about his upside down kingdom. In this episode, Ted Ryskoski, Lance Lawson, and Rachel Chester discuss the meaning of Jesus' words and actions and how it all impacts us today.

On this episode of the Bible Reading Recap, Ted Ryskoski, Lance Lawson, and Rachel Chester discuss continue discussing the gospel of Matthew. Jesus teaches what the kingdom looks like, cares for the crowds with unending compassion, and invites his disciples deeper into faith and trust.

In this episode of the Bible Reading Recap, Ted Ryskoski, Lance Lawson, and Rachel Chester discuss Matthew, chapters 6-11. Jesus concludes the famous Sermon on the Mount, shows us how to pray, teaches, heals, and invites all who are weary to find rest in him. 

On this episode of the Bible Recap Podcast, we begin the gospel of Matthew! Ted Ryskoski, Bruce Wesley, and Rachel Chester discuss the backgrounds and themes of this particular gospel and the surprising, beautiful message of Jesus.

On this episode of the Bible Recap Podcast, Ted Ryskoski, Rachel Chester, and Chris Alston recap 2 Timothy 4, Titus, and the book of Philemon, the last of Paul's letters to the church we will read this year. They discuss the weight of leading in the church and the glimpse into Paul's heart as he pastors and faces the end of his life.

In this episode of the Bible Reading Recap, Ted Ryskoski, Rachel Chester, and Matt Sherman discuss the final letters from the apostle Paul that are included in the Bible. What are the practical implications of the church being the family of God? How can we be both a generous people and also protect the church from selfish greed? How does the gospel re-orient our relationships, beliefs, and actions today?

False biblical teaching and bad leaders are not a new problem. In this episode of the Bible Reading Recap, Ted Ryskoski, Rachel Chester, and Brigette Swafford discuss 1 Timothy, in which Paul helps his protege navigate the practical expectations and decisions of leading the church. 

In this episode of the Bible Reading Recap, Ted Ryskoski, Rachel Chester, and Daniel Swafford discuss Paul's letters to the church in Thessalonica. In what is most likely the apostle's oldest letters, Paul encourages these new believers who are enduring great persecution. How can the church then and now remain hopeful and holy in the midst of a hostile and broken world? 

In this episode of the Bible Reading Recap Podcast, Ted Ryskoski discusses Colossians and 1 Thessalonians with Bruce Wesley and Rachel Chester. What does new life in Christ look like? What does suffering in Christ look like? How does every part of our lives point to the gospel?

On this episode of the Bible Reading Recap, Ted Ryskoski discusses the Philippians and the first chapter of Colossians with Greg Poore and Tiffany Ravedutti. In these two letters, Paul makes some great claims about who Jesus is, and then exhorts us to a response.

In this episode of the Bible Reading Recap, Ted Ryskoski, Rachel Chester, and Aaron Lutz discuss Paul's letter to the Ephesians. Paul continues his consistent call to unity in the church, warns of the reality of spiritual warfare, and exhorts Jesus' disciples to live transformed lives in light of the gospel. 

In this episode of the Bible Reading Recap, Ted Ryskoski, Rachel Chester, and Chris Alston discuss the book of Galatians. How are Gentiles and Jews unified in Christ? What do we need to truly be a part of God's family? And if we are, how does this change our lives?