Read the Bible Better with Marina L. McClure

How to Learn Something Meaningful from Genealogy in the Bible Today, we're exploring and growing in our understanding of genealogy in the Bible. We'll be discussing: What to make of genealogy in the Bible – including what these passages are, and what they are not. The ways in which Genealogy in the Bible is both purposeful in its inclusion and meaningful for our study. How to Apply What You Learn At the end, we'll talk about practical techniques and approaches you can use when studying a passage of genealogy in the Bible. You'll also learn how to make sure you don't miss the significance in genealogy passages you come across as you read. How This Helps You Read the Bible Better It is so easy to zone out while reading through a list of begats; I've done it many times! When we pause, zoom out, and really engage our thinking minds, we get to remember that this isn't a LIST. It's a passage of scripture, intentionally noted, intentionally crafted, intentionally placed. When we consider the things that these passages of genealogy in the Bible are and are NOT, we start looking at them differently. We start opening ourselves up to understanding what they were intended to be in the first place. That's where the fun and the magic happen! Watch for my upcoming teaching on the Genealogy of Jesus that starts the book of Matthew. Let's put this learning into use! Make sure you're subscribed so you don't miss it. Also, learn more about Genealogy in the Bible by following my Instagram page. I'll be sharing Bible fun-facts throughout the surrounding weeks that connect with genealogy. Learn more at Marina's Website (www.MarinaLMcClure.com) Marina on Facebook Marina on Instagram Marina on Pinterest Marina on Twitter SIGN UP for my NEWSLETTER to get all the latest! --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/marinalmcclure/message

How to Read the Book of Matthew from Matthew's Perspective This is part 1 of 2 teachings. You are going to understand more about the authorship, background, audience, and overall context of the Book of Matthew. In part 1, you'll learn: Who wrote the Book of Matthew, what we need to know about him, and what evidence leads us toward these conclusions. The time and place for the writing of this gospel, and For whom this gospel was written. What Context Can Do For You These contextual mile-markers set you up for diving into your own study of the Book of Matthew. They also equipped you with perspective and insight that opens up and informs new avenues of study. Exploratory engagement might be new for some of you, but I promise it's lots of fun! If you have no idea how to do that or what that might look like, download my FREE resource: Five Practices for Engaging Bible Study. I'll link to that below How to Apply What You Learn At the end, I'll make sure the setting and scene surrounding the book of Matthew are clear for you; in part 2, we'll study some of the significant ideas and themes in this book. And you'll already be ready! More information is available at Marina's Website (www.MarinaLMcClure.com) Marina on Facebook Marina on Instagram Marina on Pinterest Marina on Twitter SIGN UP for my NEWSLETTER to get all the latest! --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/marinalmcclure/message

The Body of Christ: How to Mine the Metaphor for All Its Wealth Today, we're going to look at the metaphor of the “Body of Christ” that is used many times in the New Testament. We'll talk about: The different ways this metaphor gets used. What it means most frequently. Examples of how / when it's used – and by whom. What we can learn by considering “The body of Christ” in various contexts as we study. And more! Eliminating Meaningless Lingo One Christian at a Time In Christianity, there can be a lot of “lingo.” Some of it is social, but a lot of it has Biblical roots. Digging deeper into these origins can help us make sure that 1) we don't misuse them and 2) we really are able to connect in a deeper way with what it is that's being communicated. At the end, I'll walk you through some simple questions you can ask yourself when you come across “the body of Christ” metaphor both in the scriptures and in conversation or other reading. You'll be able to make sure you're honoring and digesting its full Biblical meaning whenever you encounter it. So, let's jump in! The Big Ideas and Helpful Highlights Four Different Uses for The Body of Christ There are four main ways this metaphor gets used in the Bible. They're all in the New Testament (which makes sense if you give it a second), and all but one (noted below) are attributed to Paul. The physical body of Christ, as in the human person, Jesus The bread at the Lord's supper The temple of God (one reference in John 2:21) The community of Christian believers Being aware of these different uses is important when you encounter this phrase. That said, “the body of Christ” is most frequently used as a metaphor for the community of Christian believers. For that reason, most of the discussion in today's teaching centers around that concept. A Common Contemporary Concept Paul did not come up with this metaphor on his own. In fact, there are many instances of philosophical writers of his day using the metaphor of the body to represent a group or gathered collection of people. Seneca, Philo, Aurelias, and other contemporaries of both Paul and Jesus used this metaphor. For the rest of this article, including examples from scripture, check out the full post on my website. Some things are too long for show-notes! --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/marinalmcclure/message

How to Add New Dimensions to Your Study with Bible Maps Today, we're going to look at a familiar, but not often well-used tool: Bible Maps! We'll dig into this coming resource, and look at: Why Bible maps can be a powerful tool for understanding more than just geography. How to utilize a map alongside other approaches to Bible study. Where and how to find good FREE Bible map resources. Making the Colorful Pages in Your Bible Useful By learning how to use Bible maps as a part of your approach to Bible study, you will definitely broaden and deepen the paths and approaches to exploring what you read. You'll be able to connect more and more holistically to the passages AND begin to intuitively understand contextual ideas without even needing to dig for them. At the end, I'll give you a bunch of FREE resources so that you can be equipped for studying with maps beyond whatever you may have in your printed Bible. So, let's get started. The Big Ideas and Helpful Highlights Why Bible Maps? This parallel, from Wayne Stiles, is our starting point for understanding the usefulness of maps: When traveling, road maps give you insight into the distance between locations, which roads to take, and what points of interest to look for. Topographical maps use contour lines in which each line represents the same elevation. This representation gives you an understanding of the “lay of the land”—the topography of a given terrain. It's much more informative to see a topographical map than a flat map with no contours and curves. A physical map reveals locations of rivers, mountains, lakes, seas—basically the physical features of an area. These same things have an impact on our understanding of what we read in the Bible. (These examples continue the parallel and are also from Wayne Stiles.) Highways—There was a major highway that ran the full length of Israel; this is the primary reason Israel had interactions with surrounding nations. HUGE importance. Topography—Jerusalem, Megiddo, and many other sites had a significant military advantage because of their topography. Physical Barriers—Rivers, seas, and lakes—and climate—all played a major role in shaping biblical events. Understanding their significance gives a greater understanding into the biblical narrative than you would have otherwise. [sic] --- The rest of this post (it was too long for show notes!), all the visuals, and oodles of links to free map resources are here on my website. Enjoy! --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/marinalmcclure/message

Paul's Highest Hopes for the Church in Colossians 1:9-12 Today, we're going to study Colossians 1:9-12. As we study this passage, both verse-by-verse and as a whole, we'll examine: How Paul prayed for when he prayed for a growing church in Colossae. Paul's ideas about knowing God's will What Paul has to say about how to be “fully pleasing” to God. And the rest of his hopes for this church and its people. What's Good for Colossae is Good for You and Me We all care about understanding God's will and living in a way that pleases God, right? In Colossians 1:9-12, Paul has some very clear, finite teaching he shares about what this looks like, how it happens, and how believers can understand – and as a result, grow in – these big fundamental spaces. At the end, we'll zoom out and take away some clear directions on things we can pursue and pray for in our own lives to be able to live into the ideals and ideas Paul lays out for the church at Colossae. So, let's get into it! The Big Ideas and Helpful Highlights First, let's read the passage. Colossians 1:9–12 (NRSV) (Bold mine): 9For this reason, since the day we heard it, we have not ceased praying for you and asking that you may be filled with the knowledge of God's will in all spiritual wisdom and understanding, 10so that you may lead lives worthy of the Lord, fully pleasing to him, as you bear fruit in every good work and as you grow in the knowledge of God. 11May you be made strong with all the strength that comes from his glorious power, and may you be prepared to endure everything with patience, while joyfully 12giving thanks to the Father, who has enabled you to share in the inheritance of the saints in the light. How Studying Colossians 1:9-12 Helps You Read the Bible Better In this passage, Paul expresses his prayers and (presumably) highest hopes for the Colossians. His words reveal what Paul valued and emphasized in the pursuit of Christ in our lives. These verses show us the essence of (at least some) ideas that are key and central in our own lives of faith. This understanding helps us reflect upon our own lives and aims; it also frames the rest of what Paul wrote to the Colossians. When we remember to consider this initial framework for the book, we will read various passages with more clarity and better understanding. How to Learn Even More as You Read As you read more of Colossians, use my FREE Guide, “5 Practices for Engaging Bible Study.” These flexible and simple practices will teach you new ways to engage and study as you read and study on your own. Sign up to download this valuable FREE resource below! Watch for other exploration of the themes of Colossians in my Instagram and other social media feeds. I promise there's more to learn! --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/marinalmcclure/message

Understanding Colossians Like Its First Audience Did Today, we're going to dive into a Colossians Overview, so that when we study this book, we can better understand it. We'll look at: Who wrote Colossians. Why it was written. What was going on in Colossae to prompt its writing. And some of the big ideas of this book, and how they can impact us today. Clarifying Context to Equip You for Curious Exploration As you grow your understanding in these areas, you are better able to read and filter through your own study of Colossians with an understanding of which things might be most important. This Colossians overview will better equip you to receive this epistle. You will be able to better read it in the way its original readers would have. So, let's get started. The Big Ideas and Helpful Highlights in Understanding an Overview of Colossians Authorship Most likely, Paul wrote the book of Colossians. As is possible with other letters attributed to Paul, some argue it may have been written posthumously by followers of Paul's teachings. It may also have been written by a scribe or one of Paul's disciples writing with his permission. However, it is most likely that Paul wrote this letter himself. The text itself identifies Paul, along with Timothy, as the authors of the letter. For the purposes of this Colossians overview, we talk about the book as if it was – with certainty – written by Paul. As Michael F. Bird has highlighted in writing for Faithlife, Paul's specific personal background uniquely equips him for his life's work. He was an educated Jewish man, born in a Greek-speaking university town. He was also an educated Roman citizen. As such, he was uniquely equipped him to preach the news of Jesus, the Jewish Messiah, to Greeks and Romans in the Eastern Mediterranean. His familiarity with their customs, languages, idioms, culture, and imagery powerfully enabled his ministry. Audience Paul sent this epistle (an epistle is a letter written for a wider audience, rather than an individual) to the Colossian church. Paul asks that the Colossians share this letter with surrounding churches as well. As you continue to explore both a Colossians overview of your own, and as you dig into its chapters, use my FREE Guide “5 Practices for Engaging Bible Study” to help guide and refresh your study. This flexible tool shares new study ideas for anyone reading the Bible. The practices are useful alongside any section of scripture. Click here to get your FREE download! ... Click here for the full text of this post. --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/marinalmcclure/message

Understanding the Differences in the Gospels Like Their First Readers Did We're finishing our series on The Gospels today with a look at a common – and commonly misunderstood – question: Why are there differences in the Gospels? This was SO much fun to research; you're going to learn a lot today! We're going to look at: The timeline of the writing of the Gospels What the individual authors of the gospels intended for their writings to be. How our own modern-day cultural context might lead us to misunderstand key truths about the gospels and their messages. And, we'll look at some of the places where the gospels record events differently. Taking You Out of the Equation Just as we talk about needing to understand the cultural context of the events and people written about in the Bible, we need to understand our own cultural context. At the end, we'll talk about how you can better neutralize your unconscious, culturally-skewed expectations about the gospels. As a result, you'll be able to minimize their influence on the very question of differences in the gospels. How to Apply What You Learn As a result of learning to neutralize your cultural expectations, you will grow in your ability to read the Bible for what it intends to be – and understand what it has and hasn't been for its readers in the thousands of years that have come before us. How to Learn Even More as You Read Explore the links below. There is a wealth of information about the nature of the gospels readily available for free online. And if you enjoy looking at some of the nuances in the Bible, you'll love my FREE Guide, “11 Steps to Meaningful Word Study.” Don't miss this chance to get your FREE copy! Here are some great materials to further explore this subject: This article gives an answer to todays question about differences in the Gospels. Christianity Today reproduced an essay from the HCSB Study Bible written by Robert Stein. Its original title was “Differences in the Gospels, a Closer Look.” Some years ago, Frontline produced a documentary about Jesus. It spawned great discussion, including a later academic symposium on the subjects raised. PBS has links to the original information, plus a lot more on their site. --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/marinalmcclure/message

In this episode, we'll look at: What a Harmony of the Gospels actually is and where to find one. The best ways to use this tool. And the different types since a “harmony of the gospels” can include more than one type. Choosing the Right Tool for Your Needs There are different types of Harmonies of the Gospel. Some emphasize finding unity between passages, and other place the highest value on tracking chronology. Make sure you understand the types as outlined in this teaching so that you can choose the one that's right for you. How This Helps You Read the Bible Better Remember, the Gospels aren't meant to be journalism or court testimony. Each is written with a specific intention by a unique individual, addressing an audience situated in a concrete time and place. By comparing and contrasting the details and stories included or omitted by the different gospel writers, you can not only get a more comprehensive understanding of the events described. But you can also start to identify some of the thematic differences between the Gospels themselves. Once you start to see the Gospels as unique piece in a collection, you'll find more ways to investigate what they hold while also contextualizing the specific of what's communicated within that framework. How to Learn Even More as You Read There are so many great tools inside a Study Bible. Many of them are never utilized to their full potential. Get a copy of my FREE resource, “A Guide to Your Study Bible” and start realizing the maximum potential of your Study Bible's tools. Get your FREE download today! --- Check out these free Harmonies of the Gospel found online: Bible Hub's parallel passages resource is formatted so that this Harmony of the Gospel is easy to follow. BlueLetterBible.org has a collection of very comprehensive resources. This article has EXCELLENT background information about harmonies of the Gospel, including information on the different types. I use Logos Bible software for the majority of my Bible study. Logos has some features that present harmonies and parallel passages any point in your study. Check out Logos for its huge variety of Bible study capabilities. It's a game-changer. --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/marinalmcclure/message

Studying a Powerful Conversation with Jesus Jesus asked the disciples, “Who do you say I am?” and after that conversation, things shifted. Today we look at Luke's account of this exchange. Our study will include Luke's purpose for writing his gospel. What is being asked and conveyed in this passage. How this conversation is recorded in other gospels. How this exchange is a turning point in the narrative of Jesus' life and ministry. Putting Ourselves in the Room with The Disciples When we make sure we understand more nuance about the ideas presented by the Bible, we can do a better job of receiving what Biblical writers intended to communicate. This helps us keep from unintentionally applying our own box of understanding to the Bible, and will, instead, let the Bible teach us on its own terms. The Text of Our Scripture for Today: 18 Once when Jesus was praying by himself, the disciples joined him, and he asked them, “Who do the crowds say that I am?” 19 They answered, “John the Baptist, others Elijah, and still others that one of the ancient prophets has come back to life.” 20 He asked them, “And what about you? Who do you say that I am?” Peter answered, “The Christ sent from God.” 21 Jesus gave them strict orders not to tell this to anyone. Luke 9:18-21 CEB How This Helps You Read the Bible Better Looking at this conversation in the arc of Jesus' ministry shows us that it's a turning point in how he interacts with his disciples. In all three gospel accounts, this exchange precedes the point at which Jesus starts talking to his friends about the suffering he will endure as the Messiah. We can explore many questions about the significance of these two things side-by-side. Though we can't know with certainty what the significance of this sequence was (and its being communicated in this way), we can be sure that there was intentionality behind it. This exploration can lay the groundwork for many intriguing questions. How to Learn Even More as You Read Sometimes, a new perspective or a new question can spark a wealth of excitement and fun as we study the Word. You can learn practices designed to help you dig into passages from different angles with my FREE Guide “5 Practices for Engaging Bible Study.” Download it today! Here are some other helpful resources related to today's teaching: Here's a great overview about Luke (the man, not the book). A Quick Look at John the Baptist as the Foretold Return of Elijah (As with everything on the internet, please check out your sources, and ingest the information provided through the careful lens of that source's practices, policies, priorities, and etc.) You might also like these other Mini Bible Studies. Check one out today! --- Marina's Website (www.MarinaLMcClure.com) Marina on Facebook Marina on Instagram SIGN UP for my NEWSLETTER to get all the latest! --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/marinalmcclure/message

Clarifying What the Gospels Are In this episode, we begin a series looking at the Gospels. We'll talk about: What a Gospel actually is, by definition – and what it isn't. What the “synoptic” gospels are. Why there are four different gospels. And more. Approaching the Gospels with More Confidence By learning to answer the question, “what are the gospels?” – which includes understanding what they are not – you'll be able to approach them with more confidence, understand how to engage with them as a collection, and ultimately, learn to see Jesus through a clearer set of lenses. The Big Ideas and Helpful Highlights A Simple Definition for A Gospel The first four books of the New Testament are known as the Gospels. They are Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John. They are essentially a type of biography, which was a popular form of writing at the time of their composition. The gospels are specifically focused on the life of Jesus. All of these four were written in the later half of the first century and accepted as authentic before the close of the following century. They are nearly our only source of information about the earthly life of Jesus. Four Unique Perspectives on One Extraordinary Life Each of the gospels was written by a specific individual, with personalized intention, for a unique intended audience. Mark's gospel centers around asking and answering the question, “Who was Jesus?” Matthew's gospel was written for Jewish Christian, and, as a result, places an emphasis on both Jesus' relationship to the law and His Messianic role as King of the Jews. Luke's gospel focuses less on the return of a risen Christ, and instead puts its emphasis on what the church should be doing as it waits for His return. John wrote somewhat later and his gospel reflects the position of the early Christian church amidst its Jewish context. The Significance of Context and Its Impact on Expectations When we ask the question, “What are the gospels?,” we must also look at what they are not. The gospels aren't 21st-century biographical reports. They are not journalism or encyclopedic reference. When we allow the gospels to exist in the context in which they were created, we can see that they provide four different ways of answering the question, “Who was Jesus?” Not one is more “correct” than another. Neither are they less for their apparent differences in approach. In fact, when we read them as a collection, we are better able to see a dimensional Jesus, a true man and Messiah in one. The Best Way to Read the Gospels The gospels can be read one-at-a-time when we remember that they are faceted accounts. When we take into account the reality of a single audience with a specific set of purposes in writing, we are able to contextualize what that gospel writer included in his account. When we read them as a collection, we see a story that's most complete when read with all four points-of-view. How this Helps You Read the Bible Better When we approach the Gospels with a proper perspective, we're best able to read them on their own terms. This helps us to take from the Gospels the best of what they have to communicate to us, rather than being restricted by what we expect them to say to us. How to Learn Even More as You Read You can learn practices designed to help you dig into passages from different angles, like those from the gospel, with my FREE Guide “5 Practices for Engaging Bible Study.” --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/marinalmcclure/message

What “Torah” Really Means in the Bible This episode is part of a series about “the law” in the Bible, and today we're taking a deeper look at the Hebrew word “Torah.” This word is often thought to simply mean “the law” in English. However, as you'll see, there's much more to this word. In this word study video, you'll learn about: Basic definitions of the Hebrew word Torah. Different ways in which this word is translated into English. Different primary senses of the word. Instances of this word throughout the Bible, and how they help us more fully grasp its nuanced meaning. You'll Learn to Understand “Torah” More Like Jesus Did By growing your understanding of this word, you'll be able to understand the Hebrew word “Torah” through a more Jewish lens. You'll better understand what “Torah” meant to the Biblical writers and their contemporaries, including Jesus. How to Apply What You Learn At the end, we'll talk about how we can use this understanding to read ALL of the Bible better, letting it teach us something crucial about the relationship between God and His people that encompasses much more than a rulebook. The Big Ideas and Helpful Highlights of the Hebrew Word “Torah” Definition and Translation of the Word In the broadest (and perhaps most accurate) sense, “Torah” means instruction or learning. The Hebrew word “Torah” is thought to be most frequently translated as “the law” in English translations. However, this varies widely based on translation. Other common words used in English include: instruction, guidance, teaching, direction. Different Senses of the Word About 70% of the instances of the word “Torah” carry with them the general sense of “the law,” as in a collection of laws. Example: “Give me understanding, that I may keep your law and observe it with my whole heart.” Psalm 119:34 NRSV About 20% of the instances convey a sense of a regulation or statute. Example: “Act precisely according to the instruction they give you and the ruling they announce to you. Don't deviate even a bit from the word they announce.” Deuteronomy 17:11 CEB Approximately 10% of the instances of “Torah” communicate the idea of general teaching in their usage. Example: “The lips of the priest should guard knowledge; everyone should seek Instruction from his mouth, for he is the messenger from the Lord of heavenly forces.” Malachi 2:7 CEB What “Torah” Really Means in the Bible The Hebrew word Torah conveys an idea that underpins the very essence of the connection between God and His Hebrew people The core concept is about how God cares for and directs His people. The following silly sentence helps show the breadth of the meaning of the Hebrew word “Torah.” The body of laws (Torah) is the teaching (torah) for the people through its regulations (torah). The distinction between these three “senses” of the word is less than modern English readers might assume or expect. How This Helps You Read the Bible Better When we look at the Hebrew word “torah” with more nuance, we can see a new aspect to God's presence in our lives, His heart for us, and His relationship with us. His Law – his Torah – is so much more than a list of dos and don'ts. How to Learn Even More as You Read If you have enjoyed learning about the word torah, you will love my FREE guide: “11 Steps to Meaningful Word Study.” Download yours right now! SIGN UP for my NEWSLETTER --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/marinalmcclure/message

Today, we're going to talk about a practical – but incredibly valuable – way to read the Bible Better. You'll learn how to use cross references in the Bible, and when and why you should do so! You'll learn to: Understand the different types of references throughout the Bible. Identify a reference to another scripture- even when it's not a direct quote. Take this awareness that something we're reading refers to OTHER scripture and make it mean something for us! How to Read the Bible on Its Own Terms Most modern readers don't have the ability – especially reading in translation – to identify all the references between different passages of scripture. Therefore, we can miss what they might have conveyed to the original reader. Without that understand, we can get the message altogether wrong. We always want to read the Bible on its own terms; we want to receive what it's intended to communicate, rather than what we want or expect it to say to us. How to Find the Right Resources and Tools At the end of this episode, I'll share links, resources, and tools that will help you to chart your own path through a rich study guided by cross references in the Bible. Many Cross References Throughout Scripture By some counts, there are more than 380,000 cross references in the Bible. This includes references to people, places, specific events, themes, ideas, and stories. It also includes both paraphrases and quotes of other scripture. Your Translation Matters How many cross references and what they are depends on which translation or Bible you're using. Some Bibles (especially themed Study Bibles) may edit the standard cross references for that translation to narrow emphasis for that Bible. Cross references are subjectively identified, and having an understanding of the theory and method behind your chosen translation will help you further contextualize those cross references. Ensure that you understand the impacts of your chosen translation as you read and study your Bible. Download my FREE Bible Translations Toolkit to learn the ins-and-outs of distinguishing between, understanding, and choosing translations for your study. How This Helps You Read the Bible Better Letting the Bible act as its own explainer allows us to understand each of its ideas, themes, and teachings with more depth and nuance. Making the most of cross references in Bible allows the Bible to lead that exploration Related Links & Resources: The Amazing Visualization of the Cross References in the Bible (plus some other cool Bible-related visualizations) Commentary on the New Testament use of the Old Testament by D.A. Carson & G.K. Beale The Thompson Chain Reference Bible The Treasury of Scripture Knowledge --- Marina's Website (www.MarinaLMcClure.com) Marina on Facebook Marina on Instagram SIGN UP for my NEWSLETTER to get all the latest! --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/marinalmcclure/message

The Law and Grace as Parts of the Bigger Story Today we're learning about the Law and Grace while studying a section of Galatians 3. In this video, you'll learn new insights into central Gospel concepts about the law and grace. We'll approach the passage in ways that will help you to #ReadTheBibleBetter today and in the future. We'll learn about: The context and motivation behind the writing of Galatians. What Paul is communicating in this passage of scripture. The central gospel truths about the law and grace – including how they intersect, how they differ, and how to understand them side-by-side. How to Learn from This Passage At the end of this video, we'll synthesize what we've read and let it teach us something important about how we live our lives today as Christians and believers in the gospel. Regardless of its age, this message provides timeless course-correction for all Christians. The Big Ideas and Helpful Highlights of the Law and Grace in Galatians 3 Understanding Context Paul's Audience and Motivation Paul was writing to offer encouragement and correction to the churches in Galatia – churches he helped found and teach. His primary audience was that of non-Jewish followers of Jesus. After Paul's departure from Galatia, these new Christians had been told they needed to start following Jewish law. Paul writes to correct that teaching. Context within the Passage In this teaching, we're focusing on Galatians 3, verses 21-24, but we need to understand what's been communicated as this passage is introduced to really understand its meaning. Paul outlines the core relationship between God and His chosen people. He starts with its origins in the promise God gave to Abraham, and teaches that that promise will ultimately fulfilled in Jesus. In this context, Paul explains that the law was a trustee of God's people until the time for the promised inheritance to be fully given. Paul argues that the point of God's promise was the gift of salvation for all – not the means by which one might get there. In Paul's explanation, viewing the law as the means proves his point. One need only try to live in perfect accordance with the law to see that it is impossible. The law cannot bring righteousness. How This Helps You Read the Bible Better Paul's message has relevance not only for early Christians grappling with the role of the Jewish law. It is also for Christians today as we grapple with the tendency of many to use rigid rules and social expectations as substitutions for authentic engagement with God. When we cling to the rules as our path to God, we cut ourselves off from true ability to live in Grace. How to Learn Even More as You Study Learn new practices designed to help you dig into scripture from different angles and perspectives with my FREE Guide “5 Practices for Engaging Bible Study.” Sign up for your download here! Marina's Website (www.MarinaLMcClure.com) Marina on Facebook Marina on Instagram Marina on Pinterest Marina on Twitter SIGN UP for my NEWSLETTER to get all the latest! --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/marinalmcclure/message

Understanding “The Law” in the Bible Like Its Writers Did Today, we're rounding out our look at the question “What is the Law in the Bible?” In Part One, we defined the four concepts represented by the term “the law” when it's used in scripture. And now, in part 2, we're going to put these ideas in place and discuss: Details about Old Testament & New Testament usage of “the Law” in the Bible. The difference between the way it is most commonly used. How this understanding applies to interpretation as we read the Bible for ourselves. How to Ensure the Bible is the Guide When we make sure we understand more nuance about the ideas presented by the Bible, we can do a better job of receiving what Biblical writers intended to communicate. This helps us keep from unintentionally applying our own box of understanding to the Bible, and will, instead, let the Bible teach us on its own terms. How to Apply What We Learn At the end of this video, we'll have a full picture of Jewish cultural concepts around the Law. We'll understand what is so central about these ideas, and we'll grow as readers, interpreters, and receivers of the Word. The Big Ideas and Helpful Highlights of The Law in the Bible (Part 2) Usage in Different Contexts In the Old Testament References to “the law” in the Old Testament offer are to either narrative stories of receiving God's instructions or specific laws themselves. For the Israelites, all of God's teaching and instruction was and is a part of the law. Not only specific statues or directives. This understanding is woven implicitly and inherently throughout the Old Testament. In the New Testament Understand the subtitles of Jesus' teachings often requires more understanding of the Jewish culture into which he was born. The sub-groups within Judaism referenced in the New Testament (the Sadducees and Pharisees, for example) were groups that had different approaches to application of the written Law. Although they often directly opposed the views of one another, both these groups were challenged by Jesus and his teachings. In many of the letters and epistles of the New Testament, the law refers to a mindset or way of approaching life as God's people – one that they help demonstrate has been eternally offered by Jesus. How This Helps You Read the Bible Better Taking one understanding of the Law, or one historical context, and applying broadly to all instances of the law in the Bible would seriously misconstrue its meaning in many places. Studying the different ways in which the Biblical authors used this term also provides a richer understanding of “the law.” There is much more to it than a list of rules. You can learn practices designed to help you dig into passages from different angles with my FREE Guide “5 Practices for Engaging Bible Study.” Sign up for your download here! Marina's Website (www.MarinaLMcClure.com) Marina on Facebook Marina on Instagram Marina on Pinterest Marina on Twitter SIGN UP for my NEWSLETTER to get all the latest! --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/marinalmcclure/message

Understanding “The Law” in the Bible Like Its Writers Did Our series on “The Law” in the Bible starts today with a look at understanding what the Bible means when it references “the Law.” We'll look at this topic in two episodes. In this episode (part 1), we're going to look at: The different ways Biblical writers use the term “the law.” The four primary concepts behind the phrase. How these ideas relate to Hebrew culture at different points in time. Letting Scripture Lead the Way It's easy to take what we know about an idea – such as the law in the Bible and apply it to all instances of that word or idea. This approach can easily lead us into reading the Bible through a lens we brought to the reading, rather than letting the Bible teach us. Understanding these the different concepts behind the “law in the Bible” will help you avoid unintentionally putting constraints around the Word as you read and process. How to Apply What We Learn At the end of this episode, we'll have a full picture of Jewish cultural concepts around the Law. We'll understand what is so central about these ideas, and how they have impacted dozens of themes, stories, and characters in the Bible. The Big Ideas and Helpful Highlights of The Law in the Bible Four Concepts Behind “The Law” in the Bible 1) The idea of guidance, teaching, instruction Represents the reality that God gave the Hebrew people guidance about how to live rightly – as a part of their existence of God's chosen people 2) Reference to specific law or bodies of the Law Most are in the pentateuch – e.g. Mosaic Law 3) Reference to a specific portion of the Hebrew scripture / TANAKH / OT “The 5 books of Moses” aka the Pentateuch: Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, & Deuteronomy 4) Referencing an era for the Hebrews, between creation and Jesus Paul's way of referencing the Law in his letters are a great example How This Helps You Read the Bible Better With an understanding of these concepts – and how they're distinguished from one another – we can look at the law in the Bible and explore what possible meanings might be applied in different scriptures Looking at these references between NT & OT writers can help us get a bigger sense of what the Bible is trying to communicate. Asking questions about what these writers might intend in a specific context – and then digging further – is a fun way to explore the Word How to Learn Even More as You Read You can learn practices designed to help you dig into passages from different angles with my FREE Guide “5 Practices for Engaging Bible Study.” Sign up for your download here! --- My goal for all of us: #ReadTheBibleBetter Marina's Website (www.MarinaLMcClure.com) Marina on Facebook Marina on Instagram Marina on Pinterest Marina on Twitter SIGN UP for my NEWSLETTER to get all the latest. --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/marinalmcclure/message

Finishing up our month exploring Psalms, this video walks through a small section of Psalms 119. One of the most famous Psalms, there is goodness and teaching in every little corner. Today, we dig into one such corner in verses 25-27. This passage teaches a lot about relating to God and helps challenge us to learn from God in how we envision and understand our relationship with Him. In this video, I talk about relating to God, what His word says about interacting with Him, the role His scriptures can play in that engagement, and more. Praying this blesses you. I'm going to go start reading Psalm 119 again. I'd love to know what it's teaching you! My goal for all of us: #ReadTheBibleBetter Marina's Website (www.MarinaLMcClure.com) Marina on Facebook Marina on Instagram Marina on Pinterest Marina on Twitter SIGN UP for my NEWSLETTER to get all the latest. --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/marinalmcclure/message

What is genre? Why does it matter? What is the genre of the Bible? And how does any of this help me to read the Bible better? In this installment of Quick Tips for Getting It, Marina L. McClure helps you to put another tool into your toolbox for reading the Bible with new engagement, new awareness, and new relationship with God. Together, we are learning to read and love the Bible as our own. This is a book for us. My goal for all of us: #ReadTheBibleBetter Marina's Website (www.MarinaLMcClure.com) Marina on Facebook Marina on Instagram Marina on Pinterest Marina on Twitter SIGN UP for my NEWSLETTER to get all the latest. --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/marinalmcclure/message

In this month's "A Bit of the Book," I'm talking about the Psalms. Our goal is to be able to read them in a way that helps us receive from them what they're communicating. This can mean a lot of things, but framework helps. So in this video, we talk about understanding the Genre of the Psalms, correct a few very common misconceptions, and I muse just a teenie tiny bit about poetry and the fact that most people don't love it. We walk away with more information, more shape, and a better foundation for connecting through this versatile, unique, and beloved book of the Bible (even if it is mostly poetry). My goal for all of us: #ReadTheBibleBetter Marina's Website (www.MarinaLMcClure.com) Marina on Facebook Marina on Instagram Marina on Pinterest Marina on Twitter SIGN UP for my NEWSLETTER to get all the latest. --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/marinalmcclure/message

Today we close out Psalm 91. We are talking about what it means to connect with God, how we can remind ourselves to trust Him, faking it until we make it, and all the beautiful promises we have in the mystery of God's protection. Enjoy! My goal for all of us: #ReadTheBibleBetter Marina's Website (www.MarinaLMcClure.com) Marina on Facebook Marina on Instagram Marina on Pinterest Marina on Twitter SIGN UP for my NEWSLETTER to get all the latest. --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/marinalmcclure/message

Psalm 91 reinforces again and again the message we all need encouragement toward - especially right now: live your live tucked into Him, and new safety will be ours. We look at verses 7-10 today, and take away some helpful reminders about where we find our home. My goal for all of us: #ReadTheBibleBetter Marina's Website (www.MarinaLMcClure.com) Marina on Facebook Marina on Instagram Marina on Pinterest Marina on Twitter SIGN UP for my NEWSLETTER to get all the latest. --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/marinalmcclure/message

I love the Bible and I love birds, so this pair made for a happy scripture reading today! Psalm 91:4-6 gives us a beautiful picture, and maybe even course correction. GOD is our protector, our shield, the wing covering us, and keeping us safe. Our job isn't to fight off our fear or our dread. Our job is let God shelter us, cover us, love us as He already does. Listen for the full picture. My goal for all of us: #ReadTheBibleBetter Marina's Website (www.MarinaLMcClure.com) Marina on Facebook Marina on Instagram Marina on Pinterest Marina on Twitter SIGN UP for my NEWSLETTER to get all the latest. --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/marinalmcclure/message

As we work through Psalm 91, we might find the 3rd verse especially challenging and confusing in the age of the Coronavirus. So, what do we make of a verse promising protection from deadly disease? How do we reconcile the world we see around us with this portion of scripture? Good news, it's not as hard as it might seem. Today's episode touches on contextualization, genre, assumptions/conclusions, and the Spirit's activity through scripture. All as we look at one verse. Pretty fun stuff! My goal for all of us: #ReadTheBibleBetter Marina's Website (www.MarinaLMcClure.com) Marina on Facebook Marina on Instagram Marina on Pinterest Marina on Twitter SIGN UP for my NEWSLETTER to get all the latest. --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/marinalmcclure/message

Today, in our second video discussing Psalm 91, we take on verse 2. This was originally shared on Facebook Live, but wanted to share here too. Follow, Like, Etc below. And don't forget to SUBSCRIBE to my podcast. In Psalm 91:2, we look at the idea of owning our faith in God. We look at active trust, relying on God, leaning into Him. There is a lot to explore in just one verse. The Bible is fun like that. My goal for all of us: #ReadTheBibleBetter Marina's Website (www.MarinaLMcClure.com) Marina on Facebook Marina on Instagram Marina on Pinterest Marina on Twitter SIGN UP for my NEWSLETTER to get all the latest. --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/marinalmcclure/message

Starting a little series of daily scripture reading, reflection, prayer, random thoughts and more. This was originally shared on Facebook Live, but wanted to share here too. Follow, Like, Etc below. And don't forget to SUBSCRIBE to my channel. Please. :) I'm talking about Psalm 91:1 (that's really as far as I got), what it tells us about God's fortitude, and how we can stand steady in the midst of our fears and anxieties and everything else. Tomorrow, verse 2. God is good. My goal for all of us: #ReadTheBibleBetter Marina's Website (www.MarinaLMcClure.com) Marina on Facebook Marina on Instagram Marina on Pinterest Marina on Twitter SIGN UP for my NEWSLETTER to get all the latest. --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/marinalmcclure/message

So which one is it? ESV, CSB, NIV, MSG, KJV, NLT or what? Is there actually a best one? Why are there so many in the first place, and how are they different? Is there value in a "new" translation? Welcome to the whirlwind of Bible three-letter-acronyms that is English translation of the Bible. Don't worry. We'll sort it out. In this episode of the podcast, Marina breaks it down and helps you understand what you need to consider when picking up a translation to read. Don't forget to subscribe to the Read the Bible Better Podcast with Marina L. McClure. You can also check out MarinaLMcClure.com for more Bible resources.. The goal is for us to read and love the Bible as our own. This is a book for us! My goal for all of us: #ReadTheBibleBetter Marina's Website (www.MarinaLMcClure.com) Marina on Facebook Marina on Instagram Marina on Pinterest Marina on Twitter SIGN UP for my NEWSLETTER to get all the latest. --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/marinalmcclure/message