How to Study the Bible - Bible Study Made Simple

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How to Study the Bible - Bible Study Made Simple

As Christians, we want to experience God through the Bible… we really do! But our good intentions fall flat when reading the Bible just doesn’t seem to help us experience God in a real way. What should feel dynamic and important and alive often feels confusing and boring and irrelevant. But it doesn’t have to feel this way. In this bible study podcast, pastor and Bible teacher Nicole Unice brings life back to reading the Bible by walking listeners through her Alive Method of Bible study, helping us personally encounter God through His Word by giving us a practical, clear road map for understanding, interpreting and applying Scripture to our lives.  Topics covered in this podcast: 💡 Three Common Obstacles to Understanding the Bible 💡The Basics of Bible Study (Observation, Interpretation) and How to Apple the Bible to Your Life 💡Deep Dive into Bible Studies by Books of the Bible (We've covered Ecclesiastes, Romans, Matthew, and more!) 💡 Topical Bible study lessons on Joy, Contentment, Prayer and more 💡 Spiritual Rhythms: Creating New Rhythms in Your Life 💡 4 Principles You Need to Interpret Difficult Scripture To find more from Nicole, visit https://nicoleunice.com/.

  1. 6D AGO

    How to Know if Your Motives Are Right When You Give, Fast, & Pray (A Bible Study on Matthew 6)

    In this episode of How to Study the Bible, we dive into week two of the "Take Action" series, focusing on Matthew 6. The Importance of Having the Right Motives When Giving, Praying, and Fasting In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus emphasizes the significance of having the right motives when engaging in spiritual practices such as giving, praying, and fasting. This teaching is crucial for understanding how to live as citizens of the Kingdom of God, as it highlights the difference between outward actions and the inner motivations that drive those actions. 1. Understanding the "When" Statements Jesus introduces three key "when" statements in Matthew chapter six: "when you give," "when you pray," and "when you fast." These statements assume that these practices will be integral to a believer's life. However, Jesus is not merely concerned with the actions themselves; He is deeply interested in the motivations behind them. Giving: Jesus warns against giving to be seen by others, stating that those who do so have already received their reward. Instead, He encourages giving in secret, where the focus is on pleasing God rather than seeking human approval. Praying: Similarly, Jesus instructs His followers to avoid public displays of prayer intended for recognition. Instead, He advocates for private prayer, emphasizing that God sees what is done in secret and will reward those who seek Him sincerely. Fasting: When it comes to fasting, Jesus again points out the danger of performing this act for the sake of appearance. He encourages His followers to fast in a way that is not obvious to others, reinforcing the idea that fasting should be about drawing closer to God rather than seeking the admiration of people. 2. The Wrong Motives Throughout this teaching, it is clear that Jesus identifies specific wrong motives associated with these practices. The desire for recognition, honor, or validation from others can lead to a focus on self rather than on God. This self-centered approach ultimately undermines the true purpose of these spiritual disciplines. Recognition: If the motivation for giving, praying, or fasting is to be seen as generous, pious, or disciplined, then the individual has already received their reward in the form of human applause. This is a temporary and superficial reward that lacks eternal significance. Self-Righteousness: Engaging in these practices to appear holy or superior to others can lead to a false sense of righteousness. Jesus challenges this mindset by calling for authenticity and sincerity in one's relationship with God. 3. The Right Motives In contrast, Jesus invites His followers to engage in these practices with the right motives—those that seek to honor God and align with His will. The emphasis is on the heart's intention rather than the outward display of spirituality. Seeking God's Approval: The true reward comes from God, who sees the heart and recognizes genuine acts of faith. When believers give, pray, or fast with the intention of drawing closer to God and serving others, they align themselves with the values of the Kingdom. Impact of Secret Acts: This teaching highlights the power of secret acts of devotion. Many struggle to believe that private prayers or hidden acts of kindness can have a significant impact. However, Jesus reassures His followers that these actions are powerful in God's eyes and contribute to a deeper relationship with Him. 4. The Conditional "If" Statement The teaching also discusses the conditional "if" statement found in verse 14 regarding forgiveness. Jesus states, "if you forgive," indicating that forgiveness is a choice that believers must actively make. This choice reflects the heart's posture and willingness to extend grace, which is essential for receiving God's forgiveness in return. 5. The Do-Nots Finally, Jesus provides two "do-nots" that further emphasize the importance of motives: Do Not Store Up Treasures on Earth: This warning serves as a reminder that material possessions should not take precedence over spiritual wealth. The focus should be on generosity and the eternal impact of one's actions. Do Not Worry: Jesus encourages His followers to trust in God's provision rather than being consumed by anxiety about their needs. This trust is rooted in the understanding that God cares for His creation and will provide for those who seek Him first. Want to send Nicole a question for a future Listener Questions episode? Email her at nicole@nicoleunice.com  THIS WEEK'S RESOURCES: 📬 Sign up for Nicole’s newsletter to get regular encouragement right in your inbox: https://nicoleunice.com/realtalk 📖 Nicole’s newest book: Not What I Signed Up For → Get the intro, first chapter, and a free prayer guide at: https://nicoleunice.com/notwhatisignedupfor 📘 Want to feel more confident reading Scripture? Check out Help! My Bible is Alive! 🛍️ Find all of Nicole’s books and resources on Amazon or Barnes & Noble. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

    16 min

  2. MAY 5

    The Beatitudes: A New Ethic for Followers of Jesus

    In this episode of "How to Study the Bible," we kick off an exciting six-week series focused on the Sermon on the Mount. We'll explore how Jesus instructs us to build and take action on our faith. I encourage you to subscribe to the podcast to stay updated with each episode. We dive into Matthew 5, examining how Jesus flips conventional wisdom upside down. I provide context by comparing Jesus' teachings to the events in Exodus, where Moses received the Ten Commandments. Jesus, like Moses, goes up a mountainside to teach, but He brings a new kingdom ethic that challenges and deepens our understanding of God's laws. Key themes in this chapter include the invitation to participate and practice our faith, and the call to integrity, aligning our inner motivations with our outward actions. Jesus raises the bar on commandments like murder and adultery, emphasizing the importance of our thoughts and intentions. This episode highlights the importance of humility and recognizing our limitations. Jesus sets a high standard to help us understand our need for Him. As we journey through these teachings, I encourage you to embrace your weaknesses and see them as the starting point for transformation. Want to send Nicole a question for a future Listener Questions episode? Email her at nicole@nicoleunice.com  THIS WEEK'S RESOURCES: 📬 Sign up for Nicole’s newsletter to get regular encouragement right in your inbox: https://nicoleunice.com/realtalk 📖 Nicole’s newest book: Not What I Signed Up For → Get the intro, first chapter, and a free prayer guide at: https://nicoleunice.com/notwhatisignedupfor 📘 Want to feel more confident reading Scripture? Check out Help! My Bible is Alive! 🛍️ Find all of Nicole’s books and resources on Amazon or Barnes & Noble. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

    14 min

  3. APR 28

    Your Tough Questions, Answered!

    You guys did not go light with your questions, and today, we're tackling them all. Listen in as we tackle questions around heaven, sexuality and the role of women in the church.  Want to send Nicole a question for a future Listener Questions episode? Email her at nicole@nicoleunice.com  THIS WEEK'S RESOURCES: 📬 Sign up for Nicole’s newsletter to get regular encouragement right in your inbox: https://nicoleunice.com/realtalk 📖 Nicole’s newest book: Not What I Signed Up For → Get the intro, first chapter, and a free prayer guide at: https://nicoleunice.com/notwhatisignedupfor 📘 Want to feel more confident reading Scripture? Check out Help! My Bible is Alive! 🛍️ Find all of Nicole’s books and resources on Amazon or Barnes & Noble. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

    26 min

  4. APR 21

    Not an Ending, But a Beginning (A Bible Study on John 21)

    John 20 concludes with the risen Christ appearing to His disciples. While it seems like a fitting end, John 21 is intentionally placed to signify a new beginning. This chapter illustrates how the disciples, despite having encountered the resurrected Jesus, return to their ordinary lives, yet everything has changed because of His presence. The Miraculous Catch of Fish One of the key events in John 21 is the miraculous catch of fish. The disciples, led by Peter, go fishing but catch nothing all night. At dawn, Jesus appears on the shore and instructs them to cast their nets on the right side of the boat, resulting in an overwhelming catch of 153 fish. This moment echoes the earlier calling of the disciples and serves as a reminder of Jesus's authority and the transformative power of following His commands. Peter's Restoration The heart of the chapter lies in the personal conversation between Jesus and Peter. After breakfast, Jesus asks Peter three times, "Do you love me?" This repetition mirrors Peter's three denials of Christ, creating a powerful moment of restoration. Jesus does not ignore Peter's past failures but instead confronts them to heal and restore their relationship. Through this dialogue, Jesus commissions Peter to "feed my lambs" and "take care of my sheep," emphasizing the responsibility of leadership and care within the community of believers. This call to action is not just for Peter but extends to all followers of Christ, urging them to actively participate in the work of the Gospel. Questions to Consider This Week: How can you make God's name great in your daily lives? Do you expect to see God's presence in the ordinary, whether in nature, relationships, or daily tasks? This perspective aligns with the overarching message of John 21: that even in the mundane, the extraordinary can be found when one is attuned to the work of Christ. Want to send Nicole a question for next week's episode? Email her at nicole@nicoleunice.com  THIS WEEK'S RESOURCES: 📬 Sign up for Nicole’s newsletter to get regular encouragement right in your inbox: https://nicoleunice.com/realtalk 📖 Nicole’s newest book: Not What I Signed Up For → Get the intro, first chapter, and a free prayer guide at: https://nicoleunice.com/notwhatisignedupfor 📘 Want to feel more confident reading Scripture? Check out Help! My Bible is Alive! 🛍️ Find all of Nicole’s books and resources on Amazon or Barnes & Noble. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

    21 min

  5. APR 14

    Breath of Life: Jesus' Commission to His Disciples (A Bible Study on John 20:19-23)

    This week, we're going to study a profound moment in the Gospel of John, specifically John 20:19-23, where Jesus appears to his disciples after his resurrection. This moment is pivotal, encapsulating the essence of the peace that Jesus offers to his followers. Peace Beyond Circumstances The first gift that Jesus extends to his disciples is peace. Upon entering the locked room where the disciples were gathered in fear, Jesus greets them with the words, "Peace be with you." This greeting is not merely a formality; it signifies a deep, abiding peace that transcends the immediate circumstances of fear and uncertainty that the disciples were experiencing. Rooted in the Truth of the Resurrection The peace that Jesus offers is deeply intertwined with the truth of his resurrection. After greeting the disciples, Jesus shows them his hands and side, demonstrating the reality of his suffering and the truth of his resurrection. This act serves to confirm everything he had previously taught them about his mission and the new world order he was establishing. Comfort and Joy The peace that Jesus offers is not just a passive state; it actively brings comfort and joy to his followers. When believers are in the presence of Christ, the primary emotions they should experience are peace and joy, rather than shame or fear. This transformative experience shifts their perspective from one of anxiety to one of hope and assurance. After offering peace, Jesus commissions the disciples, breathing the Holy Spirit into them and sending them out into the world. This commissioning is a call to share the gospel, which includes the message of forgiveness and the hope that comes from knowing Christ. Questions to Consider This Week: Who do you need to offer the peace of Christ to this week? To whom do you need to offer forgiveness? THIS WEEK'S RESOURCES: 📬 Sign up for Nicole’s newsletter to get regular encouragement right in your inbox: https://nicoleunice.com/realtalk 📖 Nicole’s newest book: Not What I Signed Up For → Get the intro, first chapter, and a free prayer guide at: https://nicoleunice.com/notwhatisignedupfor 📘 Want to feel more confident reading Scripture? Check out Help! My Bible is Alive! 🛍️ Find all of Nicole’s books and resources on Amazon or Barnes & Noble. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

    21 min

  6. APR 7

    I Have Seen the Lord: Mary Magdalene’s Powerful Encounter with the Risen Jesus

    Last week, we walked through the crucifixion and the meaning behind Jesus’ final words, “It is finished.” If you haven’t listened to that episode, I’d love for you to go back and check it out. But today, we’re focusing on just three words spoken in this chapter—words from Mary Magdalene: “I have seen the Lord.” one of the most powerful and personal moments in all of Scripture—John chapter 20. So what does it mean to really see the Lord? How does this resurrection story become personal? And why does this matter for our lives right now? In This Episode: A Grieving Heart, A Personal Encounter Mary stays behind at the empty tomb, weeping—and Jesus meets her there. He speaks her name. She turns. She sees. She believes. The Power of a Name Jesus doesn’t reveal Himself with a grand announcement—He simply says her name. This is what He does with us too—He meets us personally, tenderly, right where we are. “I Have Seen the Lord” This declaration isn’t just a statement—it’s a witness. Mary becomes the first evangelist of the resurrection. Her story, and our story, is rooted in personal encounter with Jesus. Your Invitation Today Jesus is still calling names. He’s still showing up. He’s still inviting us to turn and see Him—to believe, to be changed, and to share that hope with others. Let This Encourage You: We serve a God who weaves together beauty out of sorrow, who calls us by name, and who invites us into a living, personal relationship with Him. May you be able to say today, with confidence: “I have seen the Lord.” THIS WEEK'S RESOURCES: 📬 Sign up for Nicole’s newsletter to get regular encouragement right in your inbox: https://nicoleunice.com/realtalk 📖 Nicole’s newest book: Not What I Signed Up For → Get the intro, first chapter, and a free prayer guide at: https://nicoleunice.com/notwhatisignedupfor 📘 Want to feel more confident reading Scripture? Check out Help! My Bible is Alive! 🛍️ Find all of Nicole’s books and resources on Amazon or Barnes & Noble. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

    22 min

  7. MAR 31

    It Is Finished: Understanding the Significance of Jesus' Final Words on the Cross

    It is finished. This week, we are in part two of our Signs and Prophecies little mini series, this part of John chapter 19, Jesus's crucifixion, his death, and the profound significance of what Jesus has done for us through the cross. We were in and talked deeply about all of these pieces and details of the story of his crucifixion and how they connect to the Old Testament last week. So if you have not listened to that, I would encourage you to go back and listen to it. But what I want to do today is focus truly on only three words that are spoken in this chapter. We're going to look at Jesus declaring it is finished. What is he talking about? What mission was he on? And how was it completed at that moment? Completion of Jesus' Mission Obedience to the Father: Throughout His ministry, Jesus emphasized His commitment to fulfilling the will of the Father. In John 4 and John 17, He speaks of His mission to take on the sin of the world. This mission extends beyond individual sins to encompass the totality of sin that has corrupted creation. By declaring "It is finished," Jesus confirms that He has completed the work necessary for redemption. Fulfillment of Prophecy: Jesus' death on the cross fulfills numerous Old Testament prophecies regarding the Messiah. The significance of this fulfillment connects to the overarching narrative of God's plan for humanity. The declaration "It is finished" signifies that God was not surprised by the events of redemption; rather, they were part of a divine plan established from the beginning. This understanding reassures believers that God's sovereignty encompasses both human agency and the unfolding of history. Theological Significance of "Tētelestai": The Greek word "tētelestai," translated as "It is finished," carries legal and financial connotations, meaning "paid in full." This indicates that the debt of sin has been completely settled. Jesus' sacrifice on the cross was a one-time act that paid the penalty for sin—past, present, and future. This moment marks the end of the need for repeated sacrifices, as Jesus' death serves as the ultimate atonement. End of the Old Covenant: Jesus' declaration signifies the conclusion of the old covenant sacrificial system. In the Old Testament, atonement for sin required continual sacrifices, but with Jesus' death, the need for such sacrifices is abolished. He is the perfect Passover lamb, and His sacrifice fulfills the requirements of the law, allowing believers to enter into a new relationship with God without the need for ongoing sacrifices. Victory Over Evil: The declaration "It is finished" also signifies victory over Satan and the forces of evil. While Jesus' death may have appeared as a defeat, it was, in fact, a triumph over sin, death, and the devil. By saying "It is finished," Jesus announces that the power of sin has been broken, and the enemy's work has been destroyed. His resurrection further affirms this victory, demonstrating that death has been conquered. Beginning of the New Covenant: Finally, Jesus' declaration marks the initiation of the new covenant. During the Last Supper, He spoke of a new covenant in His blood, which is now available to all who believe. This new covenant transcends ethnic and national boundaries, offering salvation to anyone who places their faith in Him. The declaration "It is finished" opens the door for all of humanity to receive eternal life through belief in Jesus. We're going to be looking at what happens next in the resurrection in the coming weeks. But until that time, I want to encourage you to rest in this reality that we have a God who has woven together this incredibly beautiful, long, detailed story of exactly what happens here in this culminating moment where we see all of Jesus's life come to fruition his mission completed here on the cross so that you and I might have life and freedom and love and confidence in knowing our Heavenly Father. Talk to you next week.  THIS WEEK'S RESOURCES: Sign up for Nicole's newsletter and get regular encouragement straight to your inbox: https://nicoleunice.com/realtalk/ Help! My Bible is Alive! Nicole’s Newest Book: Not What I Signed Up For  When you go to NicoleUnice.com/notwhatisignedupfor you'll get the intro, first chapter and a free prayer guide!  Find all of Nicole's books and resources on Amazon or Barnes & Noble Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

    17 min

  8. MAR 24

    Signs and Prophecies (John 19) - Part 1

    Hey Friends, Welcome back to How to Study the Bible. As we journey through the Gospel of John, we find ourselves in Passion Week—a time that prepares us for the crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus. With Easter approaching, it’s a perfect moment to reflect on the weight of this season. Today’s Focus: John 19 We're delving into the profound details surrounding Jesus' crucifixion and the significance of the signs and prophecies that unfold. Key Points Covered: The Reality of Pain: Jesus' crucifixion is a painful narrative, revealing the depths of human depravity. We confront the reality of our own darkness through this lens. Prophetic Fulfillment: Each detail of Jesus’ suffering points back to Old Testament prophecies, illustrating that nothing happened by chance. Key prophecies include: Casting lots for His garments (Psalm 22:18) Not breaking His bones (Exodus 12:46; Psalm 34:20) Being pierced (Zechariah 12:10) The Significance of the Sign: Pilate's inscription, "Jesus of Nazareth, King of the Jews," highlights the irony of Jesus' kingship and its universal significance across cultures—Hebrew, Latin, and Greek. Understanding Atonement: Jesus' death isn’t merely a historical event; it's the atonement for our sins, fulfilling His role as our divine sacrifice (Isaiah 53:5). Think About It: How do you process the pain and suffering in your life? In what areas do you need to trust God’s plan, especially when it feels dark? Challenge: Reflect on the weight of Jesus' sacrifice this Easter. Consider what it means for your faith journey, especially in light of the injustices and pains you face. Join us next week as we continue to explore the signs and prophecies surrounding Jesus' journey to the cross! Thanks for listening and for your support—don't forget to subscribe and leave a review! Until next time, keep digging into the Word! Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

    22 min
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As Christians, we want to experience God through the Bible… we really do! But our good intentions fall flat when reading the Bible just doesn’t seem to help us experience God in a real way. What should feel dynamic and important and alive often feels confusing and boring and irrelevant. But it doesn’t have to feel this way. In this bible study podcast, pastor and Bible teacher Nicole Unice brings life back to reading the Bible by walking listeners through her Alive Method of Bible study, helping us personally encounter God through His Word by giving us a practical, clear road map for understanding, interpreting and applying Scripture to our lives.  Topics covered in this podcast: 💡 Three Common Obstacles to Understanding the Bible 💡The Basics of Bible Study (Observation, Interpretation) and How to Apple the Bible to Your Life 💡Deep Dive into Bible Studies by Books of the Bible (We've covered Ecclesiastes, Romans, Matthew, and more!) 💡 Topical Bible study lessons on Joy, Contentment, Prayer and more 💡 Spiritual Rhythms: Creating New Rhythms in Your Life 💡 4 Principles You Need to Interpret Difficult Scripture To find more from Nicole, visit https://nicoleunice.com/.

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