How to Study the Bible - Bible Study Made Simple

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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/.

  1. Am I Observing Christmas—or Worshiping Christ? The Theology of 'O Come, All Ye Faithful'

    1D AGO

    Am I Observing Christmas—or Worshiping Christ? The Theology of 'O Come, All Ye Faithful'

    In this final Advent music episode, Nicole Unice explores the beloved hymn “O Come, All You Faithful” as a powerful invitation—not just to celebrate Christmas, but to respond to it. Rather than merely observing the season, listeners are invited to come, behold, adore, and worship Christ as the center of the Christmas story. Drawing from Scripture across the Old and New Testaments, Nicole unpacks how this hymn calls us into joyful worship, faithful perseverance, and intentional participation in the life of Christ. This episode closes the Christmas hymns series with a reminder that true joy is found not in tradition alone, but in worshiping Jesus as Lord. Key Takeaways / Learning Points Joy is a posture of worship, not just a feeling Jesus is not just part of the Christmas story—He is the center of it Worship is the natural response to beholding Christ Faithfulness means continuing to receive God’s love, even in imperfection Christmas invites us to actively respond, not passively observe When we adore Christ, our hearts find true rest and alignment Bible Verses Referenced Psalm 100:1–2 – Worship the Lord with joy https://www.biblestudytools.com/psalms/100-1.html Micah 5:2 – The prophecy of Bethlehem https://www.biblestudytools.com/micah/5-2.html Matthew 2 – The Magi worship Jesus https://www.biblestudytools.com/matthew/2.html Luke 2:8–20 – Angels announce Christ’s birth https://www.biblestudytools.com/luke/2-8.html John 1:1–14 – The Word became flesh https://www.biblestudytools.com/john/1-14.html Colossians 1:15–17 – Christ supreme over creation https://www.biblestudytools.com/colossians/1-15.html Revelation 5:12 – Worthy is the Lamb https://www.biblestudytools.com/revelation/5-12.html Resources Mentioned: Free Christmas Eve Family Liturgy https://nicoleunice.com/christmas Hymn: “O Come, All You Faithful” Author Quote: C.S. Lewis “Christianity, if false, is of no importance, but if true, of infinite importance.” Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

    17 min
  2. Do I Live Like My Soul Has Worth? The Theology of 'O Holy Night'

    DEC 15

    Do I Live Like My Soul Has Worth? The Theology of 'O Holy Night'

    Why does O Holy Night move us so deeply? In this Advent episode, Nicole Unice walks through the biblical and theological foundations of one of the most powerful Christmas hymns ever written. Originally penned as a poem and later set to music by a Jewish composer, O Holy Night captures the longing of a broken world and the radical hope of Christ’s arrival. Nicole traces the hymn’s themes—human helplessness, soul-deep worth, freedom for the captive, and the proper response of worship—back to Scripture, helping listeners slow down, reflect, and experience the Gospel anew during the Christmas season. Listeners will: Discover why Christmas hymns carry such emotional and spiritual power Learn how O Holy Night reflects the entire Gospel story Understand why Jesus enters human weakness instead of waiting for human effort Explore the meaning of “the soul felt its worth” in light of Scripture See how freedom in Christ is both personal and social Be invited to reflect on how the incarnation changes the way we live today Listener Reflection Questions Do I live like this is true—that my soul has worth? Do I live like this is true of others as well? What is one small step I could take this season to live as if this truth really matters? Nicole also invites listeners to personally sit with and reflect on this phrase from O Holy Night: “The soul felt its worth.” What would it look like to make this personal—“my soul felt its worth”? 📖 Bible Verse References (Linked) All Scripture links point to BibleStudyTools.com: Matthew 2:1–2 — The star and the birth of Christ https://www.biblestudytools.com/matthew/2.html Romans 5:6 — Christ comes when we are helpless https://www.biblestudytools.com/romans/5-6.html 1 John 4:9 — God shows the worth of our souls https://www.biblestudytools.com/1-john/4-9.html Luke 4:18 — Freedom for captives https://www.biblestudytools.com/luke/4-18.html Philippians 2:10–11 — Every knee will bow https://www.biblestudytools.com/philippians/2.html Genesis 1:27 — Created with dignity and worth https://www.biblestudytools.com/genesis/1-27.html   Next Steps: ⭐ Leave a five-star rating or review on your podcast platform 📩 Subscribe to How to Study the Bible with Nicole Unice 🎄 Download the free Christmas Eve Family Liturgy: 👉 https://www.nicoleunice.com/christmas 📲 Share this episode with someone who loves Christmas music 🕯 Use this episode as a personal or family Advent reflection Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

    18 min
  3. God and Sinners Reconciled: The Deep Theology behind 'Hark the Herald Angels Sing'

    DEC 8

    God and Sinners Reconciled: The Deep Theology behind 'Hark the Herald Angels Sing'

    Jesus didn’t just come to teach us or inspire us; He came to reconcile us to God. In this Advent episode, Nicole explores Hark! The Herald Angels Sing—one of the most beloved Christmas hymns—and reveals how richly it is woven with Scripture. With more than 34 direct biblical references, Charles Wesley’s hymn is far more than a seasonal melody; it is a sweeping declaration of the Gospel. Nicole walks listeners through the incarnation, reconciliation, new birth, and the cosmic hope that Jesus brings. From Luke 2’s angelic announcement to Romans 5’s explanation of reconciliation, this episode unpacks why this hymn is actually a lyrical theology lesson celebrating Christ’s mission to redeem humanity. Main Takeaways: Why this Christmas hymn is actually a full retelling of the Gospel message How Luke 2 connects to the angels’ proclamation of peace and joy What “God and sinners reconciled” truly means according to Romans 5 The significance of Christ “laying His glory by” and becoming fully God and fully man Why being “born again” is the heart of the Christmas message How Jesus brings spiritual life that cannot die—even when our physical bodies do 📖 Bible Verses Mentioned (Linked to BibleStudyTools.com) Luke 2:8–14 — Angelic announcement of Christ’s birth Romans 5:1–11 — God and sinners reconciled Isaiah 7:14 — Prophecy of the virgin birth Isaiah 9:6 — Christ as Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace John 1:1–14 — The Word becomes flesh Philippians 2:5–11 — Christ “lays His glory by” Malachi 4:2 — “Sun of Righteousness” with healing in His wings John 11:25–26 — “Whoever believes in me will never die” John 3:1–8 — Born again Matthew 9:1–8 — Jesus heals the paralytic (spiritual healing first) Want More? Subscribe to How to Study the Bible with Nicole Unice Leave a rating or review to help other listeners discover the podcast Download Nicole’s free Christmas Eve Family Liturgy: https://www.nicoleunice.com/christmas Join Nicole’s newsletter for Bible resources and updates Share this episode with a friend who loves Christmas music Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

    20 min

  4. DEC 4

    Start Small, Stay Faithful: How Everyday Obedience Builds a Lifetime of Impact

    In this special bonus episode of How to Study the Bible, author and podcaster Carol McLeod joins Nicole to talk about falling in love with Scripture, walking with the Holy Spirit, and staying faithful in every season. From early-morning verse memory at her kitchen table, to decades of quiet service before writing her twentieth book, Carol reminds us that small beginnings matter. “His presence is all the preparation you need.” She shares a striking insight from Mark 5/Luke 8—linking a 12-year illness and a 12-year-old girl—and offers a tender word for anyone hurting this Christmas: Jesus came to carry your griefs. "Christmas is especially for you if you’re hurting; Jesus came to carry your griefs.” What We Discuss: Model > mandate: Carol fell in love with Scripture because her dad lived it and invited her into his early-morning Bible time with intentional verse memory. Start small & be faithful: Ministry often begins with a handful of people—dorm devos, a living-room group—long before books and microphones. His presence prepares us: You can plan, but ultimately “His presence is all the preparation you need” when you teach or serve. A double 12: A fresh reading of Mark 5/Luke 8 (woman hemorrhaging 12 years; Jairus’ daughter aged 12) calls us to care for both women with wounds and the next generation of girls who need Jesus. Christmas is for the brokenhearted: Christ came not only to bear our sins but also to carry our griefs—especially good news for a hard holiday season. Bible Verse References (linked) Lamentations 3:22–23 — His mercies are new every morning. Mark 5:21–43 / Luke 8:40–56 — Jairus’ daughter & the woman with the issue of blood (“Talitha koum”). Isaiah 53:4 — He has borne our griefs and carried our sorrows. Want More? Subscribe to How to Study the Bible and leave a rating/review to help others find the show. Connect with Carol: resources, books, and devotionals at CarolMcLeodMinistries.com. Discover Carol’s YouVersion plans: search “Carol McLeod” in the YouVersion Bible app. Holiday help: check out Carol’s Christmas devotional, Let There Be Joy. Check Out Carol's Podcast: The Significant Woman  Download Nicole’s free Christmas Eve Family Liturgy: nicoleunice.com/christmas Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

    27 min
  5. O Come O Come Emmanuel - Songs of the Advent Season

    DEC 1

    O Come O Come Emmanuel - Songs of the Advent Season

    “That deep ache you feel isn’t something to fix—it’s a holy longing for the Savior your soul was made to know.” In this special Advent series kickoff, Nicole Unice invites listeners to rediscover the heart of one of the most beloved Christmas hymns, O Come, O Come Emmanuel. With a blend of Scripture, history, and reflection, Nicole explores how this ancient song—written over 1,200 years ago—echoes the human ache for redemption and the promise of “God with us.” Learn how the minor-key melody captures our longing for restoration, how its lyrics draw from 29 different Bible passages, and how Emmanuel’s arrival transforms our grief into hope. Main Takeaways / Learning Points Advent invites longing: The season begins with honest reflection on our need for a Savior before celebrating His arrival. Scripture weaves through song: The six verses of O Come, O Come Emmanuel reference nearly 30 Bible passages, from Isaiah’s prophecies to the Gospels. Exile and redemption: Israel’s captivity mirrors humanity’s spiritual exile—and Emmanuel’s coming brings true homecoming. God with us today: Jesus’ name, Emmanuel, assures us that we are never alone. His presence transforms sorrow, fear, and uncertainty into peace and courage. Worship deepens memory: When we sing truth, it roots in our hearts—anchoring our minds to God’s promises long after the song ends. Bible Verse References (linked) Isaiah 7:14 — “The virgin will conceive... and call him Emmanuel.” Isaiah 35:10 — “The ransomed of the Lord will return to Zion with singing.” Isaiah 9:2 — “The people walking in darkness have seen a great light.” Luke 1:78–79 — “The dayspring from on high has visited us.” 1 Corinthians 15:54–57 — “Death is swallowed up in victory.” Galatians 4:4 — “When the fullness of time had come, God sent His Son.” Calls to Action (CTAs) Download Nicole’s free Christmas Eve Family Liturgy: nicoleunice.com/christmas Subscribe to How to Study the Bible for more Advent reflections. Share this episode with friends or your small group to spark hope-filled conversation. Follow Nicole on YouTube for video versions and bonus reflections each week. Relevant Links / Resources NicoleUnice.com/christmas — for a Free Family Liturgy LifeAudio.com — Explore other faith-based podcasts Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

    19 min
  6. Kingdom Breaking Through: Hope at the End of the Story - Daniel 12

    NOV 24

    Kingdom Breaking Through: Hope at the End of the Story - Daniel 12

    “Suffering never has the final word; resurrection does.” This week, Nicole wraps our study of Daniel by tracing the shift from history to “end of the age” prophecy (Daniel 11:36–12:13). We explore the final clash between human arrogance and divine authority, the promise of resurrection, and how followers of Jesus live as citizens of an unshakable Kingdom right now—resisting “mini-empires” of self through humility, faith, and love. Practical reflection questions help listeners translate apocalyptic hope into everyday faithfulness. Main Takeaways History → Hope: Daniel 11:36 marks a move from historical prophecy to a future, ultimate confrontation—yet God remains sovereign. Resurrection is central: Daniel 12 promises awakening “to everlasting life,” anchoring Christian hope beyond present trials. Faithful now: Wisdom is measured in faithfulness and righteousness, not conquest; we resist empire by daily obedience, love, and trust in Christ. Hold mystery with humility: Scripture gives what we need to live faithfully today, even when some details remain unresolved. Bible Verse References: Daniel 11:36 — The willful king and human arrogance. Daniel 12:1–4 — Deliverance, resurrection, and wisdom that “shines.” Daniel 12:3 — Those who lead many to righteousness shine forever. Philippians 2:15 — Shine like stars. Hebrews 12:28 — Receiving a Kingdom that cannot be shaken. Matthew 11:28–30 — Jesus’ easy yoke. Next Steps: Subscribe and leave a review to help others find the show. Download the free Daniel Study Guide: nicoleunice.com/daniel Watch the bonus “Digging Deeper” on YouTube about living faithfully in the age of empire. Share this episode with your small group. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

    19 min
  7. The Empire Devours Its Own — Power, Corruption, and the Faithful Remnant - Daniel 11

    NOV 17

    The Empire Devours Its Own — Power, Corruption, and the Faithful Remnant - Daniel 11

    “Every empire eventually turns inward—what’s built on pride always devours itself.” In Daniel 11, prophecy and history collide as Nicole Unice walks listeners through one of the most complex and detailed chapters in Scripture—a 400-year panorama of rising and falling empires from Persia to Greece to the early Seleucid rulers. This chapter exposes the fragile nature of human power and contrasts it with the unshakable Kingdom of God. Through vivid examples—from Alexander the Great to the tyrant Antiochus Epiphanes—Nicole shows how earthly empires mirror the human heart’s struggle for control, pride, and self-preservation. Yet amid corruption and chaos, God’s faithful people stand firm, reminding us that love, not violence or fear, is the true form of resistance in God’s Kingdom. Main Takeaways / Learning Points: History affirms prophecy: Daniel 11 accurately foreshadows 400 years of history between Persia and Greece, confirming that God’s Word aligns with historical reality. Empires mirror the human heart: Pride, control, greed, and fear—the same forces that shape nations—also war within individuals. Power corrupts when centered on self: The rise of rulers like Antiochus Epiphanes reminds us that when people worship power, they inevitably destroy what they seek to control. God preserves a faithful remnant: Even in the darkest eras, those “who know their God will stand firm and take action” (Daniel 11:32). Resistance in God’s Kingdom looks different: True strength shows up in humility, faithfulness, and love—not domination. Bible Verse References (linked) Daniel 11:2–4 — Prophecy of Persia and Greece. Daniel 11:21–23 — A contemptible ruler seizes power. Daniel 11:32–35 — The faithful resist corruption. 1 Chronicles 16:9 — God’s eyes search the earth to strengthen His people. Matthew 5:44 — Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you. Calls to Action (CTAs) Subscribe to How to Study the Bible with Nicole Unice for weekly studies. Download the free Daniel Study Guide: nicoleunice.com/daniel Watch the bonus “Digging Deeper” video on YouTube: What does it mean to resist empire through love? Share this episode with a small group or study partner walking through Daniel. Relevant Links / Resources Free Study Guide: nicoleunice.com/daniel YouTube Channel: How to Study the Bible with Nicole Unice LifeAudio Network: lifeaudio.com Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

    17 min
  8. Can We Know What’s Really Happening in the Spiritual Realm? - Daniel 10

    NOV 10

    Can We Know What’s Really Happening in the Spiritual Realm? - Daniel 10

    “Healthy theology affirms the spiritual realm without obsessing over it. Faith keeps us grounded when the unseen feels overwhelming.” In Daniel 10, the curtain between heaven and earth is pulled back, revealing an unseen world of spiritual activity. As Daniel receives a new vision and encounters a radiant messenger, we’re reminded that God’s purposes are unfolding even when we can’t see them. Nicole Unice explores what Scripture teaches about the spiritual realm—what’s revealed, what’s mysterious, and how believers can live anchored in confidence rather than fear. She balances two extremes: over-focusing on spiritual warfare or dismissing it altogether. The episode draws out timeless truths about prayer, unseen realities, and the sovereignty of God that will carry into Daniel 11 and 12. Main Takeaways There is an unseen realm: Both Old and New Testaments affirm that invisible realities exist (see Ephesians 6:12, Colossians 1:16, Hebrews 1:14). God hears our prayers—even when we can’t see results. The angel tells Daniel his prayer was heard immediately, though the answer was delayed by spiritual resistance (Daniel 10:12–13). Healthy theology stays balanced. We recognize the spiritual realm without obsessing over it. Faith, prayer, and Scripture keep us grounded. Revelation points to the Revealer. The focus is not on angels or visions but on the God who reveals Himself and strengthens His people. Trust closes the gap between prayer and response. Faith bridges the unseen—God’s timing and sovereignty are trustworthy even when unseen battles rage. Bible Verse References: Daniel 10:12–13 — God hears Daniel’s prayer. Ephesians 6:12 — Our struggle is not against flesh and blood. Hebrews 1:14 — Angels are ministering spirits sent to serve believers. Colossians 1:16 — All things, visible and invisible, are created through Christ. Psalm 139:16 — All our days are written in God’s book. Calls to Action (CTAs) Subscribe to How to Study the Bible with Nicole Unice for weekly studies. Watch the bonus “Digging Deeper” video on YouTube: Who are angels and what role do they play today? Download the free Daniel study guide at nicoleunice.com/daniel. Share the episode with a friend or group exploring biblical spirituality. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

    20 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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