Discover the Word Podcast

Our Daily Bread Ministries
  • 4.8 (457)
  • Christianity
  • Updated Weekly

Discover the Word is a weekly, Bible-study podcast that invites you to join a team of hosts — and maybe a special guest or two — in breaking down passages of Scripture to discover fresh perspective and practical application.

  1. In God's Presence

    4d ago

    In God's Presence

    In a sense, you could say that the entire Bible is about God’s desire to dwell with his people. Immanuel—God with us. Experiencing God’s presence is what we were created for. And we are promised in Scripture that if we seek God, we will find Him. But how do we experience the presence of God when we don’t see Him or feel like He’s with us? Well, in this series of conversations with Dr. David Mathewson, the Discover the Word group explores how experiencing God’s presence can be a regular practice and experience of God’s people. And time In His Presence can transform, heal, and empower us. Receive  From Genesis to Revelation, the Bible is the story of God dwelling with His people. We were created to commune with God, but it can be challenging since we can’t see or feel Him.  How can you experience God’s presence on a regular basis?  Is there something hindering you from spending time in God’s Word and in prayer and worship so you can experience His transforming, empowering, and healing presence and power in your life?  God longs to make His presence known to you.   What could your next step toward seeking God’s presence look like?    Reflect   How does Genesis 1–2 reveal God’s desire from the very beginning to dwell among His people?  According to Hebrews 4:11, why is spending time with God so important? How do you feel knowing that we have access to God the Father through His Son Jesus as it says in Hebrews10:19–22?  What did the Bible figures mentioned throughout Hebrews 11 get commended for and how can that encourage you on your journey? What helped the psalmist in Psalm 73 go from despair to hope? Even now, how can you gaze upon God’s beauty as it says in Psalm 27:4? How does Revelation 4–5 fill you with hope for what awaits in heaven?   Respond  (Use this prayer to start a conversation with God)  “Dear God, thank You that You long to spend time with me. Thank You that I can feel Your presence even though I can’t see You. Help me as I seek to feel Your loving, healing, and empowering presence in my life. Thank You that in Your presence, there is fullness of joy!”         Discover more about the topics in this episode with these recommended resources  Mentioned in this episode:  30 Days in God's Presence  by Dr. David Mathewson from Denver Seminary and Jennifer J Fitzgerald   Listen:  What Is Faith?  Does Sabbath Still Matter? Read:  In His Presence  The Promise of Presence - John 14:15–17, 25–31  Watch:  Hebrews 11:1 - Biblical Faith  Revelation 4:8 | Holy, Holy, Holy

    1h 7m
  2. Nicodemus (John 3)

    May 24

    Nicodemus (John 3)

    What did Jesus mean when He told Nicodemus that he must be “born again”? Join us as we explore Jesus’ conversation with Nicodemus. Discover why the concept was so difficult for Nicodemus to grasp and why we also sometimes struggle with the truth that is so central to the Christian faith. Receive  Jesus often said things that unsettled the very people who thought they understood God best. When He told Nicodemus he must be “born again,” it didn’t fit his framework—and he struggled to receive it.  Where might the same be true for you?  Is there anything—assumptions, expectations, past experiences—that could be shaping how you hear Jesus’ words today? Ask God to gently reveal and release anything that’s getting in the way.  Nicodemus didn’t understand everything at first, but he kept moving toward Jesus—stepping out of the shadows, speaking up, and showing up when it mattered most.  What might your next step toward Jesus look like?  Reflect   Read John 3. As you reflect on the chapter, what stands out to you?   Why do you think Nicodemus struggled to understand the meaning of being “born again” that Jesus mentioned in John 3:1–4? According to John 3:5–15, why must Jesus’ followers be “born again”? Based on  John 7:50–51 and John 19:38–42, do you think Nicodemus eventually understood what it meant to be “born again” and became a follower of Jesus? How does John 3:16–17 encourage you as you read about God’s immense love for you?  Respond  (Use this prayer to start a conversation with God)  “Dear God, thank You that by Your Holy Spirit I can be born into Your kingdom. Thank You for renewing and cleansing me. Help me overcome any baggage that may be hindering me from completely receiving Your gift of eternal life through Your Son Jesus’ sacrificial death and resurrection. Help me as I seek to live for You.”       Discover more about the topics in this episode with these recommended resources  Mentioned in this episode:  I Am the Way   The Chosen Season 1, Episode 2  The Chosen Season 1, Episode 7  Listen:  The Pharisees Week 1  For God So Loved   Read:  Love: What does Jesus see when he looks at me?  The Gospel Here and Now  Jesus and Nicodemus    Watch:  God Loves You!  God’s Daily Love

    1h 6m
  3. What's with All the Trees?

    May 17

    What's with All the Trees?

    The word “trees” shows up more than 200 times in the Bible. Discover why it may not just be “the heavens that declare the glory of God” but also trees. Receive  The Bible mentions trees more than 200 times throughout the Old and New Testament. From Genesis to Psalms to Matthew and into Revelation, it seems as though many significant theological events in the Bible are marked by a tree. As we consider the significance behind many of the trees included throughout Scripture, may we discover that not only do the heavens declare the glory of God, but so do trees. As we ponder the crucial role trees play in how the story of the Bible is told, let’s look for God’s fingerprints wherever we see a tree or a branch or a bush or a root or some kind of fruit mentioned in a passage. And as we notice the trees in our world a little more, may they help point us to God.  Reflect  Read the verses connected with this episode below. As you reflect on the Scripture, what stands out to you?   Genesis 18:1 Genesis 21:33 Deuteronomy 16:21–22 Judges 9:8–15 1 Kings 19:4–5a Isaiah 11:1  Jeremiah 1:11  Ezekiel 17:24  Daniel 4:10–12  John 1:48–50  In Genesis 2:4–9 and Genesis 2:16–17 we read about the tree of knowledge. Why did God want to protect Adam and Eve from this one tree? How do Psalm 1:3, Psalm 52:8, Psalm 92:12, and Proverbs 15:4 describe what it looks like to be flourishing in our Christian life?   What can we learn from the warning we read in Matthew 7:15–20? How do Acts 5:30, Romans 11:17–18, and Galatians 3:13 point to Jesus redeeming us from our sin?      How do the mentions of the tree of life found in Revelation 2:7 and Revelation 22:1–2 encourage you? Based on Psalm 1:3, Matthew 7:15–20, Luke 6:43–45, and James 3:12, what are some of the signs of a good tree vs. a bad tree?   Respond  (Use this prayer to start a conversation with God)  “Dear God, thank You for telling us of Your goodness and glory even through trees. Help me to think of Your lovingkindness, provision, and protection when I read about the beautiful array of trees in Scripture and see the trees You have placed along my path. Help me to join the heavens and trees in declaring Your glory!”  Discover more about the topics in this episode with these recommended resources  Mentioned in this episode:  Reclaim Today: Prayers for Ordinary Moments  The Hidden Life of Trees   Listen:  The Orchard  The Connected Life Read:  Wonder  How Firm a Foundation Watch:  How Nature Makes God Visible Becoming The Tree God Intends Us To Be

    1h 4m
  4. Tables in the Story of God - Week 2

    May 10

    Tables in the Story of God - Week 2

    The Bible is filled with feasts and tables set for God’s people. Discover the significance of these meals and gatherings and why they still matter today. Receive  God delights in setting a table for His people. From the last supper Jesus shared with His disciples before His sacrificial death to the meals He shared with His disciples after His glorious resurrection, there are various lovely moments of fellowship between Jesus and His followers recorded for us in Scripture. The early church also knew the importance of breaking bread together. As we consider the meals mentioned in the Old and New Testaments and the greatest wedding banquet that’s still to come mentioned in Revelation, may we rejoice in knowing that God lovingly provides for our every need.    Reflect  What do Matthew 9:9–13, Luke 19:1–10, and Luke 7:34 teach us about who is invited to the Lord’s table? Why does Jesus’ last supper with His disciples recorded in Matthew 26:17–30, Mark 14:12–26, Luke 22:7–23, and John 13–17 still matter to us today? Why did Jesus break bread with His disciples even after His resurrection as mentioned in Luke 24:30–32 and John 21:1–14?   In Acts 2:42–27 we read about the early church sharing meals together. Why would that have been so important to them?   Isaiah 61:10–62:5 and Revelation 19:6–9 point to the church being the bride of Christ and look ahead to Jesus’ bridal banquet. How do these Bible verses help you understand how precious you are to God?  Respond  (Use this prayer to start a conversation with God)  “Dear God, thank You for your love and faithfulness. Thank you for providing for my every need. Help me to trust You even more with every day that passes. Help me to live for You especially as the day of Your great bridal banquet approaches.”    Discover more about the topics in this episode with these recommended resources  Mentioned in this episode:  The Holy Land Series Listen:  The Abundant God Sinners Dinners Read:  The God Who Protects and Provides Humble Hearts, Open Hands Watch:  Feast of Sukkah  Inviting Others to the Table

    1h 6m
  5. Tables in the Story of God - Week 1

    May 3

    Tables in the Story of God - Week 1

    Whether it’s in the Garden of Eden, Egypt, the wilderness, or a mountainside near the Sea of Galilee, God knows how to provide for His people. Let’s learn about the tables and meals in Scripture. Receive  How lovely that the story of God happens around tables. From the farm-to-table picnic of lavish eating in the Garden of Eden, to the “fast food,” rushed meal during the first Passover, to God’s provision in the wilderness of heavenly food, on into the New Testament servings of a simple lunch to feed thousands, God delights in providing for His people. May we relish in knowing that God longs to fellowship with His people, including us, and a wonderful way He chooses to do so is to set a table for us.  Reflect  Read the verses connected with this episode below. As you reflect on the Scripture, what stands out to you? Genesis 1–3 Exodus 12:1–20 Exodus 16 Psalm 23:5  Matthew 14:13–21 Mark 6:30–44 Luke 9:13–17 John 6:1–13 How does Genesis 1:29–30 show God’s generosity toward Adam and Eve in the Garden of Eden? How does the Passover lamb mentioned in Exodus 12:12–13 point to the coming of Jesus, the Lamb of God? What does Exodus 16:13-20 teach us about God’s willingness and ability to provide for His people even in the wilderness? Psalm 23:5 says God prepares a table for you even in difficult situations. How does that give you courage? How does the miracle of Jesus feeding the 5,000 with just a simple lunch found in Matthew 14:13–21, Mark 6:30–44, Luke 9:13–17, and John 6:1–13 encourage you that God can provide for your needs?   Respond  (Use this prayer to start a conversation with God)  “Dear God, thank You for how You lovingly provide for Your people from generation to generation. Thank You for how You continue to faithfully provide for me. Help me to always believe that You alone can satisfy my every need.”    Discover more about the topics in this episode with these recommended resources  Mentioned in this episode:  The Holy Land Series Listen:  The Abundant God Sinners Dinners Read:  From Loaves to Love  Gardens and the History of Humanity  Watch:  Are You Hungry?  Provision in Every Season

    1h 4m
  6. The Apocrypha

    Apr 26

    The Apocrypha

    Discover the Jewish writings between the Testaments, known as the Apocrypha, and why they still matter for Christians today. Receive  The books in the Apocrypha may be a mystery to us, but when we consider that they played a role in shaping Judaism during Jesus’ time and the apostle Paul’s life and that they would have influenced the early church, it may be worth learning about these ancient texts. Perhaps by being familiar with these writings, we’ll get a better understanding of the culture and teachings of the devout Jews who wrote them during the “silent years” between Malachi and Matthew, and we will discover how the writings may still influence us today.  Reflect  Read the verses connected with this episode below. As you reflect on the Scripture, what stands out to you? Mark 6:2 Matthew 6:12  Matthew 18:14–35  Luke 6:30–36 Philippians 3:6  Hebrews 1:1–4  Colossians 1:15–17 Could some of Jesus’ teaching referred to in Mark 6:2 have reminded listeners of some of the writings from devout Jews found in the Apocrypha?   When you read Jesus’ teachings about forgiveness found in Matthew 6:12, Matthew 18:14–35 and loving your enemies in Luke 6:30–36, do they echo some of the teachings found in the Apocrypha? Could Philippians 3:6 be an example of how the apostle Paul may have been influenced by the Apocrypha?  Could Hebrews 1:1–4 and Colossians 1:15–17 be examples of how the early church used language found in the Apocrypha to express their thoughts about Jesus?  Respond  (Use this prayer to start a conversation with God)  “Dear God, thank You that I can learn about You and Your Son Jesus through the Bible. I also give thanks for writings that can help me learn about the culture and context of the years when You seemed to be silent. Help me to draw closer to You as I seek to learn more about You and Your marvelous ways.”   Discover more about the topics in this episode with these recommended resources  Mentioned in this episode:  The Apocrypha by David deSilva   Listen:   What the Bible Can Teach Us About Reading It The Bible Reset Read:  The Preservation of the Bible Three Things to Know about the Bible's Story What Every Christian Needs to Know About Reading the Bible  Watch:  Why Should You Read the Bible?

    1h 3m
  7. More Than Conquerors - Week 2

    Apr 19

    More Than Conquerors - Week 2

    What are you conquering—or being conquered by? Explore how God’s surprising plan for His people to both conquer and be conquered is revealed throughout the Bible! Receive  The word “conqueror” may make you feel uncomfortable for various reasons. But what if the Bible’s idea of conquest is better than we could ever imagine? As we ponder what it means for us to be more than conquerors through Him who loves us, let’s look to Jesus’ example of what it means to overcome. And let’s remember that His story isn’t over. May we be encouraged and remain confident that when it’s all said and done, Jesus will still be victorious.   Reflect  Read the verses connected with this episode below. As you reflect on the Scripture, what stands out to you? Matthew 20:20–28 John 16:33 1 John 4–5 Revelation 12:13 According to Jesus in Matthew 20:20–28, what are the characteristics of a true leader? How does John 16:33 help to encourage you despite whatever you may be facing? How does 1 John 4–5 help you better understand that we overcome by being conquered by God’s love? Revelation 12:13 describes God’s ultimate victory. How does this encourage you as you remember that our story isn’t over? over?  Respond  (Use this prayer to start a conversation with God)  “Dear God, thank You that You have made me more than a conquer through Your perfect love! Help me to remember that You have the ultimate victory and that You can help me through every battle that comes my way.”  Discover more about the topics in this episode with these recommended resources  Mentioned in this episode:  Our Daily Bread Devotional in Print- https://go.odb.org/dtw-printsub  Our Daily Bread Mobile App - https://go.odb.org/appdownload-dtw  Explore the Devotional Collection from Our Daily Bread Publishing- https://go.odb.org/odbpdtw  Listen:  More Than Conquerors Week 1 - https://go.odb.org/more-than-conquerorsw1  More Than Conquerors Week 2 https://go.odb.org/more-than-conquerorsw2   Read:  Living in Light of Our Savior’s Victory - https://go.odb.org/living-in-light-dtw  Serving God and Others - https://go.odb.org/serving-god-and-others  Watch:  Victorious in God - https://go.odb.org/victorious-in-god-dtw  The Empty Tomb Is Our Receipt - https://go.odb.org/the-empty-tomb-is-our-receipt

    1h 4m
  8. More Than Conquerors - Week 1

    Apr 12

    More Than Conquerors - Week 1

    Conquerors can be scary—but God’s power is different. Discover from Genesis to Revelation how He makes us more than conquerors! Receive  The word “conqueror” can stir up many mixed feelings and rightfully so. But the idea of conquest is found in the Bible from Genesis to Revelation. What if instead of avoiding the complicated topic, we pondered how the Bible points to a better idea of conquering? As we ask God to help us overcome various trials and obstacles in our life, we can take courage knowing that we are more than conquerors though Him who loves us.     Reflect  Read the verses connected with this episode below. As you reflect on the Scripture, what stands out to you? Romans 8:28-37 Genesis 3:1-7 Joshua 1:1-14 How does Romans 8:28-37 help you better understand what the apostle Paul meant when he said we are more than conquerors? How does Romans 8:31 boost your faith and courage as you seek to be more than a conqueror? How does Genesis 3:1-7 help you recognize the danger of trying to conquer God’s plan for your life? Joshua 1:1-14 describes how God was with Joshua during the conquest of the Promised Land. How can these verses help encourage you when you need to conqueror the giants of fear, doubt, or unforgiveness in your life?   Respond  (Use this prayer to start a conversation with God)  “Dear God, thank You that You are with me in every trial and battle I face. Thank You that I am more than a conqueror through You! Help me overcome any temptations or sin I’m struggling with in my life.”      Discover more about the topics in this episode with these recommended resources  Mentioned in this episode:  Our Daily Bread Devotional in Print- https://go.odb.org/dtw-printsub  Our Daily Bread Mobile App- https://go.odb.org/appdownload-dtw  Explore the Devotional Collection from Our Daily Bread Publishing- https://go.odb.org/odbpdtw  Listen:  More Than Conquerors Week 1 - https://go.odb.org/more-than-conquerorsw1  More Than Conquerors Week 2 - https://go.odb.org/more-than-conquerorsw2   Read:  Overcoming Fear - https://go.odb.org/overcoming-fear  Overcoming Worry - https://go.odb.org/overcoming-worry  Watch:  Overcoming the Bullies  How to Win Against Injustice

    1h 3m
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About

Discover the Word is a weekly, Bible-study podcast that invites you to join a team of hosts — and maybe a special guest or two — in breaking down passages of Scripture to discover fresh perspective and practical application.

Information

  • Creator
    Our Daily Bread Ministries
  • Years Active
    2010 - 2026
  • Episodes
    268
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Our Daily Bread Ministries
  • Show Website
    Discover the Word Podcast

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