The Chara Project Podcast

The Chara Project

The Chara Project podcast is for anyone interested in learning how to explore and understand the Bible, no matter your faith background. Tune in regularly as our team helps you build confidence in studying the Bible on your own and with your neighbor. Each podcast complements content found at www.thecharaproject.com.

  1. Ep. 126 | The Story of the Bible: Patriarchs

    FEB 11

    Ep. 126 | The Story of the Bible: Patriarchs

    In this episode, join The Chara Project as they journey into the second era of the Story of the Bible—the Patriarchs (Genesis 12–50). After the sweeping overview of Creation, the Bible zooms in on one remarkable family through whom God will unfold His rescue plan for humanity. Walk with Abraham as God calls him out of his homeland, establishes a covenant of blessing, and asks him to trust beyond what seems possible. Discover how God patiently fulfills His promises despite barrenness, doubt, and human attempts to “help” God along. See how Isaac and Jacob inherit these same promises, carrying the covenant forward through dramatic twists—deception, family conflict, divine encounters, and the birth of the twelve tribes of Israel. Then follow Joseph, the beloved son betrayed and sold into slavery, whose story becomes a powerful testimony that God is present even in suffering. His rise to influence in Egypt and his choice to forgive his brothers reveal how God can transform what is meant for harm into salvation for many. This episode brings the Patriarchs to life while tracing how each moment points forward to Jesus and the unfolding redemption story. Perfect for anyone eager to deepen their understanding of God's Word, and see the Bible’s big picture with clarity and confidence. This podcast is also released as a video podcast on YouTube here. Access the Story of the Bible Guide at https://www.thecharaproject.com/storyofthebible The Chara Project is a nonprofit organization with a mission to help build confidence in studying the Bible on your own and with your neighbor. Chara is the Greek word for JOY, and the Chara team offers resources and teaching to empower people to find joy as they explore the Bible, grow in their Biblical understanding, and help others do the same. For more information about The Chara Project and how to study the Bible, including a download of the CHARA Bible Study Guide, visit www.thecharaproject.com. To support The Chara Project, visit https://www.thecharaproject.com/give Support the show

    31 min
  2. p. 125 | The Story of the Bible: Creation

    JAN 28

    p. 125 | The Story of the Bible: Creation

    Step into the opening pages of the Bible as The Chara Project team does a deep dive into the Story of the Bible. In this episode, they explore the Creation era (Genesis 1–11) and uncover the foundational truths that shape the entire biblical narrative. Together, they unpack who God is, why He created the world, and what it means that humanity was made in His image. You’ll hear how God brings order to chaos, designs creation with purpose, and invites humanity to “rest and rule” with Him. But the story doesn’t stay idyllic for long as the team traces the heartbreaking ripple effects of the Fall—shame, blame, brokenness—and shows how these early events still help us understand the world today. From Adam and Eve to Cain and Abel, from Noah and the flood to the Tower of Babel, this episode reveals how each moment points to humanity’s need for rescue—and God’s unwavering plan to redeem. Whether you’re new to Bible study or eager to go deeper, this episode will help you see Genesis with fresh eyes and place yourself within God’s larger story. This podcast is also released as a video podcast on YouTube here. Access the Story of the Bible Guide at https://www.thecharaproject.com/storyofthebible Access the Bible Project video on Genesis 1 referenced in the podcast at https://bibleproject.com/videos/genesis-1/ The Chara Project is a nonprofit organization with a mission to help build confidence in studying the Bible on your own and with your neighbor. Chara is the Greek word for JOY, and the Chara team offers resources and teaching to empower people to find joy as they explore the Bible, grow in their Biblical understanding, and help others do the same. For more information about The Chara Project and how to study the Bible, including a download of the CHARA Bible Study Guide, visit www.thecharaproject.com.  To support The Chara Project, visit https://www.thecharaproject.com/give #bible #biblestudy #biblestudytools #scripture #scripturestudy #christianpodcast #biblepodcast #howto #oldtestament #newtestament #biblescripture #storyofthebible #biblestory #unifiedbible #storyofbible #creation Support the show

    25 min
  3. Ep. 124 | The Story of the Bible

    JAN 14

    Ep. 124 | The Story of the Bible

    What if the Bible isn’t a collection of disconnected stories—but one unified story pointing to Jesus from beginning to end? In this episode, The Chara Project team walks through the entire storyline of the Bible—cover to cover—in a clear, compelling, and accessible way. Whether you’re brand-new to the Bible or you’ve been reading it for years, this conversation will help you see how every era, character, and page fits together to reveal God’s unfolding plan to redeem and restore humanity. Journey with us through the eight major eras of the Bible—from Creation to the Patriarchs, the Exodus, the Kingdoms, and the Exile, to the long-awaited arrival of the Savior, the Early Church, and finally the New Testament Letters. Along the way, you’ll discover how the Old Testament points forward to Jesus, how the New Testament fulfills what was promised, and how the entire narrative tells the greatest story ever told. If you've ever felt lost, confused, or unsure where to start with the Bible, this episode is your roadmap. It’s the perfect companion to our Story of the Bible Guide, helping you read with confidence, clarity, and renewed wonder. Tune in—and rediscover the Bible as one breathtaking, unified story with Jesus at the center. Access the Story of the Bible Guide at www.thecharaproject.com/storyofthebible This podcast is also released as a video podcast on YouTube here. The Chara Project is a nonprofit organization with a mission to help build confidence in studying the Bible on your own and with your neighbor. Chara is the Greek word for JOY, and the Chara team offers resources and teaching to empower people to find joy as they explore the Bible, grow in their Biblical understanding, and help others do the same. For more information about The Chara Project and how to study the Bible, including a download of the CHARA Bible Study Guide, visit www.thecharaproject.com. To support The Chara Project, visit https://www.thecharaproject.com/give Support the show

    47 min
  4. Ep. 123 | Chara Project Ministry Update 2025

    11/19/2025

    Ep. 123 | Chara Project Ministry Update 2025

    As a nonprofit, every year the Chara Project hosts a ministry update to go behind the scenes and take a heartfelt look at how God has been at work through our growing community. Instead of a live virtual event, this year’s update comes in podcast form, packed with reflections on what God has done and where He’s leading next. Over the past six years, The Chara Project has continued to empower people to study the Bible with confidence—on their own and with their neighbors. In this episode, you’ll hear how that mission is thriving: from a brand-new website, new podcast episodes and online resources, to expanded partnerships with churches and schools using the CHARA Bible Study Guide as a teaching resource. Heather and Sarah also share exciting plans for 2026—including a mobile app and what new guide is coming next. You’ll also hear encouraging stories of impact from the community and learn how you can help sustain this ministry through prayer, partnership, and giving. Whether you’re a longtime supporter or new to the Chara Project, this episode will inspire you with what God is doing through this community—and invite you to join in helping people everywhere, not just read the Bible, but understand and share it. This podcast is also released as a video podcast on YouTube here. The Chara Project is a nonprofit organization with a mission to help build confidence in studying the Bible on your own and with your neighbor. Chara is the Greek word for JOY, and the Chara team offers resources and teaching to empower people to find joy as they explore the Bible, grow in their Biblical understanding, and help others do the same. For more information about The Chara Project and how to study the Bible, including a download of the CHARA Bible Study Guide, visit www.thecharaproject.com.  To support The Chara Project, visit https://www.thecharaproject.com/give #bible #biblestudy #biblestudytools #scripture #scripturestudy #christianpodcast #biblepodcast #ministryupdate #givingtuesday #nonprofit #charaproject #chara #giving #prayer #churchpartner #christianschool Support the show

    24 min
  5. Ep. 122 | How to Determine if a Bible Passage is Literal or Figurative

    11/12/2025

    Ep. 122 | How to Determine if a Bible Passage is Literal or Figurative

    Have you ever heard someone say that the Bible was meant to be read “literally”? Yet the Bible is filled with language that is figurative and symbolic in nature. So, how are we really supposed to decipher between what text is to be taken literally versus figuratively? Join the Chara Project team as they explore how to discern literal versus figurative language in the Bible. They provide practical guidance for interpretation, including how to consider the author’s intent, literary genre (e.g., poetry, prophecy), and historical context. You won’t want to miss the introduction to common figures of speech used in the Bible, including metaphors, hyperboles, and personification - so you can easily spot them as you dive into God’s Word. For anyone interested in navigating tough-to-read passages to know if they should be taken literally or not, this episode is for you! Additionally, check out the corresponding article on determining Literal vs Figurative passages at www.thecharaproject.com/literalvsfigurative This podcast is also released as a video podcast on YouTube here. The Chara Project is a nonprofit organization with a mission to help build confidence in studying the Bible on your own and with your neighbor. Chara is the Greek word for JOY, and the Chara team offers resources and teaching to empower people to find joy as they explore the Bible, grow in their Biblical understanding, and help others do the same. For more information about The Chara Project and how to study the Bible, including a download of the CHARA Bible Study Guide, visit www.thecharaproject.com.  To support The Chara Project, visit https://www.thecharaproject.com/give Support the show

    26 min
  6. Ep. 121 | How to Determine Cultural vs Timeless Bible Passages

    10/29/2025

    Ep. 121 | How to Determine Cultural vs Timeless Bible Passages

    Ever wondered if a Bible verse applies to your life today or was meant for its ancient audience? Maybe you've asked yourself, “Well, that’s fine for them back in Biblical times, but does that really apply to me today?” You're not alone in asking this question - it's actually a VERY common question and not always the easiest to answer. Join the Chara Project team as they dive into the art of discerning cultural versus timeless truths in the Bible. They share practical tools to help you navigate the Bible’s stories and instructions, ensuring you apply its wisdom accurately. Discover how to ask yourself 4 important questions to identify which passages transcend time and which reflect the customs of long ago. From thought-provoking examples to a simple framework, this episode equips you to study the Bible with confidence. Don’t miss out—tune in to learn how to unlock the Bible’s timeless messages. Additionally, check out the corresponding article at www.thecharaproject.com/culturevstimeless This podcast is also released as a video podcast on YouTube here. The Chara Project is a nonprofit organization with a mission to help build confidence in studying the Bible on your own and with your neighbor. Chara is the Greek word for JOY, and the Chara team offers resources and teaching to empower people to find joy as they explore the Bible, grow in their Biblical understanding, and help others do the same. For more information about The Chara Project, including a download of the CHARA Bible Study Guide or the Neighbor Guide, visit www.thecharaproject.com.  To support The Chara Project, visit https://www.thecharaproject.com/give #bible #biblestudy #biblestudytools #scripture #scripturestudy #christianpodcast #biblepodcast #howto #oldtestament #newtestament #biblescripture #culturalvstimeless #culturalbiblestudy #culturalbible #biblehistory Support the show

    30 min
  7. Ep. 120 | How to (Carefully) Leverage AI for Bible Study

    10/15/2025

    Ep. 120 | How to (Carefully) Leverage AI for Bible Study

    Curious about how artificial intelligence (AI) tools like ChatGPT can transform your Bible study? In this culturally relevant episode, The Chara Project team explores safe and effective ways to use artificial intelligence to enhance your engagement with the Bible.  Discover how AI can simplify research, spark insightful questions, and uncover historical context, making Bible study more approachable—especially for beginners. From crafting reading plans to exploring original languages, this episode reveals practical tips to leverage AI without compromising the depth of personal study.  The team also shares crucial warnings to avoid pitfalls, ensuring AI remains a helpful aid, not a replacement for the Holy Spirit’s guidance. Tune in to learn how to use AI wisely, deepen your connection with God’s Word, and grow in confidence as you study the Bible.  Additionally, check out the corresponding article at www.thecharaproject.com/AIforBiblestudy This podcast is also released as a video podcast on YouTube here. The Chara Project is a nonprofit organization with a mission to help build confidence in studying the Bible on your own and with your neighbor. Chara is the Greek word for JOY, and the Chara team offers resources and teaching to empower people to find joy as they explore the Bible, grow in their Biblical understanding, and help others do the same. For more information about The Chara Project, including a download of the CHARA Bible Study Guide or the Neighbor Guide, visit www.thecharaproject.com.  To support The Chara Project, visit https://www.thecharaproject.com/give #bible #biblestudy #biblestudytools #scripture #scripturestudy #christianpodcast #biblepodcast #howto #oldtestament #newtestament #biblescripture #ai #aibiblestudy #aibible #artificialintelligence #artificialintelligencetechnology #aitechnology Support the show

    34 min
5
out of 5
17 Ratings

About

The Chara Project podcast is for anyone interested in learning how to explore and understand the Bible, no matter your faith background. Tune in regularly as our team helps you build confidence in studying the Bible on your own and with your neighbor. Each podcast complements content found at www.thecharaproject.com.