Talking John

Talking John - Episode 35: "Nic at Nearly Night"

Episode 35 - Nic at Nearly Night
Scripture: John 19:1-42
Description: The crucifixion is upon us, and it is the world’s great tragedy.  But in the Gospel of John, it is also an exaltation, and the birth of something new. What kind of faith will it birth? We debate that reality around the character of Nicodemus yet again.
Questions to consider if you are using this podcast for study:
How do we hold the tension between honoring the reality of Jesus’ suffering on the cross and avoiding either sanitizing it or sensationalizing it? In what ways do different portrayals (like The Passion of the Christ or the example from Glory) help or hinder our understanding of the crucifixion?
Why do you think the Gospel of John gives fewer physical details about the crucifixion than the synoptic Gospels? How does this emphasis on Jesus’ divinity shape our interpretation of his death?
The podcast describes the moment Jesus entrusts his mother to the beloved disciple as the 'birth of the Church.' How does this moment reflect the formation of spiritual family, and what implications does it have for how we understand community in the church today?
What does Pilate’s role in Jesus’ death teach us about moral responsibility in the face of public or political pressure?
Nicodemus’ presence at the burial reignites the question of whether he truly believed in Jesus. What can Nicodemus’ ambiguous faith journey teach us about the process of belief, doubt, and transformation?
Joseph of Arimathea and Nicodemus take bold steps to care for Jesus’ body, despite religious and political risks. When have you seen someone in your life—or in history—take a risky, compassionate stand, and what did that teach you about faith in action?
The absence of most disciples at the crucifixion contrasts with the faithfulness of the women and John.  What does this moment say about fear, loyalty, and second chances in the life of faith?

Talking John - Episode 34: "What Is Truth?"

Episode 34 - What Is Truth?
Scripture: John 18:1-40
Description: This chapter is filled with failures of leadership.In some instances, it seems as though people are making decisions to preserve their own power.  In others, it may be to keep those with more power than them from crushing down upon them. What do you think is behind the actions of Annas, Caiaphas, and Pilate? Are they after truth or just privilege? 
 
Questions to consider if you are using this podcast for study:
“What is truth?” Pilate’s question echoes through history. Do you hear it as cynical, confused, or sincere? How do you personally wrestle with defining or discerning truth in your life?
In this chapter, Jesus seems to assert control even in the face of arrest and judgment. How does John's portrayal of Jesus as calm and commanding shape your understanding of divine power?
When Jesus says “I am he” and the crowd falls back, it is seen as a culmination of all the “I am” statements in John. What does this moment tell you about Jesus' identity and mission?
Peter’s denials are presented without mention of his weeping in John’s Gospel. Do you see this as an omission of mercy, or as a critique? How do we hold space for both failure and grace in our own lives?
Much of the narrative focuses on people trying to avoid responsibility (Pilate, Peter, the crowd). Where are we tempted to do the same today? How can we recognize and resist those moments?
The podcast contrasts the Synoptics’ portrayal of Jesus’ agony with John’s portrayal of exaltation. How do both perspectives deepen your understanding of Jesus’ humanity and divinity?
Even amid betrayal, denial, and political games, Jesus chooses the path of sacrificial love. How does this challenge or inspire your own capacity to love, forgive, and serve?

Talking John - Episode 33: "The Lord's Prayer"

Episode 33 - The Lord’s Prayer
Scripture: John 17:1-26
Description: This chapter is the Lord’s prayer. Not the one you are used to hearing or can possibly recite, but the prayer Jesus has for himself, for the disciples, and for all of us. What if we knew these words by heart too? Would it change how we treat one another?
 
Questions to consider if you are using this podcast for study:
How does it impact your understanding of Jesus to realize that he specifically prayed for you in John 17? What does it mean to you that Christ was thinking of future believers—us—in his final hours?
Jesus prayed that all believers “may be one,” not that we would be the same. How do you personally navigate differences in belief, practice, or politics within the Church? What does unity in Christ look like to you?
Jesus asks that his followers be sanctified in truth. What role does Scripture, prayer, or community play in helping you stay grounded in truth? How is God continuing to sanctify you?
Jesus says the disciples “have obeyed your word,” even though we know they falter. How does this give you hope in your own imperfect journey of faith? Where do you sense God naming your progress rather than your failures?
Jesus prays for himself, then his disciples, then future believers. How might this order reshape your own prayer life? Who are the “future believers” you could be praying for right now?
In a culture full of conflict, how do you hold on to the “joy, joy, joy down in your heart”? What are practical ways to stay centered in Christ while surrounded by division, frustration, or fear?

Talking John - Episode 32: "Just a Little While"

Episode 32 - Just a Little While
Scripture: John 16:1-33
Description: There are so many things to think about in this chapter: how the Trinity works, is the Holy Spirit also available to nonbelievers, is Jesus speaking plainly or not? All these things to think about, and just a little while to do it. Uh oh.
 
Questions to consider if you are using this podcast for study:
 How do you think about time in your relationship with God? What does “a little while” mean when seen through an eternal perspective—and how might that change how you live or wait in your current season?
What does it mean to you that the Holy Spirit convicts “the world”? Do you believe the Spirit works in non-believers too? How have you seen or experienced the Spirit working in unexpected people or places?
Jesus promises to speak more plainly—but often still uses metaphor and mystery. Why do you think Jesus sometimes spoke in ways that were hard to understand? How do you respond when Scripture feels unclear or challenging?
John 16 offers a rare, rich glimpse of the Trinity. How does your understanding of God deepen when you reflect on the unity of Father, Son, and Holy Spirit? What role does each person of the Trinity play in your faith life?
The disciples say, “Now we believe!”—right before they scatter in fear. When have you felt strong in your faith one moment, only to feel unsure or shaken shortly after? How does Jesus’ response offer grace in those moments?
The podcast discusses how Methodists (and many Christians) struggle to talk about their faith. What holds you back from sharing your beliefs more openly? What might make that easier or more natural?
Jesus leaves so the Spirit can come. Have you ever experienced a loss or change that, in hindsight, made room for something better or more lasting? How do you recognize God’s gifts in those transitions?

Talking John - Episode 31: "In or Of"

Episode 31 -  In or Of
Scripture: John 15:18-27
Description: In this episode, we consider the age old question of what it means to be in the world, not of the world, using our own struggles with wanting to be popular as the lens through which we view this tension. 
 
Questions to consider if you are using this podcast for study:
“If the world hates you…” Jesus begins this passage with if, not when. What difference does that wording make to you? Do you interpret it as a warning, a comfort, or something else?
The hosts talk about wearing "in the world" versus "of the world" glasses. How do you personally recognize which lens you're using in daily life? What helps you reframe your perspective?
Have you ever felt tension between following your faith and being accepted or “popular” in your community, workplace, or social circle? How did you handle that?
The contrast between Jesus’ love-driven leadership and Machiavelli’s fear-driven approach raises deep questions about how we influence others. In your life or leadership, do you find yourself leaning more toward control or love?
Verses 26–27 emphasize the Holy Spirit’s role in testifying about Jesus—and the call for us to do the same. What does “testifying” look like in your life right now? Are there ways you feel called to speak or live more boldly?
The conversation touches on how people in relatively safe contexts sometimes claim persecution for minor inconveniences. How do we differentiate between real persecution for our faith and discomfort that simply comes from living in a diverse society?
Toward the end, they talk about the disciples eventually going “all in.” Where in your own faith journey are you holding back? What would it mean for you to push all your chips to the center of the table?

Talking John - Episode 30: "Fully Present"

Episode 30 - Fully Present
Scripture: John 15:9-17
Description: Jesus calls us friends.  Friends!  What does it mean to truly think of Jesus as a friend? Perhaps our own good friendships can help us understand how to love Jesus better.
 
Questions to consider if you are using this podcast for study:
What “pruning” might be necessary in your life or ministry right now? Are there good and even fruitful things that may need to be cut back so that more meaningful fruit can grow?
What practices or activities most connect you to God? Are those prioritized in your life, or have they been crowded out by other responsibilities?
How do you distinguish between acquaintances and true friends? How do Jesus' words in John 15 reshape your understanding of friendship?
Jesus says, “I no longer call you servants... I have called you friends.” What does it mean to imagine yourself as a friend of Jesus? How does that change your relationship with him?
How might the church better create spaces for authentic connection and holy friendship? In what ways can your faith community be a remedy for loneliness?
What brings you lasting joy? How is that joy different from temporary happiness or pleasure? How do you cultivate that kind of joy?

Talking John - Episode 29: "Fruit of the Vine"

Episode 29 - Fruit of the Vine
Scripture: John 15:1-8
Description: Jesus is the vine and we are the branches. But what if we are struggling to bear fruit? We will look at the discipline of pruning today, noting that sometimes we have to give up something to experience the fullness of God’s abundance.
 
Questions to consider if you are using this podcast for study:
What does “remaining” or “abiding” in Christ mean to you personally? How does that look in your daily life, and what helps or hinders that connection?
Have you ever experienced a “pruning” season in your life?  How did God use that experience to help you grow or bear more fruit?
John White talked about being “busy but not productive.”  Where in your life do you see busyness that might not be bearing spiritual fruit?
What’s in your “paper bag”? What are the things you might be holding onto that keep you from fully embracing what God is offering?
The interpretation of the word as “lifts up” instead of “cuts off” gives a different picture of God’s character. How does this alternative understanding affect your view of God’s grace and the church’s role in lifting others up?
The imagery of the banquet table vs. the bologna sandwich was powerful. Why do you think it's hard for people to let go of what’s familiar—even if it’s meager—in order to receive God’s abundance?
John White mentioned how abiding in Christ changed both his faith and his professional life. How might your relationship with Christ transform areas of your life beyond just the “spiritual”?

Talking John - Episode 28: "Peace Out!"

Episode 28 - Peace Out!
Scripture: John 14:27-31
Description: Jesus promises to give us peace not as the world gives. What does that mean? We reflect on that question and look back on John 14 as we prepare to move into John White’s favorite chapter.
 
Questions to consider if you are using this podcast for study:
What’s the difference between the peace the world offers and the peace Jesus offers? Have you ever experienced that kind of peace that “passes understanding”? What was it like?
Jesus says, “Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.” What troubles your heart most these days? How might Jesus' words speak into those areas?
Where do you notice the influence of the world's version of peace, success, or love in your own life or community? How can you reorient your thinking to align with Jesus' way?
The story of the professor who always answered “lousy” illustrates the need to listen closely. In your own relationships, are there people you need to listen to more intentionally? How can we cultivate a deeper kind of listening as disciples?
How do you personally understand the cost of Christ’s love? How does that shape the way you live, pray, or serve others?

Talking John - Episode 27: "The Faith of Judas Not Iscariot"

Episode 27- The Faith of Judas Not Iscariot
Scripture: John 14:18-26
Description: Faith can sometimes be a confusing journey. In this episode we remember the promise that Jesus won’t leave us alone in that journey. The Holy Spirit will continue to be with us.  Even if we don’t fully understand what that means. 
Questions to consider if you are using this podcast for study:
“I will not leave you as orphans” — When in your life have you most needed to hear that promise from Jesus? How did you experience God’s presence during that time? 
What does it mean to you that God chooses to "make a home" with us? Can you recall a time when you felt God’s presence dwelling with you in an ordinary or unexpected place?
The Holy Spirit is described as Advocate, Teacher, and Reminder. Which of these roles feels most relevant to your life right now, and why?
Judas (not Iscariot) asks a question that shows he still doesn’t fully understand. Have you ever had a similar moment where something finally “clicked” in your faith after a long time of not getting it? What helped?
The podcast names how hard the doctrine of the Trinity can be to grasp. How do you personally relate to the idea of God as Father, Son, and Holy Spirit? Which person of the Trinity feels most central to your faith journey right now?
Michelle and John emphasize that we don’t always need full understanding— only trust. Where in your life are you being invited to trust God more deeply, even without all the answers?

Talking John - Episode 26: "Talking John Live!"

Episode 26 - Talking John Live!
Scripture: John 4:4-42
Description: In this special episode, we are joined by Rev. Jonathan Tompkins, Senior Pastor of St. Andrew-by-the-Sea in Hilton Head, SC. His church is making its way through the Gospel of John during Lent and using this podcast to help guide the conversation. We return to Samanda, the Woman at the Well in John 4, to share what this passage means to us.
Questions to consider if you are using this podcast for study:
Have you ever deliberately avoided community? Why? What adjustments to your life have you had to do to avoid people?
Lots of people make assumptions about Samanda. When have your seen people made assumptions without knowing the whole story? What damage was done when that happened?
Do you find comfort in the disciples not always getting it? Why or why not?
When do you remember having a really good drink of water? How does that experience help you understand the power of the living water that Jesus offers us?
What about this story in John 4 moves you or gives you hope?