Talking John

Talking John - Episode 4: ”Peeling Onions and Flipping Tables”

Scripture: John 2:13-25
Description: In this episode, we take a moment to think about the limits of interpretation of the Bible, and we discuss how John puts the flipping over table moment at the beginning of the story instead of at the end of the story like the Synoptics.  We also wonder where the line is on making the church a business.
 
Questions to consider if you are using this podcast for study:
When have you had a new understanding of Scripture, particularly a Scripture you have read before? Where do you think that new understanding came from?
When have you heard an interpretation of Scripture that you think exceeds the possibility of meaning?
If you are part of a church, how is your building used, especially during the week?
It we think of ourselves as God’s Temple, what are the implications for how we care for ourselves and each other?

Talking John - Episode 3: ”Big Giant Party”

Scripture: John 2:1-12
Description: Jesus’ first miracle in the Gospel of John was turning water into wine in Cana, a miracle that he might not have even done without the urging of his mother. We look at the practical reality of Jesus through this moment, and also imagine the Eternal Banquet that is yet to come.
 
Questions to consider if you are using this podcast for study:
When have you found yourself turning to God because you were in trouble?
When have you done something for God that didn’t make sense?
What do you think the Eternal Banquet will be like? Who will you be happily surprised to see if they are there?

Talking John - Episode 2: ”Called Out”

Scripture: John 1:19-51
Description: Jesus has the ability to see and know us beyond external appearances. We look at the call of the disciples in this first Chapter of John and what it means for us to be seen like this. We also lift up some aspects of servant leadership, particularly the willingness to let others shine.
 
Questions to consider if you are using this podcast for study:
What are your best gifts, talents, or characteristics? If Jesus was meeting you like he met Nathaniel, what would he say in celebration of you?
When have you looked back on your life and noticed God at work in a moment when you didn’t see it at  the time?
How are you called to serve God?  If you don’t know, how could you learn?
What makes a great servant leader?

Talking John - Episode 1: ”Our Prologues”

In this first episode, Dr. John White Jr., Chancellor Emeritus for the University of Arkansas, and Rev. Dr. Michelle J. Morris, Lead Pastor of First United Methodist Church of Bentonville, discuss the personal and professional connections they both have to the Gospel of John, before then diving into the Prologue of the Fourth Gospel, John 1:1-18.
 
Questions to consider if you are using this podcast for study:
What is your own experience or personal connection to the Gospel of John?
Have you ever read one of the Gospels in one sitting? If so, how did it change your understanding of the story? If you haven’t, consider this your invitation to try.
What difference does faith make in your quality and duration of life?