Mar 19, 2025 | 01 Podcasts, John
In this episode of the Wednesday in the Word podcast, we explore the story of Lazarus in John 11. This event serves as a pivotal moment where the major themes of John’s Gospel converge, illuminating Jesus’ identity, mission, and the responses he elicits from those around him.
In this week’s episode, we explore:
The miracle of Lazarus’ resurrection: Jesus demonstrates his authority over death, performing a sign that testifies to his divine power.
Jesus’ path to the cross: This event triggers the sequence leading to his crucifixion, showcasing his obedience to God’s will.
The spectrum of belief and unbelief: From Martha’s faith to the Jewish leaders’ rejection, the story examines how people respond to Jesus’ signs.
Jesus as the resurrection and the life: The miracle reinforces his messianic claim to grant eternal life to believers.
God’s sovereignty amid opposition: Even the hostility of the Jewish leaders is woven into God’s redemptive plan.
Jesus’ empathy and humanity: His tears reveal his deep compassion for human suffering, even as he fulfills a divine purpose.
By listening to this episode, you’ll gain a richer understanding of how the raising of Lazarus ties together the central themes of John’s Gospel. Krisan Marotta’s thoughtful exploration offers fresh insights into Jesus’ mission, his power over death, and the hope he extends to believers, encouraging a deeper appreciation of the text and its relevance to faith today.
Mar 18, 2025 | Best of WitW
Why is life so hard? The Bible has a lot to say about suffering and trials and the problem of evil. Here are a few places to start exploring answers from Scripture.
Mar 17, 2025 | 04 Bible Study 101, Bible Study Theory
Start your Bible study journey with these must-read books. Build confidence, gain insight, and grow in your understanding of Scripture.
Mar 12, 2025 | 01 Podcasts, John
This episode of the Wednesday in the Word podcast examines John 10:22-42. We explore how Jesus confronts the Jewish leaders’ skepticism about his identity, using his works and words to affirm his role as the Messiah while foreshadowing the ultimate sacrifice that will secure eternal life for his followers.
In this week’s episode, we explore:
The historical backdrop of the Feast of Dedication (Hanukkah): Learn the significance of this setting and how it frames Jesus’ confrontation with the Jewish leaders questioning his messianic identity.
Jesus’ relationship with his “sheep”: Discover how Jesus describes his followers as those who hear his voice, follow him, and receive the promise of eternal life.
The meaning of “I and the Father are one”: Explore the interpretation of this statement, its implications for Jesus’ identity as the Messiah, and the debate over its hints at divinity.
The escalating tension with the Jewish leaders: Understand how Jesus defends his divine mission with Scripture and miracles, intensifying the conflict that leads toward his crucifixion.
Listen to this episode to gain insights into the theological themes of belief and testimony in John’s Gospel, as well as the historical context of Jesus’ teachings during the Feast of Dedication. The episode also offers a thoughtful analysis of Jesus’ claim to oneness with the Father, helping you appreciate the depth of his identity and mission as the Christ.
Mar 11, 2025 | Best of WitW
If you have an interest in learning more about who Jesus was, why he came or what he taught, here are some places to start.
Mar 5, 2025 | 01 Podcasts, John
In this episode of the Wednesday in the Word podcast, we explore John 10:1-21, part of our ongoing series on the Gospel of John. We’ll unpack how Jesus uses the shepherd and sheep metaphor to reveal his identity and challenge listeners to discern whom they will trust.
In this week’s episode, we explore:
The continuation of Jesus’ conversation from John 9, addressing spiritual blindness and the judgment his presence brings.
Jesus’ shepherd and sheep analogy, illustrating his protective relationship with believers while critiquing the Pharisees as false leaders.
The significance of Jesus as the “good shepherd” who voluntarily lays down his life for his sheep, contrasting with self-serving hired hands.
The division among the Jews reacting to Jesus’ words and miracles, underscoring the complexity of belief.
The choice confronting the healed blind man—and all listeners—about whom to believe amidst competing voices.
By tuning into this episode, you’ll gain insight into how Jesus’ teachings in John 10 affirm his role as the true shepherd guiding believers to eternal life. Krisan Marotta’s thoughtful exploration encourages you to reflect on the evidence of Jesus’ identity, the importance of recognizing his voice over others, and the depth of his sacrificial love. Whether you’re studying the Gospel of John or seeking to strengthen your faith, this episode offers meaningful perspectives on trusting Jesus as the way to abundant life.
Mar 4, 2025 | Best of WitW
Just as it’s helpful to know something about the culture and history of Jane Austin before you read Pride and Prejudice, it’s helpful to know the culture and history of each book of the Bible. These resources will give you the big picture.
Feb 28, 2025 | News, Reflections
What should we study after we finish the gospel of John? Vote for your favorite.
Feb 26, 2025 | 01 Podcasts, John
In John 9, Jesus heals on the Sabbath again, provoking the Jewish leadership. John highlights a variety of responses to this miracle, contrasting spiritual and physical blindness. The blind man now sees, but more importantly he has faith.
Feb 25, 2025 | Best of WitW
What is Lent? Is it an official Christian holiday? Was it instituted in the Bible? What — if anything — is required of believers during Lent?
Feb 19, 2025 | 01 Podcasts, John
What does Jesus mean when he says ‘before Abraham was, I am?” Traditionally seen as a declaration of divinity, context suggests Jesus intends to highlight his role as the Messiah.
Feb 12, 2025 | 01 Podcasts, John
Jesus came to offer his life to free us from the condemnation that we deserve. Now he add something new: he also came to free us from slavery to sin.
Krisan Marotta is a Bible teacher and host of Wednesday in the Word, the podcast about what the Bible means and how we know.