Wednesday in the Word podcast
The podcast that explains what the Bible means and how we figure it out.
Wednesday in the Word is the longest-running Bible study podcast in the world.
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In each episode, I explain the author’s meaning in plain language and model how I reached those conclusions.
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Latest Episodes from the Wednesday in the Word podcast
21 Why Jesus Delayed Raising Lazarus (John 11)
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.
20 Why Jesus said “I and the Father are One” (John 10:22-42)
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.
19 Understanding Jesus as the Good Shepherd (John 10:1-21)
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.
18 Jesus heals the Man Born Blind (John 9)
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.
17 Before Abraham was, I Am (John 8:48-59)
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.
16 The Light of the World (John 8:12-47)
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.
15 The Woman Caught in Adultery (John 7:53-8:11)
Many Bibles omit the account of the woman caught in adultery because of questions about its authenticity. Despite these textual debates, the interesting narrative reveals profound truths about grace, humility and judgment.
14 Who is Jesus? (John 7)
Who is Jesus? The people respond with belief, confusion and awe over Jesus’ teachings. These responses reflect our complex relationship to truth.
13 The Bread of Life (John 6)
John 6 opens with two famous miracles: feeding 5,000 people and Jesus walking on water. What makes this chapter intriguing is John does not focus on the miracles, but on their aftermath—the dialogue that follows.
12 Sabbath Conflict and the Authority of Jesus (John 5)
Jesus heals an invalid on the Sabbath. Instead of marveling at this miracle, the Jewish leaders are incensed by the violation of their strict Sabbath laws.
11 True Worship: The Woman at the Well, Part 2 (John 4)
While exploring his theme of belief, John teaches us about worship and hungering for God’s will.
10 Living Water: The Woman at the Well, Part 1 (John 4)
John adds a new twist to his theme of testimony and belief: this time the believers are the hated Samaritans. John explores three themes this chapter. We examine the first theme in this podcast.
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