Word for Today - Protoevangelium

Are you familiar with the term "protoevangelium"? 

The message of the gospel of Jesus Christ is woven throughout the Scripture, not just the New Testament. Protoevangelium is where the gospel first appears in the Bible. That is in Genesis 3:15. It shows that God always had the plan of salvation in mind and informed us of His plan as soon as sin entered the world. Here is a recent Bible study on this verse.

The very first prophecy in the entire Bible was spoken in a garden, minutes after the world broke. Most Christians have read it dozens of times. Almost none of them know it is there.

Every Christian knows the story of Genesis 3.

The serpent. The fruit. The fall. God discovers what has happened. He confronts Adam and Eve. And then He curses the serpent.

That is where most people stop paying attention.

Because what God says next is the most important sentence in the entire Old Testament. And it is hiding inside what looks like a curse on a snake.

"I will put enmity between you and the woman, and between your offspring and hers. He will crush your head, and you will strike his heel."

That is Genesis 3:15.

Theologians call it the Protoevangelium. The first gospel. The first announcement of Jesus in all of Scripture.

Spoken in a garden. Before Abraham. Before Moses. Before David. Before any prophet ever lived. Before the first consequence of the fall had even landed.

And most Christians have read it their entire lives without ever being told what it actually says.

Look at the details.

"Her offspring."

In ancient Hebrew, lineage was always traced through the father. Always. Every genealogy in the Old Testament runs through the male line. The son of Abraham. The son of Isaac. The son of Jacob. The son of David.

But Genesis 3:15 says "her offspring." The woman's seed.

That is the only place in the entire Old Testament where offspring is traced through a woman instead of a man.

Scholars have debated this grammatical anomaly for three thousand years. It breaks every convention of ancient Hebrew lineage tracking.

Unless the child has no human father.

The virgin birth. Predicted in the third chapter of the first book. Hidden inside a single pronoun.

Now look at the injuries.

"He will crush your head, and you will strike his heel."

Two injuries. Two different severities.

The serpent strikes the heel. Painful. Bloody. But survivable. A wound that hurts but does not kill.

The seed crushes the head. Fatal. Permanent. Total destruction.

The cross was the heel strike. Painful beyond comprehension. Bloody. Brutal. But not permanent. Three days later Jesus walked out of the tomb.

The resurrection was the head crush. Fatal to death itself. Permanent. Irreversible.

The entire gospel — suffering followed by victory, death followed by resurrection — encoded in a single sentence. Spoken in a garden before human history had barely begun.

But here is the part that rewires the entire Bible.

Once you see Genesis 3:15, every story that follows becomes an episode in the same war.

• The offspring of the woman must survive for the prophecy to be fulfilled. Which means every villain in the Bible is trying to destroy that lineage. And every hero is unknowingly carrying it forward.
• Pharaoh orders every Hebrew baby boy drowned in the Nile. An attempt to destroy the seed.
• Haman plots to exterminate the entire Jewish nation. An attempt to destroy the seed.
• Herod slaughters every baby boy in Bethlehem under the age of two. An attempt to destroy the seed.
• And on the other side of the war — Sarah's impossible pregnancy at ninety. Moses surviving the basket in the river. David surviving Goliath. Esther saving her people from annihilation. Mary saying yes to the angel.

Every single one of them is part of the same story. The same war. The same thread running from the garden to the manger.

And most Christians have read every one of those stories individually without ever being told they are all chapters in a single battle that was announced in Genesis 3:15.

But the most staggering detail is not the prophecy itself.

It is the timing.

God speaks Genesis 3:15 before Adam and Eve leave the garden. Before they feel the first consequence of what they have done. Before the thorns. Before the pain. Before death enters the world.

The very first thing God does after everything falls apart is announce the rescue. Not punishment first. Not anger first. Not abandonment.

"He will crush your head, and you will strike his heel."

The very first thing God did after everything fell apart was tell the enemy how it would end. Before the first tear was shed. Before the first funeral. Before the first broken marriage or the first sleepless night or the first season of feeling nothing at all.

God had already announced the rescue.

The Bible does not begin with punishment. It begins with a promise.

God did not speak Genesis 3:15 by accident. He never does anything by accident.

It is the first verse in a whole line of biblical revelation that points us to Christ and the way in which He saves us not only from sin but also from Satan.

 

Expedition Unknown

This is a fun show. Keep in mind that it is from the Discovery Channel so the main goal here is entertainment, not necessarily historical accuracy. This episode discusses some of the Bible's greatest mysteries, but additional shows also discuss UFO's, aliens, bigfoot, and the lost City of Atlantis. Even so, how can you not like a show featuring a motorcycle club called the Holy Land Bikers? 😉 

These could be some of the greatest unsolved mysteries of the Bible, however please remember that real archaeology is not a treasure hunt, and the Bible does not need recovered artifacts to be proven accurate. Regardless, it is interesting to see some of the sights and locations often talked about in the Bible.

From Chapel to Brewery

An official church brewery... Is this a new outreach opportunity or a bad idea? What do you think about these plans from a Minnesota Lutheran Church?

For more than a century, Mt. Olivet Lutheran Church has worked to serve its community – South Minneapolis and beyond. ‘It’s kind of an ecosystem’, says Senior Pastor David Lose. The church has a number of affiliated ministries – but its latest venture could break boundaries. Lose and his team want to turn a shuttered church property, which once served as the original chapel, into a coffee shop and brewery combo – aimed to serve what Lose says is an increasingly lonely, isolated population. On this episode of Bigger Than Belief last week, he shares his heart for the project, and what could be next after gaining the support of Minneapolis City Council.

I do think this is an interesting outreach concept. I remember visiting the LCMS seminary in St. Louis years ago and know that they referred to to nearby Budweiser brewery as providing "Lutheran lemonade". 😊

2026 K-Love Fan Awards

Experience the biggest night in Christian fan-voted entertainment with the 13th Annual K-LOVE Fan Awards are hosted by Lauren Daigle and Sadie Robertson Huff at The Grand Ole Opry House premiered on May 30th. Featuring performances from Chandler Moore, Chris Tomlin, Leanna Crawford, Anne Wilson, Cain, Elevation Worship and more.

I highly recommend watching. This was a great show with lots of great performances, but unless you had a TBN subscription you probably missed it. The entire show is now available on YouTube...

A couple of highlights include a tremendously emotional performance of "Black Sheep" by Ben Fuller towards the end of the show and Brandon Lake won Artist of the Year for the 4th year in a row. If nothing else, you should listen to his impassioned acceptance speech.

Friday Fun...

 Today we feature another great comedian that has been performing for a while. John Branyan is an American comedian and writer. He is known for his clean stand-up comedy.

Branyan has been a professional comedian since prior to 1997. Although best known for performing stand-up comedy, he also performs improv comedy with the troupe Think Tank. He has written for the American Comedy Network. He co-wrote and performed in the theatrical presentation, Crazy Love, which was on a national tour for three years.

He has participated in Jay Leno's National Comedy Competition and has been featured on nine recorded comedy projects with people like Ken Davis, David Jeremiah, Ted Cunningham and Tim Hawkins.

Here is a performance that was featured on Focus on the Family...

John's most famous bit is the retelling of the Three Pigs...

Another favorite is Goldilocks Like You've Never Heard Before...

Associates for Biblical Truth

Have you heard about the Associates for Biblical Truth?

For over 200 years, the Bible has faced growing attacks in the western world, especially from academic fields such as philosophy, science, textual criticism, and now archaeology. Once filled with Bible-believing scholars, archaeology is increasingly dominated by skeptics who dismiss Scripture as reliable history. In this challenging environment, God has called ABR to stand in the gap by contending for truth and supporting the church. As a non-profit ministry, ABR demonstrates the Bible’s historical reliability through original archaeological fieldwork, research, and apologetic studies. Since the rise of modern archaeology in the mid-1800s, many discoveries have confirmed or illuminated biblical narratives, helping Scripture come alive in new and meaningful ways.

Every year, hundreds of archaeological excavations are carried out in the lands of the Bible. The vast majority of these are led by archaeologists who do not accept the historicity and accuracy of the Bible.

Associates for Biblical Research is the only evangelical apologetics ministry leading a licensed excavation in Israel. Our staff of professional archaeologists are engaged in the latest research related to biblical history. In addition, we stay in communication with other scholars active in the field and get the inside story on recent developments.

ABR is unique in its mission as an evangelical organization founded for the purpose of research and fieldwork in Biblical archaeology, in order to demonstrate the historical reliability and accuracy of the Scriptures and to propagate the Christian faith. Its mission is based on the conviction that the Bible is the Word of God and, therefore, infallible, inerrant and authoritative in its original writings.

That’s why the ministry of Associates for Biblical Research is so important and valuable.

Associates for Biblical Research keeps you informed on the latest discoveries. Furthermore, we also provide a Biblical perspective for the significance of each discovery. Check out some of their articles, videos, and podcasts.

• Their website:  https://biblearchaeology.org/breaking-news/
• YouTube channel:  https://www.youtube.com/@DiggingForTruth

Here is their latest podcast:

Artificial Intelligence and Christian Music

I search and listen to a lot of Contemporary Christian music online. Recently I have been noticing more and more of this music is AI generated. Artificial intelligence has already disrupted writing, art, and customer service. Music is next. Recent studies have shown that AI can now generate songs convincing enough that 97% of listeners cannot consistently distinguish them from human-made content.

AI-generated music is a polarizing topic; depending on who you ask, it’s either the next big innovation or a cultural catastrophe waiting to happen.

There’s no doubt that artificial intelligence is changing the music industry, but the question remains: is it a tool to unlock new creative frontiers, or is it a threat to the authenticity and soul of music as we know it?

These technologically capable algorithms compose everything from background music to full-fledged songs. Some argue it’s an incredible tool for musicians and producers, offering new ways to experiment with sound, composition, and genre — even overcoming writer’s block.  

AI can generate infinite variations of a melody, compose background scores for films, or even write lyrics based on given parameters. Platforms like AIVA and Amper Music allow artists to collaborate with AI, helping speed up production while offering fresh perspectives on composition. 

AI is more than just a tool for those pushing boundaries—it’s a creative partner. It allows artists to break away from traditional musical structures and unlocks a world of possibilities. 

But here’s the flip side: AI doesn’t understand human emotion. It doesn’t have the lived experiences that often give music its soul. While an AI can generate a technically proficient melody, can it truly capture the emotional depth of a musician pouring their heart into a track?

Critics argue that AI-generated music can feel hollow, lacking the emotion and intention that comes from a human touch. Sure, AI can replicate patterns, styles, and formulas, but does it truly understand why certain notes make us feel a certain way? Many fear that relying too heavily on AI will lead to a flood of cookie-cutter music devoid of real emotion or authenticity.

Others argue that AI music will eventually settle into the broader landscape as just another category, the way electronic music or hip hop did before it. AI-generated music will not destroy the industry, but will instead create a new market segment, particularly in functional music-background tracks, study playlists, meditation soundtracks and stock music for video content.

This perspective treats AI music as an addition to the industry. Listeners who want human-made music will seek it out, and listeners who simply want a pleasant sound to fill the silence may not care who, or what, made it.

Some people opine that music is about how it makes you feel, and it’s about evoking emotion in the listener.  So, regardless of who made the music, if AI music ends up having that effect on somebody, I think that that makes it equally as valid as music that was made by, like, entirely by a human artist.

This prediction depends largely on transparency. If AI music is clearly labeled, listeners can choose. If it is not, the choice is taken from them. 

But there’s also a massive ethical question around ownership.

If an AI generates a song, who owns it? The programmer? The artist who guided the AI? This murky area of copyright law has raised concerns, particularly when AI-generated songs sound eerily similar to existing tracks.

AI isn’t creating the same way humans do—it’s mimicking patterns learned from analyzing thousands of songs. While this can lead to some seriously innovative results, it also raises the risk of accidental plagiarism or replication without intent.

Looking out for tomorrow, what does AI mean for the future of creativity? Are we moving toward a world where algorithms outpace human artists, churning out music by the minute? This raises concerns for musicians, producers, and even DJs, who worry about their roles being replaced by technology, much like other industries where automation has taken over.

I think that AI-generated music is neither inherently good nor bad—it’s what we do with it that matters. For some, AI is a groundbreaking tool that opens doors to new creative possibilities. It can help musicians overcome writer’s block, streamline the composition process, or push musical boundaries. For others, it threatens music’s authenticity, potentially leading to a future where emotionless, algorithm-driven songs dominate the charts.

As AI continues to evolve, the music industry will need to strike a balance. Artists and creators will need to find ways to use AI as a tool while ensuring that the heart of music—its ability to move, inspire, and connect—remains in human hands.

Ultimately, AI-generated music can be a powerful partner, but without careful consideration, it risks turning the art of music into just another algorithmic output.

I'm not sure how this will all turn out, but I must admit to enjoying some of the AI offerings. At times it does feel like some of the emotion is missing and emotion is an important part of Christian music. I just believe that all AI music should be clearly listed as such and that is currently often not the case.

What are your thoughts? Here are some good examples of AI generated music videos...

 

Becoming Fearless

Seems that there are lots of fears in society today. Everything from economic instability to climate change and natural disasters, to wars and conflicts, to technology like AI. 

Everyone worries. Everyone has a problem with anxiety. Despite the fact that we generally think God is against our fear, worry, and anxiety, we don’t ever seem to completely overcome its harsh grip. 

God created us as emotional people. Our emotions are given by God to put us “into motion.” For instance, anger is driven by a sense of injustice and a desire to oppose something that we feel isn’t fair or right. In the same way, fear is a God-given emotion when our mind alerts us to danger, real or perceived. Anxiety is what we feel when our body is responding to the emotion of fear. Worry is the thought process that mulls over and gives power to the object of our fear.

Fear, worry, and anxiety show up together and feed into each other in the various situations where danger lurks. Even at times when we don’t know why we feel anxious, our brains have previously learned to fear in a similar situation that we simply can’t recall at that moment. Our anxiety is tied to our life experiences and thought patterns, not some random biological defect.

Overcoming fear and anxiety as a Christian involves anchoring your heart in God's promises, shifting your focus through prayer and gratitude, and taking practical steps to manage your mental health. It is about replacing the "what-ifs" of worry with the truth of God's steadfast presence and sovereignty. Here is a good devotion about the fear of others (often called the "fear of man") from a Christian perspective involving shifting your focus from human approval to God's unconditional acceptance.

 From Fearful to Fearless

Think of a time when you were fearful of others. For some, this might look like fearing harm or violence from a specific person or group. But for many of us, we can get sidelined by a different kind of fear...

Maybe you're worried that someone won't like you—your personality, your looks, your opinions, or your work.

Maybe you're afraid that speaking up for what's right could cost you—your job, your reputation, your comfort.

Maybe you've felt misunderstood, and the narrative has gotten twisted—with a little bit of truth and a whole lot of exaggeration. There's more to the story, but it's challenging to explain.

Maybe you’re so busy and preoccupied, making sure everyone around you is happy, that you're neglecting your own life and calling in the process. 

Maybe you say “yes” to any and every opportunity or event—because you don't want to let anyone down, or get left out.

There are many ways in which we might live in fear of others. But the result is always the same: striving for man's approval leaves us anxious, exhausted, distracted, and disappointed. When we fail to trust God, it shows.

"Fear of man will prove to be a snare, but whoever trusts in the Lord is kept safe." Proverbs 29:25

We cannot trust God if we’re living in a constant state of fear, because fear is the opposite of a faith-fueled trust. God’s approval, after all, is the only approval that matters.

Pleasing God matters more than pleasing people. Being accepted by God matters more than being accepted by people.

The great news is, we don’t have to earn His acceptance! We don’t have to prove that we are worthy of His time, attention, or love. Jesus’ life, death, and resurrection did this for us. We are now considered worthy because He is already worthy! When we belong to Jesus, the Holy Spirit helps us to become more like Him.

Acceptance and inclusion from others will never give us the true safety and security we desire. But God’s acceptance of us is unconditional, and it transforms us from the inside out. We simply need to receive Him—allowing His love to change the way we think and act.

As the knowledge of God's love increases in our lives, the fear of people decreases.

When we trust in God, we can rest in the assurance that we are secure for eternity. We are loved by our gracious Savior. He alone has the power to change the course of our lives.

Take some time to survey your own heart. Are your thoughts, words, and actions a result of fearing man—or trusting God? Consider a few small ways you can begin to place your trust in God rather than living in fear of what others might think. 

Remember Psalm 34:4 I sought the Lord, and he answered me; he delivered me from all my fears.

Music Spotlight - The Band Reeves...

The Band Reeves, two brothers (Jeramy and Cody Reeves) from east Texas, are a relatively new band, but they are quickly becoming one of my favorite CCM artists. Raised as pastor's kids and shaped by church life and outdoor adventures. They still do construction work full time and balance time with playing music. Currently on the Black Sheep Tour with Ben Fuller. You may have heard a few of their songs like "Outrun You" and "Front Porch Church", but they recently released my favorite new song of May... "Don't Let That Devil Drive."

I especially like the subtle reference to Carrie Underwoods "Jesus Take The Wheel".

The phrase "don't let that devil drive" stems from a classic African American spiritual and gospel proverb: "Don't let the devil ride, because if you let him ride, he'll want to drive." Originally popularized by traditional church "mothers," the metaphorical saying is a warning against making small compromises with sin. It suggests that if you allow a negative influence (the devil) a small opening in your life (a ride), it will soon overpower your willpower and take full control (the drive)

If you would like to learn a little more about the Band Reeves, here is an interview from several months ago...

Friday Fun...

What is better than a mix of music and comedy? No one has done it better for the past 30+ years than Tim Hawkins. A great comedian and an fantastic musician (think of a Christian Weird Al Yankovic).

Tim currently travels across the nation doing over 100 shows a year. There are several of his shows on YouTube. Here is one from a couple years ago that has a good selection of his songs...

If you need more music from Tim here is a list of my all-time favorites:

• Things You Don't Say To Your Wife  (This one is an absolute must.)
• Aging Rockers
• The Dollar Store
• Sounds of Starbucks
• I'll Clean Up For You
• Yoga Pants
• Unsung Heroes 
• Quit the Choir
• Imagine  (a great song for parents!)

Cling to God's Promises

What do you think about? 

The thoughts that fill your mind are crucial because what you cling to influences your worldview. 

Have you ever heard the term, "focus forward"? "Focus forward" means actively directing your attention, energy, and mindset toward future goals and desired outcomes rather than dwelling on past mistakes, traumas, or current obstacles. It is a proactive approach to overcoming challenges by letting go of what cannot be changed and concentrating on what can be created next. 

As humans, we have the tendency to head towards the things that we focus on. What do you want to move towards?

If you choose to dwell on God’s promises, you start to recognize God’s blessings during uncertain times. Trusting that God will redeem your present pain equips you to walk forward in faith and keep on fighting. 

Isaiah 12:2 reminds us that we belong to a God who is faithful to keep His promises. This God rescues us and fights for us. So when we belong to God, we have nothing to fear—all we need to do is cling to Him and wait on Him to act. 

So as you walk forward today, reflect on some of God’s promises, and let them transform the way you think: 

• God will sustain you. (Psalm 55:22)
• God’s peace will guard your heart. (Philippians 4:7)
• God delights over you with singing. (Zephaniah 3:17)
• God will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go. (Psalm 32:8)
• God is your refuge and strength, your help in times of need. (Psalm 46:1)
• In all things, you are more than a conqueror because God loves you. (Romans 8:37
• God will never leave you or forsake you. (Deuteronomy 31:6)
• God’s perfect love casts out all your fear. (1 John 4:18)
• Nothing can separate you from God’s love. (Romans 8:38-39)
• God’s not done with you. (Philippians 1:6)

Remember to focus on the important things and allow these truths to fill your mind today!

Eric Church Commencement Speech

On May 9, 2026 Country star Eric Church delivered a moving commencement speech for the graduating class of UNC Chapel Hill, structured around the 6 strings of a guitar. The surprisingly powerful commencement speech centered on faith, family, marriage, ambition, community, and personal growth went viral on the internet.

Using the six strings of a guitar as a metaphor for life’s six pillars, Church gave graduates a message many say is missing from college campuses today. “Six strings. When all six are in tune, the chords they make can stop a conversation cold, carry a broken person through the worst night of their life, or make a room full of strangers feel for three minutes like they’ve known each other forever,” Church said while strumming his guitar onstage. “But if even one is off, the whole chord unravels. Not gradually, not politely. The moment you strike it, you know.”

Church warned students not to neglect their faith “when you’re whole,” called marriage the second most important decision in life, and encouraged graduates to “tune” their lives before things fall apart. He concluded by noting the six strings will be out of tune at times in life, which is not “failure” or “weakness” but an “inevitable” part of life.

“The difference between a life that sounds like music and a life that sounds like noise is whether you stop and listen — whether you’re honest enough to hear which string has drifted out of tune and humble enough to make the adjustment instead of just turning up the volume and hoping nobody notices,” Church said.

“Take your six strings, make it worth something worth hearing and play your song,” he said to a roar from the crowd. 

Living Water

 Thought I would share a short devotional with you today...

Life began with water. Before the first day of creation, water covered the earth  and God's Spirit covered the water (Genesis 1:2)

Life depends on water - which is another way of saying that life depends on God, since it is God who gives water. When Hagar and her son Ishmael were exiled to the desert, God showed them a well (Genesis 21:8-21). When the Israelites wandered a barren wilderness, God led them from on e source of water to the next (Exodus 15:22-27). When there was none to be found, He brought water from the sunbaked rock (Exodus 17:1-7).

God used water to rescue people from oppression and injustice. The baby Moses escaped genocide among the reeds along the bank of the Nile. Years later, as he led a nation of just-freed slaves through the Red Sea, the waters crashed down behind them on 400 years of oppression. In John 's Gospel, Jesus described salvation  as being "born of water and the Spirit" (John 3:5),

Its no surprise that water features prominently in the Bible, since all the Bible's stores took place in part of the world where access to water could not be taken for granted - as in many parts of the world today.

Even a relatively short period without water exposes the extent of our fragility. Without water, flesh and blood turn to dust. For we are dust, and to dust we will return (Genesis 3:19).

But there is a hopeful answer to this sobering reality:  God is the Giver and Sustainer of all things. He is our true source of refreshment. He brings life to dust. God sent Jesus to unleash streams of living water within us (John 7:37-38), just as He unleased water from a rock in the desert. He wants people to experience fullness of life - in this world and the next. God invites us to be part of His thirst -quenching endeavor, sharing the gift of water with those in need, both physically and spiritually.

On the last day of the feast, the great day, Jesus stood up and cried out, “If anyone thirsts, let him come to Me and drink. Whoever believes in Me, as the Scripture has said, ‘Out of his heart will flow rivers of living water.’” Now this He said about the Spirit, whom those who believed in Him were to receive, for as yet the Spirit had not been given, because Jesus was not yet glorified. (John 7:37-39)

It interests me that Jesus tells us to come to Him and drink. Apparently if we do so, we ourselves will become sources of living water for other people to drink from. At least, that’s how I read “Out of his heart will flow rivers of living water”!

And Jesus isn’t talking about just a little water. He says “rivers,” plural—the water is so much and so great that it overflows our hearts in every direction, not just one. And as the Gospel writer John points out, Jesus is talking about the Holy Spirit, the Spirit of God whom Jesus gives us to live in us.

But it all starts with coming to Jesus and drinking, that is, believing in Him. We put our trust in the One who loves us and who died and rose again to give us real life—life that will never end. He will quench our thirst.

People drink water when they are thirsty. That’s generally the only time they drink water, unless they are doing it for medical reasons—there are lots of other drinks available to people who want pleasure, or celebration, or relaxation. But if you’re truly thirsty, there’s nothing like cold clean water. And if you truly feel your need for something more than the everyday things of your life—if you feel that thirst for God—coming to Jesus in trust is the way to go. He will meet that thirst, and then some. He will give you the Holy Spirit, God Himself, to live inside you forever and satisfy your thirst on the deepest levels of your life. You will never go thirsty again.

And that sets you free to help other thirsty people—people who are looking for something more, something true and good and solid, they don’t know exactly what. You know, because you’ve already had a chance to “taste and see that the Lord is good!” (Psalm 34:8a). And now you can offer that same gift of living water to the people around you. There’s always enough to satisfy everybody in need—rivers-full, in fact. The Holy Spirit is enough for our needs, and for the needs of the whole world.

We can be renewed when we drink and share - God's living water.

BibleProject

 Are you familiar with the BibleProject? BibleProject began about 12 years ago and is a nonprofit, crowdfunded organization that makes free resources like videos, podcasts, articles, and classes to help people experience the Bible in a way that is approachable and transformative. They do this by showcasing the literary art of the Scriptures and tracing key biblical themes from Genesis to Revelation.

Tim Mackie and Jon Collins (long-time friends and one-time roommates at Multnomah University) were tossing around ideas about how to help people read through Scripture while avoiding the common pitfalls and misunderstandings. How could they present complex biblical themes in a way that was real and unapologetic but still approachable?

Combining Tim's deep biblical understanding and Jon's passion for visual storytelling, they created their first two videos in 2014 and put them online for free. Since then, we have released hundreds of videos, podcast episodes, and other resources, expanded into over 50 languages, and launched the BibleProject app. They want to help people everywhere become life-long students of Scripture.

Website:  https://bibleproject.com/
Download the app: https://bibleproject.com/app/
YouTube site:  https://www.youtube.com/@bibleproject
BibleProject Podcast on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@BibleProjectPodcast 

From an academic point of view the BibleProject probably oversimplifies a lot of the history, cultures and timelines of the Biblical narrative. While the videos focus less on deep, academic dives and more on creating material that is accessible to a broad audience, the podcasts are often more of an in-depth theological way to explore the Bible. 

Academic analysis is often focused on facts, not on belief. The BibleProject does biblical theology, not biblical scholarship though they do interact with academia often. They're a faith-based resource focused on helping folks develop a deeper curiosity and understanding about the Scripture upon which their faith is based. The BibleProject brings the Bible to life in a fun and accessible way.

Check out some of the videos from their website or YouTube site.

Friday Fun...

 Another great comedian this week:  Jim Gaffigan at his absolute best 😂

In his 7th stand-up special Quality Time, four-time Grammy nominee Jim Gaffigan delivers a masterclass in relatable humor, questioning our social etiquette and the necessity of lying to our kids. From the bizarre world of dog birthdays and horses to the grueling reality of family travel and museums, Jim’s unique perspective on everyday life hits harder than ever.

Filled with his signature "inner voice" and effortless wit, this full performance captures why Jim Gaffigan is a true comedy icon.

Sit back and enjoy the best of one of the most consistent stand-up comedians working today.

The Parable of the 3 Pigs

I still love Veggie Tales. After yesterday's post dealing with deep academic information, I thought that today we should just have something a bit lighter and more fun.

This is a creative version of the Parable of the Wise and Foolish Builders in Matthew 7:24-27, where obeying Christ's words constitutes building on a solid rock foundation. This pig's tale shows kids that when we follow God's blueprints, we can make the right choices. The Three Little Pigs roll into town looking to build new houses. They meet one builder with a plan and two without a clue. Larry builds with hay, Mr. Lunt builds with bricks, but only Bob builds his houses on a firm foundation - following the wise plans from the "Master Builder's Handbook!" Will they choose the right builder that will keep their houses - and their lives - on solid ground?

And just because I like the Petersens, here is 'How Firm A Foundation'.

Uncommon Knowledge

Here is another interesting podcast, Uncommon Knowledge.

Moving from the Big Bang and the discovery of cosmic beginnings, to the fine-tuning of the physical constants that make life possible, to the extraordinary complexity and information embedded in DNA, mathematician John Lennox, philosopher of science Stephen Meyer, and chemist James Tour, explores whether these developments point to blind, undirected processes—or to the activity of an intelligent mind. The trio challenges long-held materialist assumptions, revisits classic scientific debates, and reflects on what these questions mean not only for science but also for our understanding of human existence and purpose.

This podcast is pretty deep and will definitely make you think... It is incredible to see scientists who are genuinely interested in reconciling science and religion.

Music Spotlight -The Jesus I Know Now

 This song was included on the list of new music in the May Living Word Lutheran Church newsletter... 

Country music is best known for singing songs born from real-life experiences. That’s exactly the case with Brandon Lake and Lainey Wilson’s collaboration, “The Jesus I Know Now.” In a recent interview, Lake opened up about the inspiration behind the track, giving fans a glimpse into the story that shaped it. 

Lake said that the inspiration behind the song sparked during a conversation with Wilson during a writer’s retreat. “The Lord's just been opening up crazy doors, just to collaborate with a lot of country artists,” the 35-year-old singer-songwriter recalled. “I sat down one day with one of my new, really great friends, now - I'm proud to say that...She is the realest deal. She was telling me her story, and she mentioned something, she goes, ‘You know, the Jesus I know now isn't really like the Jesus I grew up being taught about’”.  

The single had Lake and Wilson singing about how they changed their perception of Jesus when they got to know Him better, compared to what they were taught about Him.   

The track finds Lake and Wilson trading verses as they reflect on how their understanding of God and Jesus has changed dramatically from how they saw faith as children. They touch on how often, when learning about the Bible in Church, it can seem as though it's all “fire and brimstone”, with God judging us for the slightest misstep.

But as they sing across the soul-stirring, piano-driven instrumental, they've grown to see Jesus more as a friend who encourages and listens to them, and forgives them for their mistakes. They stress that it is a personal, comforting relationship built on love and understanding, rather than one with fear and anxiety at its core.

Towards the end of ‘The Jesus I Know Now’, Wilson gets candid about the struggles she has experienced in tandem with her stratospheric rise to fame over the past few years.

Wilson recalls how, despite receiving all the blessings she could wish for, she still felt she was missing something, “Yeah, I got what I wanted / Heard my song on the radio / Left me longing to know You / Top of the world with an empty heart / And nowhere left to go / But back into the arms / of the Jesus I know now”.

The image of being “Top of the world with an empty heart” is incredibly powerful, highlighting the juxtaposition between appearing as though everything is going her way, winning countless awards, scoring No. 1 singles and taking her songs across the globe, but in reality, wishing for a stronger connection with her faith.

It's a beautifully evocative and thought-provoking song, one that follows a string of country-leaning offerings from Lake, such as ‘Just Believe’ with Bailey Zimmerman and ‘When a Cowboy Prays’ with Cody Johnson. And don't forget his Grammy winning collaboration with country superstar, Jelly Roll, 'Hard Fought Hallelujah'. After ‘The Jesus I Know Now’, we're hoping Lake has a full-blown country-crossover project up his sleeve for 2026.   

If you want to hear more about Brandon Lake bringing his faith to country music, watch this interview...

How did Lot's wife turn to salt?

Another Biblical story explained by a scientific theory... Evidence? Historical proof? Maybe, maybe not. But a nuclear event from God is an interesting explanation. Like I have stated in previous posts about Biblical evidentiary "proofs", whether true or false it is not going to affect whether or not I believe... but it is certainly interesting. What you do think?

Friday Fun

Some more comedy for today...

Jeremy Alder used to have a pair of pants he called his purity pants, and he's here to tell you all about them in his first ever Dry Bar Comedy special. in this full special Jeremy talks about everything from being homeschooled to his rock band not making it big. Whether you're someone who had a pair of purity pants, or you're just someone looking for a good laugh, this full special from Jeremy Alder is sure to have you laughing from start to finish.

Are Catholics Really Christians?

The answer is obviously, yes, Catholics are Christians. Catholicism is the largest denomination of Christianity, with over 1.3 billion members worldwide. Catholics are Christians because they are baptized in the name of the Holy Trinity, believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God, and follow his teachings. This title is simply used to draw your attention to this podcast from Grown-Up Church Kids.

Gown-Up Church Kids is another interesting podcast that has just started. Grown Up Church Kids is more than a show, it’s a full-circle moment where Sunday Morning Meets Real Life.  The show blends honest conversation, humor, music, and storytelling as they unpack faith, culture, and the realities of growing up in and around the church. From choir stands to church politics, from deep belief to hard questions, nothing is off limits. Bringing together community, conversations, shared stories, and songs that shaped a generation, this is a space for Grown-Up Church Kids to reconnect with their roots, redefine their journeys, and celebrate the faith together.

In this recent episode of Grown Up Church Kids, Matt Maher joins Dwan Hill and Shama Mrema for an honest, eye-opening conversation about Catholic vs Protestant beliefs, church unity, saints, the Eucharist, and what it really means to follow Jesus. If you’ve ever wondered “Are Catholics Christians?”, struggled with church hurt, or felt disconnected from faith after growing up in church, this conversation bridges the gap with clarity, humility, and depth. From misconceptions about praying to saints to the meaning of communion and the beauty of liturgy, this episode explores how different traditions can still point to the same gospel. It’s not about winning arguments. It’s about rediscovering faith, unity in the Church, and a deeper relationship with God beyond performance, denomination, or tradition. If you’re a grown-up church kid trying to make sense of faith today, this one’s for you.

Here is 'Oh When The Saints" that was discussed at the end of the podcast...

American Idol and Christian Music

I don't know if you are a fan of American Idol television show, but it’s amazing how God has used a mainstream show like American Idol to ignite the careers of so many Christian singers. Each one is unique and it shows that there is not just one way of making it big. What I admire most about Christian artists on American Idol is that they don’t let the fame take away from serving and praising God.

Numerous American Idol contestants have built successful careers in Christian and Gospel music, such as Mandisa, Colton Dixon, Danny Gokey, Tori Kelly,  Lauren Daigle, Phil Stacey, Chris Sligh, and others. Even Carrie Underwood, who is thought of primarily as a Country Artist, has recently released two Christion records and has done several collaborations with Christian artists.

Christian music influence was especially prevalent this year (Season 24). American Idol 2026 prominently featured Christian artists Jordan McCullough, Hannah Harper, and Keyla Richardson in the Top 3. At  times, the Grand Finale show last week felt more like a Christian concert than a mainstream television vocal competition.

Jordan McCullough didn't win, but he won quite a few fans with his performance last week...

Keyla Richardson sang 'I Love The Lord'..

And the season winner, Hannah Harper sang 'At The Cross' after winning on the Grand Finale. (You can hear the full and less emotional performance here.)

May is Mental Health Awareness Month

Since May is Mental Health Awareness Month, I thought I would share the following article:

In some Christian communities, there can be a stigma around having a mental illness or struggling with mental health issues.(See disclaimer1) Unfortunately, this can make it even more difficult for Christians facing mental illness to seek the help and resources they need. It is important that as believers we understand the facts about mental health and do not disregard the prevalence of mental illness. 

Yes, Christians do experience mental illness. Christian faith and mental health struggles can both be present for believers. Just as a Christian may face a physical illness or injury, so they may also face a mental one. After Adam and Eve sinned in Genesis and the Fall, hardship, pain and struggle has been a part of the world for both believers and non-believers alike. 

Experiencing a mental illness does not mean that someone is spiritually immature or that they are living a punishment for their actions or that they do not pray enough. Even in the Bible, we can see the struggle with mental health issues. For example, many people believe that the prophet Elijah may have battled with depression in 1 Kings 19:4-14. There are also other figures who are believed to have suffered from mental illness, including David and Jonah.

A recent Lifeway Research study found that 26% of U.S. protestant pastors struggle with a mental illness personally. Even faith leaders are not immune from mental health problems. This helps show that mental illness is not a reflection of the person or their actions. Rather, just a reminder of the state of the imperfect world we live in. 

Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light. — Matthew 11:28-30 NIV 

Whether you’ve struggled with mental illness for a long time, or you have recently seen a decline in your mental health, there is hope. Here are some encouraging reminders for Christians struggling with mental illness: 

• You Are Loved
  We love because he first loved us. — 1 John 4:19 NIV
  
  You are loved, in the midst of the good times and the bad times. “But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us,” (Romans 5:8). God is love and his love is not conditional. He created us and values us.
  
  God also puts people in our lives who love us. He called us as believers to love one another and care about one another. However, no earthly love could ever compare to the love he has for us and we can cling to that in the midst of our struggles. 

• You Are Not Alone
  And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age. — Matthew 28:20 NIV
  
  When we become Christians, we are adopted into his family. “Yet to all who did receive him, to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God, ” (John 1:12). We have brothers and sisters in Christ who also are going through similar experiences. It is important to remember even in the hardest times, we are never alone and there are many other people who are also learning how to live with their mental health situations.
  
  “There is a friend who sticks closer than a brother,” (Proverbs 18:24). Even when we are at our loneliest and feel we have hit rock bottom emotionally, God has not abandoned us.
  
  He is with us each and every day. Mental illness can make us feel lonely and isolated. However, even when our emotions are strong and the loneliness feels at its worst, we are not alone. 
  
  
• You Are Not a “Bad Christian”
  For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith — and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God — not by works, so that no one can boast. — Ephesians 2:8-9 NIV
  
  There are a lot of stigmas surrounding Christianity and mental health and sometimes it can lead to Christians feeling like they are not good enough or are failing due to a mental illness. However, having a mental illness is not a sin and in no way means you are weak. Facing a mental illness takes strength and courage each day.
  
  It is also important to remember that nothing we do saves us, whether we have a mental illness or not. It is God’s grace and gift of salvation for us that we can truly have confidence in. 
  
  
• There Is Hope and Help 
  Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer. — Romans 12:12 NIV
  
  If you are struggling with a mental illness, remember there is hope and help. There are mental health professionals who are equipped with tools to help reduce the symptoms of mental illness as well as help connect you with resources that can benefit you.
  
  Although not all churches have mental health resources, some do offer Christian counseling opportunities as well as other outreach ministry for those recovering from mental health struggles.
  
  Ultimately, our hope comes from God and his promises. He is the one with power and authority in our lives. However, we should take advantage of the knowledgeable people he has put in our lives. 

How the Church Can Love Those With Mental Illness? 

Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. — Ephesians 4:2 NIV 

For those in the church who have not personally experienced mental illness, it can be hard to relate or understand the struggles of those who have. Here are some ways you can love and care for those struggling with mental illness: 

• Avoid stigmatizing and stereotyping: For those struggling with mental illness, there is enough pain and fear without the worry of being judged or stereotyped for their mental illness. Avoid using phrases or making comments that could make someone feel isolated or ostracized. 
  
  
• Don’t offer false “cures” or “solutions” to pain: It may be tempting to tell someone with a mental illness to “pray more” or “just trust God” when they are explaining their struggles. This is not helpful and can make the person feel worse. Mental illness is not just a matter of praying more. 
  
  
• Listen and understand it’s hard: Be willing to listen to those struggling with mental illness. They have unique insights and have firsthand experience dealing with the effects of mental illness. Show empathy for those who have a mental illness and understand that their mental health journey is not easy. 
  
  
• Pray: No matter what someone is going through, whether it be life changes, a physical sickness or injury or mental health struggles, prayer is a power tool. Prayer should not be viewed as a magic cure to mental health issues, but it is a way to bring it to God and hand it over to him. 
  
  
• Show genuine love and care: Showing love for those with mental illness can mean a lot. Even simple actions that show you care can go a long way to someone who is struggling. 
  
  
• Check in and offer support: If you have the time to listen, send a text or schedule a meet up just to spend time with the person. Time is valuable but showing up and being there is an encouraging example of love. 
  
  
• Encourage professional help: Encourage those with mental illness to seek professional help. Sometimes taking the first step to getting help can be daunting, so encouragement and support during the process is valuable. Being there for them after they begin seeking treatment is a way to show you care for their well-being and value them. 

Christianity offers the ultimate hope of redemption and restoration. The message of the Gospel emphasizes God's love, grace, and the transformative power of Jesus' sacrifice. It assures believers that they are valued, accepted, and forgiven, regardless of their past or their struggles. The hope of eternal life in the presence of God brings comfort and reassurance, reminding individuals that their suffering is temporary and that a future of wholeness and joy awaits them.

In the embrace of Christianity's teachings, individuals can discover a profound sense of comfort, guidance, and hope. Mental health challenges need not be faced alone, because the Christian faith offers timeless wisdom, a supportive community, and a relationship with the God who loves us.

Matthew 11:28 "Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest."

Has Noah's Ark been found?

This has been in the news a lot... Is the long search for Noah's Ark entering a new chapter? Explorer Andrew Jones of Noah’s Ark Scans joins Billy Hallowell from eastern Turkey — right near the area some believe could house the remains of Noah's ark — to reveal stunning new data that’s reigniting one of the Bible’s most debated mysteries. 

From alleged ground-penetrating radar scans showing right angles and possible internal structures, to soil analysis revealing unusually high organic material, Jones says the evidence is building toward something extraordinary. 

BUT WAIT... skeptics aren’t convinced— and the debate is heating up. So what’s really buried beneath this purported boat-shaped formation? And could it actually align with the biblical account?

What do you think? I actually agree with Dr. Jeremiah Johnston's comment... I wish it were true, but whether it is or not, it doesn't affect my faith.

Happy Mother's Day

 As we celebrate Mother’s Day, let’s remember that motherhood—whether lived out in a nursery, a neighborhood, or in nurturing hearts—is a sacred calling deeply cherished by God. We’re reminded that God sees, equips, and honors women in every stage of their journey. Whether you’re in the thick of toddler tantrums, waiting with hope, or pouring into others as a spiritual mother, know this: your role matters to us, and your role matters to God. You are a good and perfect gift! So this Mother’s Day, our team at Ask About My Faith is praying that you would feel deeply loved, spiritually strengthened, and joyfully celebrated. To all the moms out there: thank you!

She is clothed with strength and dignity; she can laugh at the days to come. Her children arise and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praises her. - Proverbs 31:25,28