The Bible Explained with Jenn Kokal

In this episode of The Bible Explained, Jenn dives into Esther chapter six, a chapter that's often considered one of the funniest in the Bible. But don't let the humor fool you - this chapter is also a pivotal moment in the story of Esther, and it's full of unexpected twists and turns: King Ahasuerus has a hard time sleeping after Esther's banquet. He orders the book of records to be brought to him. The king learns about Mordecai's part in saving his life but he never received recognition or a reward for his actions. The king is puzzled by this oversight and decides to take action. Haman, who's been plotting against Mordecai, comes early to the court to ask for Mordecai to die, but gets humiliated instead. Mordecai remains humble and unassuming, even as he's given the royal treatment. This episode is a great reminder that God is always at work, even in the most unexpected ways. If you're looking for a fresh perspective on a familiar story, or just want to learn more about the book of Esther, this episode is a great place to start. Related Episode: 1 Peter 2:11-17 - Is It Biblical to Submit to Corrupt or Pagan Governments? Hey! Don't leave before looking at other P40 stuff: YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Hnh-aqfg8rw Ko-Fi - https://ko-fi.com/p40ministries Website - https://www.p40ministries.com Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/p40ministries Contact - jenn@p40ministries.com Books - https://www.amazon.com/Jenn-Kokal/e/B095JCRNHY/ref=aufs_dp_fta_dsk Merch - https://www.p40ministries.com/shop YouVersion - https://www.bible.com/reading-plans/38267-out-of-the-mire-trusting-god-in-the-middle Check out LifeAudio for other faith-based podcasts on parenting, studying Scripture, and more:www.lifeaudio.com Need help memorizing Scripture? Check out Verse in the Chorus: https://www.youtube.com/@VerseintheChrous Become a member to gain access to The Bible Explained on Fridays: https://ko-fi.com/p40ministries Support babies and get quality coffee with Seven Weeks Coffee https://sevenweekscoffee.com/?ref=P40 Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Today we dive into a topic that's often met with resistance: submission to government authorities. This concept is repeated throughout Scripture, from Romans 13 to 1 Peter 2, and even Jesus himself taught on this subject. But why should we submit to those in power, especially when we disagree or our government is corrupt? As Christians, we're temporary residents on this earth, which helps us remember that our irritations with the government are not as significant as they seem. How do we balance our obedience to God with our submission to earthly authorities? The importance of recognizing the difference between temporal and spiritual matters, and how we should submit to the former while resisting the latter. This episode encourages listeners to think critically about their relationship with the government while still serving God. If you're interested in learning more about how to navigate the complex relationship between faith and government, tune in to this episode. Related Episodes: Romans 13:1-7 (From Christ) - What's the Christian's Role in Government? Titus 3 - Disobeying Governing Authorities and Other Sins After you're done with that, check out these websites: YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Hnh-aqfg8rw Ko-Fi - https://ko-fi.com/p40ministries Website - https://www.p40ministries.com Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/p40ministries Contact - jenn@p40ministries.com Books - https://www.amazon.com/Jenn-Kokal/e/B095JCRNHY/ref=aufs_dp_fta_dsk Merch - https://www.p40ministries.com/shop YouVersion - https://www.bible.com/reading-plans/38267-out-of-the-mire-trusting-god-in-the-middle Check out LifeAudio for other faith-based podcasts on parenting, studying Scripture, and more:www.lifeaudio.com Need help memorizing Scripture? Check out Verse in the Chorus: https://www.youtube.com/@VerseintheChrous Become a member to gain access to The Bible Explained on Fridays: https://ko-fi.com/p40ministries Support babies and get quality coffee with Seven Weeks Coffee https://sevenweekscoffee.com/?ref=P40 Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Today, we delve into the dramatic story of Esther, a Jewish woman who finds herself in a precarious position as the queen of Persia. With a genocide looming over her people, Esther must navigate the complexities of the royal court to save her life and the lives of those she loves: Esther's faced with a daunting task: approaching the king without being summoned - a move that could result in her sudden death. Jenn discusses the intricacies of the Persian court, explaining the customs and rules that govern the king's narcissistic behavior. Haman, the king's right-hand man, is seething with anger towards Mordecai, and his hatred only grows at the end of the episode. Don't miss this discussion to discover how Esther's bravery and cunning lead her down a path that will change the course of Israeli history. Listen to the full episode to find out what happens next in this gripping tale of faith and courage. Don’t just check out one… Take a look at them all! YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Hnh-aqfg8rw Ko-Fi - https://ko-fi.com/p40ministries Website - https://www.p40ministries.com Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/p40ministries Contact - jenn@p40ministries.com Books - https://www.amazon.com/Jenn-Kokal/e/B095JCRNHY/ref=aufs_dp_fta_dsk Merch - https://www.p40ministries.com/shop YouVersion - https://www.bible.com/reading-plans/38267-out-of-the-mire-trusting-god-in-the-middle Check out LifeAudio for other faith-based podcasts on parenting, studying Scripture, and more:www.lifeaudio.com Need help memorizing Scripture? Check out Verse in the Chorus: https://www.youtube.com/@VerseintheChrous Become a member to gain access to The Bible Explained on Fridays: https://ko-fi.com/p40ministries Support babies and get quality coffee with Seven Weeks Coffee https://sevenweekscoffee.com/?ref=P40 Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

The episode explores 1 Peter 2, discussing how Jesus is the Chief Cornerstone and the foundation of the church: Any teachings or practices that aren't grounded in Jesus can lead to spiritual instability. In contrast, those who build their faith on Jesus, the Living Stone, will find stability and security. Jesus is a stumbling stone, which refers to Jesus as a rock of offense to those who reject him. A discussion of Romans 9 and being chosen by Christ To close, Jenn emphasizes the importance of revisiting the basics of the Gospel, even for more advanced Christians. Related Episode: 1 Timothy 4:6-16 - How A Young Person Should Conduct Themselves as A Christian Be sure to click every link for the full P40 experience: YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Hnh-aqfg8rw Ko-Fi - https://ko-fi.com/p40ministries Website - https://www.p40ministries.com Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/p40ministries Contact - jenn@p40ministries.com Books - https://www.amazon.com/Jenn-Kokal/e/B095JCRNHY/ref=aufs_dp_fta_dsk Merch - https://www.p40ministries.com/shop YouVersion - https://www.bible.com/reading-plans/38267-out-of-the-mire-trusting-god-in-the-middle Check out LifeAudio for other faith-based podcasts on parenting, studying Scripture, and more:www.lifeaudio.com Need help memorizing Scripture? Check out Verse in the Chorus: https://www.youtube.com/@VerseintheChrous Become a member to gain access to The Bible Explained on Fridays: https://ko-fi.com/p40ministries Support babies and get quality coffee with Seven Weeks Coffee https://sevenweekscoffee.com/?ref=P40 Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Today, we focus on the story of Esther and Mordecai's response to the horrific news that the Jewish people are about to be destroyed: Mordecai, upon learning of the decree, tears his clothes and puts on sackcloth with ashes, mourning loudly and bitterly outside the king's gate. Esther sends a eunuch to Mordecai to investigate and learns about the decree and the amount of money Haman promised to pay the king's treasuries for the destruction of the Jews. Mordecai urges Esther to go to the king to make a request for her people, but Esther is hesitant, citing the law that anyone who enters the inner court without being called will be put to death. Mordecai reassures her that she will die either way, either in 11 months when Haman's henchmen kill the Jews or if she fails to act. Esther decides to fast and pray for three days, gathering the Jews in Susa to do the same, before going to the king, which is against the law. Today's story is one of encouragement to trust in God - that perhaps you have been created for such a time as this. Click all these links from P40: YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Hnh-aqfg8rw Ko-Fi - https://ko-fi.com/p40ministries Website - https://www.p40ministries.com Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/p40ministries Contact - jenn@p40ministries.com Books - https://www.amazon.com/Jenn-Kokal/e/B095JCRNHY/ref=aufs_dp_fta_dsk Merch - https://www.p40ministries.com/shop YouVersion - https://www.bible.com/reading-plans/38267-out-of-the-mire-trusting-god-in-the-middle Check out LifeAudio for other faith-based podcasts on parenting, studying Scripture, and more:www.lifeaudio.com Need help memorizing Scripture? Check out Verse in the Chorus: https://www.youtube.com/@VerseintheChrous Become a member to gain access to The Bible Explained on Fridays: https://ko-fi.com/p40ministries Support babies and get quality coffee with Seven Weeks Coffee https://sevenweekscoffee.com/?ref=P40 Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

As we continue through the book of 1 Peter, we're reminded that our lives on this earth are temporary, and our hope should be in something eternal: A powerful reminder that as Christians, we are called to live on this earth as foreigners, not as our permanent home. We know that there is something better waiting for us in eternity, and that's why we should be living in reverent fear, not placing our hope in this world. The significance of Jesus' sacrifice, which is the most important thing in Scripture. Jesus' blood is precious - He was foreknown before the foundation of the world to take on the burden of redeeming humanity. A discussion of the emotional suffering Jesus experienced on the cross, which is something we can't fully understand. Love is more than just an action; it's an attitude that starts in the heart. As we wrap up this episode, Jenn invites us to consider how we can store up our treasures in heaven instead of on earth. We're encouraged to read through the book of Proverbs, which offers a balance of earthly achievement and heavenly perspective. Join us as we continue exploring the book of 1 Peter and discover how to live a life that's focused on eternity. Related Episode: Mark 15:21-37 (From Christ) - Jesus, The Sin Sacrifice Hey! Look at this other P40 content! YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Hnh-aqfg8rw Ko-Fi - https://ko-fi.com/p40ministries Website - https://www.p40ministries.com Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/p40ministries Contact - jenn@p40ministries.com Books - https://www.amazon.com/Jenn-Kokal/e/B095JCRNHY/ref=aufs_dp_fta_dsk Merch - https://www.p40ministries.com/shop YouVersion - https://www.bible.com/reading-plans/38267-out-of-the-mire-trusting-god-in-the-middle Check out LifeAudio for other faith-based podcasts on parenting, studying Scripture, and more:www.lifeaudio.com Need help memorizing Scripture? Check out Verse in the Chorus: https://www.youtube.com/@VerseintheChrous Become a member to gain access to The Bible Explained on Fridays: https://ko-fi.com/p40ministries Support babies and get quality coffee with Seven Weeks Coffee https://sevenweekscoffee.com/?ref=P40 Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

In today's episode of Esther 3, the notorious character Haman is introduced: Haman plots to destroy the Jewish people. King Ahasuerus promotes Haman above his princes and commands everyone to bow down to him. Mordecai, a Jewish man, refuses to show homage. Haman's ancestry reveals his connection to the Amalekites, a group known for their hatred towards the Jews. Haman convinces King Ahasuerus to issue a decree to destroy all the Jews in one day. Related Episode: 1 Samuel 15:12-23 (From Creation) - Disobeying God is Idolatry If you want to support the Bible Explained: YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Hnh-aqfg8rw Ko-Fi - https://ko-fi.com/p40ministries Website - https://www.p40ministries.com Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/p40ministries Contact - jenn@p40ministries.com Books - https://www.amazon.com/Jenn-Kokal/e/B095JCRNHY/ref=aufs_dp_fta_dsk Merch - https://www.p40ministries.com/shop YouVersion - https://www.bible.com/reading-plans/38267-out-of-the-mire-trusting-god-in-the-middle Check out LifeAudio for other faith-based podcasts on parenting, studying Scripture, and more:www.lifeaudio.com Need help memorizing Scripture? Check out Verse in the Chorus: https://www.youtube.com/@VerseintheChrous Become a member to gain access to The Bible Explained on Fridays: https://ko-fi.com/p40ministries Support babies and get quality coffee with Seven Weeks Coffee https://sevenweekscoffee.com/?ref=P40 Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

In this special, Saturday episode, Jenn is joined by Kristy Graham, a dedicated wife, mom, and communications expert at Samaritan's Purse. Kristy shares her personal story of how her family's life was shaped by their involvement with Samaritan's Purse, and how her role in the organization's podcast, On the Ground, has been a game-changer for her faith. Kristy talks about the importance of prayer in the ministry, and how the organization's staff starts each day with Scripture and prayer. She shares stories of the organization's work in disaster relief, including training for doctors and nurses fighting the Ebola epidemic, their response to Hurricane Helene, and helping those devastated by earthquakes in Venezuela. Through these stories, Kristy highlights the impact of Samaritan's Purse's work in bringing hope, love, and comfort to those affected by disaster. Kristy also opens up about her own journey of learning to rely on God's strength, rather than her own. She shares how her role in the podcast has taught her the importance of rest and surrender, and how she's learning to say yes to God's plans, even when they don't make sense to her. Kristy's vulnerability and passion for her work will inspire you to take a closer look at your own faith in the One who comforts, heals, and loves. Listen to On the Ground with Samaritan's Purse to hear more faith-based stories of God's provision. Discover how you can get involved with Samaritan's Purse Learn about Operation Christmas Child Check out LifeAudio for other faith-based podcasts on parenting, studying Scripture, and more. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

This episode of The Bible Explained takes a deep dive into the Book of First Peter, exploring the concept of salvation and the Trinity: The prophets of the Old Testament searched diligently for the salvation that would come to us through Jesus Christ. The prophets didn't know the name of Jesus, yet still understood that a Messiah was coming and that salvation was on its way. Who or what is the Trinity? The Holy Spirit is a separate member of the Trinity, working together with God the Father and Jesus to accomplish the same goal. This discussion touches on the importance of understanding the Trinity and how it relates to our salvation. What is modalism, and is it biblical? As the episode comes to a close, Jenn emphasizes the importance of obedience to God's commands and how it is closely tied to our faith. She encourages listeners to be holy in all their behavior, just as God is holy, and to be ready for Jesus's second coming. Related Episode: 2022 Annual Candlelit Christmas Eve - The Christmas Trinity Don’t just check out one… Take a look at them all! YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Hnh-aqfg8rw Ko-Fi - https://ko-fi.com/p40ministries Website - https://www.p40ministries.com Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/p40ministries Contact - jenn@p40ministries.com Books - https://www.amazon.com/Jenn-Kokal/e/B095JCRNHY/ref=aufs_dp_fta_dsk Merch - https://www.p40ministries.com/shop YouVersion - https://www.bible.com/reading-plans/38267-out-of-the-mire-trusting-god-in-the-middle Check out LifeAudio for other faith-based podcasts on parenting, studying Scripture, and more:www.lifeaudio.com Need help memorizing Scripture? Check out Verse in the Chorus: https://www.youtube.com/@VerseintheChrous Become a member to gain access to The Bible Explained on Fridays: https://ko-fi.com/p40ministries Support babies and get quality coffee with Seven Weeks Coffee https://sevenweekscoffee.com/?ref=P40 Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Today, we explore the story of Esther's selection as the new queen of King Ahasuerus: After the king's wrath against Vashti subsided, he remembered her sadly and decreed a beauty contest to find a new queen to take his mind off her. The king's servants sought out beautiful young virgins from all provinces, who were taken to the citadel of Susa to be trained and prepared for the king's harem. The significance of Esther's family background, revealing that she was from the royal bloodline of the Benjamites, a lineage that dates back to King Saul. Mordecai, Esther's cousin, adopted her after her parents' death and instructed her to keep her Jewish identity hidden. Esther's beauty won over the king, who eventually made her queen instead of Vashti. Related Episode: 1 Samuel 15:1-11 (From Creation) - Why Did God Want Saul to Kill ALL The Amalekites? Be sure to click every link: YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Hnh-aqfg8rw Ko-Fi - https://ko-fi.com/p40ministries Website - https://www.p40ministries.com Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/p40ministries Contact - jenn@p40ministries.com Books - https://www.amazon.com/Jenn-Kokal/e/B095JCRNHY/ref=aufs_dp_fta_dsk Merch - https://www.p40ministries.com/shop YouVersion - https://www.bible.com/reading-plans/38267-out-of-the-mire-trusting-god-in-the-middle Check out LifeAudio for other faith-based podcasts on parenting, studying Scripture, and more:www.lifeaudio.com Need help memorizing Scripture? Check out Verse in the Chorus: https://www.youtube.com/@VerseintheChrous Become a member to gain access to The Bible Explained on Fridays: https://ko-fi.com/p40ministries Support babies and get quality coffee with Seven Weeks Coffee https://sevenweekscoffee.com/?ref=P40 Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.