Podcasts | Faithelement: Recent Episodes
Faithelement
Crumbs, Dogs, and a Mother Who Would Not Quit For the session to be discussed on August 16, 2026 Matthew 15:21–28 David Cassady Nikki Hardeman Jaye Peabody Smith Daniel Glaze We talk about refusing to take no for an answer, then reflect on Jesus’ encounter with the Canaanite/Syrophoenician mother who persists for her tormented daughter […]
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Can You See Me Now? For the session to be discussed on August 9, 2026 Matthew 14:22–33 David Cassady Nikki Hardeman Jaye Peabody Smith We open the podcast on Matthew 14:22–33 by sharing everyday fears (our kids’ safety, heights, roaches, stinging insects, control) and how fear can help yet also immobilize us. We note Jesus’ […]
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Nobody is Sent Away For the session to be discussed on August 2, 2026 Matthew 14:13–21 David Cassady Nikki Hardeman Jaye Peabody Smith Daniel Glaze The team explores Jesus feeding the multitude: the disciples see scarcity and want to send people away, but Jesus treats a small offering as a beginning and everyone eats with […]
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Two Women by the River For the session to be discussed on July 26, 2026 Acts 16:11–18 David Cassady Daniel Glaze Jaye Peabody Smith David Adams In Acts 16 we meet two women bound by the same economy: Lydia, a wealthy dealer in purple whose heart God opens, and an unnamed enslaved girl whose truth-telling […]
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It’s a Setup For the session to be discussed on July 19, 2026 John 8:1–11 David Cassady Daniel Glaze Jaye Peabody Smith David Adams We reflect on John 8 as a story about power: religious leaders use an unnamed woman caught in adultery to trap Jesus, exposing hypocrisy and the missing man. Jesus’ response—“let whoever […]
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Relentless Persistence For the session to be discussed on July 12, 2026 Luke 18:1–8 David Cassady Daniel Glaze Lacey Wondree Nikki Hardeman Jaye Peabody Smith In today’s episode we reflect on persistence through Jesus’ parable of the persistent widow before an unjust judge. Like a tenacious grandmother battling insurance, the widow keeps showing up because […]
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A Faithful Touch For the session to be discussed on July 5, 2026 Mark 5:25–34 Daniel Glaze Jaye Peabody Smith David Adams Lacey Wondree In episode five of the summer series “From the Edge: Women Who Moved the Story,” we explore Mark 5:25–34, the woman with a 12-year hemorrhage. The conversation traces her isolation under […]
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Huldah the Mic For the session to be discussed on June 28, 2026 2 Kings 22 Daniel Glaze Nikki Hardeman Jaye Peabody Smith David Adams Lacey Wondree We share stories of being underestimated, then reflect on Huldah in 2 Kings 22 as a prophet whose authority is assumed as royal officials seek and obey her […]
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Courageous Compassion For the session to be discussed on June 21, 2026 1 Kings 3:16–28 Daniel Glaze Nikki Hardeman Jaye Peabody Smith David Adams Lacey Wondree In this episode we reflect on what sacrifice looks like in everyday life, then explore the story of two unnamed mothers before Solomon and a threatened child. We focus […]
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The Roadside Reckoning For the session to be discussed on June 14, 2026 Genesis 38 Daniel Glaze Nikki Hardeman Jaye Peabody Smith David Adams Lacey Wondree In this episode, we reflect on patience, then we unpack Tamar’s story in Genesis 38: denied protection through levirate marriage, she exposes Judah’s hypocrisy by disguising herself, becoming pregnant, […]
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Can You See Me Now? For the session to be discussed on June 7, 2026 Genesis 16; 21:8–21 Daniel Glaze Nikki Hardeman Jaye Peabody Smith David Adams Lacey Wondree The podcast team reflects on sibling teasing and connects it to Hagar’s story, where Ishmael’s mocking leads Sarah to drive Hagar and Ishmael into the wilderness. […]
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You’re It. Now Go. For the session to be discussed on May 31, 2026 Matthew 28:16-20 David Cassady Nikki Hardeman Jaye Peabody Smith David Adams Daniel Glaze We trade stories about our worst cars, then reflect on Matthew 28:16–20 as Jesus entrusting imperfect, doubting disciples with an overwhelming mission. We frame “make disciples” as an […]
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We Could Start a Fire For the session to be discussed on May 24, 2026 Acts 2:1-21 David Cassady Nikki Hardeman Jaye Peabody Smith David Adams Daniel Glaze In this episode for Pentecost Sunday, we talk about the Spirit’s power to ignite faith, disrupt rigid traditions, and push us beyond control into passionate, unpredictable discipleship. […]
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Before You Knew You Needed It For the session to be discussed on May 17, 2026 John 17:1-11 David Cassady Nikki Hardeman David Adams Daniel Glaze In this episode Daniel frames John 17 as Jesus’ “high priestly prayer,” the longest recorded prayer of Jesus, offered on the night of his arrest after the Last Supper, […]
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Who Made Who? For the session to be discussed on May 10, 2026 Acts 17:22-31 David Cassady Nikki Hardeman David Adams Daniel Glaze In this episode we compare modern debate culture and sports arguments with Athens’ intellectual discourse, emphasizing Paul’s claim that the “unknown God” is the Creator who cannot be contained by human-made objects […]
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Built for Belonging For the session to be discussed on May 3, 2026 1 Peter 2:2-10 David Cassady David Adams Jaye Peabody Smith Daniel Glaze In this episode we discuss 1 Peter 2:2–10 and the human longing to belong, sharing personal stories of exclusion and welcome. Daniel introduces the passage with a story of a […]
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Snitches & Saints For the session to be discussed on April 26, 2026 1 Peter 2:19-25 David Cassady David Adams Daniel Glaze Jaye Peabody Smith We discuss 1 Peter 2:19–25 (noting the lectionary omits v.18 on enslaved people) and what it means to take risks, protest injustice, and endure unjust suffering without retaliation while keeping […]
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First Steps For the session to be discussed on April 19, 2026 Acts 2:14a, 36-41 David Cassady Nikki Hardeman David Adams Jaye Peabody Smith In this episode, we discuss where we turn for help, then connect that need to Acts 2:14 and 36–41, where confused listeners ask Peter what to do and he calls them […]
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Something to Prove For the session to be discussed on April 12, 2026 Acts 2:14a, 22-32 David Cassady Nikki Hardeman David Adams Jaye Peabody Smith We share times we surprised ourselves, then Jaye describes being mistreated before preaching, and then connects it to Peter’s transformation at Pentecost: empowered by the Holy Spirit, Peter proclaims Jesus’ […]
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Lowering Hope Into the Ground For the session to be discussed on April 5, 2026 John 20:1-18 David Cassady Lacee Wondree Jaye Peabody Smith David Adams Daniel Glaze In this Easter episode we reflect on Mary Magdalene at the tomb “while it is still dark,” staying, weeping, hearing Jesus speak her name, and becoming the […]
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Riding Into the Storm For the session to be discussed on March 29, 2026 Philippians 2:5-11 David Cassady Nikki Hardeman Lacey Wondree Jaye Peabody Smith Daniel Glaze David Adams For this podcast on Palm Sunday we reflect on Paul quoting an early Christian hymn about Jesus emptying and humbling himself, choosing sacrifice without grasping status, […]
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The Question That Hangs in the Air For the session to be discussed on March 22, 2026 Ezekiel 37:1-14 David Cassady Nikki Hardeman David Adams Daniel Glaze We open the episode with stories of fixing what seems beyond repair, then turn to Ezekiel 37:1–14 and the valley of dry bones. We place the text in […]
Scuffling for a Blessing For the session to be discussed on October 19, 2025 Genesis 32:22-31 David Cassady Nikki Hardeman David Adams Jaye Peabody Smith In this episode, we explore Genesis 32:22-31, focusing on Jacob’s struggle with God and the role of persistence in faith. We share personal anecdotes about persistence, discuss the significance of […]
Bloom Where You’re Planted For the session to be discussed on October 12, 2025 Jeremiah 29:1, 4-7 David Cassady Nikki Hardeman David Adams Daniel Glaze Jaye Peabody Smith In today’s episode, we explore what it means to feel like exiles in our rapidly changing culture. Through Jeremiah’s timeless wisdom, we discover a powerful call to […]
Naming the Darkness For the session to be discussed on October 5, 2025 Lamentations 1:1-6; 3:19-26 David Cassady Nikki Hardeman David Adams Daniel Glaze Jaye Peabody Smith In this episode we are discussing Lamentations, focusing on the importance of communal and individual lament. We share personal reflections on societal losses like unstructured time, security, and […]
I Bought a Field… For the session to be discussed on September 28, 2025 Jeremiah 32:1-3a, 6-15 David Cassady Nikki Hardeman David Adams Daniel Glaze Jaye Peabody Smith This episode explores Jeremiah’s act of faith in buying land during a dire situation. We discuss faith in challenging times, sharing personal and community hopes for the […]
Rigged Scales For the session to be discussed on September 21, 2025 Amos 8:4-7 David Cassady David Adams Daniel Glaze In this episode, we discuss Amos 8:4-7, focusing on fairness, justice, and the moral responsibilities of individuals and society. Through personal stories and biblical analysis, we explore how faith should influence everyday actions, especially regarding […]
Mistaken For the session to be discussed on September 14, 2025 1 Corinthians 1:18-24 David Cassady David Adams Daniel Glaze We discuss the challenges and misconceptions in understanding the gospel from 1 Corinthians 1:18-24. They emphasize the importance of genuine truth as following Christ’s example rather than simply having correct beliefs. The discussion also covers […]
The Potter’s Choice For the session to be discussed on September 7, 2025 Jeremiah 18:1-11 David Cassady David Adams Daniel Glaze Jaye Lynn Peabody Smith In this episode the hosts explore Jeremiah 18:1-11, discussing how life experiences shape us like a potter molds clay. We share personal stories about artistic endeavors and woodworking, relating them […]
Well, Well, Well… Let’s Talk About Living Water For the session to be discussed on August 31, 2025 Jeremiah 2:4-13 David Cassady David Adams Daniel Glaze Jaye Lynn Peabody Smith In this episode we discuss Jeremiah 2:4-13, emphasizing God’s heartbreak over unfaithfulness but also God’s unwavering love and invitation to return. We share personal reflections […]
Another Form of Worship For the session to be discussed on August 24, 2025 Isaiah 58:9b-14 David Cassady David Adams Daniel Glaze Jaye Lynn Peabody Smith In this episode we discuss Isaiah 58:9-14, emphasizing multiple forms of worship including music, nature, and art. Jay highlights that true worship goes beyond rituals to include fighting injustice, […]
A Cloudy Community For the session to be discussed on August 17, 2025 Hebrews 11:29-12:2 David Cassady David Adams Nikki Hardeman Jaye Lynn Peabody Smith Our conversation delves into the concept of a ‘cloud of witnesses’ from Hebrews and how it represents the community that influences and supports us. It highlights the significance of imperfect […]
Feed Your Focus For the session to be discussed on August 10, 2025 Luke 12:32-40 David Cassady David Adams Nikki Hardeman Jaye Lynn Peabody Smith This episode focuses on the challenges of distractions in everyday life and their impact on spiritual focus. Through personal anecdotes, we highlight how distractions can divert attention from God and […]
What Not to Wear For the session to be discussed on August 3, 2025 Colossians 3:1-11 David Cassady David Adams Nikki Hardeman Jaye Lynn Peabody Smith In this episode, we discuss appropriate spiritual attire by reflecting on Colossians 3:1-11. We share personal stories about literal clothing, the importance of presenting oneself genuinely, and the metaphorical […]
Making Memories For the session to be discussed on July 27, 2025 Joshua 4:1-9 Daniel Glaze David Adams Lacey Wondree Jaye Lynn Peabody Smith We discuss the ways individuals and congregations mark significant faith experiences, emphasizing the importance of community and shared memories. The conversations highlights that personal connections and acts of presence often surpass […]
Hammer Time For the session to be discussed on July 20, 2025 Luke 5:17-26 Daniel Glaze David Adams Jaye Lynn Peabody Smith Lacey Wondree In this episode we discuss memorable experiences of community service. Lacey recalls repainting a parish hall with her congregation, Jaye talks about mission experiences with Habitat for Humanity, and Daniel mentions […]
Holy Hoopla! For the session to be discussed on July 13, 2025 2 Samuel 6:14-15 David Cassady Nikki Hardeman David Adams Jaye Lynn Peabody Smith Daniel Glaze This episode discusses memorable worship experiences, exploring how communal joy plays a significant role. We share personal stories, highlighting moments of shared joy in worship, and delve into […]
Table Fellowship For the session to be discussed on July 6, 2025 John 21:9-14 David Cassady Nikki Hardeman David Adams Jaye Lynn Peabody Smith Daniel Glaze We discuss the importance of shared meals and their role in building community. We share personal stories of memorable meals and highlight how eating together can foster relationships and […]
Bearing Burdens on our Branded Bodies For the session to be discussed on June 29, 2025 Galatians 5:22-6:5; 6:17-18 David Cassady Nikki Hardeman David Adams Jaye Lynn Peabody Smith Daniel Glaze Angela Parker In this episode, discussions include Paul’s virtue list, bearing burdens, fruits of the Spirit, and the significance of physical and metaphorical “marks […]
From Bondage to Belonging For the session to be discussed on June 22, 2025 Galatians 4:21-5:1 David Cassady Nikki Hardeman David Adams Jaye Lynn Peabody Smith Daniel Glaze Angela Parker This episode revolves around Apostle Paul’s use of women’s experiences, particularly the story of Hagar and Sarah, to illustrate spiritual truths. We also delve into […]
What Works Are You Watching For the session to be discussed on June 15, 2025 Galatians 3:6-14 David Cassady Nikki Hardeman David Adams Jaye Lynn Peabody Smith Daniel Glaze Angela Parker In this third episode of our Summer Bible Book Study, we delve into Galatians 3:6-14. We explore the theme of ‘What works are you […]
Paul’s Pericope of Participation For the session to be discussed on June 8, 2025 Galatians 2:11-21 David Cassady Nikki Hardeman David Adams Jaye Lynn Peabody Smith Daniel Glaze Angela Parker The second in our Summer Book Study on Galatians, this episode emphasizes Paul’s defense of his apostleship and his critical view on the interactions between […]
Participatory Faith For the session to be discussed on June 1, 2025 Galatians 1:1-5 David Cassady Nikki Hardeman David Adams Daniel Glaze Angela Parker This episode begins our first Summer Book Series on the book of Galatians, featuring special guest Dr. Angela Parker. Dr. Angela Parker is Associate Professor of New Testament and Greek at […]
God is a Sneaky Sneak For the session to be discussed on May 25, 2025 Acts 16:9-15 David Cassady Nikki Hardeman David Adams Daniel Glaze This episode examines Acts 16:9-15 under the theme ‘God is a Sneaky Sneak.’ We discuss how God’s subtle guidance directed Paul to Macedonia, where he unexpectedly converts Lydia, a businesswoman, […]
What’s Love Got to Do With It? For the session to be discussed on May 18, 2025 John 13:31-35 David Cassady Nikki Hardeman Daniel Glaze Jay Lynn Peabody Smith David Adams This episode focuses on the commandment to love one another. Our discussion includes an exploration of Jesus’ call to love, focusing on the need […]
Sheep and Suspense For the session to be discussed on May 11, 2025 John 10:22-30 David Cassady Nikki Hardeman Daniel Glaze Jay Lynn Peabody Smith David Adams In this episode we discuss John 10:22-30 and how people perceive and hear God’s voice in their lives. We share personal experiences about recognizing God’s communication through community, […]
And the Nets Held! For the session to be discussed on May 5, 2025 John 21:1-19 David Cassady Nikki Hardeman Daniel Glaze Jay Lynn Peabody Smith David Adams In this episode the conversation starts with personal fishing stories and moves into a reflection on the meaning of gospel fishing, metaphorically using a net instead of […]
See It to Believe It For the session to be discussed on April 27, 2025 John 20:19-31 David Cassady Nikki Hardeman Daniel Glaze Jay Lynn Peabody Smith David Adams In this episode we focus on themes of doubt and faith. The discussion features Nikki’s recent experience at the United Nations’ Commission on the Status of […]
No Idle Tale For the session to be discussed on April 20, 2025 Luke 24:1-12 David Cassady Daniel Glaze Jay Lynn Peabody Smith David Adams In this episode, we reflect on the significance of Easter Sunday by discussing Luke 24:1-12. We share personal stories and discuss the concept of hope in the face of despair. […]
Passion For the session to be discussed on April 13, 2025 Luke 23:32-43 David Cassady Daniel Glaze Jay Lynn Peabody Smith David Adams Today’s discussion centers around Holy Week rituals, with personal experiences shared about Maundy Thursday, Good Friday, and foot-washing traditions. We explore the themes of grace, mercy, and forgiveness, illustrated by the story […]
Rules, Relationship, and RighteousnessFor the session to be discussed on April 6, 2025
Philippians 3:4b-14
Daniel Glaze
Jay Lynnn Peabody Smith
Lacey Wondree
David Adams
In this session we examine the themes of rules, relationship, and righteousness. The discussion includes personal anecdotes about difficulty in letting go of items, comparing it to Paul’s message about focusing on a deeper relationship with Christ rather than legalistic adherence to rules. We emphasize the idea that true righteousness comes from faith and love in Jesus rather than personal achievements. A concluding story about unwavering trust and courage further illustrates the episode’s central theme of moving forward in faith. The conversation touches on the critique of legalistic religious practices and emphasizes the importance of an inclusive, grace-filled relationship with God. We also reference the movie ‘Saved’ to highlight the pitfalls of legalistic faith.
Learn more about our team.
Notes* Try our small group curriculum! New subscribers can enjoy a completely free month of the premium edition of FaithElement
Things ChangeFor the session to be discussed on March 30, 2025
Joshua 5:9-12
Daniel Glaze
Jaylen Peabody Smith
Lacey Wondree
David Adams
In this episode we discuss the challenges and beauty of change, the dynamic nature of faith, and the importance of continuing to trust in God’s provision even when old certainties, like manna, are no longer present. The conversation explores personal anecdotes, the evolving understanding of spirituality in the context of modern technology like AI, and the significance of adapting to new circumstances in faith journeys.
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Notes* Try our small group curriculum! New subscribers can enjoy a completely free month of the premium edition of FaithElement
Drink Deeply, Dwell FreelyFor the session to be discussed on March 23, 2025
Isaiah 55:1-9
David Cassady
Nikki Hardeman
Jaylen Peabody Smith
David Adams
Daniel Glaze
In this episode we delve into Isaiah 55:1-9, discussing how different environments foster spiritual connections. We examine the profound imagery used in the passage, likening God’s invitation to a bountiful feast that is freely available to all, irrespective of their spiritual state. The conversation encourages shifting focus from one’s sins to celebrating God’s goodness, fostering a relationship based on joy, community, and abundant grace. We touch on themes of unconditional love, the joy of inclusion, and the constant presence and goodness of God.
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Notes* Try our small group curriculum! New subscribers can enjoy a completely free month of the premium edition of FaithElement
Winging ItFor the session to be discussed on March 16, 2025
Luke 13:31-35
David Cassady
Nikki Hardeman
Jaylen Peabody Smith
David Adams
Daniel Glaze
Crystal Shepherd
Lacey Wondree
Bert Montgomery
For this 500th episode of the Faithelement Podcast we reflect on their decade-long journey. We discuss the evolution and spontaneity of the podcast, comparing past and present experiences. Bert provides a compelling discourse on Lent, focusing on Jesus’s defiance against Herod as depicted in Luke 13:31-35, and the metaphor of Jesus as a fierce mother hen protecting her chicks. The conversation delves into the themes of political defiance, religious responsibilities, and the transformative power of the gospel, both individually and systemically. We emphasize the need to untangle ourselves from distractions during Lent, advocating a protective, nurturing stance in faith, much like the image of Jesus as a mother hen. The episode underscores the importance of standing with the vulnerable and living out one’s faith in impactful ways.
Learn more about our team.
Notes* Link to first episode of the Faithelement podcast. * Try our small group curriculum! New subscribers can enjoy a completely free month of the premium edition of FaithElement
We RecollectFor the session to be discussed on March 9, 2025
Deuteronomy 26:1-11
David Cassady
Nikki Hardeman
Jaylen Peabody Smith
David Adams
Daniel Glaze
The central discussion for this episode centers around the concept of ‘recollecting,’ which involves deliberately revisiting and gathering memories to understand God’s ongoing work in their lives. Personal anecdotes are shared to illustrate how memory shapes identity and moral responsibility. The team underscores the value of remembering collective and individual histories, especially the inclusion of diverse narratives like Black church history, as key to understanding faith and God’s faithfulness.
Learn more about our team.
Notes* Try our small group curriculum! New subscribers can enjoy a completely free month of the premium edition of FaithElement
Getting It RightFor the session to be discussed on March 2, 2025
Luke 9:28-43a
David Cassady
Nikki Hardeman
Jaylen Peabody Smith
David Adams
Daniel Glaze
In this episode we discuss Luke 9:28-43 and the theme ‘Getting it Right.’ The conversation begins with personal stories of faith, prayer, and instances where good news was difficult to share. We delve into the concepts of hope, belief in God versus believing God, and the transformative power of prayer. Through anecdotes, theological reflections, and insights from diverse religious practices, the conversation explores how prayer can shape faith, foster hope, and build community.
Learn more about our team.
Notes* Try our small group curriculum! New subscribers can enjoy a completely free month of the premium edition of FaithElement
Us and ThemFor the session to be discussed on February 23, 2025
Luke 6:27-38
David Cassady
Nikki Hardeman
Jaylen Peabody Smith
David Adams
In this episode, we discuss Luke 6:27-38. The conversation begins by exploring the concept of ‘tribes’ or groups people associate with based on shared interests or values. We connect these ideas to the teachings of Jesus in the passage, emphasizing the call to love one’s enemies, avoid judgment, and show humility and selflessness. Personal anecdotes and societal examples illustrate the challenges and importance of living out these values in today’s divided world.
Learn more about our team.
Notes* Try our small group curriculum! New subscribers can enjoy a completely free month of the premium edition of FaithElement
Wicked HappyFor the session to be discussed on February 16, 2025
Psalm 1
David Cassady
Nikki Hardeman
Jaylen Peabody Smith
David Adams
In this episode we delve into Psalm 1, examining its messages about righteousness, the plight of the poor, and the weariness of waiting for justice. Jaylen shares the impact of Langston Hughes’ poem on his thoughts about injustice and the continued struggle for equality. We explore the importance of drawing sustenance from healthy sources, advocating love and equity for future generations. We also reflect on children’s perspectives, faithful imagination, and the enduring hope for abundant life as promised by God.
Learn more about our team.
Notes* Try our small group curriculum! New subscribers can enjoy a completely free month of the premium edition of FaithElement
Constructive ArroganceFor the session to be discussed on February 9, 2025
Isaiah 6:1-8
David Cassady
Nikki Hardeman
Daniel Glaze
David Adams
In this episode we discuss the concept of ‘Constructive Arrogance’ in relation to Isaiah 6:1-8 and the challenges of accepting and recognizing one’s calling. We emphasize the importance of answering God’s call despite feelings of unworthiness, citing the examples of Isaiah and Peter. The team also discuss the evolving nature of ministry roles and the significance of communal recognition in identifying and fostering individual gifts and calls. The conversation underlines that true calling often comes with initial trepidation but ultimately leads to fulfilling God-given potential.
Learn more about our team.
Notes* Try our small group curriculum! New subscribers can enjoy a completely free month of the premium edition of FaithElement
Uncomfortable TruthFor the session to be discussed on February 2, 2025
Luke 4:21-40
David Cassady
Nikki Hardeman
Daniel Glaze
David Adams
This episode features a discussion of Luke 4:21-40. We share personal stories of moments when speaking without thinking led to trouble. The conversation transitions to the challenge of preaching difficult truths and the importance of speaking and hearing with intention and grace. This includes the influence of social contexts, self-editing, and the role of action as a form of speech. The episode highlights the story of Jesus’s radical message and its reception, offering insights into how congregations and individuals can speak and act upon God’s commands. The discussion closes with reflections on community, faith, and the effective use of church resources for broader societal impact.
Learn more about our team.
Notes* Try our small group curriculum! New subscribers can enjoy a completely free month of the premium edition of FaithElement
The UnderdogFor the session to be discussed on January 26, 2025
1 Corinthians 12:12-31a
David Cassady
Nikki Hardeman
Daniel Glaze
David Adams
Jaye Peabody Smith
In this episode we discuss the importance of recognizing and celebrating individual gifts within the context of Christian community, emphasizing that every member’s gift is vital to the body of Christ. The conversation covers personal anecdotes, the undervaluation of non-traditional gifts in church settings, and the role of different communities, including the neurodivergent community, in enriching church life. Jaylyn shares a reflection on how the concept of ‘The Underdog’ aligns with Paul’s message about the indispensable nature of all parts of the body of Christ. The discussion concludes with a reflection on the church’s role, likening it to the human body, as presented in Rachel Held Evans’ and Barbara Brown Taylor’s writings.
Learn more about our team.
Notes* The Underdog Theme Song, mentioned by David Adams. * Comments from Rachel Held Evans’ writing about the body, mentioned in closing. * Try our small group curriculum! New subscribers can enjoy a completely free month of the premium edition of FaithElement
Turning Wine into WaterFor the session to be discussed on January 19, 2025
John 2:1-11
David Cassady
Nikki Hardeman
Daniel Glaze
David Adams
Jaye Peabody Smith
This episode features a discussion of John 2:1-11, where Jesus turns water into wine. We share personal wedding stories and delve into the deeper meanings of this miracle. We explore the themes of abundance, divine extravagance, and transformation, contrasting the scarcity mindset of the world with Jesus’ message of overflowing grace and joy. The conversation touches on the symbolic significance of the six stone jars, the involvement of unexpected participants in miracles, and the ongoing impact of Jesus’ actions. The hosts encourage embracing the inclusive and abundant nature of God’s love, cautioning against watering it down into a rigid, exclusionary practice.
Learn more about our team.
Notes* Try our small group curriculum! New subscribers can enjoy a completely free month of the premium edition of FaithElement
Comes to Us, Stands with UsFor the session to be discussed on January 12, 2025
Luke 3:15-22
David Cassady
Daniel Glaze
David Adams
Jaye Peabody Smith
In this episode we explore the significance of baptism through a discussion of Luke 3:15-22, focusing on Jesus’ baptism by John the Baptist. We highlight the noteworthiness of Jesus standing with sinners and the transformative power of baptism. The conversation delves into topics such as the inclusivity of baptism, its physical and spiritual elements, and how baptism is less about church rituals and more about embracing Jesus’ love and grace. We also discuss service and action as expressions of faith, advocating for unity and inclusivity in religious communities. The podcast emphasizes living out faith through actions and the importance of community across our spiritual journeys.
Learn more about our team.
Notes* Try our small group curriculum! New subscribers can enjoy a completely free month of the premium edition of FaithElement
Having an Epiphany!For the session to be discussed on January 5, 2025
John 1:10-18
David Cassady
Daniel Glaze
David Adams
Jaye Peabody Smith
This episode focuses on the concept of epiphany and the profound meaning of ‘the Word becoming flesh.’ We reflect on the incarnation of Christ, its implications for understanding God, and the intimate, abiding presence of Jesus in various aspects of life. The conversation emphasizes the continuous relevance of Jesus’ presence and challenges listeners to reconsider their understanding of faith and proximity to God.
Learn more about our team.
Notes* Try our small group curriculum! New subscribers can enjoy a completely free month of the premium edition of FaithElement
Christian ClothesFor the session to be discussed on December 29, 2024
Colossians 3:12-17
Nikki Hardeman
Daniel Glaze
David Adams
Jaye Peabody Smith
This episode features a discussion on Colossians 3:12-17. We share our personal favorite articles of clothing before diving into the ‘Christian clothes’ mentioned in the passage, which encourage virtues like compassion, kindness, and love. The conversation emphasizes the importance of embodying Christ’s love in our daily lives and interactions, particularly in challenging or divisive contexts. We reflect on the metaphorical ‘clothing’ of love, peace, and humility, underscoring how these virtues are crucial for living out one’s faith and positively influencing others.
Learn more about our team.
Notes* Try our small group curriculum! New subscribers can enjoy a completely free month of the premium edition of FaithElement
Longing for the Light of Living LoveFor the session to be discussed on December 22, 2024
Luke 1:39-55
Nikki Hardeman
Daniel Glaze
David Adams
Jaye Peabody Smith
In this episode of the podcast, the team explores the themes of love and time in the context of Luke 1:39-55. They reflect on personal experiences of love during the Advent season, discussing the importance of spending quality time with loved ones. The conversation delves into the story of Mary and Elizabeth, highlighting the sacred bond between these mothers and the significance of the “meeting of the moms”. We emphasize the value of making time for others as an expression of love, even in the midst of busy schedules. The episode concludes with a poignant reminder to cherish and prioritize personal connections, recalling reflections on Dr. John Claypool’s approach to time management and love.
Learn more about our team.
Notes* Try our small group curriculum! New subscribers can enjoy a completely free month of the premium edition of FaithElement
Jubilant JoyFor the session to be discussed on December 15, 2024
Philippians 4:4-7
Zephaniah 3:14-20
David Cassady
Nikki Hardeman
Jaye Peabody Smith
Daniel Glaze
David Adams
In this episode for the third Sunday of Advent the discussion navigates personal reflections on joy, its significance during tough times, and theological perspectives, emphasizing that joy can coexist with grief and anxiety. The hosts also discuss cultural and theological nuances of joy, drawing from personal experiences, biblical passages, and historical contexts of early Christian traditions.
Learn more about our team.
Notes* Check out Dr. Jaye Peabody Smith’s webpage. * Try our small group curriculum! New subscribers can enjoy a completely free month of the premium edition of FaithElement
Path of PeaceFor the session to be discussed on December 8, 2024
Luke 3:1-6
David Cassady
Nikki Hardeman
Jaye Peabody Smith
Daniel Glaze
David Adams
This episode focuses on themes of peace during the Advent season, guided by Luke 3:1-6. The episode introduces the new voice of Reverend Dr. J. Peabody Smith, learning about her background as a therapist, professor, and executive pastor. The hosts discuss personal practices for fostering peace and reflect on the complex nature of peace, contrasting peacemaking with peacekeeping. They explore the biblical message in the context of today’s chaotic world and emphasize the active waiting and preparation for peace in anticipation of the Christ child. The discussion highlights the importance of small acts of peace and the personal journey towards inner tranquility amidst external turmoil.
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A Thrill of HopeFor the session to be discussed on December 1, 2024
Jeremiah 33:14-16
David Cassady
Nikki Hardeman
David Adams
Daniel Glaze
In this episode, we discuss the significance of hope during the Advent season through the lens of Jeremiah 33:14-16. As we reflect on the first Sunday of Advent, we explore the changing world, technological advancements, and climate awareness as sources of hope. The conversation touches on the nature of hope as a virtue, the reluctance to voice hope due to fears of vulnerability, and the power of hope in transformative movements, citing Martin Luther King Jr. as an example. The episode emphasizes the practice of hope against suffering and the anticipation of a better world grounded in faith.
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Christ the KingFor the session to be discussed on November 24, 2024
2 Samuel 23:1-7
David Cassady
Nikki Hardeman
David Adams
This episode explores Second Samuel 23:1-7 in relation to Christ the King Sunday and the Thanksgiving season. The conversation delves into various facets of gratitude, the symbolic significance of Christ the King Sunday marking the end of the Christian year, and personal and communal reflections on the passage. Additionally, the hosts acknowledge recent changes and the importance of adapting, expressing gratitude during liminal periods, and the parallels between personal Thanksgiving experiences and the broader church context.
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Once Upon a TimeFor the session to be discussed on November 17, 2024
1 Samuel 1:1-28
David Cassady
David Adams
Daniel Glaze
In this episode, we discuss the story of Hannah from 1 Samuel 1:1-28. We reflect on the significance of childhood stories and how personal narratives shape our lives and faith. The conversation emphasizes the pain and hope in Hannah’s story of longing for a child, her dedication of Samuel to God’s service, and the importance of telling complete and nuanced stories within a faith community. The discussion also delves into the broader implications of sharing all parts of our stories, including the painful ones, and being aware of the untold stories and experiences within congregations. The episode concludes with reflections on how our faith can help us navigate life’s difficulties and shape meaning over time.
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A Loyal Love and a Lasting LegacyFor the session to be discussed on November 10, 2024
Ruth 3:1-4:21
David Cassady
David Adams
Daniel Glaze
In this episode we delve into the final chapters of the Book of Ruth, exploring themes of loyal love, divine providence, and the transformative power of loving-kindness. Through personal anecdotes and a deep dive into the characters of Ruth, Naomi, and Boaz, the discussion highlights the enduring relevance of these biblical stories in contemporary society. The significance of Ruth’s lineage leading to King David and Jesus Christ is contemplated, stressing the importance of faithfulness and genuine kindness.
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This Is a Man’s World…Or Is It?For the session to be discussed on November 3, 2024
Ruth 1:1-2:23
David Cassady
Nikki Hardeman
Crystal Shepherd
Lacey Wondree
In this episode we discuss the story of Ruth from the Bible, highlighting themes of perseverance, faithfulness, and resilience. The episode delves into Ruth’s societal and cultural challenges along with those faced by Naomi and Orpah, drawing parallels to modern women’s struggles with patriarchal systems and societal expectations. The importance of community support, especially within the church. The conversation advocates for recognizing and supporting women who persist through adversity, calling for churches to promote and celebrate female leadership.
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Bartimaeus: A Blind Beggar’s Bold BlessingFor the session to be discussed on October 27, 2024
Mark 10:46-52
David Cassady
Nikki Hardeman
Crystal Shepherd
Lacey Wondree
Daniel Glaze
This episode offers an in-depth exploration of Mark 10:46-52, focusing on the story of Bartimaeus, a blind beggar healed by Jesus. We discuss the importance of faith, compassion, and understanding, especially in the context of current tragedies caused by Hurricanes Helene and Milton. The podcast underscores the significance of recognizing our own needs and extending mercy to others, paralleling Bartimaeus’s story with the mission of Christian ministry. Additionally, it touches on the role of different community perspectives, such as those of children and senior adults, in addressing church blind spots and privileges. Reflections on generational hope and photography serve as metaphors for the journey of faith, emphasizing observation and listening as vital practices.
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Ride or DieFor the session to be discussed on October 20, 2024
Mark 10:32-45
Nikki Hardeman
David Adams
Daniel Glaze
This episode features a discussion of themes of friendship, sacrifice, and service within the context of Mark 10:35-40. Against the backdrop of Hurricane Helene, the hosts reflect on the impact of deep friendships, the role of pets in lives, and the idea of ‘ride or die’ companions, both human and divine. They delve into the biblical passage where Jesus emphasizes servanthood as a path to greatness, interpreting the request of disciples James and John to sit beside him in glory. The conversation touches on the challenges and expectations of following Jesus, illustrating this with historical anecdotes like Clarence Jordan’s Koinonia Farm. The episode encourages listeners to serve others as Jesus taught, despite potential sacrifices, and to embody ‘ride or die’ faithfulness to Jesus and His teachings.
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Seeking Salvation, Surrendering SelfFor the session to be discussed on October 13, 2024
Mark 10:17-31
Nikki Hardeman
David Adams
Daniel Glaze
In this episode, we discuss the story of the rich young ruler and its implications on faith, freedom, and possessions. The conversation navigates through interpretations of Jesus’ demand to give up wealth and how it serves as a barrier to true discipleship. We reflect on personal anecdotes and societal pressures related to money, proposing that true freedom comes from following Jesus and releasing worldly attachments. Additionally, we explore the idea of Jesus having faith in the capabilities of his followers and the potential transformation of the rich young ruler.
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Tender Teachings, Trusting TotsFor the session to be discussed on October 6, 2024
Esther 7:1-10, 9:20-22
David Cassady
Nikki Hardeman
David Adams
Daniel Glaze
In this episode the team discusses Mark 10:1-16, focusing on Jesus’s teachings about divorce and children. They explore the importance of the lead-in question in their sessions, emphasizing the value of personal stories in Bible study. Daniel analyzes Jesus’s blessings for children, highlighting the societal disregard for children in antiquity and linking it to modern marginalized groups. Finally, they reflect on the essence of Christianity as taught by Jesus, focusing on love, kindness, and freedom from rigid controls.
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Courageous EstherFor the session to be discussed on September 29, 2024
Esther 7:1-10, 9:20-22
David Cassady
Nikki Hardeman
David Adams
Daniel Glaze
In this episode we discuss Esther 7:1-10 and 9:20-22, focusing on the theme of courage exemplified by Esther. We celebrate the 15th year of Faithelement and briefly touch on Esther’s rarity in their prior episodes. Nikki shares about her new role advocating for women in ministry, highlighting the challenges women face, especially within certain Baptist communities. The conversation pivots to Esther’s story, noting her cleverness, bravery, and the power dynamics of the time. The hosts emphasize the relevance of Esther’s courage in confronting injustice, exploring how personal relationships can overcome resistance and drive societal change. The narrative’s absence of explicit divine mention is discussed, underscoring God’s subtle yet impactful presence. They conclude by reflecting on how this ancient tale inspires contemporary actions towards justice and the wise use of personal influence and power.
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Prayer, Providence, and PerseveranceFor the session to be discussed on September 22, 2024
Psalm 54
David Cassady
Nikki Hardeman
David Adams
Daniel Glaze
In this episode we discuss Psalm 54, focusing on prayer, providence, and perseverance. The team reflects on the feedback from a recent survey, which will influence the podcast’s future direction, combining the revised common lectionary with summertime topical and Bible book studies. The hosts analyze Psalm 54’s boldness in approaching God with demands and how it applies to contemporary issues, emphasizing emotional intelligence, communal support, and addressing anxieties and needs within the community.
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Get Well SoonFor the session to be discussed on September 15, 2024
Psalm 116
David Cassady
Nikki Hardeman
David Adams
Daniel Glaze
This episode focuses on Psalm 116 and its themes of gratitude and recovery from illness. The hosts recount personal stories of health challenges and recovery, including severe illness in children and dealing with COVID-19. They reflect on the importance of gratitude in times of health and sickness, and how Psalm 116 speaks to the universal experience of suffering and healing. The discussion emphasizes the spiritual practice of gratitude, even for everyday blessings, and acknowledges the efforts of medical and ministry communities during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.
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Eternal EmbraceFor the session to be discussed on September 8, 2024
Psalm 125
David Cassady
Crystal Shepherd
David Adams
Daniel Glaze
The hosts discuss contemporary safety concerns and contrast them with past experiences, emphasizing the rapidly changing nature of security issues. They explore the significance of reading scripture from diverse perspectives, highlighting how context, cultural background, and personal experiences influence one’s understanding of biblical texts. Using Psalm 125 as an example, they illustrate how shifting perspectives can reveal deeper meanings and foster a commitment to social justice. The conversation underscores the importance of community and diverse viewpoints in enriching one’s faith and interpretation of scripture.
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Living with IntegrityFor the session to be discussed on September 1, 2024
Psalm 15
David Cassady
Crystal Shepherd
David Adams
Daniel Glaze
This episode finds us discussing Psalm 15, focusing on the theme of living with integrity. We share personal stories of character-building experiences and reflect on the importance of integrity, honesty, and truthfulness in various aspects of life, including parenting, professional settings, and society at large. Crystal provides an exegetical breakdown of Psalm 15, explaining its role as an entrance liturgy and its practical applications for modern living. The group also debates the challenges of maintaining integrity in contemporary culture, where such values are often undervalued or even punished.
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Covenant RenewalFor the session to be discussed on August 25, 2024
Joshua 24:1-25
David Cassady
Nikki Hardeman
David Adams
Daniel Glaze
In this session the team explores Joshua 24:1-25, discussing the theme of covenant renewal. The conversation delves into personal artifacts of faith from their childhoods, emphasizing the importance of tangible reminders and rituals in maintaining and renewing faith commitments. They draw parallels between Joshua’s call for renewal and modern practices, advocating for more frequent and meaningful reaffirmation of faith commitments within communities. The discussion highlights the significance of such rituals in providing strength and continuity during challenging times.
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Pity the FoolFor the session to be discussed on August 18, 2024
Proverbs 9
David Cassady
Nikki Hardeman
David Adams
Daniel Glaze
The team discusses a passage from Proverbs, comparing the house built on wisdom with the one founded on cynicism and rejection of wisdom. They critique social media silos, emphasize the need for humility, and advocate for open, inclusive faith. The podcast closes with reflections on the role of congregations in nurturing wisdom, drawing insights from Wendell Berry’s thoughts on education.
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For the session to be discussed on August 11, 2024
Psalm 34
David Cassady
Nikki Hardeman
David Adams
Daniel Glaze
In this episode of the Faith Element podcast, the team explores Psalm 34. The episode encourages personal introspection and spiritual growth, focusing on lessons from Psalm 34: avoiding evil, seeking peace, and pursuing good. It highlights the importance of introspection in today’s distracting world and offers practical suggestions for fostering this practice within church communities. The conversation closes with a reflection on the Shaker hymn ‘Simple Gifts’ as a metaphor for spiritual simplicity and turning toward a closer relationship with God.
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For the session to be discussed on August 4, 2024
Exodus 16
David Cassady
Nikki Hardeman
David Adams
Daniel Glaze
In this episode of the Faithelement Podcast, the team delves into Exodus 16, exploring the theme ‘A Divine Desert Diet.’ The discussion highlights the miraculous provision of manna by God to the Israelites in the desert, contrasting their faith to modern-day gratitude and privilege.
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For the session to be discussed on July 28, 2024
2 Kings 4:42-44
David Cassady
Nikki Hardeman
Crystal Shepherd
Daniel Glaze
In this episode we discuss the theme of ‘Promises of God’ focusing on 2 Kings 4:42-44. The hosts share personal stories of experiencing God’s promises and provision. Crystal highlights how God provides for needs in various scriptures, including the story of Elisha and feeding a hundred people with twenty loaves of barley. The discussion broadens to consider the role of human agency in divine provision and the church’s prophetic role in meeting community needs. The episode concludes with the prayer of St. Francis of Assisi, encapsulating the essence of giving and trust in God’s transformative power.
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For the session to be discussed on July 21, 2024
Mark 6:30-34, 53-56
David Cassady
Nikki Hardeman
Crystal Shepherd
Daniel Glaze
In this episode, the team discusses the theme of rest as explored in today’s text. They emphasize the importance of rest, sharing personal anecdotes about moments of stillness and silence, and discuss the societal pressures against pausing for rest. The episode delves into the need for intentional prayer and rest as a form of subversive action against a productivity-focused world. The hosts also touch upon the NAP ministry by Tricia Hershey, which promotes rest as resistance and justice.
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For the session to be discussed on July 14, 2024
Mark 6:14-29
David Cassady
Lacee Wondree
Nikki Hardeman
David Adams
Daniel Glaze
Today’s episode focuses on a little-used text. During Herod’s birthday feast, a daughter dances, pleasing Herod. He promises her anything she wants. Prompted by her mother, the girl asks for John the Baptist’s head on a platter. Reluctantly, Herod orders John’s execution to keep his oath. John is beheaded, and his head is brought to the girl, who gives it to her mother.
We discuss dynamics in the narrative, including the use of the daughter and the use of power. We also contrast this passage with the feeding of the 5000, which immediately follows it.
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Home Where I Belong?For the session to be discussed on July 7, 2024
Mark 6:1-13
David Cassady
Lacee Wondree
Nikki Hardeman
David Adams
Daniel Glaze
Jesus has been traveling with his disciples all over Galilee, teaching and healing and gaining a following. In this passage, we see that Jesus returns to Nazareth, his childhood home. But his hometown cannot see who he has become. We discuss the “can’t go home” dynamic in this passage and our own lives. What makes it so difficult for us to accept growth and change in one another?
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For the session to be discussed on June 30, 2024
Mark 5:21-43
David Cassady
Nikki Hardeman
Daniel Glaze
Crystal Shepherd
We discuss those moments in life when we feel truly alive… all in the context of a passage where a suffering woman touches the hem of Jesus’ garment and is healed. Where do we find newness of life even as we face our own pain and need?
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Notes* “Encounter” painting by Daniel Cariola, located in Magdala Chapel, as mentioned by David. * Try our small group curriculum! New subscribers can enjoy a completely free month of the premium edition of FaithElement
For the session to be discussed on June 23, 2024
Mark 4:35-41
David Cassady
Nikki Hardeman
Daniel Glaze
Crystal Shepherd
In this episode we discuss a passage where in fear of the waves, the disciples awaken Jesus from a nap. We discuss the humanity of Jesus shown in how he responds, as well as our similarity to the disciples in their actions and feelings. What might we learn from this passage about facing the storms that emerge in our lives?
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Notes* Video of Sea of Galilee from a boat, as mentioned by David. * Try our small group curriculum! New subscribers can enjoy a completely free month of the premium edition of FaithElement
For the session to be discussed on June 16, 2024
Mark 4:26-34
David Cassady
Nikki Hardeman
Crystal Shepherd
Lacey Wondree
Daniel Glaze
In this episode we discuss the power of parables, and in particular, the interesting parable of the mustard seed. How does Jesus use parables to lead us to rethink life and values? What ideas does Jesus turn upside down in this parable? How might parables remind us of how little we really understand?
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For the session to be discussed on June 9, 2024
Mark 3:20-35
David Cassady
Nikki Hardeman
Crystal Shepherd
Lacey Wondree
Daniel Glaze
In the ancient world, family was the most basic and fundamental social organization. And in this passage Jesus seems to reject them in favor of caring for lepers, welcoming prostitutes, making his family the poor, the blind, bleeding women, even Gentiles. But Jesus says they are his family… “Whoever does the will of God is my brother and sister and mother. Whoever does God’s will is my family.” We discuss the ways this difficult passage calls us and the church to welcome others into our family.
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For the session to be discussed on June 2, 2024
Mark 2:23-3:6
David Cassady
Nikki Hardeman
Crystal Shepherd
Daniel Glaze
Jesus and the disciples run afoul of Sabbath laws as they care for others, including healing a man. We discuss the need for and meaning of sabbath for each of us, but also of the call to also free others to find peace and sabbath.
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For the session to be discussed on May 26, 2024
Romans 8:12-17
David Cassady
Nikki Hardeman
Crystal Shepherd
Daniel Glaze
David Adams
For this Trinity Sunday session, we discuss a passage from Romans. What does the Trinity show us about God’s nature? If we are heirs of God, what do we learn about our own nature?
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Firstfruits: Hope for the HarvestFor the session to be discussed on May 19, 2024
Romans 8:18-27
David Cassady
Nikki Hardeman
Crystal Shepherd
David Adams
For this Trinity Sunday session, we discuss a passage from Romans. Paul was trying to help people cope with the suffering they were experiencing in the world. But that is a micro view, and Paul had a macro, albeit cosmic view. Paul is telling the church in Rome that while they’ve experienced the first fruits of the Spirit, at some point there will be a harvest. He was likening it to the Feast of Pentecost, where the first fruits of the field were offered to God in anticipation of the full harvest at the Feast of the Tabernacles. What they were experiencing now, through the Holy Spirit, was just a taste of what was to come.
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Real MinistryFor the session to be discussed on May 12, 2024
Acts 1:15-26
David Cassady
Nikki Hardeman
Crystal Shepherd
Daniel Glaze
We discuss what it means to do “ministry.” Whether we are pastors, counselors, homemakers, physicians, bankers, teachers, retirees, financial planners, nurses, librarians, volunteers, administrative assistants, graphic designers, teenagers, or students… we are ministers!
Daniel Glaze says, “Real ministry happens in the living out of this wild and wonderful life to which we have each been called.”
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For the session to be discussed on May 5, 2024
Acts 10:44-48
David Cassady
Nikki Hardeman
Crystal Shepherd
Daniel Glaze
We continue our journey through the book of Acts, this time discussing Acts 10, where Peter orders the baptism of Gentiles, previously excluded from the waters. How does the movement of the Spirit lead us to respond? In what ways do we try to contain the Spirit?
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For the session to be discussed on April 28, 2024
Acts 8:26-40
David Cassady
Nikki Hardeman
Crystal Shepherd
Daniel Glaze
In today’s story, Philip is driven by the Spirit of God to go south from Jerusalem to Gaza. Along the path, he comes across, and I’m quoting verse 27, an Ethiopian eunuch, a court official of the Candace, queen of the Ethiopians in charge of her entire treasury. This unnamed Ethiopian eunuch, whom many would consider a sexual minority, became the first Christian in Africa. And he is the patron saint of Ethiopia. All because Philip threw caution to the wind and crossed the boundaries others had placed in the way.
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For the session to be discussed on April 21, 2024
Acts 4:1-12
David Cassady
Daniel Glaze
Nikki Hardeman
David Adams
After the healing of a man in desperate need, John and Peter are hauled before the Sanhedrin to defend themselves. Daniel Glaze comments, “So much of the Book of Acts is about the Spirit of God that cannot be contained. An early Christian movement that is so filled by the power of God and unconstrained by human boundaries. A church so full of love, yet tired of rules and regulations about who’s in and who’s out. Peter’s response to his Inquisitors is yet another sermon.”
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For the session to be discussed on April 14, 2024
Acts 3:12-19
David Cassady
Daniel Glaze
Nikki Hardeman
David Adams
Crystal Shepherd
In the opening of Acts 3, we find Peter and John heading to afternoon prayer. Fresh off of Pentecost and the influx of the Holy Spirit, Peter encounters a lame man begging for alms – who is healed. The healing was proof that Jesus was still a living presence in his followers and could transform the world. We discuss what it means to encounter miracle in our lives.
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For the session to be discussed on April 7, 2024
Acts 4:32-35
David Cassady
Daniel Glaze
Nikki Hardeman
Crystal Shepherd
In the light of Jesus death and resurrection, with the hope we now have, how shall we now live? With the hope of resurrection, should we live a different life? What does it look like to live as a people of hope? Does the world need a church today that looks more like the Christian fellowship that is described in Acts?
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For the session to be discussed on March 31, 2024
Acts 10:34-43
David Cassady
Daniel Glaze
Nikki Hardeman
Crystal Shepherd
What does resurrection mean to you? Where do you see resurrection in your everyday life? Where does God’s salvation extend into our world even today? And what does that look like? For this Easter session, we take a look at a passage featuring Peter and Cornelius.
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For the session to be discussed on March 24, 2024
Psalm 31:9-16
Daniel Glaze
Nikki Hardeman
David Adams
Crystal Shepherd
This psalm encourages us to understand how we too have felt weak at times and to recall how we found strength in God. With so much going on in the world, we can easily run out of energy. Yet, Psalm 32 reminds us that God is with us, sustains us, and is for us.
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For the session to be discussed on March 17, 2024
Psalm 119:9-16
Daniel Glaze
Nikki Hardeman
David Adams
Crystal Shepherd
Today’s psalm reminds us that we are to seek God with our whole heart. By treasuring God’s word in our hearts, we are better able to avoid the traps of sin, which can be understood as things that are less than ideal for us to live whole lives and as our most authentic selves.
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For the session to be discussed on March 10, 2024
Psalm 107:1-3, 17-22
David Cassady
Nikki Hardeman
Crystal Shepherd
Daniel Glaze
The call to community seems both simple and valuable, as this psalm recognizes. But what does it mean to be in community? How can community be healthy or abusive? For Christian community, what centers us and calls us together?
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For the session to be discussed on March 3, 2024
Psalm 19
David Cassady
Nikki Hardeman
Crystal Shepherd
Daniel Glaze
Today’s psalm is a testament to the creator found in all of nature as well as the guiding word of God. Psalm 19 is believed to be two separate poems from two different authors. Verses 1 through 6 represent a musical poem that reveals God and God’s creation, while verses 7 through 14 is more cadenced and reveals God through God’s word or law. We discuss the ways the natural world has taught us about God.
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Notes* David referenced a book of poems by Abigail Carroll titled Habitation of Wonder. * Try our small group curriculum! New subscribers can enjoy a completely free month of the premium edition of FaithElement
For the session to be discussed on February 25, 2024
Psalm 22:19-31
David Cassady
Nikki Hardeman
Crystal Shepherd
David Adams
Today we discuss a psalm that reminds us that, when things were at their worst, God came through in such a way as to astound everyone who might hear of it. This is a good word for us. It can be so easy to become pessimistic and hopeless, especially over time, as it seems like the world just can’t get things right. Whatever is on our hearts to worry about, it can overwhelm us. It can choke all the life and hope out of us. We talk about how our faith pulls us forward to the world God wants for us.
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The Reckoning For the session to be discussed on September 17, 2023 Matthew 18:21-35 David Cassady Nikki Hardeman David Adams Daniel Glaze The call to forgive is a difficult one. We discuss a parable that leads us to reflect on the dynamics that go into our ability to forgive. From our emotions, to our fight […]
Making Up is Hard to DoFor the session to be discussed on September 10, 2023
Matthew 18:15-20
David Cassady
Nikki Hardeman
David Adams
Crystal Shepherd
How do we handle a relationship that’s gone awry? Or perhaps where we have felt wronged (or we caused harm to someone else)? Today’s text offers thoughts about repairing relationships and Christian community. We wonder about the many ways we need stronger communities in our time.
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The Great Reverse For the session to be discussed on September 3, 2023Matthew 16:21-28
David CassadyNikki HardemanDavid AdamsCrystal Shepherd
Today we are presented with a difficult comment by Jesus: “For those who want to save their life will lose it. Those who lose their life, for my sake, will find it.” We discuss how, with self-giving, denying self is not to be confused with denying something to yourself, whether it’s material things or pleasure. But rather, what if denial is saying no to oneself and yes to God?
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Who Are You? For the session to be discussed on August 27, 2023 Matthew 16:13-20 Who is Jesus? Who is Jesus to me? How does our response affect the way we live out our faith? Why is this so difficult to answer? We struggle with our own perceptions of Jesus as we explore this passage […]
A Holy Challenge For the session to be discussed on August 20, 2023 Matthew 15:1-28 David Cassady Nikki Hardeman Daniel Glaze Bert Montgomery We discuss a text that is seldom covered – where Jesus interacts with a Canaanite woman seeking help for her child. The interaction highlights social issues of the time, as well as […]
We’re Not Made to Walk on Water For the session to be discussed on August 13, 2023Matthew 14:13-21
David CassadyNikki HardemanDaniel GlazeBert Montgomery
We discuss a well-known passage where Jesus walks on water, and Peter attempts to join him — only to sink and have to be rescued by Jesus. What if many of the common interpretations of this passage are missing the point? We explore this text by considering it is more about Jesus than Peter.
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Has Everyone Been Fed? For the session to be discussed on August 6, 2023 Matthew 14:13-21 David Cassady Nikki Hardeman Daniel Glaze Bert Montgomery Somehow we end up discussing fish fries, Woodstock, Wavy Gravy, and this familiar text — the feeding of the 5000. What might Jesus have been showing us about the Kingdom of […]
Without a Voice For the session to be discussed on July 30, 2023 Genesis 29:1-30 David Cassady Nikki Hardeman Daniel Glaze Bert Montgomery We discuss a difficult text, where the men… Laban and Jacob, make decisions that affect not only their lives, but the women in the story. We discuss how the silence of these […]
Dreams For the session to be discussed on July 23, 2023 Genesis 28:10-22 David Cassady Nikki Hardeman Daniel Glaze Bert Montgomery In the process of discussing a dream where Jacob encounters God, we end up sharing a few of our own dreams. Just as Jacob did, we struggle with God, with understanding this life and […]
Birthwrongs For the session to be discussed on July 16, 2023Genesis 25:19-34
David CassadyDavid AdamsBert Montgomery
Who hasn’t dealt with the rivalry of some sort over the years? When we think back on your rivalries, we may be able to relate to this story and the longer narrative that comes after. Sometimes it helps to look at the root of those rivalries and ask who did what, the whom, if we are to have any chance of transcending them. Today we discuss the passage where Esau sells his birthright to Jacob.
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Matchmaker, Matchmaker For the session to be discussed on July 9, 2023 Genesis 24:34-67 David Cassady David Adams Bert Montgomery Today’s story from Genesis might seem a bit odd to a lot of us in our culture today, in our mindset and the way we, we meet our spouses, our partners, and the way each […]
An Impossible Text For the session to be discussed on July 2, 2023Genesis 22:1-19
David CassadyNikki HardemanDaniel Glaze
We discuss one of the most difficult texts in Scripture, the sacrifice of Issac. Rather than try to find a palatable interpretation of the passage, we take a look at the many questions it raises, both about those in the story and us today.
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Seeing God For the session to be discussed on June 25, 2023Genesis 21:8-21
David CassadyNikki HardemanDaniel Glaze
While we often focus on the so-called “major” characters — such as Abraham and Sarah in a passage, today we are drawn to consider Hagar and Ishmael. We note that, while Sara casts them out, God sees them and their plight and acts. Who is God calling us to see and hear in our world?
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Notes * Try our small group curriculum! New subscribers can enjoy a completely free month of the premium edition of FaithElement!
Uncommon Decency For the session to be discussed on June 18, 2023 Genesis 18:1-15, 21:1-7 David Cassady Nikki Hardeman David Adams Bert Montgomery In this story, Abraham is home, where he is visited by three people he didn’t see coming. Given the times and places where people lived back then, if three people drop by, […]
Movin’ Out For the session to be discussed on June 11, 2023 Genesis 12:1-9 David Cassady Nikki Hardeman David Adams Bert Montgomery In this episode we discuss the call of Abram and the journey that emerged from that call. We wonder about the stories of those who were on that journey with Abram… Sarai, Lot, […]
Creator GodFor the session to be discussed on June 4, 2023
Genesis 1:1-2:4a
David Cassady
David Adams
Crystal Shepherd
In this episode we discuss one of the most familiar passages in the Bible — the creation narrative from Genesis. We discuss the meaningful connection between us and the things we create. How too is God intimately connected with this creation? How is God’s creative work similar to the creation and care for life we see in the birth and nurturing of children?
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Notes* Try our small group curriculum! New subscribers can enjoy a completely free month of the premium edition of FaithElement!
Letting the Spirit FlowFor the session to be discussed on May 28, 2023
John 7:37-39
David Cassady
David Adams
Crystal Shepherd
In today’s text, not only does Jesus promise the coming of the Spirit, but he demonstrates how it works. If this is a foreshadowing of Pentecost, it is one that demonstrates the spirit at work, or at least how it seems to work for us now. We discuss questions such as: Are we afraid of what the Spirit might lead us to do? How does our need for control limit our ability to sense the unpredictable leadership of the Spirit?
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Notes* Try our small group curriculum! New subscribers can enjoy a completely free month of the premium edition of FaithElement!
Time to Do SomethingFor the session to be discussed on May 21, 2023
Acts 1:1-14
David Cassady
David Adams
Daniel Glaze
Crystal Shepherd
(Apologies for the poor sound quality for some of the audio. Two of us were on location for a conference and without our usual podcasting gear. Next week returns to normal!).
We discuss the text for Ascension Sunday, recalling when Jesus ascended into heaven after completing his earthly ministry. Just as the disciples were tempted to stand and gaze upward, we are instead challenged to look around and find where we can get busy and do something. When we look around, we immediately begin to see the places where we can begin making a difference in Christ’s name, continuing the ministry he began.
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Notes* Try our small group curriculum! New subscribers can enjoy a completely free month of the premium edition of FaithElement!
Turning the World Upside DownFor the session to be discussed on May 14, 2023
Acts 17:1-30
David Cassady
Nikki Hardeman
Daniel Glaze
Crystal Shepherd
In today’s text we find Paul and Silas traveling. The responses to their preaching were varied, from hostility in Thessalinica, to curiosity in Athens. In our day, how do we hear one another? How often do we seek to make idols of our own ideas about who God is?
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Going to the Stoning?For the session to be discussed on May 7, 2023
Acts 7:55-60
David Cassady
Nikki Hardeman
Daniel Glaze
Bert Montgomery
As we discuss the passage detailing the stoning of Stephen, we find ourselves wondering about the violence around us, even among those who profess faith. How often do we find ourselves “in the crowd” that picks up stones to hurl at others, even if those stones are words or other harmful deeds?
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Forgetful ChurchesFor the session to be discussed on April 30, 2023
Acts 2:42-47
David Cassady
Nikki Hardeman
Daniel Glaze
Bert Montgomery
We discuss the ways our churches could benefit from remembering how this movement began, returning to passages like this one in Acts. If the church is called to be a place of care for one another, how might that shape how we move into an uncertain future?
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Cut to the HeartFor the session to be discussed on April 23, 2023
Acts 2:14, 36-41
David Cassady
Crystal Shepherd
Daniel Glaze
Bert Montgomery
We discuss having “ah-ha moments” even as the text offers its own ah-ha moment. While it is good to ask “what should I do,” we must realize that salvation and the granting of God’s spirit is not anything that we accomplish. It’s not our work. It’s God’s work. How does God’s pouring out of God’s Spirit on everyone lead us to respond?
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Spirit ConnectionFor the session to be discussed on April 16, 2023
Acts 2:14-36
Nikki Hardeman
Crystal Shepherd
Bert Montgomery
God is in charge of where God’s Spirit flows… where God’s Spirit is poured out. That is a hopeful word in a world, and sometimes in our churches, where it seems hard for us to change. How does an awareness of God’s Spirit give us hope when so often we feel powerless and hopeless?
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The Dance of the MerrymakersFor the session to be discussed on April 9, 2023
Jeremiah 31:1-6
Nikki Hardeman
Crystal Shepherd
Bert Montgomery
Today’s text is for Easter Sunday, and it may seem unusual that our text is from Jeremiah.
This story in Jeremiah reminds us that the resurrection found in Jesus — the renewal of the covenant with Israel — is available to us as well. What makes you feel dead this Easter? Where do you feel broken or abandoned? Maybe it’s the loss of a relationship or a job, or maybe it’s just the trauma of the last three years that has set the life out of you. We discuss and give thanks for the places in our lives where we have experienced resurrection. How about you?
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Notes* Try our small group curriculum! New subscribers can enjoy a completely free month of the premium edition of FaithElement!
Making An EntranceFor the session to be discussed on April 2, 2023
Matthew 21:1-11
Nikki Hardeman
Crystal Shepherd
Bert Montgomery
Today’s text is for Palm Sunday, so of course we are discussing Jesus’ triumphant entry into Jerusalem. The text is Matthew chapter 21 verses one through 11. It was a great moment of religious fervor and religious zealotry.
People had lined up on both sides of the road to see their hero heading in for a big show. Cheers, screams, clapping, stomping hands, reaching out desperately to touch, trying to reach the hero as he passed by.
The triumphal entry leading up to the crucifixion raises questions about our motives, our faith, and what and who we want Jesus to be compared to.
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Spirit is LifeFor the session to be discussed on March 26, 2023
Romans 8:1-11
David Cassady
Nikki Hardeman
Daniel Glaze
Crystal Shepherd
In this episode we discuss what it means to live or not “in the flesh.” As Daniel Glaze explains, “It seems to me that living in the flesh is about always putting yourself first. It’s about focusing upon what your body needs to the exclusion of bodies around you. It’s about believing your body matters more than other bodies. It’s about taking more than your share.”
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Hidden in DarknessFor the session to be discussed on March 19, 2023
Ephesians 5:8-14
David Cassady
Nikki Hardeman
Daniel Glaze
Crystal Shepherd
We discuss a passage full of words like “light” and “darkness.” Crystal explains, “If one only remembers to turn on the light, we reflect the light of Christ. We are that light. So flip the switch and sleepers awake, step into the light and shine so that the darkness loses its power and the monsters of fear and justice and shame, so that the things that would distort the beautiful image of Christ found in the other and in us is made fully visible.”
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JustifiedFor the session to be discussed on March 12, 2023
Romans 5:1-11
David Cassady
Nikki Hardeman
David Adams
Bert Montgomery
Do we deserve God’s grace? According to Paul, if we have anything to boast of, it’s not that we somehow deserve anything, it’s that we’ve been allowed to work through our suffering to grow into a situation where we have some hope that God’s coming to us in person, has allowed us to be fully reconciled with God. But we don’t want to be told we are expected to suffer and grow. Do we?
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Promise KeptFor the session to be discussed on March 5, 2023
Romans 4:1-17
David Cassady
Nikki Hardeman
David Adams
Bert Montgomery
As we journey through this season of Lent, we wonder if this text beckons us to consider what it really means to have faith over the law. How big a God is Paul asking us to follow?
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Notes David Cassady reads a portion of a sermon by Nadia Boltz Weber*. * Try our small group curriculum! New subscribers can enjoy a completely free month of the premium edition of FaithElement!
Problematic TextsFor the session to be discussed on February 26, 2023
Romans 5:12-19
David Cassady
Nikki Hardeman
David Adams
Bert Montgomery
Some things are just hard to explain and we can tie ourselves in knots trying to do so. In this text, we might see Paul as having one of those moments. In his intro, David Adams says, “There are laws against treating people the way Paul sometimes treated logic.” Together, we grapple with why explaining grace can be so difficult.
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Notes* Try our small group curriculum! New subscribers can enjoy a completely free month of the premium edition of FaithElement!
BiggerFor the session to be discussed on February 19, 2023
Matthew 17:1-9
David Cassady
Nikki Hardeman
David Adams
Bert Montgomery
Mountains appear in the scriptures – often as the sites for major events. We discuss one such event, the Transfiguration of Jesus, in today’s text. Those who were on the mountain with Jesus discovered he was bigger than they had imagined. How might we need to enlarge our understanding of Jesus?
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Notes* Video using Daniel Bailey’s song “The Mountain” * Try our small group curriculum! New subscribers can enjoy a completely free month of the premium edition of FaithElement!
Rigid Rules for ReconciliationFor the session to be discussed on February 12, 2023
Matthew 5:21-37
David Cassady
Nikki Hardeman
Daniel Glaze
Bert Montgomery
We discuss a passage that deals with diverse issues including anger and adultery, noting the ways this entire set of verses call us to examine how our choices affect our relationships with others.
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Notes* Try our small group curriculum! New subscribers can enjoy a completely free month of the premium edition of FaithElement!
Salt, Light, & LaughterFor the session to be discussed on February 5, 2023
Matthew 5:13-20
David Cassady
Nikki Hardeman
Daniel Glaze
Bert Montgomery
We do a good bit of laughing in this episode, but also delve into the notion of our being called to be salt and light in the world. What does that mean and how do we even begin to live up to those ideas?
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Notes* Try our small group curriculum! New subscribers can enjoy a completely free month of the premium edition of FaithElement!
Do, Love, WalkFor the session to be discussed on January 29, 2023
Micah 6:1-8
David Cassady
Nikki Hardeman
Daniel Glaze
Bert Montgomery
This well known passage presents the prophet highlighting the disconnect between the people’s professed allegiance to God and their actions. In our time — how do we deal with our own ability to claim to follow God and yet avoid the necessary work of justice, kindness and humility? What do the communities around our churches most need? What acts of justice is the world begging the church to engage?
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Nothing Never HappensFor the session to be discussed on January 22, 2023
Isaiah 9:1-7
David Cassady
Nikki Hardeman
Daniel Glaze
Bert Montgomery
When people are facing uncertain and difficult times, this text brings comfort and hope, as it was written during a similar season in the time of Isaiah. Is a better future on the way? As this is a text for Epiphany, we are reminded that God is still at work in the world. How can we be part of God’s work of bringing light and hope?
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Notes* Try our small group curriculum! New subscribers can enjoy a completely free month of the premium edition of FaithElement!
Who’s the Servant?For the session to be discussed on January 15, 2023
Isaiah 49:1-7
David Cassady
Nikki Hardeman
Daniel Glaze
Bert Montgomery
This week we have another servant song from Isaiah. We discuss how the passage reminds us that God works through us and relies on us to carry out God’s work in the world. How does a people living in a tattered world know that God is still with them? As Daniel argues, “we are an interconnected web of humanity and it’s time we believe it.” What does it mean to “bring light to the nations”?
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Notes* David references the book, The Wounded Healer, by Henri Nouwen. * Try our small group curriculum! New subscribers can enjoy a completely free month of the premium edition of FaithElement!
HeroesFor the session to be discussed on January 8, 2023
Isaiah 42:1-9
David Cassady
Nikki Hardeman
Daniel Glaze
Bert Montgomery
What does it mean to be a hero? In this passage, drawn from the Exile experience of the Israelite people, we discuss how we each hold the power to make a difference, even when the challenges seem large and impossible. As a new year begins, how does this text call us to live and share God’s love?
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Looking Up?For the session to be discussed on January 1, 2023
Ecclesiastes 3:1-13
Daniel Glaze
Nikki Hardeman
Bert Montgomery
David Adams
Sometimes we are so focused on doing and producing that we fail to pay attention to the importance of just being. We discuss the way our lives journey through seasons of life — being shaped and finding God along the way. How can we embrace the season we find ourselves in, noticing that God is here?
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Notes* Try our small group curriculum! New subscribers can enjoy a completely free month of the premium edition of FaithElement!
An Earthly ChristmasFor the session to be discussed on December 25, 2022
Luke 2:1-20
Daniel Glaze
Nikki Hardeman
Bert Montgomery
David Adams
Merry Christmas! In this episode we discuss the dirty, messy, chaotic scene that was the birth of Jesus into this crazy, scary, beautiful and amazing world. How do we better understand the nativity story when we avoid sanitizing or otherwise avoid removing the grit that is so clearly there?
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Notes* Try our small group curriculum! New subscribers can enjoy a completely free month of the premium edition of FaithElement!
A Non-Advent Advent LessonFor the session to be discussed on December 18, 2022
Romans 1:1-7
David Cassady
Daniel Glaze
Today is 4th Sunday of Advent. It’s almost Christmas. Why then does the Lectionary offer us this passage from Romans? We look at what Romans has to do with Advent and Christmas. What is God calling you to this Advent season? What is God calling your church to do? Is there a commitment you need to follow through on?
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Notes* Try our small group curriculum! New subscribers can enjoy a completely free month of the premium edition of FaithElement!
Practicing PatienceFor the session to be discussed on December 11, 2022
James 5:7-11
David Cassady
Bert Montgomery
Patience is one of those things, Bert tells us, that is hard to practice — especially when we are living in a world dealing with war, hunger, sickness, injustice and mass shootings. This Advent, how do we practice patience awaiting the coming of the One who will set things right? How do we endure more suffering, more heartache, more disillusionment?
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Notes* Try our small group curriculum! New subscribers can enjoy a completely free month of the premium edition of FaithElement!
HarmonyFor the session to be discussed on December 4, 2022
Romans 15:4-13
David Cassady
Nikki Hardeman
Bert Montgomery
David Adams
This passage reminds us that we do not get to decide who is “in” or who is “out” — or who God chooses to call or work through. We also discuss the ways this passage has wrongly been used by some to push anti-semitic themes and theologies. Why is it so difficult for us to allow that God’s love and grace is large enough to be available to all?
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Notes Cassady references a blog post “Let’s Build Bigger Banquet Tables” by Rachel Held Evans*. * Try our small group curriculum! New subscribers can enjoy a completely free month of the premium edition of FaithElement!
Wake Up! For the session to be discussed on November 27, 2022Romans 13:8-14
David CassadyNikki HardemanBert MontgomeryDavid Adams
For the first Sunday of Advent we are talking about hope — Advent is hope returning to a darkened world! Maybe Advent is really about giving others a reason to hope. What if it is through giving hope to others that our hope is fully realized? We discuss the ways Paul calls us to wake up to the needs of others around us. Can hope be generated and created?
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Notes * Adams references Bert Montgomery’s books. Find them here! * Try our small group curriculum! New subscribers can enjoy a completely free month of the premium edition of FaithElement!
Present Help, Helpful Presence For the session to be discussed on November 20, 2022Psalm 46
David CassadyNikki HardemanDaniel GlazeDavid Adams
We discuss the ways this Psalm, in calling us to find refuge in God, to find God’s presence the way to make it through difficult times, is both comforting and challenging. How have others heard this psalm and what meaning did it offer in the midst of pain and fear? We discuss how our own experiences of this troubled era in which we live has caused us to also hear this psalm anew.
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Notes * David Cassady read from Liturgies from Below: Praying with People at the End of the World by Claudio Carvalhaes. * Try our small group curriculum! New subscribers can enjoy a completely free month of the premium edition of FaithElement!
The Big Rock Candy Mountain For the session to be discussed on November 13, 2022Isaiah 65:17-25
David CassadyNikki HardemanDaniel GlazeDavid Adams
In this passage from Isaiah, God stands ready to bring forth a vision of heaven that surpasses everyone’s hopes. Given the struggles of Isaiah’s community, these words offered encouragement, strength, and hope. Today, what vision helps sustain us through difficult times? Do we see God as working toward a brighter, more just, future? What might that look like?
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Notes * Try our small group curriculum! New subscribers can enjoy a completely free month of the premium edition of FaithElement!
In Pursuit of Justice For the session to be discussed on November 6, 2022 Job 19:23-27a David Cassady Nikki Hardeman Daniel Glaze Bert Montgomery Job clings to hope in the midst of despair, even as he accuses God about the unfairness of his situation. We discuss the reasons it can be helpful to argue with […]
You’re Out of Your Tree For the session to be discussed on October 30, 2022 Luke 19:1-10 David Cassady Nikki Hardeman Daniel Glaze Bert Montgomery Our text this week is the story of when Jesus went to visit Zacchaeus. While we often learn this story as children, there is actually a depth of grown-up issues […]
Sinners and Scumbags For the session to be discussed on October 23, 2022 Luke 18:9-14 David Cassady Nikki Hardeman Daniel Glaze Bert Montgomery Today we discuss a parable about a Pharisee and a tax collector. In the parable, the Pharisee is proud of his good deeds and looks down on others. The tax collector prays […]
Approaching God For the session to be discussed on October 16, 2022 Luke 18:1-8 David Cassady Nikki Hardeman Daniel Glaze Bert Montgomery We discuss a lesser-read parable that Jesus tells about a widow and an unjust judge. In it, the widow’s persistence pays off, as the judge finally acquiesces to her requests. Are we to […]
Learning from Lepers For the session to be discussed on October 9, 2022Luke 17:11-19
David CassadyNikki HardemanDaniel GlazeDavid Adams
Jesus heals 10 lepers, and one returns to say “thank you” — a Samaritan. We explore some of the obvious questions, including why this one returned to give thanks and why it was the Samaritan. We wonder about Jesus’ instruction for them to go to the temple and healed them “on the way” there. But most of all, we wonder about the gift of sharing gratitude for blessings that come our way.
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Notes * Try our small group curriculum! New subscribers can enjoy a completely free month of the premium edition of FaithElement!
Learning from Lepers For the session to be discussed on October 9, 2022 Luke 17:11-19 David Cassady Nikki Hardeman Daniel Glaze David Adams Jesus heals 10 lepers, and one returns to say “thank you” — a Samaritan. We explore some of the obvious questions, including why this one returned to give thanks and why it […]
Live, Love, Serve For the session to be discussed on October 2, 2022 Luke 17:(1-4)5-10 David Cassady Nikki Hardeman Daniel Glaze David Adams Maybe faith, as it turns out, is about a little more than fulfilling an obligation. Maybe it contains an element of constantly pushing the envelope – constantly reaching higher – and looking […]
Live, Love, Serve For the session to be discussed on October 2, 2022Luke 17:(1-4)5-10
David CassadyNikki HardemanDaniel GlazeDavid Adams
Maybe faith, as it turns out, is about a little more than fulfilling an obligation. Maybe it contains an element of constantly pushing the envelope – constantly reaching higher – and looking to discover what Jesus sees in us when he calls us in the first place. Our God is a god of wonder and surprise. We celebrate when God showers love and grace upon us – especially when we didn’t see it coming – but what are we doing to surprise God? How can we top ourselves in showing a bit MORE grace; a bit MORE love; a bit MORE faith? What sorts of plans are we making to show God that there is yet more faith in us than anyone has a right to expect, and that we intend to bring it out?
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Notes * Try our small group curriculum! New subscribers can enjoy a completely free month of the premium edition of FaithElement!
So Close Yet So Far For the session to be discussed on September 25, 2022Luke 16:19-31
David CassadyNikki HardemanDaniel GlazeBert Montgomery
We discuss a well-known parable featuring a rich man who cannot seem to express even the slightest amount of compassion for a poor man. In fact, the poor man is largely unseen by the rich man until they both die, sending the poor man to heaven and the rich man to hell — a reversal of their previous positions. We discuss the incredible inequities of our era, wondering how we and the church might bring a return to the care for the poor that Jesus demands.
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Notes * Try our small group curriculum! New subscribers can enjoy a completely free month of the premium edition of FaithElement!
So Close Yet So Far For the session to be discussed on September 25, 2022 Luke 16:19-31 David Cassady Nikki Hardeman Daniel Glaze Bert Montgomery We discuss a well-known parable featuring a rich man who cannot seem to express even the slightest amount of compassion for a poor man. In fact, the poor man is […]
Gotta Serve Somebody For the session to be discussed on September 18, 2022 Luke 16:1-13 David Cassady Nikki Hardeman Daniel Glaze Bert Montgomery This episode has us grappling with an unusual and even confusing parable. In it, a manager acts in ways that are manipulative to the owner of the endeavor, while also doing things […]
Gotta Serve Somebody For the session to be discussed on September 18, 2022Luke 16:1-13
David CassadyNikki HardemanDaniel GlazeBert Montgomery
This episode has us grappling with an unusual and even confusing parable. In it, a manager acts in ways that are manipulative to the owner of the endeavor, while also doing things that benefit others. He cheats to do good! We look at take-aways from the passage and how the real-world nature of this parable reflects the true complexity of our lives and decisions. How is my well-being wrapped up in your well-being?
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Notes * Try our small group curriculum! New subscribers can enjoy a completely free month of the premium edition of FaithElement!
Sheep and Sweep For the session to be discussed on September 11, 2022 Luke 15:1-10 David Cassady Nikki Hardeman Daniel Glaze David Adams Our discussion revolves around two parables Jesus shares — both dealing with something lost and then found. In one, a shepherd loses a sheep, and in the other a woman loses a […]
Sheep and Sweep For the session to be discussed on September 11, 2022Luke 15:1-10
David CassadyNikki HardemanDaniel GlazeDavid Adams
Our discussion revolves around two parables Jesus shares — both dealing with something lost and then found. In one, a shepherd loses a sheep, and in the other a woman loses a coin. Would we really act in the ways the shepherd and woman do in the parables? Is Jesus sharing these to instruct us on how to live, or to reveal something about the nature of God?
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Notes * Try our small group curriculum! New subscribers can enjoy a completely free month of the premium edition of FaithElement!
Expensive Faith For the session to be discussed on September 4, 2022 Luke 14:25-33 David Cassady Nikki Hardeman Daniel Glaze David Adams Today’s passage leads us into a conversation about what things are really worth in “the economy of heaven.” Jesus seems intent on removing any doubt that discipleship is easy, or cheap. How costly […]
Cracked Cisterns For the session to be discussed on August 28, 2022 Jeremiah 2:1-13 David Cassady Nikki Hardeman Daniel Glaze Bert Montgomery We discuss an emotional text from Jeremiah, where God expresses deep hurt over the abandonment by the people of Israel. How does God react to this betrayal? In what ways have we and […]
Trampling the Sabbath For the session to be discussed on August 21, 2022 Isaiah 58:9b-14 David Cassady Nikki Hardeman Daniel Glaze Bert Montgomery Our text from Isaiah 58 is a challenge to get back to the heart of worship. What is the sort of worship God desires and how near or far are we from […]
Trampling the Sabbath For the session to be discussed on August 21, 2022Isaiah 58:9b-14
David CassadyNikki HardemanDaniel GlazeBert Montgomery
Our text from Isaiah 58 is a challenge to get back to the heart of worship. What is the sort of worship God desires and how near or far are we from offering it? We discuss the ways we often worship – but then do not behave as those who worship. How should our worship connect with the lives we live the rest of the week? Isaiah has thoughts.
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Notes * Try our small group curriculum! New subscribers can enjoy a completely free month of the premium edition of FaithElement!
Grapes of Wrath For the session to be discussed on August 14, 2022 Isaiah 5:1-10 David Cassady David Adams Nikki Hardeman Bert Montgomery We discuss a passage that has eerily similar dynamics to elements of our culture today. Why is it both then, and now, we have trouble hearing the words of the prophets calling […]
Making God Angry For the session to be discussed on August 7, 2022 Isaiah 1:1-20 David Cassady David Adams Nikki Hardeman Bert Montgomery David Adams begins our discussion around Isaiah 1:1-20 (with an intro laden with Journey lyric references — much to Bert’s chagrin). We discuss the similarities in the dynamics of the time when […]
Wealth That Matters For the session to be discussed on July 31, 2022 Psalm 49 David Cassady Daniel Glaze Nikki Hardeman Bert Montgomery Psalm 49 calls us to consider the sort of riches that really matter. In a world where incredible wealth is concentrated in the hands of a few — what does that say […]
Manifesting Peace For the session to be discussed on July 24, 2022Psalm 85
David CassadyDaniel GlazeNikki HardemanBert Montgomery
Psalm 85 is often described as a “complaint psalm” — lamenting what the people had lost over generations. It describes a communal loss that goes beyond the suffering of individuals. We discuss the ways this psalm raises questions about the nature of God. Is God more defined by wrath and anger, or love and grace?
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Notes * Try our small group curriculum! New subscribers can enjoy a completely free month of the premium edition of FaithElement!
Truth Telling For the session to be discussed on July 17, 2022Psalm 52
Crystal ShepherdDaniel GlazeNikki HardemanBert Montgomery
Psalm 52 harshly addresses an “evil mighty one” who uses their power to oppress and abuse the righteous ones. As we read the psalm we may be tempted to see ourselves as the “righteous ones” rather than the “evil mighty ones.” But in reality, we can be both. We discuss the way this psalm calls us to look in the mirror and reflect on the ways this psalm calls us to repentance and changes in how we live and treat others.
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Notes * Try our small group curriculum! New subscribers can enjoy a completely free month of the premium edition of FaithElement!
You Had One Job For the session to be discussed on July 10, 2022Psalm 82
Crystal ShepherdDaniel GlazeNikki HardemanBert Montgomery
Psalm 82 sets a scene where God rails against the powers of the day — condemning them for using their power for self-gain rather than for the good of others. Worse, they used their positions to directly harm others, especially the vulnerable in their society. We discuss that which is our “one job” and how well are we doing at it.
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Notes * Try our small group curriculum! New subscribers can enjoy a completely free month of the premium edition of FaithElement!
Unbelievable For the session to be discussed on July 3, 2022 Psalm 30 David Cassady Daniel Glaze Nikki Hardeman Bert Montgomery Psalm 30 presents us with the message that, in spite of, and in the midst of, our deepest suffering, God will have the last word. That word is that one day joy, peace and […]
Inconsolable For the session to be discussed on June 26, 2022 Psalm 77:1-2,11-20 David Cassady Daniel Glaze Nikki Hardeman Bert Montgomery This psalm offers a glimpse of how the psalmist honestly relates to God. In this case, the psalmist is inconsolable — the grief, the anger, the hurt — is so deep that listening or […]
Do Something For the session to be discussed on June 19, 2022 Psalm 42 and 43 David Cassady Daniel Glaze David Adams Bert Montgomery Our conversation centers around two psalms that some scholars believe may have originally been one psalm that was later separated into two. These offer prayers of praise and petition, and prayers […]
Woman Wisdom For the session to be discussed on June 12, 2022 Proverbs 8: 1-4, 22-31 David Cassady Daniel Glaze David Adams Bert Montgomery Today’s text is from Proverbs, contrasting two women — one who seduces toward death and one who beckons toward life, as wisdom. Bert Montgomery says, “we cannot understand the woman of […]
Show and Tell For the session to be discussed on June 5, 2022 John 14:8-17 David Cassady Nikki Hardeman David Adams For this Pentecost Sunday episode, we discuss our calling to follow the work of the Spirit in our lives, our churches, and our communities. What does that look like in 2022? We discuss David […]
Coming Soon For the session to be discussed on May 29, 2022 Revelation 22:12-21 David Cassady Nikki Hardeman David Adams Today we discuss the ending of Revelation, considering the sort of world John see’s both as ultimately arriving, and toward which we are all called to work toward right now. Learn more about our team. […]
A City Without A Temple For the session to be discussed on May 22, 2022 Revelation 21:10-22:5 David Cassady Nikki Hardeman Bert Montgomery Daniel Glaze John paints a picture of a new Jerusalem where there is “abundance without opulence” (Glaze) and where the streets are paved with gold, but not the sort of gold we […]
Picturing Hope For the session to be discussed on May 15, 2022 Revelation 21:1-6 David Cassady Nikki Hardeman Bert Montgomery Daniel Glaze John writes the book of Revelation from a prison cell. Unable to speak directly to the oppression of Roman rule, he uses symbolic language. Written to his Christian friends being persecuted, John paints […]
Tear Free For the session to be discussed on May 8, 2022 Revelation 7:9-17 David Cassady Nikki Hardeman David Adams Crystal Shepherd Still in the book of Revelation, we discuss the ways the core message of the book – that the hope of the poor and oppressed is in Christ, not the powers of this […]
Worthiness For the session to be discussed on May 1, 2022 Revelation 5:11-14 David Cassady Nikki Hardeman David Adams Crystal Shepherd Continuing our journey in the book of Revelation, we are confronted by how Revelation teaches us to live, even as we are challenged by the many Caesars of this world. Recognizing that Jesus is […]
A Timely Word of Hope For the session to be discussed on April 24, 2022 Revelation 1:4-8 David Cassady David Adams Daniel Glaze Bert Montgomery We begin a series of sessions in the book of Revelation. Daniel helps us become oriented to the book by reminding us that we are not the intended audience — […]
Women of Mystery For the session to be discussed on April 17, 2022 Luke 24:1-12 David Cassady David Adams Daniel Glaze Bert Montgomery This Easter episode has us revisiting a key Easter passage and discussing what it might mean to not just believe the resurrection happened… but to believe that we can live differently knowing […]
Working It Out For the session to be discussed on April 10, 2022 Philippians 2:1-13 Nikki Hardeman David Adams Bert Montgomery For this Palm Sunday text, we discuss a text (considered a hymn) that has been used to end calls for change and fairness, all in the name of unity. Can we interpret this text, […]
The Chase For the session to be discussed on April 3, 2022 Philippians 3:4-14 Nikki Hardeman Bert Montgomery David Adams What do we chase after in this life? In this episode we take a look at a passage where Paul challenges us to think about that which we strive for, that which we seek. We […]
Two Parables For the session to be discussed on March 27, 2022 Luke 15:1-3, 11-32 David Cassady Nikki Hardeman Daniel Glaze Bert Montgomery We take a creative look at one of the most familiar passages in scripture: the parable of the prodigal son. Daniel offers a modern-day version to get us started, and we discuss […]
Life’s Fragility For the session to be discussed on March 20, 2022 Luke 13:1-9 David Cassady Nikki Hardeman Daniel Glaze Bert Montgomery We have lots of questions to ask as we read today’s text: Why do bad things happen? Why does God allow evil to exist? How ought we respond to senseless evil? And as […]
Foxy Herod For the session to be discussed on March 13, 2022
Luke 13:31-35
David Cassady
Nikki Hardeman
Daniel Glaze
Bert Montgomery
Today’s passage leads us into a conversation where we watch the contrast between the way Herod lives – the use of power, wealth, position, even violence — with the way Jesus lives, through love, healing, peace and joy. We discuss the ways this passage feels particularly relevant for our time.
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Notes * David mentions Lenten questions posed by Frederick Buechner. * Try our small group curriculum! New subscribers can enjoy a completely free month of the premium edition of FaithElement!
Wilderness People For the session to be discussed on March 6, 2022
Luke 4:1-13
David Cassady
Nikki Hardeman
Daniel Glaze
Bert Montgomery
Today’s text, for the first Sunday of Lent, is from the temptation of Jesus. “These temptations are about how Jesus will bring about God’s kingdom on earth,” says Bert Montgomery. Satan does not argue with Jesus’ path, but instead offers solutions that rely on the power and values of this world. How can we — and our churches — be alert to the same sorts of temptations? “The whole temptation is discerning the voice of evil from the voice of God.”
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Notes * David mentions the blog post “Into the Wild” by Debie Thomas. * Try our small group curriculum! New subscribers can enjoy a completely free month of the premium edition of FaithElement!
Thinly Veiled For the session to be discussed on February 27, 2022
2 Corinthians 3:12-4:2
David Cassady
Nikki Hardeman
Daniel Glaze
Bert Montgomery
We live in days that so often feel like “in between” times — we know how things used to be, and we have hopes for things to be better in the future, but the here and now can be tough. Paul’s writing in this text leads us into a discussion of the ways our faith moves us along, helping us grow through the in between times into the future toward which God is calling us and the church.
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Notes * Try our small group curriculum! New subscribers can enjoy a completely free month of the premium edition of FaithElement!
Foolish Questions For the session to be discussed on February 20, 2022
1 Corinthians 15:35-50
David Cassady
Nikki Hardeman
Daniel Glaze
Bert Montgomery
Continuing in 1 Corinthians, we find Paul again trying to both emphasize the importance of the resurrection while also urging the Corinthians to accept the fact that it’s pretty much a big mystery. But they still have questions. We do too. And yet, Paul encourages us to move on from questions that cannot be answered to a life of faith and action. What are your unanswerable questions?
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Notes * Try our small group curriculum! New subscribers can enjoy a completely free month of the premium edition of FaithElement!
Like Him We Rise For the session to be discussed on February 13, 2022
1 Corinthians 15:12-20
David Cassady
Nikki Hardeman
Daniel Glaze
Bert Montgomery
“Paul takes the gloves off today,” says Daniel Glaze. Responding to some who were doubting the resurrection, Paul insists that the reality of both Christ’s resurrection — and our own — are central to our faith. We discuss the ways it is often easier to believe in Christ’s resurrection than in our own. What does it mean for us to experience resurrection in the midst of our own struggles and lives?
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Notes * David reads a bit of a poem by Wendell Berry that calls us to practice resurrection. * Try our small group curriculum! New subscribers can enjoy a completely free month of the premium edition of FaithElement!
God’s, Kings and Enemies For the session to be discussed on February 6, 2022
Psalm 138
David Cassady
Nikki Hardeman
Daniel Glaze
Bert Montgomery
Having a thankful attitude is difficult during hard times, including a pandemic. The psalm we discuss today is a psalm of thanksgiving — reminding us that God is with us even as we travel through difficult days — especially as we walk through dark times. We have choices to make about how we live and grapple with the challenges before us!
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Notes * The version of the Serenity Prayer that David read can be found here. * Try our small group curriculum! New subscribers can enjoy a completely free month of the premium edition of FaithElement!
Revolutionary Love For the session to be discussed on January 30, 2022
1 Corinthians 13:1-13
David Cassady
Nikki Hardeman
Daniel Glaze
David Adams
We discuss one of the most famous and well-loved portions of scripture — 1 Corinthians 13 — which focuses on love. However, we wonder if the sense of “love” that is so often associated with this passage is actually what Paul was lifting up. “The love that is spoken of here is not a Hallmark-y, sentimentalized, Valentine’s Day, puppy dog love” (Glaze). Join us as we explore a deeper sense of the call to love.
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Notes * Try our small group curriculum! New subscribers can enjoy a completely free month of the premium edition of FaithElement!
One Body For the session to be discussed on January 23, 2022
1 Corinthians 12:12-31
David Cassady
Nikki Hardeman
Daniel Glaze
David Adams
We continue considering gifts and how they affect the way we grow together as congregations and communities. How do we bless others when we share our experiences, gifts and abilities? What can we learn from a community potluck about sharing our gifts?
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Notes * David mentions Kate Campbell’s song, Funeral Food, written by Kate Campbell and Johnny Pierce. * Try our small group curriculum! New subscribers can enjoy a completely free month of the premium edition of FaithElement!
Gifts for the Common Good For the session to be discussed on January 16, 2022
1 Corinthians 12:1-12
David Cassady
Nikki Hardeman
Daniel Glaze
Bert Montgomery
Today’s passage leads us into a surprising conversation around the notion of giftedness. We discuss our own gifts (and lack thereof) and talk about the maturity that comes as we embrace our gifts and use them in service to others. How comfortable are you in recognizing your own gifts, as well as those around you?
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Notes * Try our small group curriculum! New subscribers can enjoy a completely free month of the premium edition of FaithElement!
Signs and Wonders For the session to be discussed on January 9, 2022
Acts 8:4-17
David Cassady
Nikki Hardeman
Daniel Glaze
Bert Montgomery
Philip’s encounter with Simon, a not-to-be-associated-with person (a Samaritan), reminds us that the Spirit is not constrained by our labels and categories or doctrines. Philip performs miracles that wow even Simon (a local magician). Where do we find the Spirit at work? How do we hold careful skepticism for our ability to be manipulated with the need to be open to unexpected ways the Spirit is at work in us and around us?
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Notes * Try our small group curriculum! New subscribers can enjoy a completely free month of the premium edition of FaithElement!
The Weary World Rejoices For the session to be discussed on January 2, 2022
Psalm 147:12-20
David Cassady
Nikki Hardeman
Crystal Shepherd
David Adams
Today’s text is a congregational hymn of praise for the work of God in this world. As we notice the beauty, grandeur and power of creation, can it remind us of the ways God is also at work in our lives and world? Even as the world these days feels especially weary, this text calls us to see God at work toward a new day.
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Notes * Crystal refers to this documentary about the Gullah Geechee in her intro. * Try our small group curriculum! New subscribers can enjoy a completely free month of the premium edition of FaithElement!
The Wonder Years For the session to be discussed on December 26, 2021
Luke 2:41-52
David Cassady
Nikki Hardeman
Crystal Shepherd
David Adams
What was Jesus’ childhood like? We have only glimpses of it in the scriptures, but in those it seems Jesus was a normal Jewish boy. How we think about Jesus’ childhood may reflect how we understand the humanity of Jesus — was he fully human, including all the playfulness and wonder and exploration of childhood?
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Notes * Try our small group curriculum! New subscribers can enjoy a completely free month of the premium edition of FaithElement!
Subversive Love For the session to be discussed on December 19, 2021
Luke 1:39-55
David Cassady
Nikki Hardeman
Daniel Glaze
Crystal Shepherd
Advent is a season of waiting. But just because we are waiting, it does not mean we are sitting still. Today’s text offers the famous “song of Mary” or the Magnificat. This song both expresses Mary’s praise and also points to the subversive power of a love that brings down the powerful and sends the rich away empty. We discuss the need for love in our world — where love itself is disruptive and revolutionary.
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Notes * Daniel references research into the Magnificat’s usage in churches (or lack thereof), from an article in the Washington Post. * Try our small group curriculum! New subscribers can enjoy a completely free month of the premium edition of FaithElement!
Repent…with Hope For the session to be discussed on December 12, 2021
Luke 3:7-18
David Cassady
Nikki Hardeman
Daniel Glaze
Crystal Shepherd
We continue in our study in Luke, with John the Baptist acting as a jarring, loud watchdog who keeps us from following Jesus unaware of what we are getting into. “If we can’t handle John, we won’t be able to handle the one who comes after him.” (Daniel). John invites us to clean up our lives, because Jesus is coming. Rather than as a threat, John challenges us to hear the word “repent” in a new light, challenging us to “bear fruits worthy of repentance.”
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Notes * Try our small group curriculum! New subscribers can enjoy a completely free month of the premium edition of FaithElement!
Unlikely King For the session to be discussed on November 21, 2021 John 18:33-37 David Cassady Nikki Hardeman Daniel Glaze Crystal Shepherd We’re focused on a text for Christ the King Sunday. But Jesus ends up appearing as an unlikely king. Rather than using power, control and judgment, which is how many become kings, Jesus offers a very different notion of kingship. What is Jesus teaching us about the nature of his kingdom even as he approaches death? Learn more about our team. Notes
- Try our small group curriculum! New subscribers can enjoy a completely free month of the premium edition of FaithElement!
This Too Shall Pass For the session to be discussed on November 14, 2021 Mark 13:1-8 David Cassady Nikki Hardeman Daniel Glaze Crystal Shepherd Today’s passage is sometimes referred to as the “mini-apocalypse.” It sometimes feels like we are living in an apocalypse with the pandemic, polarization and climate change all at play. Perhaps we have the same kinds of questions as the disciples as we face these days. Learn more about our team. Notes
- Try our small group curriculum! New subscribers can enjoy a completely free month of the premium edition of FaithElement!
The Widow’s Might For the session to be discussed on November 7, 2021 Mark 12:38-44 David Adams Nikki Hardeman Daniel Glaze Crystal Shepherd We discuss the story of the poor widow who Jesus noticed giving her last two coins. Rather than focusing on the widow’s “mite,” we cannot help but see the widow’s “might” in the courage it took to give so deeply and freely. What motivates us to give? How can we share in the sort of might that drew Jesus’ attention and praise? Learn more about our team. Notes
- Try our small group curriculum! New subscribers can enjoy a completely free month of the premium edition of FaithElement!
Lifelong Praise For the session to be discussed on October 31, 2021 Psalm 146 David Adams Nikki Hardeman Daniel Glaze Crystal Shepherd This week we look at Psalm 146, a theologically rich text that some have called “God’s resume.” The psalm lists the many ways God acts in our midst and evokes our praise in response. God is described in ways that show God’s place alongside the oppressed and excluded, the outcast and rejected. How does this resume affect the way we are to follow God? Learn more about our team. Notes
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Holy Presence For the session to be discussed on October 24, 2021 Job 42:1-7 David Cassady Nikki Hardeman Daniel Glaze Crystal Shepherd In this last episode in the book of Job, we discuss a portion of the text where God reminds Job who God is. This changes Job, who recognizes the limits of his knowledge, particularly about God. Job rejects his former notions of who God is and how God acts, and in the process grows. Where do we need to revisit our understanding of God? Learn more about our team. Notes
- Try our small group curriculum! New subscribers can enjoy a completely free month of the premium edition of FaithElement!
God’s Questions For the session to be discussed on October 17, 2021 Job 38:1-7, 34-41 David Cassady Nikki Hardeman Daniel Glaze Crystal Shepherd Job has questions for God, and is direct in taking his complaints and suffering before God. While God does not answer the “why me” questions, God does respond. How comfortable are we expressing our suffering and questions to God? Learn more about our team. Notes
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Honest Prayer For the session to be discussed on October 10, 2021 Job 23:1-17 David Cassady Nikki Hardeman Daniel Glaze Crystal Shepherd “I think part of what Job does so beautifully and what we can do is to keep the lines of communication open by being willing to question and to struggle. We can also realize that a relationship with the Most High is not transactional. It is not about being good enough or perfect, but about walking along the road knowing there is nothing that can separate us from our God.” — Crystal Shepherd, from her introduction for this episode. Learn more about our team. Notes
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What’s The Point? For the session to be discussed on October 3, 2021 Job 1:1-2:10 David Cassady Nikki Hardeman Daniel Glaze Crystal Shepherd The book of Job offers us a chance to explore a bit of “wisdom literature” from the Old Testament. In the process, we are confronted with the reality of suffering. We discuss how the book of Job destroys any transactional notions of serving God — because righteous Job suffers deeply. What is our motivation for keeping faith? Learn more about our team. Notes
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“Rumblin’, Bumblin’, Stumblin’” For the session to be discussed on September 26, 2021 Mark 9:38-50 David Cassady Nikki Hardeman David Adams Laura Edgar Jesus warns the disciples about being “stumbling blocks” in the work of faith in others. We discuss the many ways we have, and can be, sources of stumbling for others. How does our need to control the work of the church and expressions of faith often serve as blocks for the growth of others and ourselves? Learn more about our team. Notes
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A Child’s Way For the session to be discussed on September 19, 2021 Mark 9:30-37 David Cassady Nikki Hardeman David Adams Laura Edgar Jesus overhears the disciples arguing over who among them is the greatest. In response, Jesus explains that the first shall be last, and offers a child as a model for how we should be. What was Jesus saying with this action? What does it mean to truly welcome the child? Learn more about our team. Notes
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What Do YOU Say? For the session to be discussed on September 12, 2021 Mark 8:27-38 David Cassady Nikki Hardeman Crystal Shepherd Daniel Glaze Jesus asks, “who do you say that I am,” which turns out to be a fundamental question for each of us, and together. We share our responses to the question, and wonder about the ways the privatization of our faith makes it harder to answer. Learn more about our team. Notes
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Learning to Learn For the session to be discussed on September 5, 2021 Mark 7:24-37 David Cassady Nikki Hardeman Crystal Shepherd Daniel Glaze Today’s session looks at a text that is often avoided. It presents Jesus trying to get a few minutes alone, and yet approached by a Syrophoenician woman with a request. We discuss Jesus’ interaction with the woman, and the ways it transformed his ministry with Gentiles. Learn more about our team. Notes
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Did You Wash Your Hands? For the session to be discussed on August 29, 2021 Mark 7:1-23 David Cassady Crystal Shepherd Bert Montgomery Daniel Glaze We discuss our tendency to put people into categories… good, bad; positive, negative; helpful, cruel; wise, foolish… when the truth is that we are seldom that simple. This passage reminds us that the categories we automatically seem to lean on are limited and ignore the complexity of ourselves and others. Learn more about our team. Notes
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Will God Dwell on Earth For the session to be discussed on August 22, 2021 1 Kings 8:1-43 David Cassady Nikki Hardeman Bert Montgomery Daniel Glaze Solomon has overseen the building of the Temple and it is glorious. The task of transferring the Ark of the Covenant to it is now at hand. In dedicating the temple, Solomon recognizes that nothing, even the Temple, can contain God. Are we likewise able to revel in the fact that God is available to all of us, where ever we are? Learn more about our team. Notes
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Dreams of Grandeur For the session to be discussed on August 15, 2021 1 Kings 2:10-12; 3:3-14 David Cassady Nikki Hardeman Bert Montgomery Daniel Glaze Today’s episode looks at the rise of Solomon as king. While Solomon asks for wisdom from God, we also see a complex human who uses violence and loves power in ways that bring harm. We discuss both the wisdom and folly that Solomon’s story offers, and are reminded of the complexity each of our lives brings. Learn more about our team. Notes
- Bert mentioned Debi Thomas’ “A KING’S TALE”
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Unredemptive Violence For the session to be discussed on August 8, 2021 2 Samuel 18:1-33 David Cassady Nikki Hardeman Bert Montgomery Daniel Glaze Trigger warning: This episode includes incidences of sexual assault. In our last episode in this series out of 2 Samuel, we take a look at the story of David and his son Absalom. We discuss how this “soap opera” sort of narrative reveals the damage caused by cycles of violence. How can we work to end these cycles in our families and communities? How can we push back against the myth that violence can somehow be redemptive? Learn more about our team. Notes
- David mentioned Walter Wink’s article, “The Myth of Redemptive Violence.”
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You’re the Man! For the session to be discussed on August 1, 2021 2 Samuel 11:26-12:23 David Cassady Nikki Hardeman Bert Montgomery Daniel Glaze Continuing in 2 Samuel, David is confronted about his destructive behavior by Nathan via a story. Although King David is able to see the wrong in his behavior, the costs continue to unfold, including the death of his and Bathsheba’s child. Learn more about our team. Notes
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Suffering for Good For the session to be discussed on November 15, 2020 Matthew 25:14-30 David Cassady Nikki Hardeman Crystal Shepherd Daniel Glaze The parable of the talents is our topic for this session. We take issue with the traditional interpretation that assumes the owner is a figure for God. Instead, we wonder if the servant who is cast out is the real hero of the parable for refusing to join in the owner’s unethical behavior. Learn more about our team. Notes
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Ready or Not! For the session to be discussed on November 8, 2020 Matthew 25:1-13P David Cassady Nikki Hardeman Crystal Shepherd David Adams The parable of the bridesmaids is offered as another clue as to the nature of the Kingdom of God… but what does it mean? We discuss the limitations of the traditional interpretation of the passage and wonder what might have happened had the bridesmaids helped one another? What if we have missed the point of the preparedness? Learn more about our team. Notes
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Do As I Say For the session to be discussed on November 1, 2020 Matthew 23:1-12 David Cassady Daniel Glaze Nikki Hardeman Crystal Shepherd The Scribes and Pharisees drew Jesus’ ire as they used their status to impose legalistic structures to faith. How might we do the same? How do we follow Jesus’ example of a faith lived out in how we show love and grace to others? Learn more about our team. Notes
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