Bible Stories

What would you be willing to give up for something you want right now? In this episode of Bible Stories, Matt and Todd explore the complicated relationship between twin brothers Jacob and Esau. From a birthright sold for a bowl of stew to Jacob's determination to secure God's blessing through manipulation, their story reveals the dangers of pursuing temporary satisfaction and trying to accomplish God's purposes our own way. Discover why what we value matters, how our choices can have lasting consequences, and why trusting God's promises is always better than taking matters into our own hands.

What happens when following Jesus means going against the crowd? In Acts 4, Peter and John stood boldly before the very religious leaders who had condemned Jesus to death. Just weeks earlier, Peter had denied knowing Jesus out of fear. What changed? In this episode of Bible Stories, Matt and Todd explore the fear of man, the transforming power of the Holy Spirit, and what it means to choose obedience to God over the approval of others. Discover how spending time with Jesus can give us the courage to stand firm in our faith, even when it's uncomfortable.

With Pharaoh's army behind them and the Red Sea ahead, the Israelites had nowhere to run. Discover how God made a way when there seemed to be no way—and what their story teaches us about trusting God in the face of fear.

What will eternity actually be like? The Bible's picture may be different from what you've imagined. In Revelation 21, John sees a new heaven and a new earth—and the New Jerusalem coming down from heaven. It's a breathtaking city of enormous dimensions, streets of gold, gates of pearl, and the glory of God illuminating everything. In this episode, Matt and Todd explore what the Bible tells us about our eternal home, what the New Jerusalem will be like, and why the greatest thing about eternity isn't the gold, the beauty, or even the absence of pain. It's that God Himself will dwell with His people.

David is impressed by Abigail's wisdom, courage, and quick thinking—but apparently he's impressed enough to propose. There's just one complication: David is already married. In this episode, we unpack David's proposal to Abigail, the surprising speed of their relationship, and what this moment reveals about David's increasingly complicated family life. Was polygamy accepted in ancient Israel? Why does the Bible record it without necessarily approving it? And how do David's choices here foreshadow some much bigger problems to come?

David had already shown remarkable restraint with Saul—but when Nabal insults him, that restraint disappears. With 400 armed men behind him, David sets out for revenge. Then Abigail steps into his path. In this episode of Bible Stories, Matt and Todd unpack the remarkable story of Abigail, David, and Nabal in 1 Samuel 25. Abigail's courage, humility, and wisdom stop David from making a decision he would have regretted for the rest of his life. Sometimes God's grace looks like forgiveness after we fail. Other times, it looks like someone stepping into our path before we fail. Can we remain teachable when we're angry? Are we willing to listen when someone challenges us? And can we have the courage to be an Abigail for someone else? Plus, an unexpected fire alarm makes this one an episode to remember.

David has endured Saul's repeated attempts to kill him, yet once again he shows restraint and refuses to harm the king. But when a foolish man insults him, David's patience gives way to anger—and the future king sets out for revenge.

Korah challenges Moses and Aaron, setting off one of the most dramatic rebellions in the Old Testament. We explore the dangers of pride and discontent—and how Aaron's act of standing "between the dead and the living" points us forward to Jesus.

What happens when envy takes root and conflict turns into rebellion? In Numbers 16, Korah, Dathan, Abiram, and 250 prominent leaders challenge Moses and Aaron—questioning their authority, rewriting Israel's history, and demanding positions God never gave them. We explore how covetousness breeds discontent and division, why humility is essential in conflict, and how Jesus offers the perfect counterexample. The confrontation is set, the incense burners are ready, and God is about to make His choice unmistakably clear.

What begins as a rejected offering becomes the Bible's first murder—but Cain and Abel's story is about more than jealousy between brothers. In today's episode, we explore how sin takes root, why God cares about the heart behind our worship, and how conviction can lead us home. Cain built a life in a land called Wandering, but through Jesus, wandering doesn't have to be the end of our story.

In this episode of Bible Stories, hosts Matt Mullins and Todd Haymans continue their Confrontations series by examining the powerful story of Samuel confronting King Saul in 1 Samuel 15. Together they explore one of the Bible's most challenging lessons: "To obey is better than sacrifice." Why did Saul lose God's favor? What does partial obedience reveal about our hearts? How should Christians lovingly confront sin, and how should we respond when we're the ones being corrected? In this Bible study, you'll discover: • Why partial obedience is still disobedience • The meaning of 1 Samuel 15:22: "To obey is better than sacrifice" • How to confront others with truth and grace • Why humility is essential for spiritual growth • Biblical principles for repentance, accountability, and Christian discipleship Whether you're studying 1 Samuel, preparing to teach the Bible, leading a small group, or simply seeking to grow in your walk with Christ, this episode offers practical, biblical encouragement for everyday faith.…

What happens when one apostle publicly confronts another? In Galatians 2:11–21, Peter knows that Jews and Gentiles are one in Christ—but fear causes his actions to contradict his beliefs. Paul refuses to remain silent because the truth of the gospel is at stake. Matt and Todd explore why Paul confronted Peter publicly, how even mature believers can stumble, and why loving confrontation is sometimes necessary. Along the way, they uncover the life-changing truth at the heart of Paul's correction: We are made right with God through faith in Jesus Christ, not through religious performance.

Todd and Matt wrap up the Big Questions series by tackling thoughtful questions submitted by listeners. From heaven and the Millennial Kingdom to predestination, biblical interpretation, and more, they close the series by exploring what Scripture says about some of the Bible's most fascinating topics.

Before Jesus was born, how were people saved? Did Abraham, Moses, David, and the other faithful men and women of the Old Testament go to heaven another way? In this episode, we explore one of the Bible's most important questions and discover that God has always had one plan of salvation. From Abraham's faith to the sacrificial system, every page of the Old Testament points to Jesus Christ. Learn why the cross didn't just save those who came after Christ—it also secured the salvation of those who trusted God's promises before He came.

Can a Christian lose their salvation? It's one of the most important—and emotionally loaded—questions a believer can ask. In this episode of our Big Questions series, we examine what the Bible teaches about eternal security, the warning passages that often cause confusion, and how to know if your faith is genuine. Join us as we explore passages from John, Romans, Ephesians, Philippians, and 1 John to discover why our confidence isn't found in our ability to hold on to Jesus, but in His promise to hold on to us.

What happens after death for those who reject Christ? In this episode, Matt and Todd explore what the Bible teaches about hell, judgment, and eternity, while also highlighting God's desire that no one should perish. Along the way, they discuss Jesus' sacrifice for sin, the rich man and Lazarus, the Great White Throne Judgment, and why the gospel offers hope to anyone who will trust in Him.

It's the biggest question every person will eventually face: What happens when we die? In this episode, we explore what the Bible teaches about the believer's future—from the moment of death, to Heaven, to the resurrection of the body, and ultimately the eternal state. Join us as we discover the hope God has prepared for those who trust in Christ."

We continue our Big Questions series by exploring a question many people have asked at one time or another: "Is God angry with me?" Together, we'll examine what both the Old and New Testaments reveal about God's character.

Do our family members in heaven see us? Do they become angels? Do they help us? In this episode, we step away from our normal format to tackle a question many Christians quietly wonder about. Together, we'll separate sentiment from Scripture and discover what the Bible really says about heaven, loved ones, and the hope waiting for believers.

The walls are closing in on King Hezekiah. The Assyrian army stands at Jerusalem's gates, mocking God and threatening destruction. In desperation, Hezekiah runs to the temple while his emissaries seek counsel from Isaiah the prophet. God hears. God answers. And when all hope seems lost, Jesus Himself arrives to defend Jerusalem. In this episode, we explore one of Scripture's most dramatic moments of deliverance and what it reveals about the God who fights for His people.

King Hezekiah didn't inherit a legacy of faith—he inherited a mess. His father, Ahaz, led Judah deep into idolatry, even turning good things—like the bronze serpent from Book of Numbers 21—into objects of worship. But Hezekiah refuses to follow that path. From the very beginning of his reign, he takes bold, decisive action to turn the nation back to the Lord. In this episode, discover what it looks like to lead with conviction, tear down what's corrupt, and pursue true faith in the face of a broken past.

Family drama at its peak—King Ahab's daughter marries into the line of David and, in a ruthless bid for power, murders her own descendants to seize the throne. Yet her plans are ultimately thwarted, as God secretly preserves the rightful heir, King Joash, ensuring that David's royal line endures.

Uzziah becomes king at the ripe old age of 16 years old. He's tutored by a faithful man of God and begins his reign well. However, pride creep in and disaster soon follows.

In this episode, we continue our Kings series by exploring the life of King Jehoshaphat—a leader marked by deep devotion to God, strong leadership, and a few surprisingly questionable decisions. From spiritual reform and national peace to an ill-advised alliance with the infamous King Ahab, Jehoshaphat's story reminds us how even faithful people can drift into compromise. Join us as we unpack the tension between wisdom and weakness and what it looks like to keep our eyes on God when we don't know what to do.

The greatest story ever told! Jesus faces betrayal, mocking, torture, and even death in order that we might be reconciled to God. Through agony, Jesus heroically wins the victory! He defeats death and rises from the grave! Our story comes from John 18-21.

Paul writes 1 Corinthians 15 to a church in crises. False teachers had made their way into the congregation and were teaching that there is no resurrection of the dead. In today's episode, we explore Paul's reaction and argument for the reality and necessity of the Resurrection.

In this episode, we trace the turbulent line of Judah's kings from Abijam to Asa and discover a story filled with war, unfaithfulness, reform, and spiritual drift. While Asa began his reign with bold devotion—tearing down idols and leading the people back to God—his later years reveal the danger of relying on human strength instead of divine guidance. Through victories, compromises, and consequences, his life becomes a powerful reminder that faithfulness is not just about how we start, but how we finish. Join us as we reflect on what Asa's journey teaches us about perseverance, humility, and staying anchored to the Lord.

In this episode, we explore 1 Kings 14:1–20, where King Jeroboam secretly sends his wife to the prophet Ahijah in hopes of learning the fate of their sick son. Disguised and desperate, Jeroboam's household tries to manipulate the situation—but nothing is hidden from God.

The Lord sends a man of God to confront Jeroboam for creating a counterfeit religion and leading Israel astray. Along the way, God freezes Jeroboam's hand in judgment, an old prophet delivers a shocking lie, and the man of God meets a tragic and unexpected end. 1 Kings 13 is a story filled with dramatic twists, sobering warnings, and powerful lessons about obedience and discernment.

King Jeroboam was entrusted with a kingdom—personally chosen by God to lead the newly formed nation of Israel. All the Lord desired in return was his wholehearted devotion. Tragically, driven by insecurity and fear of losing power, Jeroboam turned away from the Lord. In an effort to secure his own position, he fashioned a counterfeit system of worship, reshaping religion not to honor God, but to control the people of God.

Solomon's son seems destined for disaster—and he steps into the role all too easily. The father's compromises cast a long shadow, shaping a son who rejects wise counsel and, in his pride, fractures a kingdom.

King Solomon was set up for success. However, some selfish choices would send him directly into danger. Tune in to find out what happens when the wisest man on earth begins to compromise.

Solomon is handed the keys to the kingdom, but he accepts them with reluctance—fully aware that he is unequal to the task. In rare humility for a king, he asks the Lord for wisdom to govern well. What God gives him is nothing short of extraordinary.

Fast forward to the end of David's life. He's 70 years old, and once again one of his sons is trying to steal the throne. Scripture describes this would-be king as handsome—and as a man who grew up without discipline. What happens when David is finally forced to step in? Tune in and find out.

The Lord's hand is clearly on David as he ascends to the throne. The people of Israel rally behind him, celebrating their king as victory follows victory. But David's success breeds comfort—and in that comfort, he makes a choice that will forever alter his reign and devastate his family.

Saul was tall, handsome, and wealthy; David was… a shepherd. To the people, Saul looked like the obvious choice, while David seemed like a long shot. Yet today's story reminds us that while people look at outward appearances, God looks at the heart.

The era of the judges comes to an end as God's people demand a king. They want someone who looks the part, rules like other kings, and makes them more like the surrounding nations. God warns them of the cost—then gives them exactly what they ask for.

God is in the business of change. Witness one of the most dramatic conversions in history as Saul's life is radically transformed.

Thirty-three days after the birth of Jesus, Mary and Joseph encounter Simeon—a man promised by God that he would see the Messiah before he died. As Simeon holds the baby in his arms, he announces that Jesus is indeed the Savior. However, he then turns to Mary and provides puzzling and concerning news.

Mary and Joseph journey to Bethlehem, a small and seemingly insignificant town. It's there that God enters the world as a child, and hope is born for all humanity. Join us as we retell the Christmas story and reflect on the meaning of Christ's birth.

Today's episode explores the announcement of the Messiah! We follow angels as they reveal the heavenly plan of the Savior's birth. Follow along as we're introduced to fascinating characters and a host of men and women with incredibly integrity. You won't want to miss this one!

From the very first pages of Genesis, the Old Testament whispers—and sometimes shouts—about a coming Messiah. Over generations, these prophecies form a growing portrait of the Savior God promised and His entrance into the world.

In this special edition of Bible Stories, Todd and Matt share a bit about their upbringings, how they ended up in ministry, and some things for which they are grateful.

In today's Bible Story, we explore the origin of Satan—his role as a servant of God, the pride that led to his rebellion, his catastrophic fall, and the cosmic battle still unfolding.

In this episode, we continue tracing the movement of the Angel of the Lord through the Old Testament, focusing on His appearances in the book of Judges. From calling Gideon a "mighty hero" to announcing Samson's birth, we see the Angel commissioning, guiding, and revealing God's presence in powerful ways. These encounters remind us that God not only sends His messengers but also sends us with divine purpose.

Discover the mysterious "Angel of the Lord" — a divine figure who speaks as God, yet is distinct. Journey through Scripture as this extraordinary being appears to Abraham, Moses, and Joshua. Watch as He shields Israel from Pharaoh's power, delivers the strategy for Jericho's fall, and disciplines God's people with divine authority. Explore one of the Bible's most fascinating and thought-provoking figures.

Today's episode dives into two remarkable biblical encounters where angels faced off against humans. Join us as we unpack these dramatic scenes and witness the unmistakable display of supernatural power.

In this episode of Bible Stories , we dive into the mysterious world of the seraphim—the "burning ones" who stand in the very presence of God. We'll explore who these fiery beings are, what their six wings signify, and why their cry of "Holy, holy, holy" still echoes through worship today. Join us as we uncover the symbolism, awe, and purpose behind one of the most fascinating celestial creatures in Scripture.

Dive into the incredible story of Michael the Archangel—warrior, protector, prince of Israel, and leader of heaven's armies. His victories are legendary, his strength unmatched, yet even this mighty being is wholly dependent on and submissive to God.

Todd and Matt discuss some common misconceptions about angels and dig into one of their most fascinating jobs - delivering messages from God.