The Boundless Bible

Send us a textFood and faith have always been intertwined - from ancient sacred meals to modern Sunday lunch traditions. This delightful episode of Boundless Bible takes you into the personal post-worship dining rituals of hosts David Shapiro, Javi Marquez, and Jason Holloway as they answer the seemingly simple question: "What is your go-to Sunday lunch after church?"Jason immediately confesses to being an "Indian fanatic," revealing how his family frequents authentic Indian buffets featuring regional specialties so unique he often can't pronounce them. His enthusiasm for these culinary adventures - and occasional Ethiopian alternatives - offers a glimpse into how cultural exploration has become part of his spiritual routine. Meanwhile, Javi shares the relatable struggle of post-church meal indecision, eventually landing on Mexican food, particularly tacos that allow for flexible portion sizes. His story takes a touching turn when he reveals how sharing meals after attending mass with his roommate years ago actually played a role in his faith journey.In stark contrast, David embraces frugality, skipping restaurants altogether in favor of heading home where he humorously "raids the fridge" - consuming everything from sandwiches to cereal in a post-sermon feast. The episode captures the beautiful intersection of community, tradition, and faith through the lens of something as seemingly ordinary as lunch choices. The hosts' genuine laughter and playful banter (including a joke about Chick-fil-A's famous Sunday closures) create an atmosphere that feels like joining friends around a table.Whether you're curious about pastors' lives outside the pulpit or looking to connect with the heartwarming traditions that bind faith communities together, this episode serves up spiritual nourishment with a side of genuine human connection. Subscribe to Boundless Bible for more conversations that bring scripture, daily life, and authentic relationships together in unexpected ways.Support the showHave a topic, verse, or story you'd like us to cover? Tell us on the socials at @theboundlessbible: Facebook / Instagram / TikTok Join the new Facebook Group: The Boundless Bible Discussion Group If you enjoyed this episode, hit subscribe and leave a review—it helps us reach more people like you.

Send us a textBryan Osborne is a passionate speaker, educator, and curriculum specialist with Answers in Genesis, known for his engaging and accessible approach to biblical apologetics. With over 13 years of experience teaching Bible history in Tennessee’s public school system, Bryan combines academic depth with a gift for communication that reaches both youth and adults. He holds a B.A. in Biblical Studies with minors in Greek and Christian Education from Bryan College, as well as a Master’s in Education from Lee University. For over two decades, he has helped churches and families develop a strong foundation in the authority of Scripture through chronological Bible teaching and apologetics-based evangelism.As a full-time speaker for Answers in Genesis, Bryan travels internationally to deliver presentations at conferences, churches, and attractions like the Creation Museum and Ark Encounter. He’s also the author of several books, including Quick Answers to Tough Questions and Quick Answers to Social Issues. Through all his work, Bryan emphasizes the importance of biblical authority in today’s culture and equips Christians to stand firm in their faith. He and his wife Marla have been married since 1998 and are committed to raising their family with the same biblical principles he shares with audiences worldwide.Find out more from him at: www.answersingenesis.org--------Brian Osborne joins us to explore how Christians can defend biblical authority in an age of skepticism and cultural confusion. We dive into the foundational importance of Genesis for understanding everything from creation science to contemporary social issues.• Brian shares his journey from public school Bible history teacher to apologetics speaker with Answers in Genesis• Understanding the difference between operational science (observable, testable, repeatable) and historical science (interpreting past events)• How science  confirms biblical truth rather than contradicting it• The danger of Christians adopting cultural ideas and trying to force them into Scripture• Reading the Bible "naturally" not "literally" – interpreting according to context and genre• Why Genesis matters: it provides foundations for understanding creation, gender, marriage, and human worth• The theological problem with accepting millions of years: it places death before sin• Introduction to the Creation Museum and Ark Encounter as resources for families and believers• Resources available through Answers in Genesis to help Christians defend their faithCheck out answersingenesis.org for free articles and videos answering your questions about biblical authority and creation. Consider visiting the Creation Museum and Ark Encounter in Kentucky to experience biblical history coming to life!Support the showHave a topic, verse, or story you'd like us to cover? Tell us on the socials at @theboundlessbible: Facebook / Instagram / TikTok Join the new Facebook Group: The Boundless Bible Discussion Group If you enjoyed this episode, hit subscribe and leave a review—it helps us reach more people like you.

Send us a textWhat lessons is God teaching you right now? The Boundless Bible crew gets surprisingly vulnerable as they explore this question, each revealing personal struggles and growth in their spiritual journeys.David confesses his tendency to rush through prayer without taking time to listen for God's response. "I'm praying and then I'm moving on," he admits, sharing how he's learning to slow down and create space for genuine connection with God. His honesty reveals the common struggle many believers face – treating prayer as a checklist item rather than the foundation of a relationship.Javi reflects on Pastor Dan's profound advice to "take God more seriously and don't take yourself so seriously." This wisdom has challenged him to recognize how his analytical nature often prevents him from stepping out in faith. "That's disobedience," he acknowledges, describing how he's learning to trust God's guidance without overanalyzing every decision. His journey demonstrates how loosening our grip on control creates space for God's gifts.Perhaps most profound is Jason's struggle to balance intellectual faith with experiential faith. He shares his realization that Christianity isn't primarily about accumulating biblical knowledge but about transformation. "When you truly follow Christ – not religion, not Christianity, not a church, but you follow Christ – you are changed," Jason explains. He references a powerful quote that captures this journey: "You'll never teach a person enough facts to turn them into a Christian, but you will be able to love them enough to turn them into a Christian."Join this raw, honest conversation that might just help you identify what God is trying to teach you. Subscribe to The Boundless Bible for more discussions that bridge spiritual wisdom with everyday challenges.Support the showHave a topic, verse, or story you'd like us to cover? Tell us on the socials at @theboundlessbible: Facebook / Instagram / TikTok Join the new Facebook Group: The Boundless Bible Discussion Group If you enjoyed this episode, hit subscribe and leave a review—it helps us reach more people like you.

Send us a textFour (maybe two?) determined friends break through a roof to bring a paralyzed man to Jesus, leading to both forgiveness and physical healing that amazes everyone present.• Jesus taught in a packed house in Capernaum with religious leaders present• Friends carried a paralytic and made a hole in the roof when they couldn't enter normally• Breaking through the roof violated cultural norms and property rights• Jesus first forgave the man's sins before healing his paralysis• The healing demonstrated Jesus' divine authority to forgive sins• The healed man walked away carrying his mat as evidence of transformation• The entire crowd, possibly including Pharisees, was amazed by what they witnessed• Our restoration often comes through others' faith and God's power• Who we surround ourselves with directly impacts our spiritual health• True healing requires both forgiveness and physical restorationRemember that when Jesus heals you, you can't remain the same - you have to pick up your mat and walk into your new life!Support the showHave a topic, verse, or story you'd like us to cover? Tell us on the socials at @theboundlessbible: Facebook / Instagram / TikTok Join the new Facebook Group: The Boundless Bible Discussion Group If you enjoyed this episode, hit subscribe and leave a review—it helps us reach more people like you.

Send us a textWhat makes ancient biblical texts relevant in our modern world? In this candid roundtable, David Shapiro, Javi Marquez, and Jason Holloway tackle the age-old question: Old Testament or New Testament? Their unanimous preference for the older texts reveals surprising insights about how these ancient writings continue to captivate believers today.David transports us back 4,000 years, inviting us to imagine biblical journeys without modern conveniences like "rolling luggage" – a perspective that brings fresh appreciation to familiar stories like the Exodus. His Orthodox Jewish background adds depth to his understanding of prophecy and historical context. Jason describes the Old Testament as an "unending well" of knowledge, comparing it to watching the essential prequels before the final chapter of a trilogy. His fascination with Hebrew language, numerology, and ancient Jewish customs demonstrates how these texts reward deeper study.Bobby's connection to the grand narratives – Samson's strength, Daniel facing lions, the parting seas – reminds us why these stories have endured through millennia. All three hosts find particular meaning in the wisdom literature, with Ecclesiastes emerging as a unanimous favorite. "Every time you read something," David notes, "you go 'wait a minute, this is practical today.'" This timelessness explains why ancient writers describing human struggles, failures, and redemption still speak directly to our experiences.The conversation concludes with a delightful practical application – a "Sunset and Psalms" date night that combines natural beauty with ancient wisdom. Whether you're a seasoned scripture scholar or simply curious about why these texts have shaped civilizations for thousands of years, this discussion offers fresh perspectives on humanity's oldest and most influential writings. Share your own favorite testament or biblical book in the comments – we'd love to hear what resonates with you!Support the showHave a topic, verse, or story you'd like us to cover? Tell us on the socials at @theboundlessbible: Facebook / Instagram / TikTok Join the new Facebook Group: The Boundless Bible Discussion Group If you enjoyed this episode, hit subscribe and leave a review—it helps us reach more people like you.

Send us a textThe story of Samson captivates us like few others in scripture – a man granted supernatural strength but plagued by profound weakness. What can we learn from someone who could rip lions apart with his bare hands but couldn't resist the persistent questions of Delilah?Hosts David, Javi, and Jason dive deep into Judges 13-16, exploring how Samson's birth paralleled Jesus's with an angelic announcement and special calling as a Nazirite. Yet despite these auspicious beginnings, Samson repeatedly violated his sacred vows – drinking alcohol, touching dead bodies, and eventually allowing his hair to be cut – all while maintaining his divine strength until the final betrayal.The conversation uncovers fascinating parallels between Samson and Jesus that many readers miss: both had births announced by angels, both were betrayed for silver, both were publicly humiliated, and both sacrificed themselves with outstretched arms. But the crucial difference emerges in their legacies – "Samson killed more people in his death than when he was alive. Jesus saved more people after his death than when he was alive."What makes this story so enduring? Perhaps it's that we see ourselves in Samson's contradictions. We witness someone chosen by God who repeatedly fails yet ultimately fulfills his purpose. The hosts thoughtfully examine whether Samson's downfall stemmed from arrogance, self-sabotage, or simply the natural consequence of relinquishing control to others rather than maintaining his covenant with God.This episode challenges us to consider where we might be yielding control of our lives to others rather than to God, and reminds us that even our deepest flaws can be used for divine purposes. Share your thoughts about Samson or other "good people who've done bad things" with us on social media or by email!Support the showHave a topic, verse, or story you'd like us to cover? Tell us on the socials at @theboundlessbible: Facebook / Instagram / TikTok Join the new Facebook Group: The Boundless Bible Discussion Group If you enjoyed this episode, hit subscribe and leave a review—it helps us reach more people like you.

Send us a textEver wondered which Christian movies and TV shows have genuinely transformed people's lives? In this heartfelt conversation, we dive deep into the faith-based entertainment that shaped our spiritual journeys and offered profound insights at critical moments in our lives.David kicks things off by recommending "Fireproof," a Kirk Cameron film he describes as "life-altering" despite its modest production values. What makes this recommendation special is how it came highly praised from his men's Bible study group as a powerful tool for marriage renewal and spiritual growth. While acknowledging the production limitations common in Christian cinema, David emphasizes that the godly, marriage-focused message transcends these technical constraints.The conversation takes a particularly moving turn when Javi reveals how "The Bible Series" fundamentally altered his spiritual trajectory. At a time when he wasn't yet a believer but was asking spiritual questions, this visual representation of biblical narratives helped him envision Moses, ancient landscapes, and miraculous events. For Javi, seeing these stories brought to life created an accessible pathway into faith that ultimately led to his conversion – demonstrating how Christian media can serve as powerful entry points for seekers.Jason's story perhaps hits the most emotional notes as he shares his connection with "I Can Only Imagine." The film's portrayal of abuse, father-son conflict, and athletic dreams deferred mirrors Jason's own life experiences in profound ways. What resonates most deeply is how the movie demonstrates God's redemptive work through painful circumstances, showing Jason he wasn't alone in his struggles and that healing through faith is possible. The episode wraps with nostalgic mentions of VeggieTales and playful banter about which hosts cry during movies (Javi admits he does, while Jason claims his "tear ducts don't work").What Christian film or show has impacted your spiritual journey? Share your experience in the comments, or let us know which of our recommendations you plan to watch next!Support the showHave a topic, verse, or story you'd like us to cover? Tell us on the socials at @theboundlessbible: Facebook / Instagram / TikTok Join the new Facebook Group: The Boundless Bible Discussion Group If you enjoyed this episode, hit subscribe and leave a review—it helps us reach more people like you.

Send us a textThe oldest book in the Bible tells a story of extreme suffering that reveals profound truth about our relationship with God and how we handle life's darkest moments.• Job's story takes place around 2000 BC in modern-day southern Jordan• Most people remember Job only as "the suffering guy" but his story contains much deeper meaning• The book begins with a heavenly court scene where Satan challenges God about Job's faithfulness• Job's initial relationship with God appears ritualistic rather than deeply personal• When tragedy strikes, Job questions God but never completely abandons his faith• Job's friends wrongly insist his suffering must be punishment for hidden sin• Divine justice doesn't equate to human happiness or always follow a simple cause-effect relationship• Job eventually moves from theological knowledge to personal experience with God• God rebukes Job's friends and accepts only Job's prayers on their behalf• Suffering can transform a ritual-based faith into an authentic relationship with God• Our temporary pain can produce lasting spiritual growth when we remain engaged with God----------------The story of Job presents one of humanity's most enduring questions: Why do bad things happen to good people? In this deep dive, we explore the oldest book in the Bible and discover it's far more than just a tale of suffering.Job was likely a Gentile living around 2000 BC in what's now southern Jordan. Though traditionally portrayed as the epitome of righteousness, our conversation reveals the nuanced reality - Job was theologically correct but relationally distant from God. His practice of religion was dutiful rather than intimate, making sacrifices "just in case" his children had sinned. This separation sets the stage for the transformation to come.When Satan challenges God about Job's faithfulness, suggesting he only serves God because of his prosperity, God permits a devastating series of losses. What's fascinating is how God shows protection even in allowing suffering - concentrating Job's tragedies into a single day rather than prolonged torture, mercifully limiting the psychological damage of extended uncertainty.As Job processes his losses, we witness his struggle between theological knowledge and lived experience. His friends offer the conventional wisdom of their day - that suffering must be punishment for sin - but Job knows this simplistic equation doesn't explain his situation. Through poetic laments that scholars consider among the most beautiful ever written, Job maintains his innocence while questioning divine justice.The climactic moment comes when Job finally has his audience with God. Rather than explaining suffering, God reveals his incomprehensible power and wisdom. Job's response captures the heart of the story: "I had heard of you by the hearing of the ear, but now my eye sees you." His ritualistic faith has transformed into authentic relationship.What's the takeaway for us? Suffering breeds growth when we remain engaged with God through it. Prayer isn't primarily for God's benefit but for ours - it redirects our focus from inner dialogue (which spirals downward) to divine connection. Job's temporary suffering - a mere fraction of his 140-year lifespan - produced lasting transformation that prosperity alone neverSupport the showHave a topic, verse, or story you'd like us to cover? Tell us on the socials at @theboundlessbible: Facebook / Instagram / TikTok Join the new Facebook Group: The Boundless Bible Discussion Group If you enjoyed this episode, hit subscribe and leave a review—it helps us reach more people like you.

Send us a textDavid, Javi, and Jason explore the challenging question: "If someone judged Christianity by your daily life, what would they see?" Their honest, vulnerable responses reveal the gap between aspiration and reality in living out Christian faith.• David hopes people see someone who is trying, has changed significantly, but isn't perfect• David emphasizes wanting to reflect faithfulness through continual efforts to improve• Javi describes himself as passionate and sometimes intense in expressing his faith• Javi cautions against judging someone based on glimpses rather than knowing them fully• Jason reflects on how different people perceive him—those from his past see transformation• Jason acknowledges his intimidating physical presence contrasts with his gentle, servant heart• The hosts affirm each other's unique ways of reflecting Christ• All agree on the distinction between being light and merely reflecting itSupport the showHave a topic, verse, or story you'd like us to cover? Tell us on the socials at @theboundlessbible: Facebook / Instagram / TikTok Join the new Facebook Group: The Boundless Bible Discussion Group If you enjoyed this episode, hit subscribe and leave a review—it helps us reach more people like you.

Send us a textPastor Dan Sutherland brings 50 years of ministry experience to this profound conversation on the true nature of discipleship. With disarming simplicity, he explains that discipleship isn't about mastering religious knowledge – it's about authentic relationships that transform us from the inside out."Take God more seriously and don't take yourself so seriously," Pastor Dan advises, setting the tone for a discussion that dismantles common barriers to discipleship. His refreshing perspective challenges the notion that you must be spiritually "advanced" to disciple others. Using the analogy of school grades, he explains how someone just ahead in their faith journey (a "fifth grader") can effectively guide someone newer (a "third grader") because they understand exactly what they're experiencing.The conversation explores how Jesus himself modeled discipleship not through formal teaching sessions but by doing life together with his followers. Pastor Dan notes that Jesus taught more through stories and parables than Scripture quotations – not diminishing the importance of biblical knowledge but placing it in proper perspective as a tool rather than the goal.This episode offers particular encouragement for those feeling inadequate about discipling others. "Knowledge equals responsibility," Pastor Dan explains. Once you learn something about following Christ, you're responsible both to live it out and to pass it on. This creates a beautiful chain of spiritual growth extending through generations.Whether you're new to faith or have been following Christ for decades, this conversation will equip you with a freeing, practical understanding of discipleship that anyone can participate in. The transformative power of doing life together with God-centered purpose might be exactly what your spiritual journey needs right now.Support the showHave a topic, verse, or story you'd like us to cover? Tell us on the socials at @theboundlessbible: Facebook / Instagram / TikTok Join the new Facebook Group: The Boundless Bible Discussion Group If you enjoyed this episode, hit subscribe and leave a review—it helps us reach more people like you.