Some people think the Bible & Bourbon don't go together, but we disagree! Pastor Ben is a 9th-generation Kentuckian, born and raised in the heartland of bourbon. Over the generations, there are two things his family has passed down: a love of the Bible and a love of Bourbon. Each week, Ben invites you to grab a glass of your favorite libation and join him on a journey through scripture. Spend time learning not only about the words of scripture but also the historical and political context of ...
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Friendships play a pivotal role in our spiritual journey. Even Jesus surrounded Himself with 12 close friends. Our connection with God is deeply influenced by the relationships we cultivate with those around us.
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Relationship Blueprint (Ephesians 5:22-6:4)
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Discover how God’s divine blueprints guide us in building and nurturing our relationships. Join us as we explore the ways we can continue His work and create meaningful connections in our lives.
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Jesus emphasized that sin is a choice, an action that comes from within us. Choosing spiritually nutritious food, actions and thoughts that align with God’s will, results in righteousness. Conversely, choosing wrong leads to sin. Jesus calls us to focus not on external rituals but on our inner actions and how they reflect God’s love…
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This passage can seem revolting, and even Jesus’ disciples grumbled, feeling offended by His words. However, His sacrifice, His flesh and blood, is not a senseless death but the ultimate act of love. It is the life-giving sacrifice of God for us.
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Often, the simplest foods are the healthiest. Steamed broccoli, raw apples, and grilled chicken are all nutritious and easy to prepare. In contrast, making a cheesy broccoli casserole, a cinnamon apple pie, or breaded fried chicken requires more skill and effort. While these dishes might taste better, the simplest forms often provide the most healt…
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The bread of life is of an even higher quality. Before Jesus, followers of God would go to the temple to make continual sacrifices. This is detailed in both the Old and New Testaments, with many passages in the Old Testament explaining how these sacrifices should be carried out. These sacrifices were temporary spiritual atonements performed primari…
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One of the fundamental pillars of Christianity is the mission of spreading the divine light of Christ. From the early church to the modern Christian community, believers have been driven by an unwavering commitment to illuminating the world with the essence of Jesus’ teachings.
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Once, there was a dedicated businessman who had tirelessly built a company from scratch. I had the privilege of speaking with him after he had invested over a decade into what he once considered his dream. As a young man, he always aspired to be an entrepreneur, to create something meaningful from nothing.…
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Contentment and Gratitude (Philippians 4:11-13)
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By the time you’ve reached the fourth session in this study, you’ve likely gleaned some insights about happiness. Much of the biblical concept of happiness revolves around the contentment we discover in Christ. Contentment is the state of overall satisfaction with your circumstances, with those circumstances extending beyond mere events to encompas…
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The Beatitudes and True Happiness (Matthew 5:3-12)
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The Beatitudes stand as one of the most influential passages in Christian thought, and their significance partly lies in how they subvert conventional worldly virtues, replacing them with values rooted not in power but in Christ. They declare that the strong are not blessed, but the meek; the hungry will be filled with faith, not those who are well…
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Being a native of Louisville, the hometown of Muhammad Ali, my heart has always held a special place for the sport of boxing. In the boxing world, there’s a famous quote from Mike Tyson, “Everyone has a plan until they get punched in the mouth.” Now, I hope that none of you are regularly experiencing a literal punch in the mouth, but there’s a para…
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Happiness is a topic that occupies a central place in American discourse. The US Constitution even defines one of our inalienable rights as the “Pursuit of Happiness.” However, this pursuit often seems elusive, especially when the demands of daily life weigh us down.
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Your Purpose as a Christian (Ephesians 2:1-10)
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I asked a friend once why they weren’t a Christian and they told me that they weren’t a Christian because they didn’t need the Bible to tell them how to be a good person. In that moment, I realized they didn’t truly understand the Bible or the purpose of Christianity. The Bible isn’t about making you into a good person, and being a Christian isn’t …
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We will explore the Apostle Paul’s unwavering faith and his purpose in life. Despite his chains, Paul rejoices in the advancement of the Gospel and expresses his inner conflict between his desire to depart and be with Christ, which is far better, and to remain in the flesh for the sake of the Philippians. Join us as we unpack these powerful verses …
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The Purpose of the Early Church (Acts 1:4-8)
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In Acts 1:4-8, the purpose of the early church is depicted as awaiting the promised Holy Spirit to receive divine power, enabling them to be witnesses of Jesus Christ's teachings and resurrection. This mission extends from Jerusalem to the ends of the earth, emphasizing the global scope of their evangelistic work.…
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In this episode, Jesus encounters Zacchaeus, a despised tax collector, in Jericho. By inviting Himself to Zacchaeus's home, Jesus demonstrates His mission to seek and save the lost, leading to Zacchaeus's heartfelt repentance and transformation.
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Esther faces a life-altering decision in Esther 4:12-16, where she must choose between risking her life by approaching the king unsummoned or staying silent and allowing the destruction of her people. Encouraged by her cousin Mordecai's reminder that she might have become queen "for such a time as this," Esther embraces her purpose with the resolut…
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David’s true purpose was unveiled at the moment of his anointment, signifying his divine qualification for the role. Throughout his life, God’s guidance continually affirmed his readiness and suitability for his calling.
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In this episode, we delve into the divine calling of Moses as described in Exodus 3:7-11. Discover how God reveals His purpose for Moses to lead the Israelites out of Egypt, highlighting the significance of divine selection and mission. Join us as we explore Moses' initial doubts and the profound assurance of God's presence and promise.…
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In Genesis 12:1-5, God calls Abram (Abraham) to leave his homeland and promises to make him a great nation. This journey from Haran to the Holy Land reveals Abram’s faith and his deception in times of fear and uncertainty. It invites us to reflect on God’s faithfulness and our response to His calling.…
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Explore the profound essence of our existence in this captivating podcast centered around Genesis 1:26-28. Delve into the divine purpose woven into every fiber of our being, illuminating the miraculous nature of our creation. Discover the profound significance of God's gift of life, unveiling the intricate tapestry of His love that defines our jour…
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Introduction to Purpose (Jeremiah 29:10-14)
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Christians are bestowed with a distinct purpose, yet many of us may feel lost. The prophet Jeremiah addressed a people who felt similarly adrift, illustrating how they could rediscover their purpose in God. This marks the inaugural episode in the series on discovering your purpose. You can access the accompanying study guide at www.bible-bourbon.co…
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Join us this week as we summarize more than 50 episodes of studying the Gospel of Matthew.
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Matthew 28: 1-10 16-20 (The Resurrection)
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The women find the tomb empty and encounter an angel who tells them Jesus has risen. Jesus appears to them, instructing them to tell His disciples to meet Him in Galilee. There, He commissions them to make disciples of all nations, promising His presence always.
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In this gripping Bible study session, we delve into Matthew 27:45-56, exploring the profound events surrounding the death of Jesus. Pondering the darkness that covered the land, symbolizing the weight of sin, and reflecting on Jesus' final moments on the cross, culminating in His triumphant cry.
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Matthew 27: 11-27 (Jesus Brought before Pilate)
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In Matthew 27:11-27, Jesus is brought before Pilate, who questions Him about being the King of the Jews but receives an ambiguous answer. Pilate, pressured by the crowd, offers to release Jesus or Barabbas, ultimately succumbing to the demands to crucify Jesus despite finding no fault in Him. This passage highlights the political maneuvering and un…
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Last week, we observed Holy Week, which meant there was no new episode. However, I invite you to catch up with this brief update on the podcast's upcoming plans and what lies ahead after we conclude our journey through the Gospel of Matthew.By Pastor Ben Reece
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The scene unfolds in the late hours of the night following Jesus' arrest in the Garden of Gethsemane. He is brought before the high priest Caiaphas, along with the scribes and elders, who have gathered for the trial. The atmosphere is tense and charged with anticipation as the religious leaders seek to find evidence against Jesus to justify his con…
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In this episode, we will delve into Matthew 26:47-56, a pivotal passage that narrates the betrayal of Jesus by one of his disciples, Judas Iscariot. The key themes we will explore include betrayal, the fulfillment of prophecy, and non-violence. The act of Judas’s kiss, a symbol of friendship and respect, being used as a sign of betrayal prompts us …
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Matthew 26:7-30 portrays the poignant event known as the Last Supper, where Jesus shares a final meal with his disciples before his crucifixion. Amidst the solemn atmosphere, Jesus imparts profound teachings, institutes the sacrament of Communion, and foretells his impending betrayal.
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Matthew 26: 6-13 (The Woman & The Perfume)
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In this episode of our Bible study series, we delve into a poignant moment in the life of Jesus Christ, as recorded in the Gospel of Matthew, chapter 26, verses 6 to 13. This passage illustrates an extraordinary act of love and devotion towards Jesus by a woman, which sparks a deep discussion about the nature of worship, sacrifice, and the value of…
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In Matthew 26:1-5, the narrative delves into the escalating tensions surrounding Jesus as he approaches the final days of his earthly ministry. The passage unveils the clandestine plots of the religious leaders who are determined to eliminate Jesus, viewing him as a threat to their authority and religious norms.…
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Matthew 25: 14-30 (The Parable of the Bags of Gold)
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In Matthew 25:14-30, Jesus tells the Parable of the Bags of Gold. A master entrusts varying amounts of money to his servants before going on a journey. Two servants invest and double their talents, earning praise upon the master's return. But one servant buries his talent out of fear. The master condemns his inaction, takes the talent, and rewards …
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Matthew 23:13-32 portrays Jesus delivering a series of stern rebukes, known as the "Seven Woes," to the religious leaders of his time. In these verses, Jesus condemns hypocrisy and self-righteousness among the Pharisees and scribes, highlighting their failure to embody the true principles of faith and justice. This passage underscores the importanc…
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Matthew 22: 34-46 (The Greatest Commandment)
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Matthew 22:34-46 depicts a pivotal interaction between Jesus and the Pharisees, where Jesus affirms the greatest commandment as loving God with all one's heart, soul, and mind, and loving one's neighbor as oneself. This passage showcases Jesus' teachings on the essence of true devotion and righteousness, emphasizing the importance of love and compa…
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Due to the passing of my grandfather earlier this week, I wasn't able to prepare a new episode. As my family navigates through this difficult time and we prepare for the funeral, I appreciate any thoughts or prayers you can offer. There won't be any new episodes until February, as January is a time for me to abstain from alcohol and reflect on the …
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In the bustling streets of Jerusalem, the air is charged with tension as Pharisees and Herodians, two opposing groups, conspire together. Their shared goal: to entrap Jesus.
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Matthew 21: 12-22 (Jesus Overturns the Tables)
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"Jesus Overturns the Tables" presents a powerful depiction of Jesus' righteous indignation and serves as a poignant lesson on the significance of faith, integrity, and reverence within the spiritual realm.
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Matthew 21: 1-11 (Jesus, the Donkey, and the Colt)
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In this episode from the Book of Matthew, a humble donkey plays a key role in a significant event in Jesus' life. The scene is set in Jerusalem, where anticipation buzzes in the air as Jesus and his disciples approach the city.
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Matthew 20: 1-16 (The Workers and the Vineyard)
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In this episode, we delve into the parable found in Matthew 20:1-16, where Jesus shares a powerful lesson about the generosity and grace of God. The story unfolds as a vineyard owner hires workers throughout the day, promising each a fair wage. However, when evening comes, all the workers receive the same payment regardless of the hours they worked…
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In this thought-provoking episode, we delve into the timeless wisdom of Matthew 19:1-12, exploring the sensitive topic of divorce. Join us as we navigate the teachings of Jesus and the profound implications of marriage and divorce in the context of faith and human relationships.
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Matthew 18: 1-14 (Who is the Greatest in the Kingdom of Heaven?)
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In this heartwarming episode, the gospel comes to life as we explore Matthew 18:1-14. Join us as we delve into the timeless teachings of Jesus, who imparts valuable lessons about humility and the importance of caring for the least among us. As Jesus gathers his disciples, a poignant moment unfolds when they question, "Who is the greatest in the kin…
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In this powerful episode, we dive into the extraordinary event known as "The Transfiguration." Matthew 17:1-13 offers a profound account of a moment when Jesus Christ reveals His divine glory to three of His closest disciples: Peter, James, and John. The episode unfolds with the disciples accompanying Jesus to a high mountain, setting the stage for…
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Matthew 16: 13-20 (Who is the Son of Man)
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Join us on a spiritual journey as we delve into the profound words of Matthew 16:13-20, where Jesus asks His disciples a pivotal question: "Who do you say that I am?" In this episode, we explore the significance of Peter's confession that Jesus is the "Son of the living God" and the deeper meaning behind Jesus' declaration of Peter as the rock upon…
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Matthew 15: 21-28 (The Canaanite Woman's Story)
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In this powerful episode from the Gospel of Matthew, we witness a remarkable encounter between Jesus and a Canaanite woman that challenges conventional beliefs and underscores the universality of faith and God's grace.By Pastor Ben Reece
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Update the Bible & Bourbon book "The Parables of Jesus"
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The big news? The upcoming book is set to launch in the near future. For the first five days after its release, you can download the e-book version absolutely free. Tune in to find out how you can be part of this exciting journey and get your hands on a copy of the book during the free promotion period. Mark your calendars for a mid to late-October…
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Matthew 14: 13-33 (The Feeding of 5,000 & Jesus Walks on Water)
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In Matthew 14:13-33, we encounter two remarkable events that highlight Jesus' compassion, power, and the importance of faith. These events, the Feeding of the 5,000 and Jesus walking on water, offer valuable lessons for our spiritual journey. Join us in this Bible study as we delve into these passages to explore the depths of God's love and the sig…
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Matthew 14: 1-12 (The Beheading of John the Baptist)
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In this gripping episode, we delve into the biblical account found in Matthew 14:1-12, a tale of political intrigue, moral dilemmas, and the consequences of ill-fated decisions. Join us as we bring this dramatic narrative to life, exploring the complex characters and the events that unfolded during the time of Jesus.…
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Matthew 13: 31-36 (What is a Mustard Tree?)
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Jesus tells the crowd another parable, this time about the kingdom of heaven being like a mustard seed. The mustard seed is the smallest of all seeds, but when it grows, it becomes a large tree. This parable teaches us that the kingdom of heaven may seem small and insignificant at first, but it will eventually grow and become great.…
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Join us for a captivating journey into the profound teachings of Jesus as we explore Matthew 12:22-37. In this illuminating Bible study, we will unravel the rich layers of meaning behind Jesus' words and actions, diving deep into the context and significance of the passage. Discover the power of faith, the nature of spiritual battles, and the profo…
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