This week, we're going to study a profound moment in the Gospel of John, specifically John 20:19-23, where Jesus appears to his disciples after his resurrection. This moment is pivotal, encapsulating the essence of the peace that Jesus offers to his followers.

Peace Beyond Circumstances

The first gift that Jesus extends to his disciples is peace. Upon entering the locked room where the disciples were gathered in fear, Jesus greets them with the words, "Peace be with you." This greeting is not merely a formality; it signifies a deep, abiding peace that transcends the immediate circumstances of fear and uncertainty that the disciples were experiencing.

Rooted in the Truth of the Resurrection

The peace that Jesus offers is deeply intertwined with the truth of his resurrection. After greeting the disciples, Jesus shows them his hands and side, demonstrating the reality of his suffering and the truth of his resurrection. This act serves to confirm everything he had previously taught them about his mission and the new world order he was establishing.

Comfort and Joy

The peace that Jesus offers is not just a passive state; it actively brings comfort and joy to his followers. When believers are in the presence of Christ, the primary emotions they should experience are peace and joy, rather than shame or fear. This transformative experience shifts their perspective from one of anxiety to one of hope and assurance.

After offering peace, Jesus commissions the disciples, breathing the Holy Spirit into them and sending them out into the world. This commissioning is a call to share the gospel, which includes the message of forgiveness and the hope that comes from knowing Christ.

Questions to Consider This Week:

Who do you need to offer the peace of Christ to this week? To whom do you need to offer forgiveness?

THIS WEEK'S RESOURCES:

📬 Sign up for Nicole’s newsletter to get regular encouragement right in your inbox:
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📖 Nicole’s newest book: Not What I Signed Up For
→ Get the intro, first chapter, and a free prayer guide at:
https://nicoleunice.com/notwhatisignedupfor

📘 Want to feel more confident reading Scripture?
Check out Help! My Bible is Alive!

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Last week, we walked through the crucifixion and the meaning behind Jesus’ final words, “It is finished.” If you haven’t listened to that episode, I’d love for you to go back and check it out.

But today, we’re focusing on just three words spoken in this chapter—words from Mary Magdalene: “I have seen the Lord.” one of the most powerful and personal moments in all of Scripture—John chapter 20.

So what does it mean to really see the Lord? How does this resurrection story become personal? And why does this matter for our lives right now?

In This Episode:

A Grieving Heart, A Personal Encounter
Mary stays behind at the empty tomb, weeping—and Jesus meets her there. He speaks her name. She turns. She sees. She believes.

The Power of a Name
Jesus doesn’t reveal Himself with a grand announcement—He simply says her name. This is what He does with us too—He meets us personally, tenderly, right where we are.

“I Have Seen the Lord”
This declaration isn’t just a statement—it’s a witness. Mary becomes the first evangelist of the resurrection. Her story, and our story, is rooted in personal encounter with Jesus.

Your Invitation Today
Jesus is still calling names. He’s still showing up. He’s still inviting us to turn and see Him—to believe, to be changed, and to share that hope with others.

Let This Encourage You:

We serve a God who weaves together beauty out of sorrow, who calls us by name, and who invites us into a living, personal relationship with Him.

May you be able to say today, with confidence:
“I have seen the Lord.”

THIS WEEK'S RESOURCES:

📬 Sign up for Nicole’s newsletter to get regular encouragement right in your inbox:
https://nicoleunice.com/realtalk

📖 Nicole’s newest book: Not What I Signed Up For
→ Get the intro, first chapter, and a free prayer guide at:
https://nicoleunice.com/notwhatisignedupfor

📘 Want to feel more confident reading Scripture?
Check out Help! My Bible is Alive!

🛍️ Find all of Nicole’s books and resources on Amazon or Barnes & Noble.

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Hey Friends, Welcome back to How to Study the Bible. As we journey through the Gospel of John, we find ourselves in Passion Week—a time that prepares us for the crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus. With Easter approaching, it’s a perfect moment to reflect on the weight of this season.

Today’s Focus: John 19
We're delving into the profound details surrounding Jesus' crucifixion and the significance of the signs and prophecies that unfold.

Key Points Covered:

1. The Reality of Pain:
   Jesus' crucifixion is a painful narrative, revealing the depths of human depravity. We confront the reality of our own darkness through this lens.

2. Prophetic Fulfillment:
   Each detail of Jesus’ suffering points back to Old Testament prophecies, illustrating that nothing happened by chance. Key prophecies include:

   • Casting lots for His garments (Psalm 22:18)
   • Not breaking His bones (Exodus 12:46; Psalm 34:20)
   • Being pierced (Zechariah 12:10)

3. The Significance of the Sign:
   Pilate's inscription, "Jesus of Nazareth, King of the Jews," highlights the irony of Jesus' kingship and its universal significance across cultures—Hebrew, Latin, and Greek.

4. Understanding Atonement:
   Jesus' death isn’t merely a historical event; it's the atonement for our sins, fulfilling His role as our divine sacrifice (Isaiah 53:5).

Think About It:

• How do you process the pain and suffering in your life?
• In what areas do you need to trust God’s plan, especially when it feels dark?

Challenge: Reflect on the weight of Jesus' sacrifice this Easter. Consider what it means for your faith journey, especially in light of the injustices and pains you face.

Join us next week as we continue to explore the signs and prophecies surrounding Jesus' journey to the cross! Thanks for listening and for your support—don't forget to subscribe and leave a review!

Until next time, keep digging into the Word!

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As we continue our journey through the Gospel of John, we dive into chapters 18 and 19, walking through the crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus as we approach Easter. This season of Lent invites us to engage deeply with a familiar yet profoundly challenging story—the suffering of Christ. It’s easy to skip ahead to the resurrection, but there is so much to learn in these moments of Jesus’ trial, betrayal, and ultimate sacrifice.

Key Themes Covered:

1. Human Struggle with Pain & Suffering – As humans, we often avoid pain—whether our own or others’. How do we sit in the reality of Jesus’ suffering without looking away?

2. Jesus & Pilate: A Clash of Power – Jesus stands firm in divine authority, while Pilate sways under pressure. What does true power look like?

3. Pilate’s Search for Truth – When Pilate asks, “What is truth?” is he dismissive or genuinely searching? How does his question reflect modern struggles with truth and authority?

   Key Verses:

• John 18:36 – "My kingdom is not of this world."

• John 19:10-11 – "You would have no power over me if it were not given to you from above."

• Matthew 28:18 – "All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me."

• Philippians 2:9-11 – "Therefore God exalted him to the highest place...that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow."

Takeaways:

• This week, sit with John 18-19 and ask God to reveal areas in your heart where you struggle to surrender to His authority.

• Reflect on what it means to have spiritual authority through Christ—how can you walk in power, love, and self-discipline?

• As Easter approaches, let’s not rush past the cross. Let’s sit with the reality of Jesus’ suffering and allow it to deepen our love for Him.

Jesus’ power is unshakable, rooted in the truth of who He is. Unlike the fleeting power structures of the world, His authority stands firm. Whatever you are facing today, know that His power, love, and sovereignty are over it all.

Stay Connected:

• Follow me on Instagram @nicoleunice

  Questions? Email nicole@nicoleunice.com

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• Share your thoughts and reflections with us—we’d love to hear from you!

See you next time as we continue our journey through John and prepare our hearts for Easter!

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Hey friends! As we gear up for Easter, we’re slowing down to soak in the final moments of Jesus’ life. Today, we’re diving into John 18—where Jesus is betrayed and arrested, yet still fully in control.

Today we’ll cover:

1. Jesus isn’t a victim—He’s in charge. He willingly walks into this moment.

2. Betrayal hurts, but God is bigger. Jesus knew it was coming and still loved Judas.

3. God’s plan is always at work. Even Caiaphas’ scheming plays into it.

4. Jesus’ kingdom isn’t about force. Peter’s sword wasn’t the move—surrender was.

Think About It:

• How do you react when life doesn’t go as planned?

• Where do you need to trust God’s timing instead of forcing things?

Challenge: Sit with this: Jesus faced betrayal, pain, and injustice—all for you. As we head toward Easter, reflect on what that means for your own faith journey.

See you next week as we keep walking through John 18!

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Did you know Jesus prayed for YOU? In this episode, we’re diving into Jesus’ powerful prayer for all believers—past, present, and future. We’ll break down what it means to be locked in with God, why unity among believers matters, and how we can truly experience His love in our everyday lives.

We’ll also chat about:
- The deep connection between Jesus, the Father, and us
- How the early church stayed "locked in" (Acts 2:42 style)
- Why unity in the capital-C Church is more important than ever
- Practical ways to grow in faith and community

Whether you’re feeling distant from God or just want to deepen your faith, this episode is for you. Let’s dig in!

Got a question about faith, the Bible, or life? Send it my way for an upcoming listener questions episode! DM me on instagram or email nicole@nicoleunice.com

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Life’s tough, but Jesus knew that—and He’s already won. In this episode, we break down John 16, where Jesus promises trouble but also victory. Here’s what we’re unpacking:

Stay Strong in Faith:

• Jesus warns us about hard times so we don’t lose faith.

• “In this world, you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” (John 16:33)

The Holy Spirit’s Got Your Back:

• The Advocate (aka the Holy Spirit) guides us into truth, reveals God’s heart, and offers peace even when life’s messy.

Ask, Receive, Trust:

• Jesus promises we’ll receive when we ask—when our hearts are aligned with God’s love, justice, and compassion.

A Real Talk on Prophecy:

• The Spirit shows us the future, but not everything. Some things are for God alone. Our job? Stay faithful, not fearful.

Reflect On This:

• How can you find peace in the middle of chaos?

• Are your prayers in sync with God’s heart?

• What does trusting the Holy Spirit daily look like for you?

Final Thought: Trouble’s a given, but so is Christ’s victory. Take heart—joy is coming.

Scripture Highlights:

• John 16 (v. 1, 13, 24, 33)

• Acts 1:7-8

• Matthew 24:36

Thanks for listening! Hit subscribe and remember: He’s already overcome.

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