Episodes

  • Thomas: Doorway to Deeper Faith

    Thomas: Doorway to Deeper Faith
    Feb 3 2026
    Series: Hidden Heroes (Week 5)Podcast: The Bible Unplugged (TBU)Host: J. Brent EatonBible Translation: World English Bible (WEB)Listen / Follow* Spotify: https://bit.ly/4gULxkr* iHeartRadio: https://ihr.fm/4lZg6Iz* Show notes + more: PowerLoveandMiracles.com (Podcast tab)IntroductionThomas has been labeled “Doubting Thomas” for centuries, but John’s Gospel tells a deeper story. Thomas isn’t rejecting faith—he’s refusing to pretend. After the crucifixion, he wants truth he can trust, not borrowed belief from someone else.This episode explores how Jesus responds to honest doubt—not with shame, but with invitation—and how Thomas ends up making one of the strongest confessions of faith in the entire New Testament.Who Was Thomas?John identifies Thomas as “Didymus”, meaning “twin” (John 20:24). John also gives us insight into Thomas’ personality through earlier scenes:* John 11:16 — Thomas shows loyalty and realism: “Let’s also go, that we may die with him.”* John 14:5 — Thomas asks the question others won’t: “Lord, we don’t know where you are going. How can we know the way?”(This leads to Jesus’ famous response: “I am the way, the truth, and the life.”)Thomas is not portrayed as a cynical skeptic. He is a devoted disciple who is deeply affected by loss and refuses to fake certainty.The Hidden Hero Moment in John 20The locked room and fearAfter Jesus’ death, the disciples are gathered behind closed doors “for fear” (John 20:19). Jesus appears and begins with peace: “Peace be to you.”Thomas isn’t thereWhen the others tell him, “We have seen the Lord,” Thomas responds with a condition (John 20:25). He wants to see and verify the wounds—hands and side—because he wants the real Jesus, not a rumor or an illusion.Eight days laterJohn emphasizes the passage of time (John 20:26). Thomas lives with unresolved tension for a full week.Jesus meets Thomas directlyJesus returns and addresses Thomas’ exact need: “Reach here your finger… Don’t be unbelieving, but believing.” (John 20:27)Jesus does not ridicule Thomas. He meets him with compassion and invitation.Thomas’ confessionThomas responds with one of the clearest declarations of Jesus’ identity: “My Lord and my God.” (John 20:28)Key ThemesDoubt is not automatically sinDoubt can be part of being human—especially after trauma or disappointment. The issue isn’t whether doubt appears, but what we do with it.Jesus can handle honest questionsThomas is not punished. He is invited into encounter. Jesus is not fragile—He meets seekers with grace.Scars remain—and they matterThe risen Jesus still bears wounds. Resurrection doesn’t erase the cost of love. The scars become testimony, not shame.Faith becomes strongest when it becomes personalThomas doesn’t merely acknowledge Jesus as Lord—he says “my” Lord and “my” God. Not borrowed belief. Personal surrender.Takeaways From the Story* Stop pretending—honesty is not the enemy of faith.* Keep seeking—doubt becomes dangerous when we stop looking.* Let Jesus meet you where you are—faith deepens through encounter, not pressure.Challenge for the WeekName one doubt you’ve been afraid to admit—even to God—and bring it to Jesus in prayer without dressing it up.Then watch how God answers: through peace, insight, people, Scripture, or quiet inner assurance.Breath Prayer: “When I have Doubt... reassure me You are here”Scripture References (WEB)* John 20:19–31 — Jesus appears; Thomas’ doubt; Thomas’ confession* John 11:16 — Thomas’ loyalty and realism* John 14:5–7 — Thomas’ question that leads to clarityNext Week (Week 6 Preview)Next episode: Peter — not just his denial, but how Jesus restores him and turns failure into purpose. Get full access to Power Love & Miracles at www.powerloveandmiracles.com/subscribe
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    14 mins
  • Mary Magdalene: When Jesus Says Your Name

    Mary Magdalene: When Jesus Says Your Name
    Jan 27 2026
    Series: Hidden Heroes (Week 4)Podcast: The Bible Unplugged (TBU)Host: J. Brent EatonBible Translation: World English Bible (WEB)Listen / Follow* Spotify: https://bit.ly/4gULxkr* iHeartRadio: https://ihr.fm/4lZg6Iz* Show notes + more: PowerLoveandMiracles.com (Podcast tab)IntroductionMary Magdalene came to the tomb expecting death—not resurrection. John’s Gospel slows the story down and shows us what resurrection feels like for someone still deep in grief. Mary sees Jesus and doesn’t recognize Him… until He speaks a single word: her name.This episode explores the most personal resurrection encounter in the Gospels and what it means to be known by the risen Christ.Who Was Mary Magdalene?* “Magdalene” means Mary was from Magdala, a town on the western shore of the Sea of Galilee.* Luke 8:1–3 says Jesus cast out “seven demons” from Mary, and she became one of the women who followed Jesus and supported His ministry.* Scripture does not say she was a prostitute—this was a later tradition, not a biblical claim.* In the Gospels, Mary is consistently portrayed as devoted, present, and faithful.The Hidden Hero Moment in John 20Mary comes “while it was still dark”John 20:1 says Mary comes early, while it was still dark. In John, “darkness” often carries emotional and spiritual weight—fear, confusion, grief, and uncertainty.Mary assumes the worstMary sees the stone rolled away and immediately concludes the body has been taken (John 20:2). Grief reaches for explanations, not hope.Mary stays when others leavePeter and the other disciple inspect the tomb and go home (John 20:10). Mary remains outside the tomb weeping (John 20:11). This “staying” becomes part of her devotion—and part of why she receives the encounter.Mary sees Jesus but doesn’t recognize HimMary mistakes Jesus for the gardener (John 20:15). On one level, it’s understandable—she’s grieving and exhausted. On another level, John’s “garden” language echoes new creation themes.The turning point is a nameJesus says one word—“Mary”—and she recognizes Him (John 20:16). The resurrection becomes personal, not theoretical: she recognizes Jesus not by sight, but by being known.Key ThemesJesus meets us inside griefMary is weeping when Jesus appears. The encounter doesn’t wait for her to “get over it.” Jesus meets her in the middle of sorrow.Known by nameThis echoes Jesus’ teaching in John 10:3–4: the shepherd calls his sheep by name. Mary recognizes Jesus through relationship.“Don’t cling to me” — releasing the old wayJesus’ words in John 20:17 are often misunderstood. The sense is not “don’t touch,” but “don’t cling.” Mary wants the old life back; Jesus gently leads her forward into a new season and a new purpose.From mourner to messengerJesus commissions Mary to tell the disciples the news (John 20:17–18). In this sense, she becomes the first messenger of resurrection in John’s account.Takeaways From the Story* Grief does not disqualify you—Jesus meets you in it.* God knows you personally—your pain is not anonymous.* Sometimes clinging to “what was” keeps us from receiving “what is.”* The place of tears can become the place of calling.Challenge for the WeekSpend five quiet minutes with this prayerful question:“Jesus… what do You call me?”(Not your role. Not your failure. Not your fear. Your name.)Pray as You go:”When I feel uncertain… give me Your peace”Scripture References (WEB)* John 20:1–18 — Mary at the tomb; recognition; commissioning* John 10:3–4 — The shepherd calls his sheep by name* Luke 8:1–3 — Mary Magdalene and the women supporting Jesus* Mark 16:9 — Jesus appears first to Mary MagdaleneNext Week (Week 5 Preview)Next episode: Thomas — why doubt, handled rightly, can lead to deeper faith. Get full access to Power Love & Miracles at www.powerloveandmiracles.com/subscribe
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    14 mins
  • Nicodemus: Faith That Grows in the Dark

    Nicodemus: Faith That Grows in the Dark
    Jan 20 2026

    Show Notes — TBU Hidden Heroes (Week 3)

    Series: Hidden Heroes (Week 3)Podcast: The Bible Unplugged (TBU)Episode: 72Host: Brent EatonBible Translation: World English Bible (WEB)

    Listen / Follow

    * Spotify: https://bit.ly/4gULxkr

    * iHeartRadio: https://ihr.fm/4lZg6Iz

    * Show notes + more: PowerLoveandMiracles.com

    Introduction

    Nicodemus didn’t begin as a bold disciple. He began as a careful man with honest questions—drawn to Jesus, but aware that belief could cost him everything. In the Gospel of John, Nicodemus appears three times, and those moments trace a powerful spiritual arc: curiosity → caution → courage → costly devotion.

    This episode explores how God meets people in seasons of uncertainty, and how faith often grows quietly—sometimes in the dark—before it becomes visible.

    Who Was Nicodemus?

    John tells us Nicodemus was:

    * A Pharisee

    * A ruler of the Jews (likely connected to the Sanhedrin)

    * A prominent teacher—Jesus calls him “the teacher of Israel” (John 3:10)

    Nicodemus was educated, respected, and cautious—yet unsettled enough to seek Jesus privately.

    Nicodemus’ Three Appearances in John

    1) John 3 — The Night Conversation

    Nicodemus comes to Jesus by night (John 3:1–2). In John’s gospel, “night” often signals more than time—it points to fear, secrecy, confusion, and searching. Nicodemus approaches Jesus respectfully, but cautiously, and asks questions that reveal both belief and uncertainty.

    Jesus challenges Nicodemus with the need to be “born anew / born from above” (John 3:3) and describes the Spirit’s work as mysterious and uncontrollable—like the wind.

    2) John 7 — A Quiet Stand for Justice

    As opposition against Jesus intensifies, Nicodemus speaks up with a measured but meaningful challenge:“Does our law judge a man, unless it first hears from him…?” (John 7:51)

    This isn’t a public confession of faith—but it is a crack in the wall of silence. Nicodemus begins stepping out of the shadows.

    3) John 19 — Costly Honor After the Crucifixion

    After Jesus dies, Nicodemus appears again—this time with Joseph of Arimathea—bringing a large amount of burial spices (John 19:39). The man who once came by night now participates in a public act of devotion and honor when everything looks lost.

    Key Themes

    God honors honest questions

    Nicodemus is not mocked for asking “How can these things be?” Jesus meets him within the struggle instead of condemning him for it.

    Faith grows in stages

    Nicodemus doesn’t flip a switch. His faith matures through time, tension, and risk.

    The night is not wasted

    Nicodemus comes in the dark, and Jesus still receives him. Seasons of confusion or fear are not proof that God is absent—often they are where faith begins.

    Courage can emerge late—and still matter

    Nicodemus honors Jesus after the crucifixion, proving that “late” devotion can still be deep devotion.

    Takeaways From the Story

    * You don’t need perfect faith to begin—questions can be a doorway to deeper belief.

    * Small steps matter—quiet courage is still courage.

    * Love shows up when it counts—honor is a form of devotion.

    Challenge for the Week

    Bring one honest question to Jesus without pretending you already know the answer.

    Pray it slowly. Write it down. Sit with it. Listen—not for a dramatic sign, but for the quiet movement of God’s Spirit.

    Breath Prayer:“When darkness feels heavy…… give me Your light.”

    Scripture References (WEB)

    * John 3:1–21 — Nicodemus comes by night; “born anew / born from above”

    * John 7:45–52 — Nicodemus challenges injustice and urges due process

    * John 19:39–42 — Nicodemus joins Joseph in honoring Jesus’ burial

    Next Week (Week 4 Preview)

    Next episode: Mary Magdalene — the woman who didn’t recognize Jesus until He spoke her name.



    Get full access to Power Love & Miracles at www.powerloveandmiracles.com/subscribe
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    13 mins
  • Joseph of Arimathea: Courage After the Outcome

    Joseph of Arimathea: Courage After the Outcome
    Jan 13 2026

    Hidden Heroes · Week 2

    Primary Scriptures:John 19:38–42 · Mark 15:42–46 · Matthew 27:57–60 · Luke 23:50–53Isaiah 53:9 (fulfillment of prophecy)(World English Bible)

    Episode Summary

    What does faith look like when it arrives after the outcome is already decided?

    In this episode of The Bible Unplugged, we slow down and look closely at the brief but powerful appearance of Joseph of Arimathea—a man who steps forward when everything seems finished, hope appears lost, and public association with Jesus carries real cost.

    Joseph had remained silent while Jesus was alive. But when the cross goes dark and the disciples scatter, Joseph does something quietly courageous: he steps into the open, risks everything, and honors Jesus when there is nothing left to gain.

    This episode explores a different kind of faith—one that does not rescue, reverse, or fix the past, but still chooses dignity, love, and obedience.

    In This Episode, You’ll Hear:

    * Why the burial of Jesus was urgent, dangerous, and deeply risky

    * What the Gospels reveal about Joseph’s status, fear, and hidden faith

    * Why asking Pilate for Jesus’ body was a public act of courage

    * The significance of Joseph offering his own new tomb

    * How Isaiah 53:9 is quietly fulfilled—without Joseph even knowing it

    * Why faith that feels “late” can still matter deeply to God

    * How obedience offered after loss still carries meaning and power

    A Key Insight

    Joseph’s obedience did not change what happened.Jesus was still crucified. The loss was still real.

    But Joseph’s obedience changed how the story was honored.

    This episode invites us to consider:What does faith look like when we can’t undo the past—but we can still choose how we respond?

    Pray As You Go (Breath Prayer)

    As you move through your week, carry this simple prayer with you:

    “Give me strength…to stand for You.”

    Let it anchor you in moments when courage feels costly and faith feels quiet.

    A Challenge for the Week

    Notice one place where your faith has remained quiet because of fear, position, or uncertainty.

    Then take one small step—not dramatic, not performative—just honest.

    Let your private faith become a lived response.

    Coming Up Next

    In the next episode, we stay with this theme of faith unfolding over time as we look more closely at Nicodemus—the man who came to Jesus by night… and returned when the world went dark.

    About The Bible Unplugged

    The Bible Unplugged is a reflective, story-driven podcast that slows down the biblical narrative to explore overlooked moments, hidden people, and the quiet ways God works through ordinary faith.

    Disclaimers

    * All opinions expressed are those of the host.

    * All Scripture quotations are from the World English Bible (public domain).

    * Theme music: “Awesome Call” by Kevin MacLeod (Creative Commons).

    * © 2025 J. Brent Eaton · A Power Love and Miracles production.



    Get full access to Power Love & Miracles at www.powerloveandmiracles.com/subscribe
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    13 mins
  • The Women Who Stayed

    The Women Who Stayed
    Jan 6 2026

    Series: Hidden Heroes of Holy Week (Week 1)Podcast: The Bible Unplugged (TBU)Host: J. Brent EatonBible Translation: World English Bible (WEB)

    Listen / Follow

    * Spotify: https://bit.ly/4gULxkr

    * iHeartRadio: https://ihr.fm/4lZg6Iz

    * Show notes + more: PowerLoveandMiracles.com (Podcast tab)

    Episode Summary

    On the day Jesus was crucified, fear scattered most of His followers. But a small group stayed—quietly, bravely, and close enough to hear Him speak. This episode looks at the hidden courage of the women who remained near the cross, and how their presence reveals something profound about love, faithfulness, and spiritual strength.

    The Hidden Heroes

    In John’s account, several women are described as “standing by the cross of Jesus”—not observing from a safe distance, but remaining close in the most dangerous and heartbreaking moment of the story.

    Named in John 19:25–27

    * Mary, the mother of Jesus

    * His mother’s sister

    * Mary the wife of Clopas

    * Mary Magdalene

    (See also Matthew 27:55–56; Mark 15:40–41; Luke 23:49)

    Key Passage

    John 19:25–27 (WEB)

    John uniquely highlights the women near the cross and includes Jesus’ final act of relational care—ensuring His mother will be provided for by “the disciple whom he loved.”

    Why This Matters

    1) Presence is a form of courageNot all bravery is loud. Sometimes the bravest thing is simply staying present in pain.

    2) Hidden people often carry heavy spiritual weightThe Kingdom of God moves forward through faithfulness that rarely gets recognized.

    3) God entrusts responsibility to those who remainIn the middle of suffering, Jesus makes provision for His mother—something that happens in the presence of faithful, steady people who did not run.

    Takeaways From the Story

    * Presence is a ministry.

    * Quiet faithfulness matters more than visibility.

    * Love isn’t always action—sometimes love is endurance.

    Challenge for the Week

    Choose one uncomfortable moment you would normally avoid—and stay present.

    Examples:

    * Stay present with someone who is grieving (without fixing or advising too quickly).

    * Stay present with your own emotions (without numbing or distracting).

    * Stay present in prayer (without rushing past silence).

    Pray as You Go:

    Breath in: Lord Jesus…Breath out: … help me stay

    Scripture References (WEB)

    * John 19:25–27 — Women standing by the cross; Jesus provides for His mother

    * Luke 23:49 — Women who followed Jesus watching the crucifixion

    * Mark 15:40–41 — Women witnesses; they followed and served Jesus

    * Matthew 27:55–56 — Many women present; followed Jesus from Galilee

    Next Week (Week 2 Preview)

    Next episode: Joseph of Arimathea — a man who steps forward when there’s nothing to gain and everything to lose.



    Get full access to Power Love & Miracles at www.powerloveandmiracles.com/subscribe
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    13 mins
  • A New Rhythm for The Bible Unplugged

    A New Rhythm for The Bible Unplugged
    Dec 31 2025

    8–10 minutes

    The Bible Unplugged Podcastwith J. Brent Eaton, M.Div.

    Listen on:Spotify • iHeartRadio • Amazon MusicShow notes & resources: PowerLoveandMiracles.com

    TBU Bonus intro episode

    Episode Summary

    As we step into a new year, this short bonus episode serves as a listener letter—a moment to pause, reflect, and share where The Bible Unplugged podcast is headed next.

    Many of you have shared the same thought: “The only disappointment is when the closing music starts.”I’ve taken that to heart.

    Beginning in January, The Bible Unplugged will move into a new rhythm—one designed to slow us down, create space, and help Scripture settle more deeply into our lives.

    Why the Change?

    Our lives are loud.

    We’re surrounded by constant noise—news, notifications, expectations, and the pressure to keep up. If we’re not careful, we start treating our spiritual lives the same way: rushed, compressed, and squeezed into the margins.

    But Scripture doesn’t move at that pace.

    God often speaks quietly. He nudges rather than shouts. And much of His work in us happens slowly, over time.

    This new rhythm isn’t about adding more content—it’s about creating space:

    * Space to breathe

    * Space to listen

    * Space for God to speak

    What’s Changing

    Starting in January, the podcast will move into a 7-week “Sabbath Cycle.” Here’s what that means:

    * Longer episodesMost episodes will expand from 7–8 minutes to about 15–20 minutes, allowing the stories and themes of Scripture the time they deserve.

    * Aligned contentPodcast episodes will align with devotional and book themes available at PowerLoveandMiracles.com. The content won’t repeat—it will expand and deepen.

    * A more spacious feelSame Bible research. Same “unplugged” approach. More room to make connections and bring Scripture into real life.

    * Intentional moments of quietBrief pauses—not mistakes or glitches—but intentional space to listen and reflect.

    This is not a meditation podcast. It remains a Bible-focused teaching show. But the goal is to move from information to formation.

    What’s Not Changing

    This is still The Bible Unplugged.

    * Scripture stays front and center

    * Context, background, and meaning still matter

    * Mistranslations and misunderstandings are still addressed

    * Faith is still applied to real, messy life

    Same heart. Same voice. Same commitment.Just… a better pace.

    What’s Coming in January

    Beginning with Episode 70, we’ll launch a new series:

    Hidden Heroes of Holy Week

    This series focuses on:

    * The overlooked

    * The unassuming

    * The background figures God used in extraordinary ways

    At the same time, a companion book and devotional project will develop alongside the podcast—moving together without overwhelming you.

    Instead of speeding up, the goal is to settle in.

    A Simple Invitation

    As we begin this new rhythm:

    * Don’t let the episodes become background noise

    * Try listening a little differently

    * Pause for a moment after the episode ends

    * Let one thought or sentence stay with you

    No pressure. No perfect listening.Just an open heart.

    God often does His best work in quiet places.

    My Prayer for You

    Let God meet you in the ordinary moments of your day, release the pressure to carry everything alone, and receive the gift of a slower, steadier faith.

    Have a blessed week.

    Disclaimers

    * All opinions are my own

    * Scripture quotations from the World English Bible (public domain)

    * Theme music: “Awesome Call” by Kevin MacLeod (Creative Commons)

    * © 2026 J. Brent Eaton

    * A Power Love and Miracles production



    Get full access to Power Love & Miracles at www.powerloveandmiracles.com/subscribe
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    6 mins
  • The Ongoing Christmas

    The Ongoing Christmas
    Dec 30 2025

    The Bible Unplugged Podcast with J. Brent Eaton, M.Div.

    Listen on:Spotify • iHeartRadio • Amazon MusicShow notes & resources: PowerLoveandMiracles.com

    Episode Summary

    Over the last four episodes, we’ve explored how God prepared the world for the birth of His Son—through history, creation, dreams, and politics.

    In this final episode of our Advent series, we focus on a powerful and encouraging truth: Christmas didn’t end in Bethlehem. God continues to reveal Christ through the world—and through us—every single day.

    This episode explores what Christmas is meant to look like the other 364 days of the year.

    Key Scripture

    John 1:14 - “The Word became flesh, and lived among us.”

    Christmas is not just a moment in history. It is the ongoing reality of God stepping into human life—not as a distant observer, but as a participant.

    Background & Big Picture

    * God used history, creation, dreams, and politics to bring Jesus into the world

    * That same God is still working today through ordinary and extraordinary circumstances

    * The world Jesus was born into was chaotic, divided, and unstable—much like ours

    * Christmas began in poverty, danger, and noise—not peace and perfection

    God doesn’t wait for ideal conditions. He enters real ones.

    The Deeper Meaning of the Ongoing Christmas

    * God creates holy moments in ordinary life

    * He speaks through silence and guides through unexpected means

    * He works through conversations, interruptions, and quiet nudges of the Spirit

    * What looks like coincidence often carries a divine fingerprint

    As Paul reminds us:

    Colossians 1:27 — “Christ in you, the hope of glory.”

    Bethlehem was not the finish line. It was the spark of a fire that is still burning.

    Takeaways from the Christmas Story

    * Christmas is not a date—it’s a demonstration of how God still enters the world

    * God shows up in stress, uncertainty, schedules, and disruptions

    * Wherever Christ’s love, peace, truth, and compassion are expressed, Christmas happens again

    * God’s plan is never shaken, even when the world feels unstable

    * Hope is not nostalgic—it is present and active

    Challenges for This Week

    * Look for Christ in ordinary moments and unexpected interruptions

    * Be someone’s Bethlehem by offering kindness, comfort, or encouragement

    * Pay attention to what moves your heart—the Spirit often nudges gently

    * Share the light through prayer, generosity, and simple acts of love

    End each day with this prayer: “Lord, be born in me again today.”

    What’s Next

    In the next episode, we begin a new series: Hidden Heroes of the Bible — stories of people who played small roles but made a major impact.

    Closing Prayer

    My prayer for you is that God’s Spirit would shine in and through you—not just at Christmas—but every day God gives us.

    Have a blessed week.

    Disclaimers

    * All opinions are my own

    * Scripture quotations from the World English Bible which is in the public domain

    * Theme music: “Awesome Call” by Kevin MacLeod (Creative Commons)

    * © 2025 J. Brent Eaton

    * A Power Love and Miracles production



    Get full access to Power Love & Miracles at www.powerloveandmiracles.com/subscribe
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    6 mins
  • When Power Bows to Providence

    When Power Bows to Providence
    Dec 23 2025

    The Bible Unplugged Podcast with J. Brent Eaton, M.Div.

    Listen on: Spotify • iHeartRadio • Amazon MusicShow notes & resources: PowerLoveandMiracles.com

    Episode Summary

    Politics is one of those topics we often avoid—especially around the holidays. It divides families, fuels anxiety, and can feel completely incompatible with faith.

    But the Christmas story tells a different story.

    Jesus was born into a world filled with political corruption, power struggles, and ruthless rulers—and God used every one of them to fulfill His plan.

    In this episode of The Bible Unplugged, we explore the political landscape surrounding the birth of Jesus and discover how God quietly shaped nations, empires, and leaders to bring His Son into the world.

    Episode Focus

    * The Roman census of Luke 2

    * The rise of Caesar Augustus

    * The Herodian dynasty and Rome’s control of Judea

    * How political chaos fulfilled biblical prophecy

    * Why God is never threatened by human power

    Key Background Insights

    Luke 2 opens with a decree from Caesar Augustus.To Rome, it was routine. To Israel, it was oppression. To God, it was prophecy unfolding.

    To understand Christmas, we must understand the political forces behind it.

    The Herodian Dynasty

    * The Herods were Idumean, not ethnically Jewish

    * Forced conversion created deep resentment

    * Herod the Great rose to power through Roman alliances

    * Backed Mark Antony, then survived by aligning with Augustus

    * Ruled Judea only because Rome allowed it

    Herod was not God’s king—he was Rome’s political survivor.

    Why This Matters for Christmas

    * The census moved Mary and Joseph to Bethlehem

    * Micah’s prophecy was fulfilled without human awareness

    * Political systems unknowingly served divine purposes

    * God used corrupt rulers to accomplish holy promises

    Human power struggles became instruments of divine providence.

    Takeaways from the Politics of Christmas

    * God works through world events long before we see their purpose

    * No political leader is beyond God’s influence

    * God is not threatened by corrupt systems—He works through them

    * God positions His people exactly where they need to be

    Challenges for This Week

    * Look for God working in unexpected places

    * Refuse to let politics steal your peace

    * Re-examine life’s “detours” that may actually be divine guidance

    * Pray for wisdom and discernment amid uncertainty

    If God could use Caesar, Herod, and Cleopatra, He can work through your circumstances too.

    What’s Next

    In the next episode, we conclude this Advent series with: “The Ongoing Christmas — When God Uses Our World to Reveal His Son.”

    You can also find:

    * Saints, Sinners, and Scandals: The Real Story of Jesus’ Birth

    * Christmas devotionals and resources

    Available now at PowerLoveandMiracles.com

    Closing Prayer

    My prayer for you is that the upheaval and uncertainty of this world would take a back seat to the providence and power God wants to reveal to you and through you.

    Have a blessed week.

    Disclaimers

    * All opinions are my own

    * Bible quotations from the World English Bible (public domain)

    * Theme music: “Awesome Call” by Kevin MacLeod (Creative Commons)

    * © 2025 J. Brent Eaton

    * A Power Love and Miracles production



    Get full access to Power Love & Miracles at www.powerloveandmiracles.com/subscribe
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    7 mins