Words of Life: Weekly Christian Podcast with Testimonies & Teachings from the Salvation Army

In this episode of Words of Life, we explore one of the most important questions for every believer: How do we faithfully understand and study the Bible? Our guest dives into the beauty, complexity, and divine inspiration of Scripture—reminding us that while the Bible is the inerrant and infallible Word of God, it was also written through real people, in real cultures, across many centuries. Together, we unpack why understanding ancient history, culture, and literary genres can deepen the way we read Scripture. From the world of the Egyptians during the Exodus, to the Roman Empire in the time of Jesus, to the intertestamental writings that shaped early Jewish thought—this conversation reveals how context helps illuminate what God is communicating through His Word. We also discuss the rich variety of biblical genres—history, poetry, wisdom literature, prophecy, apocalyptic writings, and the unique genre of the Gospels—and why reading each with discernment transforms our interpretation. You’ll hear how God’s creativity is woven through every narrative, symbol, prophecy, and literary style, revealing His character and His ongoing story of redemption. And at the heart of it all? The consistent theme that God’s Word is alive, intentional, unified, and given so we can know Him. Even in the hard or mysterious passages of Scripture, God offers hope, revelation, and reassurance of His unfailing love. Whether you’re new to studying the Bible or have walked with Christ for years, this episode will inspire you to see Scripture with fresh eyes, recognize the beauty of its complexity, and rediscover your place in God’s ongoing story. Here are several links to resources and studies to help you in your Bible study journey. But if you have any questions- send us an email at [email protected] https://www.youversion.com/ https://www.thebiblerecap.com/ https://www.bible.com/reading-plans/41061-52-weeks-in-the-word https://bibleproject.com/ https://lectio365.com/ Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

We have a schedule change announcement for Words of Life beginning January 2026. Instead of dropping new episodes on Sundays, we will begin launching new episodes every Wednesday at 12am. After a lot of research, it seems that releasing new podcast episodes during the weekend can drastically reduce potential listenership. So, after conferring with our partners at Salem Media we are going to move Words of Life to Wednesdays and see what happens. If it turns out to be a terrible idea- we’ll move it back LOL. But it seems this is the general advice for successful podcasts. Thank you so much for listening. Make sure you’re subscribed so you don’t miss any of the very exciting and powerful series we have planned for 2026. Merry Christmas and God bless you and your families. https://salvationarmysoundcast.org/wordsoflife Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

What is the Bible, really—and why does it matter?In this episode of Words of Life, we sit down for a deep discussion on the origins, authority, and reliability of Scripture. Together, we explore how the Bible was formed, why the Church recognizes these 66 books as the canon, and how Christians can trust the Scriptures today. Our guest explains how the Bible became the “rule of faith”—the authoritative set of writings that shapes what Christians believe and how we live. We trace the formation of the Old and New Testament canons, the role of apostles’ teaching, and why the Church affirmed these specific books over centuries of discernment. You’ll hear why Jesus Himself validated the Old Testament and how His life fulfills the story of Israel. We also tackle a common modern question: Can we trust the Bible hasn’t been distorted over time?With more than 28,000 ancient New Testament manuscripts, early fragments like the second-century portion of John, and archaeological findings like the Dead Sea Scrolls, the episode unpacks why the Bible is one of the most well-attested ancient documents in history. Finally, we explore how Christians encounter Jesus through Scripture—not just as information, but as the living, God-breathed Word that forms and transforms us. If you’ve ever wondered where the Bible came from, how it was preserved, or why it continues to shape the Church today, this conversation offers clarity, encouragement, and deep insight. Here are several links to resources and studies to help you in your Bible study journey. But if you have any questions- send us an email at [email protected] https://www.youversion.com/ https://www.thebiblerecap.com/ https://www.bible.com/reading-plans/41061-52-weeks-in-the-word https://bibleproject.com/ https://lectio365.com/ Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

In this powerful episode of Words of Life, host Bernie Dake sits down with a panel of ministry leaders, creatives, and lifelong Salvationists to discuss why the Bible remains essential in a world searching for hope. Guests Melody Davis, Chris Hofer, Caleb Loudon, and Claudia Roseno share personal stories of how Scripture has shaped their faith, grounded their families, and revealed God’s love in life-changing ways. Together, the panel explores the historical influence of the Bible, the way Scripture has shaped human rights and culture, and how God continues to speak through His Word today. From childhood faith foundations to rediscovering Scripture as adults, each voice brings a unique testimony of God meeting His people through the living Word. This episode is a reminder that the Bible is more than literature—it is God’s presence, God’s guidance, and God’s love letter to us. Whether you’re new to reading Scripture or looking to reignite your passion for God’s Word, you’ll find encouragement and hope in this honest conversation. Here are several links to resources and studies to help you in your Bible study journey. But if you have any questions- send us an email at [email protected] https://www.youversion.com/ https://www.thebiblerecap.com/ https://www.bible.com/reading-plans/41061-52-weeks-in-the-word https://bibleproject.com/ https://lectio365.com/ Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

In this final episode of our 3-part series with Jason Thacker, we continue an important conversation about faith, wisdom, and technology in the digital age. From the rise of AI to the everyday challenges of social media, today’s discussion reminds us that these aren’t just “new problems”—they’re age-old questions showing up in fresh ways. We talk about asking deeper questions like “Should we?” versus “Can we?” when it comes to using AI, and the importance of remembering what it means to be authentically human in a world that blurs the line between man and machine. We also dive into the role of education, parenting, and discipleship when it comes to training the next generation to think critically, resist shortcuts, and cultivate wisdom in how they engage with digital tools. Plus, we introduce The Student’s Guide to Social Media—a practical resource designed to help teens (and parents) reflect on how online platforms are shaping their lives and faith. Learn more about Jason at https://jasonthacker.com/ Check out his resource- A Student's Guide to Social Media here- https://jasonthacker.com/book/a-students-guide-to-social-media/ 👉 Don’t forget: You can also download our free devotional, “Mind, Body & Soul,” designed to help strengthen your walk with God through Scripture, prayer, and practical habits. CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.