Introducing a brand new podcast, Talk Scripture:

Hey. This is Zach. I'd like to take a moment and introduce a new podcast, Talk Scripture. This podcast is a verse-by-verse journey through God's word. This isn't about having all the answers or simply checking a box. Rather, it's an intentional moment together, to pursue who God is and where we fit in His story.

In Talk Scripture, each episode is short and easy to fit in your daily rhythm- Whether that's a commute to work or school, a quiet moment at home, or anything in between. Scripture can meet us right where we are at. So let's unpack it together.

We will be starting in the Book of James. A letter that will challenge us in our faith no matter where we find ourselves in our journey. Faith, according to James, is much more than words. Faith is not just what we say or believe, it's who we are. It's what we do.

So what's your story? Are you exploring faith, a brand new follower of Christ, or are you just looking for a podcast to challenge you? Consider hitting subscribe and join me, as we, Talk Scripture.

Music: Bensound.com/royalty-free-music

License code: 4RXK8EQC0XELERNU

In this episode, we are taking a look at the transformation of James, the brother of Jesus. James’ story is such an amazing example of how encountering the truth of Jesus can completely change your life. He went from doubting who Jesus was to unshakeable faith, even to the point of dying for it. What brought him from skeptic to martyr? And what does that mean for us?

"James, a servant of God and of the Lord Jesus Christ, To the twelve tribes in the Dispersion: Greetings."

Thanks for taking the time to listen to Talk Scripture. Hit subscribe, I would love for you to join me in this journey to pursue who God is and how we fit into His story! If you enjoyed this episode, consider sharing it with a friend or leaving a review—it helps others find the podcast and be part of this journey with us! Feel free to reach out through the website or social media.

https://x.com/865collective

https://the865collective.com/

https://donorbox.org/the-865-collective

ESV Study Bible. (2010). Crossway Books.

Hosted by: Zach Madren

Music: Bensound

Artist: Benjamin Tissot

License code: QHT9EALIRVABAS24

Episode Summary:

In this episode, we are looking at trials in the life of the believer. Trials are tough, but they have a purpose—they help us grow and make our faith stronger, kind of like how metal gets refined with heat and pressure. They remind us that life isn’t just about staying comfortable or chasing success. When we trust God through hard times, we start to see how He’s working in us, building endurance and showing us His faithfulness in ways we might not have noticed before.

Scripture:

James 1:2-4

"Count it all joy, m brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing."

Connect:

Thanks for taking the time to listen to Talk Scripture. Hit subscribe, I would love for you to join me in this journey to pursue who God is and how we fit into His story! If you enjoyed this episode, consider sharing it with a friend or leaving a review—it helps others find the podcast and be part of this journey with us.! Feel free to reach out through the website or social media.

https://x.com/865collective

https://the865collective.com/

https://donorbox.org/the-865-collective

Resources:

ESV Study Bible. (2010). Crossway Books.

Credits:

Hosted by: Zach Madren

Music: Bensound

Artist: Benjamin Tissot

License code: QHT9EALIRVABAS24

Episode Summary:

In this episode, we are talking about asking God for what we lack. If you’re struggling to understand the purpose of trials or just need wisdom in the middle of life’s mess, James says to ask God—and ask in faith. That doesn’t mean you have to be free of doubts or questions; God already knows your heart and loves you deeply anyway. He’s patient, kind, and full of steadfast love. When we humbly ask for wisdom, faith, or even a renewed mind, He’s ready to respond. God longs to walk with us and give us good gifts, so don’t hold back—just ask.

Scripture:

James 1:5-9

"If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him. But let him ask in faith, with no doubting, for the one who doubts is like a wave of the sea that is driven and tossed by the wind. For that person must not suppose that he will receive anything from the Lord; he is a double-minded man, unstable in all his ways."

Connect:

Thanks for taking the time to listen to Talk Scripture. Hit subscribe, I would love for you to join me in this journey to pursue who God is and how we fit into His story! If you enjoyed this episode, consider sharing it with a friend or leaving a review—it helps others find the podcast and be part of this journey with us.! Feel free to reach out through the website or social media.

https://x.com/865collective

https://the865collective.com/

https://donorbox.org/the-865-collective

Resources:

ESV Study Bible. (2010). Crossway Books.

Credits:

Hosted by: Zach Madren

Music: Bensound

Artist: Benjamin Tissot

License code: QHT9EALIRVABAS24

In this episode, we are looking at trials from the perspectives of the poor and the rich. For the poor, trials remind them to lean into Christ and the hope of eternal life, free from the distractions of worldly possessions. For the rich, trials can be a humbling gift, showing them that money can’t buy peace or fix every problem, and redirecting their focus to what truly matters—eternity with God. James makes it clear: it’s not about being rich or poor, but about your perspective and what you’re pursuing.

James 1:9-12

"Let the lowly brother boast in his exaltation, and the rich in his humiliation, because like a flower of the grass he will pass away. For the sun rises with its scorching heat and withers the grass, its flower falls, and its beauty perishes. So also will the rich man fade away in the midst of his pursuits. Blessed is the man who remains steadfast under trial, for when he has stood the test he will receive the crown of life, which God has promised to those who love him."

Thanks for taking the time to listen to Talk Scripture. Hit subscribe, I would love for you to join me in this journey to pursue who God is and how we fit into His story! If you enjoyed this episode, consider sharing it with a friend or leaving a review—it helps others find the podcast and be part of this journey with us.! Feel free to reach out through the website or social media.

https://x.com/865collective

https://the865collective.com/

https://donorbox.org/the-865-collective

ESV Study Bible. (2010). Crossway Books.

Hosted by: Zach Madren

Music: Bensound

Artist: Benjamin Tissot

License code: QHT9EALIRVABAS24

Episode Summary:

In this episode, we are going on the offense against sin and temptation. Victory over sin starts with recognizing the real enemy—often not just Satan, but our own desires, doubts, and excuses. Real freedom comes when we stop playing games, get honest with God, and let our desire for Him outweigh our desire for sin. God doesn’t want mere progress; He wants to transform us and give us true victory. Whether you’re a believer or not, His way is better, and it’s time to confront the enemy.

Scripture:

James 1:13-15

"Let no one say when he is tempted, "I am being tempted by God, for God cannot be tempted with evil, and he himself tempts no one. But each person is tempted when he is lured and enticed by his own desire. Then desire when it has conceived gives birth to sin and sin when its fully grown brings forth death"

Connect:

Thanks for taking the time to listen to Talk Scripture. Hit subscribe, I would love for you to join me in this journey to pursue who God is and how we fit into His story! If you enjoyed this episode, consider sharing it with a friend or leaving a review—it helps others find the podcast and be part of this journey with us.! Feel free to reach out through the website or social media.

https://x.com/865collective

https://the865collective.com/

https://donorbox.org/the-865-collective

Resources:

ESV Study Bible. (2010). Crossway Books.

Credits:

Hosted by: Zach Madren

Music: Bensound

Artist: Benjamin Tissot

License code: QHT9EALIRVABAS24

Episode Summary:

In this episode, we examining James' reminder that every good gift comes from God, and how our desires can lead us astray. We explore the Imago Dei, the image of God in all people, and how God's goodness remains unchanged—even in trials and temptations. Trusting in God’s perfect gifts and turning to Him in our struggles is key to growing in faith and reflecting His glory.

Scripture:

James 1:16-18

"Do not be deceived, my beloved brothers. Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shadow due to change. Of his own will he brought us forth by the word of truth, that we should be a kind of firstfruits of his creatures."



Connect:

Thanks for taking the time to listen to Talk Scripture. Hit subscribe, I would love for you to join me in this journey to pursue who God is and how we fit into His story! If you enjoyed this episode, consider sharing it with a friend or leaving a review—it helps others find the podcast and be part of this journey with us.! Feel free to reach out through the website or social media.

https://x.com/865collective

https://the865collective.com/

https://donorbox.org/the-865-collective

Resources:

ESV Study Bible. (2010). Crossway Books.

Platt, D. (2014). Exalting Jesus in James. B&H Publishing Group

Credits:

Hosted by: Zach Madren

Music: Bensound

Artist: Benjamin Tissot

License code: QHT9EALIRVABAS24

Episode Summary:

In this episode, James challenges us to be quick to hear, slow to speak, and slow to anger—a mindset that can transform both our relationships and our walk with God. In this episode, we explore what it means to truly listen, not just to others but to Scripture, approaching God’s truth with humility rather than resistance.

Scripture:

James 1:19-21

"Know this, my beloved brothers: let every person be quick to hear, slow to speak, slow to anger; for the anger of man does not produce the righteousness of God. Therefore put away all filthiness and rampant wickedness and receive meekness the implanted word, which is able to save your souls"

Connect:

Thanks for taking the time to listen to Talk Scripture. Hit subscribe, I would love for you to join me in this journey to pursue who God is and how we fit into His story! If you enjoyed this episode, consider sharing it with a friend or leaving a review—it helps others find the podcast and be part of this journey with us! Feel free to reach out through the website or social media.

https://x.com/865collective

https://the865collective.com/

https://donorbox.org/the-865-collective

Resources:

ESV Study Bible. (2010). Crossway Books.

Comer, J. M. (2024). God has a name: What You Believe about God Will Shape Who You Become.

Credits:

Hosted by: Zach Madren

Music: Bensound

Artist: Benjamin Tissot

License code: QHT9EALIRVABAS24