June 22-28: 2 Samuel 11–12; 1 Kings 3, 6–9, 11

June 22-28: 2 Samuel 11–12; 1 Kings 3, 6–9, 11

Topics: 1) David and Bathsheba; 2) What happens to David’s family; 3) Solomon’s wisdom; and 4) Solomon’s wives. Today we have a candid look at the end of David and the rise and fall of Solomon. We discuss David and Bathsheba and how to story often misrepresents the power dynamics between them; the fallout in David’s family; Solomon’s unimpressive wisdom; and the unfair blame that Solomon’s many wives sometimes receive.

June 15-21: 1 Samuel 17-18; 24-26; 2 Samuel 5-7

Topics: 1) David and Goliath; 2) Jonathan; 3) Abigail; and 4) Michal. The host critiques David's emphasis on Goliath as an "uncircumcised Philistine," explores the deep bond between Jonathan and David, reads Abigail's actions as pragmatic survival rather than idealized virtue, and examines Michal's fractured marriage with David and his dismissive response. The episode invites thoughtful discussion about morality, power, religion, and how scripture has been used or interpreted to justify actions.

June 8-14: 1 Samuel 8-10; 13; 15-16

Topics: 1) The beginning of kings; 2) "To obey is better than sacrifice;" and 3) "The Lord looketh on the heart." We’re heading into the saga of Saul and David. Samuel’s sons prove unfit, the people demand a king, and God grants their request though He feels rejected. Saul is chosen, wins early victories, but power goes to his head. He disobeys God in the campaign against the Amalekites, keeping spoil for sacrifice, and is confronted by Samuel. The episode also mentions the 2009 TV show Kings as a modern retelling of Saul and David, and offers personal reflections and political parallels as part of the discussion.

June 1-7: Ruth, 1 Samuel 1-7

Topics: 1) Ruth and 2) Hannah and Eli. This is Things I Wish I Could Say in Sunday School. I share honest thoughts and ideas that differ from usual teachings, aiming to spark discussion with friends, family, or classes. Please enjoy. Lesson for June 1–7 covering Ruth and 1 Samuel 1–7: reflections on Ruth and Naomi’s story and the limits of blind loyalty, plus Hannah and Eli’s story emphasizing parental responsibility and the failures of church leadership.

May 25-31: Judges 2-4, 6-8, 13-16

Topics: 1) Deborah; 2) Gideon; and 3) Samson. This episode explores Judges with a candid, non-traditional take on Deborah, Gideon, and Samson. It questions traditional authority structures, highlights Deborah's leadership as both judge and prophetess, examines Gideon's refusal of kingship and its consequences, and reads Samson's story as a tragic escalation of violence and pressure rather than a simple covenant failure. Join us for honest reflections intended to spark discussion at home, with friends, or in class. Please enjoy.