2 days ago

148: Is God Jealous for You? Exploring "Yada" and the Marriage Metaphor

🧡 Episode Summary:

In this powerful episode, I explore the biblical concept of “yada”—the Hebrew word for deep, intimate knowing—and how it reveals God’s desire for a close, personal relationship with His people. I reflect on how we sometimes put God in a box and fail to grasp the depth of His love and pursuit.

I also read a moving passage from Dr. Juli Slattery’s book Passion Pursuit, discuss the metaphor of marriage as it relates to Christ and the Church, and examine scriptures that highlight God’s fierce, jealous love for us. This episode is a heartfelt invitation to move beyond surface-level faith and lean into the profound mystery of being known by the Creator.

🔑 Key Topics:

Discernment and spiritual critique in the online Christian world
The Hebrew word “yada” and its implications for intimacy with God
Marriage as a metaphor for Christ and the Church (Ephesians 5)
God’s jealousy and the call to covenant faithfulness (Exodus 34)
Why the cross is the ultimate symbol of divine love
Encouragement to pursue deeper spiritual intimacy

📖 Scriptures Mentioned:

Genesis 4:1
Ephesians 5:31 33
Exodus 34:11–16
James 4:8 (“Draw near to God and He will draw near to you.”)

📚 Resource Highlight:

Book: Passion Pursuit by Dr. Juli Slattery
Podcast: Authentic Intimacy by Juli Slattery – addressing topics many churches avoid with biblical grace and clarity.