The Bible & the English Major

All Articles & Episodes

Maren's articles marry her love of stories and her fascination with living connected to a God who loves us. The Bible and the English Major examines Bible stories the way an English major would, through multiple methods of interpretation presented in fun, accessible bites.

Visit “The Bible and the English Major” page to learn more about specific seasons, guests, and what people are saying.

Maren Jo Schneider 8/30/22 Maren Jo Schneider 8/30/22

Woman at the Well, Part 6: Conversations With a Friend: DanaLee Simon

We conclude our series on John 4 with a conversation with Pastor and Spiritual Director DanaLee Simon. DanaLee and Maren use their spiritual imaginations to explore the mysteries of the Samaritan woman's story. Then DanaLee introduces us to spiritual direction practices to help us soak up some good Living Water.

Maren Jo Schneider 8/16/22 Maren Jo Schneider 8/16/22

Woman at the Well, Part 5: Living Water Flows Where She Flows, Baby

An angelic tour guide takes the prophet, Ezekiel, on a trippy journey through a restored temple gushing with Living Water. John clearly digs the imagery because he uses it over six centuries later in his story of the Woman at the Well to reveal God's groovy side. Right on, Holy Spirit!

Maren Jo Schneider 8/2/22 Maren Jo Schneider 8/2/22

Woman at the Well, Part 4: Jacob and Rachel, Sitting in a Tree

Gospel writer John knows a thing or two about romance. His Woman at the Well story contains the same juicy narrative elements as Rachel and Jacob's betrothal in Genesis 29. Scandalous, you say? Just like the extravagant love of God.

Maren Jo Schneider 7/19/22 Maren Jo Schneider 7/19/22

Woman at the Well, Part 3: The Messiah Who Sees

Hagar and the Samaritan woman talk theology at a watering hole and discover they share intriguing similarities. To find out why, we'll eavesdrop on their conversation, inspect John's motives for writing, and even uncover an ancient (chiastic) pyramid. Get ready to dig.