The Bible in a Year (with Fr. Mike Schmitz) - podcast cover

The Bible in a Year (with Fr. Mike Schmitz)

In The Bible in a Year podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz walks you through the entire Bible in 365 episodes, providing commentary, reflection, and prayer along the way. Unlike any other Bible podcast, Ascension’s Bible in a Year podcast follows a reading plan inspired by The Great Adventure Bible Timeline, a ground-breaking approach to understanding salvation history developed by renowned Catholic Bible scholar Jeff Cavins. For each period in the timeline, Jeff will join Fr. Mike for a special episode that will help you understand the context of each reading. With this podcast, you won’t just read the Bible in a year … you’ll finally understand how all the pieces of the Bible fit together to tell an amazing story that continues in your life today! Listen and… Read the ENTIRE Bible Feel more confident about your understanding of Scripture Experience the transformative power of God’s Word in your daily life Start seeing the world through the lens of Scripture Each 20-25 minute episode includes: Two to three scripture readings A reflection from Fr. Mike Schmitz A guided prayer to help you hear God’s voice in his Word The Bible contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.
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Episodes

Day 9: Sodom and Gomorrah (2026)

Fr. Mike breaks down the story of Sodom and Gomorrah today as we read Genesis 18-19, Job 7-8, and Proverbs 2:1-5. For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/bibleinayear. Please note: The Bible contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised. Support The Bible in a Year (with Fr. Mike Schmitz)

Jan 09, 202621 min

Day 8: The Surrender of Abraham (2026)

Fr. Mike zeroes in on the theme of surrender as we discover how God changed Abram to Abraham and Job continues to struggle with his affliction. Today's readings are Genesis 16-17, Job 5-6, and Proverbs 1:20-33. For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/bibleinayear. Please note: The Bible contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised. Support The Bible in a Year (with Fr. Mike Schmitz)...

Jan 08, 202619 min

Day 7: God's Covenant with Abram (2026)

Fr. Mike talks about the significance of God's covenant with Abram, and how it points to God's immense love for us. Today's readings are Genesis 14-15, Job 3-4, and Proverbs 1:8-19. For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/bibleinayear. Please note: The Bible contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised. Support The Bible in a Year (with Fr. Mike Schmitz)...

Jan 07, 202619 min

Introduction to the Patriarchs (with Jeff Cavins) (2026)

Congratulations, you've completed the Early World period! As we journey into the Patriarchs period, Jeff Cavins joins Fr. Mike to set the scene. They discuss the themes of Genesis 12-50, how it differs from the first 11 chapters of Genesis, and how it slowly reveals God's plan to redeem mankind. For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/bibleinayear. Please note: The Bible contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised. Support The Bibl...

Jan 06, 202623 min

Day 6: Trust in the Lord (2026)

Fr. Mike reads Genesis 12-13, Job 1-2, and Proverbs 1:1-7 and shows how Abram and Job, despite their brokenness, were able to trust in God. For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/bibleinayear. Please note: The Bible contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised. Support The Bible in a Year (with Fr. Mike Schmitz)

Jan 06, 202618 min

Day 5: Tower of Babel (2026)

Today we read about the descendants of Noah, and the story of the Tower of Babel from Genesis 10-11, as well as Psalm 2. Fr. Mike reveals the errors of these characters, and how we also can fall into the same traps. For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/bibleinayear. Please note: The Bible contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised. Support The Bible in a Year (with Fr. Mike Schmitz)...

Jan 05, 202617 min

Day 4: The Flood (2026)

Today we read Genesis 7-9 and Psalm 1 and Fr. Mike reflects on the covenant God makes with Noah, and how the family of Noah becomes broken. Today's readings contain adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised. For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/bibleinayear. Please note: The Bible contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised. Support The Bible in a Year (with Fr. Mike Schmitz)...

Jan 04, 202620 min

Day 3: Noah's Ark (2026)

Fr. Mike reads Genesis 5-6 and Psalm 136, and explains the significance of Noah's genealogy, why God chose to send a flood, and how we can imitate Noah's choice to follow God when no one else did. For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/bibleinayear. Please note: The Bible contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised. Support The Bible in a Year (with Fr. Mike Schmitz)...

Jan 03, 202618 min

Day 2: The Fall of Adam and Eve (2026)

In today's readings of Genesis 3-4 and Psalm 104, Fr. Mike draws the connection between love and sacrifice in the story of Adam and Eve and explains the story of Cain and Abel. For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/bibleinayear. Please note: The Bible contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised. Support The Bible in a Year (with Fr. Mike Schmitz)...

Jan 02, 202624 min

Start Here: Introduction to the Early World (with Jeff Cavins)

Welcome to the official start of the Bible in a Year Podcast! We'll begin reading the Bible in the episode "Day 1: In the Beginning", but before we dig into scripture, Jeff Cavins joins Fr. Mike Schmitz to lay out the context for the Early World period (Genesis 1-11). They discuss the type of scripture we'll encounter (Hebrew poetry) and how that affects our understanding of the Word. This episode is not part of the 365 day reading plan, but is important to help understand the readings from this...

Jan 01, 202624 min

Day 1: In the Beginning (2026)

Father Mike Schmitz kicks off the Bible in a Year journey by reading Genesis 1-2 and Psalm 19. He delves into the unique aspects of the biblical creation narrative, emphasizing God's goodness, creation ex nihilo, and humanity's divine purpose for labor, leisure, and love. The discussion highlights the inherent dignity of all human beings created in God's image and the profound goodness of His original world.

Jan 01, 202621 min

BONUS: Fr. Mike Reflects on 5 Years of The Bible in a Year

2026 marks the 5th anniversary of Bible in a Year! Over the past five years, the Lord has taken this podcast to extraordinary places -- reaching listeners in more than 150 countries, becoming the #1 podcast in the U.S., and remaining the #1 religious podcast in the world, even five years later. Through Bible in a Year, God has transformed hearts and minds, and we are deeply grateful to every listener who has made this journey possible. As we continue creating new videos, podcasts, books, and art...

Dec 31, 20257 min

Day 365: The Beginning and the End (2025)

Concluding the Bible in a Year, Fr. Mike explores Revelation 21-22, emphasizing God's promise of a new creation where sorrow and death are no more. He also draws from Hebrews 11-13, discussing faith, divine discipline, and running the race of life alongside a 'cloud of witnesses'. The episode closes with heartfelt thanks to listeners for their shared spiritual journey.

Dec 31, 202530 min

Day 364: Christ's Sacrifice Once for All (2025)

This episode delves into Revelation 18-20, exploring the fall of Babylon, heavenly rejoicing, and the final judgment, while also reading Hebrews 9-10, which illuminates Christ's role as the eternal High Priest. Father Mike emphasizes how Christ's single, perfect sacrifice in the heavenly sanctuary secures eternal redemption, transforming the understanding of the Ascension. The discussion connects Old Testament prophecies to New Testament fulfillment and underscores the importance of personal faithfulness in light of God's justice and mercy.

Dec 30, 202528 min

Day 363: The New Covenant Priesthood (2025)

In Day 363, Fr. Mike reads from Revelation 15-17, Hebrews 5-8, and Proverbs 31:23-25. He interprets Revelation's imagery of the harlot and beast as the Roman Empire's persecution of early Christians, reminding listeners that suffering is limited and God reigns. The episode also highlights the beauty of Jesus' new and eternal priesthood, superior to the Levitical, and the promise of the new covenant, concluding with encouragement to face the future with strength and dignity.

Dec 29, 202525 min

Day 362: The Woman Clothed with the Sun (2025)

Fr. Mike delves into Revelation, interpreting the woman clothed with the sun and the red dragon, using Our Lady of Guadalupe as a powerful example of spiritual warfare and mass conversions. He then introduces the Letter to the Hebrews, highlighting its profound argument for Jesus's superiority to angels and Moses, emphasizing His divine nature and sacrificial love in bringing humanity to God. The episode also covers warnings against unbelief and the promise of God's rest.

Dec 28, 202529 min

Day 361: Judgment and Repentance (2025)

Day 361 explores the intense imagery of Revelation chapters 8-11, detailing the destructive seals and trumpets while underscoring God's call to repentance before final judgment. Fr. Mike also contextualizes Paul's letter to Philemon, challenging perceptions of slavery by highlighting Christian brotherhood and the need to treat all as equals. The episode ties these readings together with themes of divine justice, mercy, and preparation for God's return.

Dec 27, 202525 min

BONUS: How to Hear God's Voice in Scripture

This episode offers five key strategies to deepen one's scripture reading experience and better discern God's voice. Father Mike details the importance of understanding biblical genres, employing correct interpretive principles from the Catechism, and appreciating the literal and spiritual senses of scripture. He emphasizes approaching the Bible with trust rather than skepticism and the value of perseverance, even when faced with challenging passages.

Dec 26, 202522 min

Day 360: Heavenly Worship (2025)

This episode delves into John's vivid visions of heavenly worship from Revelation chapters 4-7, including the heavenly throne room, the Lamb, the opening of seven seals, and the multitude of the sealed. Father Mike also discusses Paul's letter to Titus, emphasizing the importance of sound doctrine and living a credible Christian life. He concludes by reflecting on how our righteous deeds on earth contribute to God's glory in eternity.

Dec 26, 202530 min

Day 359: John's Apocalypse (2025)

This episode delves into Revelation, explaining its apocalyptic symbolism, historical dating theories, and its central purpose: to strengthen the early Church through Mass worship amidst persecution. Fr. Mike also reflects on St. Paul's Second Letter to Timothy, highlighting Paul's unwavering faith despite suffering and desertion. The episode emphasizes the need for steadfastness, the power of scripture, and maintaining a fervent, rather than lukewarm, love for Jesus.

Dec 25, 202534 min

Day 358: From Rebellion to Faithfulness (2025)

This episode delves into the Letter of Jude, highlighting its urgent call for believers to contend for the faith and resist ungodly rebellion, using examples from the Old Testament. Fr. Mike then explores Paul's powerful final words to Timothy in 2 Timothy 1-2, emphasizing the need to rekindle the gift of God within us despite suffering and abandonment. The discussion also touches upon Proverbs 31:1-7, offering wisdom for righteous living and leadership.

Dec 24, 202520 min

Day 357: Truth and Love (2025)

This episode delves into 2 and 3 John, highlighting the inseparable nature of truth and love in Christian life, and the importance of following God's commandments. Fr. Mike then dissects Paul's First Letter to Timothy, addressing false asceticism, proper conduct within the church, and the critical responsibility of providing for one's family. He concludes by urging listeners to embrace godliness over worldly wealth and to courageously "fight the good fight of faith" for eternal life.

Dec 23, 202521 min

Day 356: God Is Love (2025)

This episode delves into the profound message of 1 John, emphasizing that God is love and we are created for love, and clarifies the Catholic doctrine on mortal and venial sins. It then examines 1 Timothy, addressing warnings against false teachers, Paul's testimony of God's mercy, and instructions for church leadership and prayer. Father Mike also explains what St. Paul means by Christ being the "one mediator" between God and man, and the Church's foundational role as the bulwark of truth.

Dec 22, 202525 min

BONUS: Preparing for the Bible in a Year Journey

This bonus episode with Father Mike Schmitz provides essential guidance for undertaking the Bible in a Year journey, whether starting fresh or restarting. He explains the transformative power of engaging with scripture, detailing the Great Adventure Bible reading plan which keeps the narrative thread. Crucially, Fr. Mike advises on cultivating sustainable listening habits, stressing the importance of one's 'why' over perfect consistency, and offers practical tools like companions and journals. The episode also announces the new Spanish Bible in a Year podcast.

Dec 22, 202522 min

Day 355: The Things of This World (2025)

This episode delves into 1 John, focusing on God as light, confessing sins, and the call to love God and one another, contrasted with the dangers of loving the world and its desires, mirroring Eve's temptation and Christ's triumph. Father Mike also covers 2 Thessalonians, warning against deception regarding Christ's coming and condemning idleness within the community. The episode concludes with practical advice on fraternal correction and steadfast faith.

Dec 21, 202523 min

Day 354: Partakers of the Divine Nature (2025)

Father Mike delves into 2 Peter and 1 Thessalonians, emphasizing how baptism transforms us into God's beloved children, partakers of His divine nature. He addresses the concern of Christ's delayed return, explaining God's patience, and comforts listeners with the Christian hope for those who have died. The episode also highlights the need to live in holiness, abstain from immorality, and critically test all prophecies received.

Dec 20, 202522 min

BONUS: Bringing the Bible Back to Catholics (with Jeff Cavins)

In this special episode, Fr. Mike Schmitz and renowned Catholic Bible expert Jeff Cavins delve into the "Bible in a Year" podcast, explaining its foundation in The Great Adventure Bible Timeline, which presents scripture chronologically to reveal the overarching story of salvation. They share personal testimonies of how the Bible has shaped their lives, emphasizing its role in forming a Christian worldview and fostering a profound relationship with God. The discussion also highlights the podcast's unique structure, including "Messianic Checkpoints," and encourages listeners to engage actively with the text, leading to personal transformation and community formation.

Dec 19, 202557 min

Day 353: Sharing the Gospel (2025)

Father Mike discusses how 1 Peter 3:15, urging readiness to defend faith, profoundly influenced his life. The episode delves into living righteously, suffering for Christ, and the saving power of baptism. Drawing from 1 Thessalonians, he highlights Paul's joy in the Thessalonians' faith and emphasizes sharing not just the gospel but our entire lives, especially through families and friendships, as the primary way to advance Christ's message.

Dec 19, 202524 min

Day 352: Purified by Fire (2025)

Fr. Mike guides listeners through 1 Peter's powerful message on persevering in trials, trusting that suffering refines our love and faith, teaching us to love God for His own sake. The episode also concludes Colossians, highlighting St. Paul's call to uphold obligations to others in society, family, and work, emphasizing Christian identity as a royal priesthood and the importance of steadfast prayer and mutual belonging.

Dec 18, 202524 min

Day 351: Draw Near to God (2025)

This episode explores the transformative power of Scripture, starting with James's wisdom on taming the tongue, resisting worldliness, and the role of sacraments in healing. Fr. Mike then delves into Colossians, highlighting Christ's preeminence and our unique invitation to share in His redemptive suffering. The episode also features a profound reflection on Proverbs' prayer for neither poverty nor riches, emphasizing self-distrust and absolute reliance on God.

Dec 17, 202526 min
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