The Crisis of Biblical Illiteracy
Series: Anchored in the Word with Dave Jenkins
November 6, 2025

Anchored in the Word with Dave Jenkins


Show Summary
Dave Jenkins addresses one of the most pressing issues in the church today, biblical illiteracy.
He defines what it is, explains why it is dangerous for discipleship and witness, and gives
practical steps to grow in knowing, understanding, and obeying God’s Word.

* Key Scriptures: Hosea 4:6; 2 Timothy 3:16–17; Ephesians 4:14; James 1:22; Psalm 119:105
* Topics: Definition, dangers, and practical steps to avoid biblical illiteracy
* Speaker: Dave Jenkins
* Series site: servantsofgrace.org/anchored-in-the-word



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Episode Outline
Introduction
Many of us own Bibles, yet do we know what is in them and live it out? Hosea 4:6 warns that
God’s people are destroyed for lack of knowledge. Neglecting Scripture leaves us open to
deception, discouragement, and shallow faith.
1. Defining Biblical Illiteracy
It is not the absence of a Bible, it is the absence of knowing, understanding, and applying it.
2 Timothy 3:16–17 teaches that all Scripture is God breathed and equips us for every good work.
2. The Dangers of Biblical Illiteracy

* Deception: Without truth we are tossed by every wind of doctrine (Ephesians 4:14).
* Weak Discipleship: Faith reduces to feelings and trends.
* Poor Witness: A church that does not know Scripture loses its salt and light.
Judges 2:10 shows how a generation can rise that does not know the Lord.

3. How We Can Avoid It

* Read Scripture regularly, whole books and chapters for the big picture.
* Study wisely, use tools but start with the text.
* Memorize and meditate, let the word of Christ dwell richly (Colossians 3:16).
* Obey what you read, be doers not hearers only (James 1:22).
* Stay rooted in a sound local church under faithful preaching and community.

Application and Call to Action
Shape your worldview from Scripture rather than social media or cultural voices. Start small.
Read a chapter a day in the Gospel of John, pray, take notes, and ask questions.
Closing
Biblical illiteracy is dangerous but not inevitable. God’s Word is a lamp to our feet and a
light to our path (Psalm 119:105). Let us know the Bible, love it, and live it out for the
glory of Christ and the good of His church.


Resources and Next Steps

* For more from Anchored in the Word please visit our page at Servants of Grace or at our YouTube.
* Share this episode with a friend who wants to grow in biblical literacy.



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Walking Through the Psalms • Friday, October 31, 2025Psalm 119:137–144 — Delight in God’s Decrees (Part 11)Host: Dave Jenkins • Scripture: Psalm 119:137–144 (Tsadhe)Show SummaryIn this episode, Dave Jenkins examines Psalm 119:137–144, where the psalmist rejoices in the enduring righteousness and faithfulness of God’s Word. Even amid affliction, he finds delight and stability in Scripture, showing that God’s truth sustains the faithful through every trial.Key theme: “Your righteousness is righteous forever, and your law is true.” (v. 142)ListenWatch Stay ConnectedIf this episode encouraged you, please share it and leave a review. For more resources, visit our Psalm series page here at Servants of Grace or at our YouTube.

Anchored in the Word – October 30, 2025
Why a Biblical Worldview Still Matters
Series: Anchored in the Word – Clarity in Confusing Times
Show Summary
In this episode of Anchored in the Word, Dave Jenkins unpacks why a biblical worldview still matters
in today’s confused and shifting culture. Drawing from Colossians 2:6–8 and Romans 12:1–2, Dave explains how being rooted in Christ and renewed in our minds equips believers to discern truth and live faithfully in every area of life.

* Truth anchors us amid cultural confusion.
* A biblical worldview begins and ends with Christ.
* We are called to discernment and faithful obedience.
* Transformed minds lead to transformed living.

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Scripture References
Colossians 2:6–8; Romans 12:1–2
 For more articles and resources, visit Anchored in the Word page here at Servants of Grace or at our YouTube.
Stay anchored in the truth of God’s Word.

Delight in God’s Decrees (Psalm 119:129–136)
Series: Walking Through the Psalms •
Date: Friday, October 24, 2025 •
Host: Dave Jenkins •
Passage: Psalm 119:129–136 (Pe)

In Psalm 119:129–136, the psalmist rejoices in the wonder of God’s Word and weeps over its neglect. The unfolding of Scripture brings illumination, grace, and compassion—producing both worship and tears in the believer’s heart. In this episode, Dave Jenkins shows how God’s Word enlightens the mind, steadies the steps, and stirs the soul with love for God and mercy for the lost.







Scripture Reading — Psalm 119:129–136 (ESV)

129 Your testimonies are wonderful; therefore my soul keeps them.
130 The unfolding of your words gives light; it imparts understanding to the simple.
131 I open my mouth and pant, because I long for your commandments.
132 Turn to me and be gracious to me, as is your way with those who love your name.
133 Keep steady my steps according to your promise, and let no iniquity get dominion over me.
134 Redeem me from man’s oppression, that I may keep your precepts.
135 Make your face shine upon your servant, and teach me your statutes.
136 My eyes shed streams of tears, because people do not keep your law.

 Spiritual Warfare and the Armor of God Anchored in the Word • October 23, 2025 • Ephesians 6:10–18Series: Anchored in the Word – Clarity in Confusing TimesShow SummaryThe Christian life is not a playground, it is a battlefield. In this episode, Dave Jenkins walks throughEphesians 6:10–18 to show how believers stand firm in the Lord’s strength and put on the whole armor of God:truth, righteousness, the gospel of peace, faith, salvation, and the Word. Prayer fuels the fight as we resist theschemes of the devil and rest in Christ’s victory.Listen / WatchKey Points* Spiritual warfare is real, but Christ is stronger.* We stand by God’s strength, not our own.* Each piece of the armor points us to Christ.* Prayer is essential to perseverance in the battle.Why This MattersWe often try to fight spiritual battles with human strength. The victory belongs to the Lord. Every piece of the armor points us back to Jesus: He is our truth, righteousness, peace, salvation, and victory.Resources & Next Steps* Share this episode with someone who is weary or under attack.* Read Ephesians 6 this week.Stay anchored in the Word. Subscribe on YouTube for more Christ-centered resources.

Walking Through the PsalmsDelight in God’s Decrees (Psalm 119:121–128)Speaker: Dave Jenkins  •  Date: Friday, October 17, 2025  •  Passage: Psalm 119:121–128 (Ayin)Show SummaryIn Psalm 119:121–128 the psalmist pleads for God’s justice and mercy while declaring steadfast love for God’s Word above gold.Dave unpacks how integrity in suffering, waiting under steadfast love, and discernment rooted in delight shapethe Christian life. Listen to the Audio Watch the Video 

Recognizing False TeachingAnchored in the Word – October 16, 2025Host: Dave JenkinsSeries: Anchored in the Word – Clarity in Confusing TimesIn this episode of Anchored in the Word, Dave Jenkins helps believers recognize and resist false teaching by grounding their discernment in God’s Word. Drawing from 2 Peter 2:1–3 and Acts 20:28–30, Dave shows that false teaching often arises from within the Church, distorting the gospel and leading many astray.Listeners will discover the biblical marks of false teachers and why knowing Scripture is essential to staying anchored in Christ. Listen to the Episode Watch the Episode Key Scripture References* 2 Peter 2:1–3* Acts 20:28–30* Galatians 1:6–9 Additional ResourcesVisit Anchored in the Word with Dave Jenkins or at our YouTube for more biblical teaching, podcasts, and articles.

Walking Through the Psalms – Delight in God’s Decrees: Part 8
Series: Walking Through the Psalms
Host: Dave Jenkins
Text: Psalm 119:113–120 (Samekh)
Date: October 10, 2025


Show Summary
In Psalm 119:113–120 the psalmist rejects double-mindedness and clings to God as his hiding place and shield.
We consider undivided devotion, the wisdom of holy boundaries joined to dependence on grace, and a reverent fear that keeps us near the Lord in love and obedience.

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Anchored in the Word – October 9, 2025Be Holy in a Confused WorldSeries Theme: Anchored in the Word – Clarity in Confusing TimesShow SummaryIn this episode of Anchored in the Word, Dave Jenkins teaches from 1 Peter 1:13–21 on the believer’s call to holiness. Holiness is not a burden but a joyful response to the redemption we have in Christ. In a world of confusion, holiness shines as a witness that we belong to God, guards us from compromise, and fills us with joy as we walk in obedience. Dave also explains the difference between sanctification, holiness, and righteousness, showing why holiness is essential for every Christian today.Listen to the EpisodeWatch the EpisodeFor more articles, podcasts, and resources to help you grow in Christ, visitAnchored in the Word with Dave or at our YouTube.If this episode encouraged you, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with others!

Delight in God’s Decrees: Part 7
Series: Walking Through the Psalms
Text: Psalm 119:97–112 (Mem & Nun)
Host: Dave Jenkins
Show Summary
Psalm 119:97–112 shows us that God’s Word is sweeter than honey, wiser than human teaching,
and a lamp to guide our steps in dark times. In this episode, Dave Jenkins explains how
God’s testimonies give wisdom, joy, and life in affliction.
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Scripture
Psalm 119:97–112 (ESV)
Mem
97 Oh how I love your law! It is my meditation all the day.
98 Your commandment makes me wiser than my enemies, for it is ever with me.
99 I have more understanding than all my teachers, for your testimonies are my meditation.
100 I understand more than the aged, for I keep your precepts.
101 I hold back my feet from every evil way, in order to keep your word.
102 I do not turn aside from your rules, for you have taught me.
103 How sweet are your words to my taste, sweeter than honey to my mouth!
104 Through your precepts I get understanding; therefore I hate every false way.
Nun
105 Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.
106 I have sworn an oath and confirmed it, to keep your righteous rules.
107 I am severely afflicted; give me life, O Lord, according to your word!
108 Accept my freewill offerings of praise, O Lord, and teach me your rules.
109 I hold my life in my hand continually, but I do not forget your law.
110 The wicked have laid a snare for me, but I do not stray from your precepts.
111 Your testimonies are my heritage forever, for they are the joy of my heart.
112 I incline my heart to perform your statutes forever, to the end.
Closing
Thanks for joining me for Walking Through the Psalms.
If this episode blessed you, please share it or leave a review.
And remember: “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.”

The Clarity of Scripture: Understanding God’s WordShow: Anchored in the Word with Dave Jenkins Date: October 2, 2025Show SummaryMany people believe the Bible is too difficult or too ancient for ordinary Christians. Yet the doctrine of theclarity of Scripture reminds us that God gave His Word to reveal truth, so His people might know Him,trust Him, and obey Him. In this episode, Dave Jenkins teaches from Psalm 19:7–8 and2 Timothy 3:16–17 to show that Scripture revives the soul, makes wise the simple, and equips believersfor every good work. We also consider what clarity does not mean, and how the Holy Spirit helps us read,understand, and apply God’s Word with confidence.ListenWatch Resources & Next Steps* Read Psalm 19; 2 Timothy 3; Psalm 119:18; Ephesians 4:11–12; 2 Peter 3:16.* Visit Anchored in the Word at Servants of Grace or at our YouTube for more.

Delight in God’s Decrees: Part 6 (Psalm 119:81–96)Series: Walking Through the Psalms  |  Host: Dave Jenkins  |  Date: September 26, 2025Show SummaryIn this installment of Walking Through the Psalms, we study Psalm 119:81–96 (Kaph & Lamedh).The psalmist waits on God in seasons of suffering and anchors his hope in God’s eternal Word,which is firmly fixed in the heavens and proves faithful to every generation.Listen & WatchAudio PlayerVideo PlayerFor more please visit our Psalm series page here at Servants of Grace.

Living with Biblical Discernment in Confusing TimesIn this episode of Anchored in the Word, Dave Jenkins unpacks what it means to live with biblical discernment in a world filled with false teaching, deception, and confusion.ListenWatchKey Scriptures* Hebrews 5:14 – Discernment trained by constant practice.* 1 John 4:1 – Testing the spirits.* Ephesians 4:14 – Guarding against false doctrine.* Colossians 1:9–10 – Growing in wisdom and maturity.* Proverbs 3:5–6 – Trusting the Lord in all decisions.* Jude 3 – Contending for the faith.Episode Themes* What biblical discernment is and is not.* Why discernment protects the church and anchors believers in God’s truth.* How discernment is cultivated through the Word and applied in everyday life.Stay anchored in the Word, and you will not be swept away by the shifting tides of culture and false teaching.For more resources, visit Anchored in the Word with Dave at Servants of Grace or at our YouTube.

Delight in God’s Decrees: Part 5 (Psalm 119:65–80)Series: Walking Through the Psalms ·Host: Dave Jenkins ·Date: September 19, 2025Show SummaryIn Psalm 119:65–80 (Teth & Yodh), we see God’s goodness in affliction, the refining work of His Word, and a prayer for understanding, comfort, and renewal.The psalmist treasures the law of the Lord above riches and asks for a blameless heart that perseveres to the end.Listen & WatchShare & SubscribeIf this episode blessed you, please share it and leave a review.Visit Psalms Archives - Servants of Grace for more resources or at our YouTube.
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Contemplative Spirituality and Why Christians Must Avoid It
Show: Anchored in the Word · Host: Dave Jenkins ·
Date: September 18, 2025 · Length: ~12 minutes
Key Texts: Psalm 1:2; Joshua 1:8; Matthew 6:7
Contrasting mystical practices with the clarity of God’s Word.
Contemplative spirituality often uses biblical-sounding words like “silence” and “meditation,”
but its methods are rooted in mysticism—not Scripture. In this episode, Dave explains what it is,
why Christians must avoid it, and how to stay anchored in God’s Word.


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Resources

* Anchored in the Word on Servants of Grace and on YouTube
* The Word Matters (Book by Dave Jenkins)d

Delight in God’s Decrees: Part 4Series: Walking Through the PsalmsTitle: Delight in God’s Decrees: Part 4Text: Psalm 119:49–64 (Zayin & Heth)Host: Dave JenkinsDate: September 12, 2025Show SummaryIn this episode of Walking Through the Psalms, Dave Jenkins teaches Psalm 119:49–64, highlighting hope in God’s promises, comfort in affliction, fellowship with those who fear the Lord, and a steadfast commitment to God’s Word as our portion.Listen & WatchIntroductionWelcome back to Walking Through the Psalms. I’m Dave Jenkins, and today is September 12, 2025. So far in Psalm 119, we’ve seen the blessing of obedience, purity formed by God’s Word, sustaining grace from His statutes, and the psalmist’s longing for teaching, understanding, and freedom in God’s decrees. Today we come to Zayin and Heth (vv. 49–64), emphasizing hope in God’s promises, comfort in affliction, companionship with those who fear God, and steadfast commitment to His Word amid opposition.ConclusionThanks for joining me for Walking Through the Psalms. If this episode blessed you, please share it or leave a review.

Persecution and the Christian Life: Standing Firm in FaithBy Dave Jenkins• [9/11/2025]Show SummaryShould Christians pursue persecution? Scripture teaches us to expect persecution but not to chase it.In this episode of Anchored in the Word, Dave Jenkins explains why the Christian’s call isfaithfulness, not provocation. Through key passages and church history examples,you’ll learn how to stand firm with grace and courage when opposition comes.ListenWatch Key Scriptures* 2 Timothy 3:12* John 15:20* Matthew 5:10–11* Acts 5:41* 1 Peter 4:13–16What You’ll Learn* Why persecution is promised but never pursued.* The difference between faithfulness and provocation.* Lessons from Polycarp and William Tyndale.* How to prepare your heart to endure with grace and courage.Reflection Questions* Am I living faithfully in a way that honors Christ—even if it costs me?* Have I confused boldness with pride or provocation?* How can I prepare my heart to stand firm if persecution comes?Related ResourceIf this episode helped you, please share it and subscribe to stay anchored in God’s Word. For more visit Anchored in the Word at Servants of Grace and at our YouTube.

Join Dave as he looks at Psalm 119:33-48 and Delight in God’s Decrees: Part 3


Delight in God’s Decrees: Psalm 119:33–48 (He & Waw) — Walking Through the Psalms, Pt. 3
Host: Dave Jenkins  |  Series: Walking Through the Psalms  |  Date: September 5, 2025  |  Text: Psalm 119:33–48 (He & Waw)


Show Summary
In Psalm 119:33–48, the psalmist pleads for God’s instruction, asks for a heart inclined to His testimonies, and rejoices in the freedom and boldness found in delighting in God’s decrees—even before kings. Dave Jenkins walks through the “He” and “Waw” stanzas, drawing out practical applications for prayer, purity, freedom, and courageous witness.



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Respond
If this episode helped you, please share it, leave a review, and explore more resources at Servants of Grace and at our YouTube.

Denying Yourself and Taking Up Your Cross DailyShow: Anchored in the Word with Dave JenkinsSummary: What does it mean to deny yourself and take up your cross daily? Dave walks through Luke 9:23 with Galatians 2:20 and Romans 12:1, clarifying biblical self-denial, daily discipleship, and the joy of following Christ.Scripture* Luke 9:23* Galatians 2:20* Romans 12:1Key Takeaways* Denying self is not self-hatred but surrender to Christ’s lordship.* Taking up your cross means daily dying to the flesh and embracing obedience, whatever it costs.* Following Jesus is a lifelong, daily pursuit—not an occasional activity.Resources* For more from Anchored in the Word visit our page at Servants of Grace or at our YouTube.* Enjoyed this episode? Share it with a friend and leave a review to help others find biblical, Christ-centered resources.

Delight in God’s Decrees (Part 2): Psalm 119:17–32 | Walking Through the PsalmsSeries: Walking Through the Psalms  |Host: Dave Jenkins  |Date: August 29, 2025Show SummaryIn this episode of Walking Through the Psalms, Dave Jenkins continues Psalm 119 with the stanzasGimel and Daleth (vv. 17–32). The psalmist pleads for God’s Word to sustain him inaffliction, to give him life when his soul clings to the dust, and to enlarge his heart to run in God’s ways.* Text: Psalm 119:17–32 (Part 2 — Gimel & Daleth)* Theme: Illumination, endurance by the Word, and an enlarged heart for obedience* Key Verse: Psalm 119:18; 119:25–28; 119:32ListenWatchScripture Reading — Psalm 119:17–32 (ESV)Subscribe & ShareIf this episode blessed you, please share it and subscribe for more biblical teaching.