Avizandum with Pastor John Munro

It can be easy to define ourselves based on our race or background. But the Gospel of Jesus Christ is offered to everyone. How can that be reflected in our worship and relationships? Join John as he reflects on the implications for worship and ministry.

It's fascinating how God selected the piece of real estate for Israel at the very center of the world. For centuries it has been at the heart of human history. So what does the Bible say about this elusive goal of "peace in the Middle East"?

No Christian minimizes the importance of prayer, yet this is an area where most of us struggle. While an incredible privilege, prayer is also a discipline, so listen as John offers insight and shares a simple guide for prayers.

If asked, we would all likely agree that what is important is not our outward appearance but what is in our hearts. However, John was recently surprised by an objection to his wearing a tie to preach! Why are these personal choices important? (And why does he like wearing ties?)

Disagreements are a part of life. But too often in today's climate, we see arguments escalate with no real effort put into resolving the conflict and preserving the relationship. What guidance does the Bible give us on conflict resolution?

One of the dimensions of being made in the image of God is our ability to reason, though sin has impacted our thinking. Still, followers of Christ are called to be transformed and to have the mind of Christ. But often we allow the viewpoints of the world to shape our perspective.

As we mourn the brutal killings of Iryna Zarutska and Charlie Kirk, why is there all this hate? And how are we to respond and function in what seems to be a growing culture of hate?

Much of our Bible reading is often limited to a few verses which are read and discussed without regard to the overall context. But the context is critical to accurate understanding. Join John as he discusses the all-important practice of reading the Bible extensively as well as intensively.

Jesus means Savior and is one of the most beautiful and precious names of the Son of God who died for our sins and rose again. Yet why are people sometimes uncomfortable with referring to Jesus as Lord?

Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce's engagement has been big news, along with Taylor's ring! So why is there always such a fuss about engagement rings? Join John as he thinks back to his own experience with an engagement ring, and what is most important.

Most of us have experienced the death of a loved one and know what it is to grieve. How do we deal with crippling loss? How do we help others who are grieving? And why do followers of Christ approach grief differently?

Have you heard the term "red meat preaching"? It refers to when a preacher gives the congregation what they want. Pandering to an audience isn't a new concept but one that is still relevant today.

We hear that young people often leave the church once they go to college or leave home. Why is this? And how should followers of Christ consider and approach this important issue?

Are you content? Being contented does not mean that you don't have ambitions or future plans, but that you are at peace with present circumstances. Why is contentment important? And why can it be so difficult for us?

In our culture of relativism and subjectivism, we are not surprised that the Word of God continues to be attacked. Even followers of Christ sometimes make their experience of God foundational over the truth of God. So why should we receive the Bible as absolute truth?

Therapy is often seen as an answer as people grapple with personal struggles and look for direction and peace. While therapy may have its place, it is essential that followers of Christ keep their eyes on Him, understanding Scripture as the source of truth and the center of gravity in their lives.

The concept of celebrity is not limited to the secular world. There are also preachers and teachers who attract followers and seem to attain a higher level of attention and respect. So why is this problematic?

How would you react to a definitive diagnosis of having only a few months to live? How would you view your life? How would you approach the future? Join John as he reflects on the experience and testimony of his older brother, George.

Statistics reveal that viewing pornography impacts the lives of many who are professing followers of Jesus Christ, including both men and women. Lust is not a new problem. What is the answer? What does Scripture say?

John serves full-time as Senior Pastor at Calvary Church in Charlotte, North Carolina. Newcomers to Calvary and listeners to The Verdict often have questions about Calvary, so today John discusses Calvary Church, its values, vision, and mission.

"Original Sin" is the title of the recent bestseller by Jake Tapper and Alex Thompson. They write in terms of an "original sin" related to politics, but there is a deeper concept of original sin that we either accept or reject based on our view of human nature. What is the evidence? What does the Bible say?

Despite all kinds of advancements, we live in an age of anxiety. There is constant discussion about the causes and the statistics, but what struggles are at the root of anxiety? And why does the Christian viewpoint make such a difference?

Simple acts of hospitality can be life-changing and opportunities for God to work in your life and the lives of others. Join John as he shares personal memories about the nature and impact of hospitality.

Do you attend church regularly? Is it a priority or an occasional option if you feel like it? Join John as he revisits the biblical purpose for the local church and how our views of church and church attendance have changed.

AI as a new technology has many applications, including as a tool in ministry. But what are the considerations for AI in preaching as pastors bring messages from God's Word? Join John as he reflects on the issues and implications.