God Has Spoken

In this episode we finish our 4 part series from the sermon on the Mount found in Matthew 5-7. In this final section we hear Jesus admonish us to make a choice. Will we choose to listen to him and follow what he says, or will we be like a fool who hears him, but disregards everything he has said? How can I be better about following through with the teachings of Jesus even when they are hard to app...

In this episode we continue our 4 part series from the Sermon on the Mount found in Matthew 5-7. Specifically found in chapter 6, we see Jesus address a series of 3 areas where we will be tempted to make our religious service more about ourselves rather than about God. And not only that, Jesus warns us about what life is like when we begin seeking treasures here on earth, rather than in heaven. Ho...

In this episode we continue our 4 part series from the Sermon on the Mount found in Matthew 5-7. In the section we are looking at we hear Jesus call his listeners to a higher standard of living. Not just in our actions, but also in our hearts. Does my righteousness look the way Jesus describes it? Or does it look like the scribes and Pharisees of his day? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for...

In this episode we begin a 4 part series from the Sermon on the Mount found in Matthew 5-7. While exploring the opening 16 verses of Jesus’ sermon, we learn that he is looking for a specific kind of person to follow him. In order to be a part of Jesus’ kingdom, there are certain qualities a person ought to be striving for. How can I begin to emulate these characteristics in my day to day life? Hos...

In this episode we are in the book of Ezra, specifically chapters 7-8. In this part of Israel’s history they are working to rebuild the temple in Jerusalem, and at every turn Ezra recognizes how much God’s hand has been on them. How good are we about acknowledging when God’s hand has been with us, but not only that, giving him the glory he deserves when he does intervene in our lives? Hosted on Ac...

In this episode we will be in Psalm 44. In this psalm from the sons of Korah we learn that there really isn’t anything we cannot talk to God about in prayer. However, how often are we shallow in our prayers and reserve our real questions and concerns when we are talking to God? How can I be better about opening my heart to God and accepting his answers even when it isn’t what I want to hear? Hoste...

In this episode we will be in a minor prophet book of the Bible: Habakkuk. In this 3 chapter book an important question is raised God’s direction: Why do bad things happen in this world? But more specifically, to God’s chosen people. How does God answer a question like that? And how should I respond when he gives me an answer to difficult questions like this? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy...

In this episode we will be in Luke 10. Specifically looking at Jesus’ well known parable about the good Samaritan. With well known stories, the surrounding context is often forgotten. But what happens before and after Jesus tells this story helps us understand why this parable is so important for us. How can I prove to be a neighbor? And how can I have a heart that wants to please God even when ot...

In this episode we will be in 2 Kings 23. In this chapter we learn about King Josiah’s determination to rid the idols and other blatant errors out of the Lord’s land. What does it take for us to do the same thing? And how can we learn to be bold enough to stand up for truth in the face of so many who will ridicule us for wanting to serve God rather than the idols that surround us? Hosted on Acast....

In this episode we are discussing a common issue surrounding what books should or should not be included in the Bible. While it is undeniable that there is a quotation from the “Book of Enoch” found in the New Testament book of Jude, does this have to mean that the Book of Enoch is also inspired and therefore should be included in the Bible? Or is there another way of looking at this? Hosted on Ac...

In this episode we will be in Psalm 73. This psalm written by Asaph brings out a question many of us have asked at some point or another: How is it that the wicked prosper when they are clearly doing what displeases the Lord? The psalmist will strive to answer that question, and in turn, we find some tremendous clarity when we consider his answer.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for m...

In this episode we are going to be in Colossians 2. In this chapter Paul makes us think through how to deal with arguments that may sound reasonable, but are not grounded in the truth. When we are faced with similar teachings, we also are easily tempted to be swayed by how good the arguments sound. But how can we be better about filtering out the false teaching, and sticking to what we know God ha...

In this episode we are taking a look at various passages that help us wrap our head around what the purpose of preaching is, and what the motives behind it should be. In today’s culture men and women are looking to serve up the gospel in appealing ways, sometimes even to the detriment of the truth itself. But what was God’s intent for those who spoke His Word? And what should be the motivation for...

In this episode we are looking deeper at a well known story where a widow gives her only 2 pennies to the temple treasury. This story is often cited to encourage giving out of poverty and how Jesus commends actions like this. However, is it possible when considering the surrounding context that this story serves a different purpose? And is it possible that when we isolate stories and passages, tha...

In this episode we are looking at a powerful prayer found in the book of Ezra. When it comes to our own prayers we struggle to be as open-hearted and honest with God as we should be. However in this prayer, Ezra shows us that when it comes to confession we ought to be willing to pour out our heart and deepest regrets to God. How can I be better about heart-felt prayer? Hosted on Acast. See acast.c...

In this episode we are discussing how can we know which books belong in the Bible? Is it possible that there are other books than the 66 we believe make up our Bibles? And what about all of these other gospels that people say contradict what we find in Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John. Is there any validity to them, and how do we figure it all out? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more info...

In this episode we are talking about the New Testament’s teaching concerning meat sacrificed to idols. Many believe Paul is arguing that this is permissible, however, other parts of the New Testament make it clear that it is condemned. What did Paul mean when he talked about this in 1 Corinthians? Is Paul mistaken? Or are we not seeing his full argument in the grand scope of 1 Corinthians? Hosted...

In this episode we are talking about the unique roles and responsibilities of Jesus’s collective church, and the work an individual does. Should and can such a distinction be made in the Scriptures? And if there is a difference, what thing should the church not be involved in that an individual should be involved in? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode we are looking at the Book of Job. In this 42 long chapter book, we learn about a man who has nearly everything taken away from him by Satan. Despite his suffering, Job maintains his integrity. Even in the face of some unhelpful friends named Eliphaz, Bildad, and Zophar. Although this book is found in the pages of the Old Testament, we are able to see glimpses of Jesus throughout i...

In this episode we are talking about 70 people that Jesus sent out to preach his gospel. These groups of men were given authority by Jesus to go out and not only preach, but also to cast out demons. Upon their return, Jesus will discuss what impact their preaching had on Satan, and proceeds to give glory to God. Do we understand the impact our preaching has today, and do we have attitudes that wil...

In this episode we are taking a look at the encounters Jesus had with the religious teachers of his day. At some points they try to trap him with his words, other times they will pick up stones to stone him, and eventually, they will have him killed. What lessons are there to learn from watching Jesus interact with these teachers? And what should teachers do today to be more like Jesus, and less l...

In this episode we are looking at the standard Jesus expects from those who will be teachers of God’s word. Am I someone who hears what Jesus says, talks about it to others, but won’t put it into practice? And what will happen to someone who does hear Jesus’ words but is not proactive in applying His teaching? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode we are talking about heaven. In many of our minds if we are not careful we have a far too materialistic view of what heaven is, instead of focusing on who is there. What does scripture actually emphasize about heaven? And what can I do to shape my mind in regard to the reality of what heaven will be? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode we will be in 1 Kings 14. In this chapter king jeroboam has sick son named Abijah. As Jeroboam seeks some answers concerning the fate of his son, we get a look into his attitude towards God and what he expects. What is my attitude toward God in times of crisis? And how do I learn to accept what God’s will is? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode we are looking at several different passages in the book of Proverbs. This book and its collection of wise sayings covers a very broad spectrum of topics and situations that we find ourselves in. What is the writers advice to me? And how can I begin to apply this knowledge in my life? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.