The Pact Podcast

We reflect on Colossians 3:23, reminding ourselves to work heartily as unto the Lord, not men. We recognize that pursuing excellence means giving our best effort in family, ministry, and daily life, as if Christ Himself is watching. We know this pursuit requires hard work and dying to self, motivated by worship rather than seeking human approval. We acknowledge pitfalls like laziness, mediocrity,...

In this episode of we share about how our churches engage in summer ministries like Vacation Bible School (VBS) and youth camps, particularly at places like Jonathan Creek and Cedarmore. We describe how our students come back from camp energized and ready to serve, creating a positive cycle of involvement between youth and children’s ministries. We use trusted curricula like Answers in Genesis for...

We’ve been away for a bit due to summer activities but are glad to reconnect and continue our series on church offices—specifically elders and deacons. We’ve discussed elders as men who hold teaching and authoritative roles, but when it comes to deacons, we face some interpretive questions, especially about verse 11 in 1 Timothy 3. The passage mentions “women” and their qualifications, which some...

In this discussion, we explore what it means for deacons to “hold the mystery of the faith with a clear conscience” as outlined in 1 Timothy 3:9-10. We understand that the “mystery” refers to gospel truths once hidden but now revealed in Christ, which we must embrace firmly rather than chasing speculative or strange doctrines. We see that holding this mystery with a clear conscience means being de...

We’ve transitioned from discussing elders and pastors to examining deacons—those who serve by managing mercy ministries and meeting needs both inside and outside our church. We recognize that while every believer is called to serve, deacons have distinct qualifications and responsibilities. They are appointed by the church to ensure service happens effectively, not just to serve personally. We und...

In this episode, we explore the qualifications for elders, overseers, and pastors within the church, focusing on how we manage our own households, the importance of not being recent converts, and being well thought of by outsiders. We recognize that managing our household well isn’t about perfection but about credibility and character—if we can’t lead and maintain respect in our family, it’s hard...

In this episode, we continue our study of the qualifications for pastors and deacons from 1 Timothy 3, emphasizing qualities such as gentleness, peaceableness, and integrity. We recognize that as pastors, we are called to respond gently rather than violently, avoiding quarrels and resisting the love of money. We understand that leadership involves exercising wisdom, choosing battles carefully, and...

In our latest episode of the PACT Podcast, we explore critical aspects of church leadership, focusing specifically on the roles of pastors, overseers, and elders. We discuss the different terms used in the New Testament, such as elder and overseer, and consider whether they represent distinct offices or a single role with various titles. Throughout our conversation, we emphasize the significance o...

In our recent episode of the PACT Podcast, we explored various aspects of preaching within Christian communities, highlighting our different approaches and the theological challenges we face. We emphasize the importance of expositional preaching, where we let the scripture dictate the message rather than tailoring the text to fit our preconceived ideas. As we work through the books of John and Rom...

In our latest episode of the PACT Podcast, we delved into the concluding portion of the Beatitudes from Matthew 5, focusing on the profound subject of persecution for righteousness’ sake. We explored how this type of suffering is distinct from general hardship, emphasizing that it arises from a deep-rooted malice against our beliefs. As we examined the scripture, we came to understand that when we...

In our discussion on the Beatitudes, particularly focusing on "Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God," we explore what it means to be a peacemaker. We recognize that a peacemaker is someone who actively seeks peace in their relationships, both with others and with God. This involves maintaining harmony in our interactions and stepping in to resolve conflicts when necess...

In this episode of the PACT Podcast, we explore the concept of mercy as described in the Beatitudes, specifically Matthew 5:7, which states, "Blessed are the merciful, for they shall receive mercy." We discuss how mercy is not merely a passive act of overlooking wrongdoing but involves a balance of justice and forgiveness. We reflect on the importance of recognizing the mercy we have received from...

In this episode of The Packed Podcast, we explore the Be Attitude "Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be satisfied." We discuss the significance of hungering and thirsting for righteousness, emphasizing that it reflects a deep, single-minded pursuit of God's righteousness. We recognize that true satisfaction comes not from our own efforts but from our relatio...

In the Packed Podcast, we explore the concepts of meekness and gentleness as taught by Jesus, particularly in the context of the Sermon on the Mount. We discuss how these qualities are often misunderstood in our culture, where being assertive and self-promoting is valued. We define meekness as a form of restrained power and confidence, emphasizing that it is not weakness but rather a deliberate ch...

In this episode of The PACT podcast, we explore the complexities of Christian living and discipleship, particularly focusing on the Beatitudes from the Sermon on the Mount. We discuss the paradox of mourning and happiness, emphasizing that while mourning reflects the brokenness of the world due to sin, it also leads to comfort through our relationship with God. We recognize that our mourning is no...

In this episode of the PACT podcast, we continue our exploration of the Beatitudes, focusing on the first one: "Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven." We discuss the significance of being poor in spirit, emphasizing that it reflects a proper understanding of our spiritual state before God, recognizing our need for His grace rather than relying on our own merits. We a...

In this episode of the PACT Podcast, we return after a two and a half month hiatus to discuss the challenges and lessons learned from suffering, specifically through the lens of Cody's experience with shingles. We explore the significance of prayer, accountability, and community support during difficult times. Cody shares his personal journey of dealing with intense pain and sensitivity, and how t...

In this episode of the PACT podcast, we dive into the Beatitudes from Matthew chapter 5, exploring the profound teachings of Jesus during the Sermon on the Mount. We discuss what it means to be 'blessed' in the context of the Kingdom of God, contrasting it with worldly perspectives on happiness and prosperity. We also share practical advice for those seeking to align their hearts with these biblic...

In this episode of the Pact Podcast, we delve into the pressing issue of natural disasters, particularly in light of recent events like Hurricane Helene and the ongoing challenges faced by communities affected by such calamities. We explore the question of why these disasters occur, examining both secular and Christian perspectives on the matter. We discuss the implications of stewardship of our e...

In this special episode, we celebrate Pastor Appreciation Month by reflecting on the impact that faithful pastors have had in our lives. We share personal stories and express gratitude for the men who have guided us in our Christian journey, from local pastors to influential figures in church history. Join us as we discuss the qualities we admire in these leaders and explore meaningful ways to sho...

In this episode of the PACT Podcast, we dive into the topic of conflict within the Christian community. We explore the various categories of conflict that can arise in the local church, including theological, methodological, and personality issues. We discuss the importance of diagnosing the root of conflicts and emphasize the need for open and honest conversations to address disagreements. Our co...

n this episode of the Pact Podcast, we conclude our series on the 10 Commandments by diving into the final commandment: "You shall not covet your neighbor's house, wife, or anything that belongs to your neighbor." We explore the nature of coveting, discussing how it can manifest in our lives and the impact it has on our relationships and contentment. We reflect on the importance of being content i...

In this episode of the PACT podcast, we continue our series on the Ten Commandments by diving into the commandment "You Shall Not Bear False Witness Against Your Neighbor." We explore the meaning of this commandment, what it forbids, and its positive implications for our lives. We discuss the importance of truthfulness in our communication, the dangers of gossip and slander, and the significance o...

In this episode of the PACT podcast, we continue our series on the Ten Commandments, focusing on the eighth commandment: "Thou shalt not steal." We explore the meaning behind this command, discussing the importance of not taking what doesn't belong to us and the intent behind our actions. We also delve into the implied positive command of stewardship and hard work, emphasizing how God created us t...

In this episode of the PACT podcast, we continue our series on the Ten Commandments by diving into the Seventh Commandment: You Shall Not Commit Adultery. We explore the meaning of adultery, emphasizing the importance of consensual relationships and the sacred covenant of marriage designed by God. We discuss practical steps for couples to maintain transparency and trust, including the use of techn...