God Stuff: Recent Episodes
Bill Giovannetti
Practicing your faith isn't always easy these days, and making sense of the Bible can feel like rocket science. Veteran professor, pastor, and author Bill Giovannetti blows the cobwebs off the Bible, punches legalism in the gut, and kicks biblical illiteracy in the face as he explores important truths of faith and life. Whether you're a Bible-study rookie or seasoned pro, Bill and his guests will make you laugh, think, and maybe even shout at your smartphone as they smash your misconceptions about God, and unfold God-Stuff you might have never seen before.
Today marks a pivotal point for the God Stuff podcast as we reach Episode 165. Yes, dear friends, this is our final episode. This decision wasn't made lightly; it's the culmination of deep reflection and consideration of the best way to invest my time. Despite the twinge of sadness, there is also a sense of relief and peace.
The journey of the God Stuff podcast has been unforgettable, going bigger, better, and deeper in our understanding of Christ, Scripture, and our bond with God.
While this chapter closes, our shared journey doesn't end here. You can still be part of the spiritual journey on YouTube (youtube.com/PathwayChurchRedding) where my preaching continues, and at the Veritas School where I teach regularly. Let's continue to delve into the truth together.
Remember, keep the Word of God at the center of your life. Hold the gospel close to your heart, and let its truth guide you beyond emotions, cultural dictates, and anything else that may divert your path.
I can't express how grateful I am for each of you, your support, your kind words, and your shared faith. As we wrap up the God Stuff podcast, I want to encourage you to stay in touch. Your journey is my journey, and my ministry continues. So, here's to the love and wisdom we've shared and to the exciting road ahead.
Stay blessed, stay inspired, and continue living our faith to the fullest. God Bless!
About Our Host:
Bill Giovannetti is the Senior Pastor at Pathway Church, Redding, California — an experienced senior pastor with a demonstrated history of working in the religious institutions’ industry. He also teaches ministry-related college classes at Simpson University and the A. W. Tozer Theological Seminary. Bill has always had a passion to bring the deep things of God’s word to the everyday people of God.
Connect with Bill Giovannetti:
● Visit the website: https://www.veritasschool.life/
● Subscribe to the podcast: https://maxgrace.com/category/podcasts/
● Follow Bill on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bill.giovannetti
● Follow Bill on Twitter: https://twitter.com/BillGiovannetti
● Follow Bill on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/billgiovannetti/
Thanks for tuning in! Please don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe!
In Episode 164, we continue with part two of my sermon from a year ago at Pathway Church. We believe that this message holds the key to unlocking new levels of faith, inspiration, and personal growth. Let us delve into the depths of faith and encounter the transformative power of the Holy Spirit.
This is a season of divine connection, where miracles unfold and lives are forever changed. Let the timeless wisdom from the Book of Acts guide us on this incredible path. Discover the joy, the passion, and the boundless love that come with living a Pentecostal life. Together, we will ignite a flame that cannot be extinguished!
Tune in now, and let’s go bigger, better, and deeper!
If you enjoy this episode, please subscribe to the God Stuff Podcast, so you're always the first to know when a new episode is released.
Episode Timestamps:
00:00 - Intro
02:54 - Modern Version of Speaking in Tongues
05:39 - The Origin of Speaking in Tongues
08:28 - Biblical Christianity and Supernaturalism
12:22 - Six Lessons from Joel
16:21 - Clear Revelation of the Word of God
20:55 - The Day of the Pentecost
23:52 - The Psalms of David
27:58 - Seeing is Believing
29:55 - Let’s be Pentecostal
33:16 - Closing Prayer
Biblical References:
- Acts 2
- Acts 2:1-4
- Acts 2:5
- John 20
- John 20:26-28
- Acts 2:7,11
- Acts 12:12
- Acts 2:14
- John 15:26
- Acts 2:22
- Acts 2:25
- Acts 2:37
- John 20:29
About Our Host:
Bill Giovannetti is the Senior Pastor at Pathway Church, Redding, California — an experienced senior pastor with a demonstrated history of working in the religious institutions’ industry. He also teaches ministry-related college classes at Simpson University and the A. W. Tozer Theological Seminary. Bill has always had a passion to bring the deep things of God’s word to the everyday people of God.
Resources:
Veritas School Online Theological School
https://www.veritasschool.life/
Connect with Bill Giovannetti:
● Visit the website: https://www.veritasschool.life/
● Subscribe to the podcast: https://maxgrace.com/category/podcasts/
● Follow Bill on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bill.giovannetti
● Follow Bill on Twitter: https://twitter.com/BillGiovannetti
● Follow Bill on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/billgiovannetti/
Thanks for tuning in! Please don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe!
In Episode 163, we embark on a deeper journey with God as we revisit part one of my previous sermon at Pathway church. Drawing inspiration from the Book of Acts and the teachings at Pathway Church, this exploration dives into the profound essence of Acts Chapter 2.
We'll reflect on the day of Pentecost, the divine outpouring of the Holy Spirit, and the captivating mystery of speaking in tongues. This exploration isn't about confining ourselves to labels or doctrines, but about opening our hearts to experience the transformative power of the Holy Spirit in our lives.
Tune in now, and let’s go bigger, better, and deeper!
If you enjoy this episode, please subscribe to the God Stuff Podcast, so you're always the first to know when a new episode is released.
Episode Timestamps:
00:00 - Intro
03:40 - The Feast of Pentecost
07:37 - The Ascension of Christ
09:17 - The Sound of Mighty Rushing Wind
13:28 - The Supernatural Ability of the People of God
18:22 - All Capital Letters
21:02 - Passage from the Old Testament
25:59 - Fellowship and Friendship with God
28:51 - Proving the Truth of God
33:48 - The Work of Redemption
39:09 - Closing Prayer
Biblical References:
- Acts 2:1-13
- Acts 2:14-36
- Acts 1:4-5
- Acts 2:14-15
- Acts 2:16-21
- Acts 2:22-28
- Acts 2:29-36
- John 14:17
- John 7:39
About Our Host:
Bill Giovannetti is the Senior Pastor at Pathway Church, Redding, California — an experienced senior pastor with a demonstrated history of working in the religious institutions’ industry. He also teaches ministry-related college classes at Simpson University and the A. W. Tozer Theological Seminary. Bill has always had a passion to bring the deep things of God’s word to the everyday people of God.
Resources:
Veritas School Online Theological School
https://www.veritasschool.life/
Connect with Bill Giovannetti:
● Visit the website: https://www.veritasschool.life/
● Subscribe to the podcast: https://maxgrace.com/category/podcasts/
● Follow Bill on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bill.giovannetti
● Follow Bill on Twitter: https://twitter.com/BillGiovannetti
● Follow Bill on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/billgiovannetti/
Thanks for tuning in! Please don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe!
In Episode 162, we revisit another special sermon I preached last January of this year where we talked about Christian incomplete and the shield of faith. Faith, in its essence, is about trust, belief, and confidence - not just in a higher power, but also in ourselves and the journey we're on.
Like a shield in battle, faith can help us deflect the arrows of despair and defeat. It fuels resilience, cultivates strength, and inspires us to rise above obstacles. So, ready to lift up your shield of faith today? Remember, you're stronger than you think, and with faith, nothing is impossible.
Tune in now, and let’s go bigger, better, and deeper!
If you enjoy this episode, please subscribe to the God Stuff Podcast, so you're always the first to know when a new episode is released.
Episode Timestamps:
00:00 - Intro
02:28 - Shield of Faith
05:05 - Instructions of God
08:14 - Shield of Faith
10:18 - Soldier in a Fierce Battle
11:04 - What isFaith
12:28 - Symbols of Arrows
13:08 - Anatomy of Faith
14:51 - Strategy of satan
17:19 - Faith is only as good as its object
19:44 - Chair Illustration
23:36 - Definition of Saving Faith
26:13 - Fiery Darts/Satan's Fault
31:55 - Situational Faith
33:01 - Saviour Faith
34:58 - Closing Prayer
Biblical References:
- Ephesians 6:16
- Book of Numbers
- Numbers 21:6
- Numbers 21:9
- Isaiah 45:22
- Galatians 2:16
- Romans 4:16
- John 14:6
- John 19:30
- Hebrew 12:1-2
About Our Host:
Bill Giovannetti is the Senior Pastor at Pathway Church, Redding, California — an experienced senior pastor with a demonstrated history of working in the religious institutions’ industry. He also teaches ministry-related college classes at Simpson University and the A. W. Tozer Theological Seminary. Bill has always had a passion to bring the deep things of God’s word to the everyday people of God.
Resources:
Veritas School Online Theological School
https://www.veritasschool.life/
Connect with Bill Giovannetti:
● Visit the website: https://www.veritasschool.life/
● Subscribe to the podcast: https://maxgrace.com/category/podcasts/
● Follow Bill on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bill.giovannetti
● Follow Bill on Twitter: https://twitter.com/BillGiovannetti
● Follow Bill on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/billgiovannetti/
Thanks for tuning in! Please don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe!
In Episode 161, we revisit a special sermon I preached a few weeks ago. Prepare to dive into divine wisdom as we bring the profound parables of the hidden treasure and the Pearl of Great Price to life, told by none other than Jesus himself.
We also shed light on the surprising and beautiful facets of John's identity, a revelation that promises to add another layer of understanding to our religious discourse. Let us delve into the surprising yet wonderful aspects of John's identity - a revelation you won't want to miss.
Tune in now, and let’s go bigger, better, and deeper!
If you enjoy this episode, please subscribe to the God Stuff Podcast, so you're always the first to know when a new episode is released.
Episode Timestamps:
00:00 - Intro
02:23 - Mothers as Unsung Heroes
04:34 - The Parable of the Pearl of the Great Price
08:45 - The Work of God in the Last Supper
11:05 - What it Means to Be a Good Christian
13:45 - How some Followers Define Normal and Attack Identity
15:38 - The Death of Jesus on the Cross
17:52 - Disciple John
20:27 - What do the Voices in our Head say about God's love?
24:53 - The Missing Piece that Sends Us into a Dark Place
27:17 - The Price that Jesus Paid
30:01 - Jesus Still seeks us
32:54 - Closing Prayer
Biblical References:
- Matthew 13:44-46
- John 13:23
- John 19:26
- John 20:22
- Romans 8:1
- John 21:7
- John 21:20
- Isaiah 49:15-16
About Our Host:
Bill Giovannetti is the Senior Pastor at Pathway Church, Redding, California — an experienced senior pastor with a demonstrated history of working in the religious institutions’ industry. He also teaches ministry-related college classes at Simpson University and the A. W. Tozer Theological Seminary. Bill has always had a passion to bring the deep things of God’s word to the everyday people of God.
Resources:
Veritas School Online Theological School
https://www.veritasschool.life/
Connect with Bill Giovannetti:
● Visit the website: https://www.veritasschool.life/
● Subscribe to the podcast: https://maxgrace.com/category/podcasts/
● Follow Bill on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bill.giovannetti
● Follow Bill on Twitter: https://twitter.com/BillGiovannetti
● Follow Bill on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/billgiovannetti/
Thanks for tuning in! Please don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe!
In Episode 160, we explore Lance Latham's insights on grace, we'll celebrate his life and deepen our own spiritual understanding. I;m excited to dive into the profound depths of the Gospel of Grace. Though this divine message of love originates from Christ, it's been passionately interpreted by countless voices throughout history.
One such voice was the incomparable Lance B. Latham, a mentor whose impact I still cherish every day. Known affectionately as Doc Latham, he wore many hats: a pastor, a worship leader, an evangelist, and a Bible teacher. His remarkable legacy lives on through the Awana Youth Association he founded.
Tune in now, and let’s go bigger, better, and deeper!
If you enjoy this episode, please subscribe to the God Stuff Podcast, so you're always the first to know when a new episode is released.
Episode Timestamps:
00:00 - Intro
05:20 - Lance Latham's impact and personal connection
08:05 - Bible Memory and Lance Latham's Impact on Awana Youth Association
09:54 - Lance Latham’s Biography and Contributions to Children's Ministry
13:15 - Incorrect ways of presenting the gospel according to Lance Latham
17:52 - The Inadequacy of "Believe in Jesus" without the Complete Gospel
22:09 - Distinguishing Jesus as Lord and Life-Long Obedience
25:26 - Conclusion and reflections on Lance Latham's teachings
Biblical References:
- 2 Corinthians 14
- Romans 1:18
- Romans 3:20
- Romans 3:18
- Luke 18:13
- Romans 3:19-28
- Romans 3:25
- Hebrews 6:18
- Romans 12:1
- 1 Corinthians 13
- John 8:24
- Romans 10:9
About Our Host:
Bill Giovannetti is the Senior Pastor at Pathway Church, Redding, California — an experienced senior pastor with a demonstrated history of working in the religious institutions’ industry. He also teaches ministry-related college classes at Simpson University and the A. W. Tozer Theological Seminary. Bill has always had a passion to bring the deep things of God’s word to the everyday people of God.
Resources:
Veritas School Online Theological School
https://www.veritasschool.life/
Lance A Testament of Grace: The Inspiring Story of a Man and His Message Lance B. Latham, President, Awana Youth Association
https://www.amazon.com/Lance-Testament-Grace-Inspiring-Association/dp/B0006YL5G8
Connect with Bill Giovannetti:
● Visit the website: https://www.veritasschool.life/
● Subscribe to the podcast: https://maxgrace.com/category/podcasts/
● Follow Bill on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bill.giovannetti
● Follow Bill on Twitter: https://twitter.com/BillGiovannetti
● Follow Bill on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/billgiovannetti/
Thanks for tuning in! Please don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe!
In Episode 159, we talk about the ten things you should avoid saying to your pastor. With a touch of humor and kindness, we are reminded that pastors are humans too, with vulnerabilities and insecurities. Understanding this is crucial to building stronger relationships within our faith communities.
From questioning sermon similarities to comparing churches and asking about specific ministries, we are encouraged to appreciate the unique elements present in every sermon, recognize the distinctiveness of our churches, and understand the limitations faced by each congregation.
Tune in now, and let’s go bigger, better, and deeper!
If you enjoy this episode, please subscribe to the God Stuff Podcast, so you're always the first to know when a new episode is released.
Episode Timestamps:
00:00 - Intro
02:52 - Question #1: Preaching the same Sermon
05:12 - Question #2: Comparing Another Church to Pathway Church
08:43 - Question #3: Why Pathway Church Doesn't Have a Ministry for [Blank]
13:22 - Question #4: Why Was [Blank] Not Addressed in Sermon
16:28 - Question #5: Asking for Directions
17:13 - Question #6: Asking for a Schedule
17:44 - Question #7: Sparing time for a "Quick Question"
20:28 - Question #8: Finding a Sermon Recording
21:13 - Question #9: For Men, No Conversation in the Bathroom
21:27 - Final Thoughts
24:14 - Outro
Biblical References:
- Hebrews 13:7
About Our Host:
Bill Giovannetti is the Senior Pastor at Pathway Church, Redding, California — an experienced senior pastor with a demonstrated history of working in the religious institutions’ industry. He also teaches ministry-related college classes at Simpson University and the A. W. Tozer Theological Seminary. Bill has always had a passion to bring the deep things of God’s word to the everyday people of God.
Resources:
Veritas School Online Theological School
https://www.veritasschool.life/
Connect with Bill Giovannetti:
● Visit the website: https://www.veritasschool.life/
● Subscribe to the podcast: https://maxgrace.com/category/podcasts/
● Follow Bill on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bill.giovannetti
● Follow Bill on Twitter: https://twitter.com/BillGiovannetti
● Follow Bill on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/billgiovannetti/
Thanks for tuning in! Please don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe!
In Episode 158, we talk about the central aspect of the Christian life - Love. Have you ever struggled with loving someone who is hard to love or someone who has hurt you? It's not an easy topic but crucial to our growth as believers. Let's delve deeper into what it truly means to love others, even those who have caused us pain.
Some may argue that certain people are unworthy of our love, but as Christians, we are called to love everyone. So, what do we do when we encounter dangerous individuals or those who have hurt us? Let's explore biblical teaching and gain clarity on this complex subject.
Tune in now, and let’s go bigger, better, and deeper!
If you enjoy this episode, please subscribe to the God Stuff Podcast, so you're always the first to know when a new episode is released.
Episode Timestamps:
00:00 - Intro
02:58 - The 2 Kinds of Love
05:06 - "Can it be Love if I Don't Feel Anything?"
08:26 - "Do I Have to Love Someone Who Hurt Me?"
12:23 - Final Thoughts
14:04 - Outro
Biblical References:
- 1 Timothy 1:5
- Romans 13:8-10
- Luke 6:35
- Proverbs 22:24
- Proverbs 21:19
- 1 Corinthians 13:11
About Our Host:
Bill Giovannetti is the Senior Pastor at Pathway Church, Redding, California — an experienced senior pastor with a demonstrated history of working in the religious institutions’ industry. He also teaches ministry-related college classes at Simpson University and the A. W. Tozer Theological Seminary. Bill has always had a passion to bring the deep things of God’s word to the everyday people of God.
Resources:
Veritas School Online Theological School
https://www.veritasschool.life/
Connect with Bill Giovannetti:
● Visit the website: https://www.veritasschool.life/
● Subscribe to the podcast: https://maxgrace.com/category/podcasts/
● Follow Bill on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bill.giovannetti
● Follow Bill on Twitter: https://twitter.com/BillGiovannetti
● Follow Bill on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/billgiovannetti/
Thanks for tuning in! Please don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe!
In Episode 157, we dive into the exciting world of grammar and explore the subjective genitive - a grammatical term that comes into play in a pretty common Bible verse. In fact, I preached about it in my recent sermon at Pathway Church.
The sermon was part 17 in our series on ‘The Christian in Complete Armor’, where we discussed 2 Corinthians 10, the weapons of our warfare, and how the genitive comes into play. But why is this important for preachers and Bible teachers to understand?
Tune in now, and let’s go bigger, better, and deeper!
If you enjoy this episode, please subscribe to the God Stuff Podcast, so you're always the first to know when a new episode is released.
Episode Timestamps:
00:00 - Intro
04:26 - What 2 Corinthians 10:4 is Saying to Us
06:50 - The Genitive Construction: Understanding the Obedience of Christ
09:45 - 2 Corinthians 10:5 in Different Version
14:28 - Syntax of New Testament Greek
16:53 - Michael Kibbe's Article
25:37 - Outro
Biblical References:
- 2 Corinthians 10:4
- 2 Corinthians 10:5
- Roman 5:19
- Hebrews 5:8
- Philippians 2:8
- Romans 5:18
About Our Host:
Bill Giovannetti is the Senior Pastor at Pathway Church, Redding, California — an experienced senior pastor with a demonstrated history of working in the religious institutions’ industry. He also teaches ministry-related college classes at Simpson University and the A. W. Tozer Theological Seminary. Bill has always had a passion to bring the deep things of God’s word to the everyday people of God.
Resources:
Veritas School Online Theological School
https://www.veritasschool.life/
Syntax of New Testament Greek by James A. Brooks, Carlton L. Winbery
https://www.amazon.com/Syntax-Testament-Greek-James-Brooks/dp/0819104736
Connect with Bill Giovannetti:
● Visit the website: https://www.veritasschool.life/
● Subscribe to the podcast: https://maxgrace.com/category/podcasts/
● Follow Bill on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bill.giovannetti
● Follow Bill on Twitter: https://twitter.com/BillGiovannetti
● Follow Bill on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/billgiovannetti/
Thanks for tuning in! Please don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe!
In Episode 156, we continue the remarkable tale of George Grenfell. If you haven't listened to the previous episode, you must start there before you jump into this one. George's journey takes us back to mid-1800s Africa when missionaries brought the gospel to an unknown continent. David Livingston created the only map available, and George set out to explore uncharted territories.
We knew how he prayed for a boat, and the Lord provided a steamship, which they assembled in London and tested on the Thames River. We continue with the incredible journey of how they dismantled the steamship, boxed it up meticulously, and shipped it back to Africa in over a thousand boxes. But that's just the beginning of this awe-inspiring story. Get ready to be humbled, inspired, and fired up.
Tune in now, and let’s go bigger, better, and deeper!
If you enjoy this episode, please subscribe to the God Stuff Podcast, so you're always the first to know when a new episode is released.
Episode Timestamps:
00:00 - Intro
05:10 - Episode 155 Recap
07:35 - The Second Phase of Grenfell's Missionary Service
09:08 - Grenfell's Letter: Not Fitting with Other Missionary
11:32 - Myth of Happy and Peaceful Primitive Tribes
12:37 - Grenfell's Resiliency and Trip to England
13:47 - Grenfell's Spiritual Success
15:35 - Grenfell's Coming Home
16:20 - Grenfell's Peaceful Passing
About Our Host:
Bill Giovannetti is the Senior Pastor at Pathway Church, Redding, California — an experienced senior pastor with a demonstrated history of working in the religious institutions’ industry. He also teaches ministry-related college classes at Simpson University and the A. W. Tozer Theological Seminary. Bill has always had a passion to bring the deep things of God’s word to the everyday people of God.
Resources:
Veritas School Online Theological School
https://www.veritasschool.life/
Giants of the Missionary Trail by Eugene Myers Harrison (2010 Edition)
https://www.amazon.com/Giants-Missionary-Trail-Eugene-Harrison/dp/0982910576
The Life of George Grenfell Congo Missionary and Explorer | George Hawker
https://www.amazon.com/life-George-Grenfell-missionary-explorer/dp/B00085M0OQ
Connect with Bill Giovannetti:
● Visit the website: https://www.veritasschool.life/
● Subscribe to the podcast: https://maxgrace.com/category/podcasts/
● Follow Bill on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bill.giovannetti
● Follow Bill on Twitter: https://twitter.com/BillGiovannetti
● Follow Bill on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/billgiovannetti/
Thanks for tuning in! Please don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe!
In Episode 155, we discuss someone who has influenced me greatly. Have you ever heard the saying, "If you really want to fire up your Christian walk, read Christian biography of great Christian heroes of the past"? That's just what I did, and it led me to the extraordinary story of George Grenfell.
George Grenfell's story intrigued me in Giants of the Missionary Trail, so I searched for his comprehensive biography. This book has magnificent photos of his work in Africa and is over a century old. I've lectured on him, and his narrative still resonates today. George Grenfell pioneered Africa's interior when few knew about it. His dedication to spreading the Gospel and helping the needy is admirable.
Tune in now, and let’s go bigger, better, and deeper!
If you enjoy this episode, please subscribe to the God Stuff Podcast, so you're always the first to know when a new episode is released.
Episode Timestamps:
00:00 - Intro
07:18 - Quick Overview of George Grenfell's Life
10:09 - Grenfell's Preparation for Missionary Work
11:36 - A Journey to Africa with Alfred Sacre
12:23 - Grenfell Establishes Churches and Missionary Outposts
13:11 - The First Phase: Grenfell First Stepped Foot in Africa
14:02 - Grenfell's Expeditions
15:08 - Grenfell Preaches the Gospel Despite Cannibalism
16:04 - Grenfell's Lifelong Love
17:03 - The Birth of BMS Peace
21:19 - Landing in Africa
23:35 - Grenfell's Remarkable Tale of Resilience
24:37 - Outro
About Our Host:
Bill Giovannetti is the Senior Pastor at Pathway Church, Redding, California — an experienced senior pastor with a demonstrated history of working in the religious institutions’ industry. He also teaches ministry-related college classes at Simpson University and the A. W. Tozer Theological Seminary. Bill has always had a passion to bring the deep things of God’s word to the everyday people of God.
Resources:
Veritas School Online Theological School
https://www.veritasschool.life/
Giants of the Missionary Trail by Eugene Myers Harrison (2010 Edition)
https://www.amazon.com/Giants-Missionary-Trail-Eugene-Harrison/dp/0982910576
The Life of George Grenfell Congo Missionary and Explorer | George Hawker
https://www.amazon.com/life-George-Grenfell-missionary-explorer/dp/B00085M0OQ
Connect with Bill Giovannetti:
● Visit the website: https://www.veritasschool.life/
● Subscribe to the podcast: https://maxgrace.com/category/podcasts/
● Follow Bill on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bill.giovannetti
● Follow Bill on Twitter: https://twitter.com/BillGiovannetti
● Follow Bill on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/billgiovannetti/
Thanks for tuning in! Please don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe!
Episode 154 explores a fascinating topic - a pastor chatting theology with Artificial Intelligence. I recently did a webinar for our students at Veritas School and discussed different doctrines of theology with an AI called Chat GPT. With an explosion in artificial intelligence, Chat GPT is an amazing tool that can provide answers to questions and even write sermons!
Although the transformer is not Christian, it can provide surprisingly good theological answers if you ask the right questions. Be amazed at some of the theological answers we got, and maybe even learn something new. Find out more about this explosive technology and how it can revolutionize how we think about church preaching.
Tune in now, and let’s go bigger, better, and deeper!
If you enjoy this episode, please subscribe to the God Stuff Podcast, so you're always the first to know when a new episode is released.
Episode Timestamps:
00:00 - Intro
04:19 - What is ChatGPT?
06:17 - ChatGPT Writes and Essay on Demon Possession from the Bible
08:32 - ChatGPT Creates a Sermon Outline for a Sermon Demon Possession
10:04 - ChatGPT Writes the First 500 Words of my Sermon
13:08 - Is there any way to force Two-sided Sources?
14:59 - Who is Jesus for ChatGPT
16:36 - ChatGPT on What is Justification by Faith
17:43 - ChatGPT's Short Definition of the Doctrine of Propitiation
19:10 - ChatGPT Explains Ephesians 6:15 in Detail
21:13 - ChatGPT Explains Greek Word 'hetoimasia'
22:13 - Chat GPT's Comment on the Active and Passive Senses of the Word hetoimasia
23:53 - Where Does ChatGPT get Information to all Questions
24:54 - ChatGPT on What is Truth
25:43 - ChatGPT on Biblical and Christian Truth
26:05 - ChatGPT on Biblical and Christian Concept of Truth
27:43 - ChatGPT on Theistic Correspondence Theory of Truth
29:03 - Rewrite that Definition for an 8-year-old.
31:55 - Does ChatGPT Saved?
32:47 - ChatGPT on Becoming Sentient
33:29 - ChatGPT on Catholics Salvation
34:23 - What are the Eschatological Implications of ChatGPT?
34:45 - Will ChatGPT Help the Antichrist when He Appears
35:03 - ChatGPT's Moral Limitation Based on
35:32 - Were there Christians in ChatGPT's Team?
36:46 - What must a person do to be Saved?
38:07 - ChatGPT's Theological Explanation of Grace
38:42 - What Happens to a Person who Doesn't Receive Jesus as their Savior?
39:53 - Is God Real for ChatGPT?
40:19 - ChatGPT Conclusion
40:50 - Who was Paul Rader?
46:41 - John 3:16 in Different Languages
47:14 - ChatGPT Summarizes my book: Grace Intervention
47:38 - Final Thoughts
49:12 - Outro
Biblical References:
- Ephesians 6:17
- Ephesians 2:8-9
- John 14:6
About Our Host:
Bill Giovannetti is the Senior Pastor at Pathway Church, Redding, California — an experienced senior pastor with a demonstrated history of working in the religious institutions’ industry. He also teaches ministry-related college classes at Simpson University and the A. W. Tozer Theological Seminary. Bill has always had a passion to bring the deep things of God’s word to the everyday people of God.
Resources:
Veritas School Online Theological School
https://www.veritasschool.life/
Connect with Bill Giovannetti:
● Visit the website: https://www.veritasschool.life/
● Subscribe to the podcast: https://maxgrace.com/category/podcasts/
● Follow Bill on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bill.giovannetti
● Follow Bill on Twitter: https://twitter.com/BillGiovannetti
● Follow Bill on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/billgiovannetti/
Thanks for tuning in! Please don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe!
We’re bringing one more episode on Revival today in Episode 153. We've been hearing incredible stories of transformation and the powerful movements of God. We've got an incredible story to share about Moody's experience including R.A. Torrey's description of his powerful experience.
Revival can sometimes be intense and even a bit weird, but that's okay! We'll be referencing Spurgeon, Erwin Lutzer, Martyn Lloyd-Jones, and other respected figures who were not necessarily charismatic but still were open to the unusual things that could happen during the revival.
Tune in now, and let’s go bigger, better, and deeper!
If you enjoy this episode, please subscribe to the God Stuff Podcast, so you're always the first to know when a new episode is released.
Episode Timestamps:
00:00 - Intro
03:47 - Quick Overview of Dwight Lyman Moody's Life
06:07 - R. A. Torrey's Description of Moody's Experience
08:51 - Why God Used D .L. Moody: Insights from R. A. Torrey's Booklet
10:45 - Lutzer's Comments about the First Great Awakening
12:55 - Lutzer's Comments on the Second Awakening
13:56 - My Comments on these Manifestations from Chaos
18:18 - The Third Great Awakening in America
20:43 - My Conclusions
25:33 - My Prayer
Biblical References:
- Acts 5:37,38
- Isaiah 64:1
About Our Host:
Bill Giovannetti is the Senior Pastor at Pathway Church, Redding, California — an experienced senior pastor with a demonstrated history of working in the religious institutions’ industry. He also teaches ministry-related college classes at Simpson University and the A. W. Tozer Theological Seminary. Bill has always had a passion to bring the deep things of God’s word to the everyday people of God.
Resources:
Autobiography of Peter Cartwright, the Backwoods Preacher
https://www.amazon.com/Autobiography-Peter-Cartwright-Backwoods-Preacher/dp/B00PMJV076
Why God Used D. L. Moody by R. A. Torrey
https://www.amazon.ca/Why-God-Used-D-Moody/dp/1549961853
Will America Be Given Another Chance?
https://www.amazon.com/Will-America-Given-Another-Chance-ebook/dp/B01EW5H4RK
Religious Affections
https://www.amazon.com/Religious-Affections-Jonathan-Edwards/dp/1449501540
Chaos: As Goes the Church So Goes the World
https://www.amazon.com/Chaos-As-Goes-Church-World/dp/1946654221
Veritas School Online Theological School
https://www.veritasschool.life/
Connect with Bill Giovannetti:
● Visit the website: https://www.veritasschool.life/
● Subscribe to the podcast: https://maxgrace.com/category/podcasts/
● Follow Bill on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bill.giovannetti
● Follow Bill on Twitter: https://twitter.com/BillGiovannetti
● Follow Bill on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/billgiovannetti/
Thanks for tuning in! Please don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe!
In Episode 152, we continue talking about revival and share quotes and stories I’ve collected over the years which I have never shared before. I also wanted to reference Charles Spurgeon’s book which was published way back in 1962.
Spurgeon believed that revival was a work of God's sovereign grace and that it was something that could not be engineered or manipulated by human effort. He believed that revival was characterized by a deep sense of conviction and repentance and that it resulted in significant changes in behavior and a renewed focus on God.
Tune in now, and let’s go bigger, better, and deeper!
If you enjoy this episode, please subscribe to the God Stuff Podcast, so you're always the first to know when a new episode is released.
Episode Timestamps:
- Intro – [00:00]
- Thoughts on Jesus Revolution Movie – [03:15]
- Views on Revival and Its Manifestations – [07:52]
- Charles Haddon Spurgeon's Perception of Revival – [08:54]
- Charles Spurgeon Comparing The First and Second Great Awakening – [11:42]
- Charles Spurgeon Answering Criticisms – [14:22]
- Outro – [21:04]
About Our Host:
Bill Giovannetti is the Senior Pastor at Pathway Church, Redding, California — an experienced senior pastor with a demonstrated history of working in the religious institutions’ industry. He also teaches ministry-related college classes at Simpson University and the A. W. Tozer Theological Seminary. Bill has always had a passion to bring the deep things of God’s word to the everyday people of God.
Resources:
- Veritas School Online Theological School
- https://www.veritasschool.life/
- Spurgeon On Revival by Eric W. Hayden
- https://www.amazon.com/Spurgeon-Revival-Robert-Backhouse/dp/0854766014
Connect with Bill Giovannetti:
● Visit the website: https://www.veritasschool.life/
● Subscribe to the podcast: https://maxgrace.com/category/podcasts/
● Follow Bill on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bill.giovannetti
● Follow Bill on Twitter: https://twitter.com/BillGiovannetti
● Follow Bill on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/billgiovannetti/
Thanks for tuning in! Please don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe!
In Episode 151, we continue with my sermon two years ago at Pathway Church, where I talked about a hot topic these days—The Revival. As Christians, revival refers to our spiritual rebirth. In other terms, revival is a renewed adoration and devotion towards God.
Throughout the history of the church, revival has meant God’s work lifting us out of spiritual neglect and worldliness into judgment, sincere aspirations to receive more of Christ and his word, pureness of existence, blissful worship and a strong dedication to missions.
Tune in now, and let’s go bigger, better, and deeper!
If you enjoy this episode, please subscribe to the God Stuff Podcast, so you're always the first to know when a new episode is released.
Episode Timestamps:
Intro – [00:00]
Who is George Whitefield? – [09:16]
Question #1: What is Revival – [15:29]
Question #2: What Causes Revival? – [19:14]
Question #3: What is the Core of Revival? – [24:54]
Question #4: What Keeps Revival on Course? – [38:47]
Final Thoughts – [42:21]
Closing Prayer – [42:35]
Outro – [45:29]
Biblical References:
- 2 Chronicles 7:14
- Isaiah 64:1
- Hosea 10:12
- Joel 2:28-32
- Acts 2:2-4
- Acts 2:5-13
- Acts 2:16, 17
- Acts 2:41
About Our Host:
Bill Giovannetti is the Senior Pastor at Pathway Church, Redding, California — an experienced senior pastor with a demonstrated history of working in the religious institutions’ industry. He also teaches ministry-related college classes at Simpson University and the A. W. Tozer Theological Seminary. Bill has always had a passion to bring the deep things of God’s word to the everyday people of God.
Resources:
Veritas School Online Theological School
https://www.veritasschool.life/
Connect with Bill Giovannetti:
● Visit the website: https://www.veritasschool.life/
● Subscribe to the podcast: https://maxgrace.com/category/podcasts/
● Follow Bill on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bill.giovannetti
● Follow Bill on Twitter: https://twitter.com/BillGiovannetti
● Follow Bill on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/billgiovannetti/
Thanks for tuning in! Please don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe!
In Episode 150, we go way back to a sermon I did two years ago at Pathway Church where I talked about The Great Awakening and Revival. It was a response to society's secularization and the main churches' corporate and materialistic orientation.
The Great Awakening halted the spread of Enlightenment rationality amongst a large number of colonists. Some members embraced the revival, while others rejected it, resulting in divisions among religious groupings.
Tune in now, and let’s go bigger, better, and deeper!
If you enjoy this episode, please subscribe to the God Stuff Podcast, so you're always the first to know when a new episode is released.
Episode Timestamps:
Intro – [00:00]
Service Introduction – [03:32]
What is Revival – [09:42]
The First Great Awakening – [11:15]
The Second Great Awakening – [20:20]
The Third Awakening – [33:30]
Final Thoughts – [37:40]
Closing Prayer – [41:34]
Outro – [42:36]
Biblical References:
- 2 Timothy 3:1-4
- 2 Chronicles 7:14
- John 1:29
About Our Host:
Bill Giovannetti is the Senior Pastor at Pathway Church, Redding, California — an experienced senior pastor with a demonstrated history of working in the religious institutions’ industry. He also teaches ministry-related college classes at Simpson University and the A. W. Tozer Theological Seminary. Bill has always had a passion to bring the deep things of God’s word to the everyday people of God.
Resources:
Veritas School Online Theological School
https://www.veritasschool.life/
Connect with Bill Giovannetti:
● Visit the website: https://www.veritasschool.life/
● Subscribe to the podcast: https://maxgrace.com/category/podcasts/
● Follow Bill on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bill.giovannetti
● Follow Bill on Twitter: https://twitter.com/BillGiovannetti
● Follow Bill on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/billgiovannetti/
Thanks for tuning in! Please don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe!
In Episode 149, we talk about the canonicity of scripture. It refers to the process through which the books of the Bible were validated, clarified, and adopted by the early church leaders.
God alone determines canonicity. A book is neither canonical nor authoritative because of its age, legitimacy, or religious community. A book is regarded important because it is canonical, and not because it is or was valued. God established the scriptures’ authority, and God's people only found it.
Tune in now, and let’s go bigger, better, and deeper!
If you enjoy this episode, please subscribe to the God Stuff Podcast, so you're always the first to know when a new episode is released.
Episode Timestamps:
- Intro – [00:00]
- What is Canonicity? – [02:28]
- The Old Testament Canon – [03:57]
- Christ’s Testimony – [05:45]
- Prophets & Growth – [10:23]
- The Apocrypha – [15:14]
- The New Testament of Canon – [16:43]
- Outro – [25:14]
Biblical References:
- Luke 16:29-31
- Luke 24:44
- Matthew 5:17
- Mark 3:14
- Luke 10:16
- 2 Thessalonians 2:5
- 2 Peter 3:15-16
Book References:
Biblia Hebraica Stuttgartensia
https://www.amazon.com/Biblia-Hebraica-Stuttgartensia-Hebrew-Elliger/dp/1598561634
About Our Host:
Bill Giovannetti is the Senior Pastor at Pathway Church, Redding, California — an experienced senior pastor with a demonstrated history of working in the religious institutions’ industry. He also teaches ministry-related college classes at Simpson University and the A. W. Tozer Theological Seminary. Bill has always had a passion to bring the deep things of God’s word to the everyday people of God.
Resources:
Veritas School Online Theological School
https://www.veritasschool.life/
Biblia Hebraica Stuttgartensia
https://www.amazon.com/Biblia-Hebraica-Stuttgartensia-Hebrew-Elliger/dp/1598561634
Connect with Bill Giovannetti:
● Visit the website: https://www.veritasschool.life/
● Subscribe to the podcast: https://maxgrace.com/category/podcasts/
● Follow Bill on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bill.giovannetti
● Follow Bill on Twitter: https://twitter.com/BillGiovannetti
● Follow Bill on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/billgiovannetti/
Thanks for tuning in! Please don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe!
In Episode 148, we talk about the doctrine of inerrancy. When it comes to matters of faith and practice, the truth does matter, making the teaching of biblical inerrancy crucial. This question is essential to our grasp of the Bible because it reflects who God is.
The Bible's "inerrancy" is a word. Inerrancy is a biblical reality, yet it's a theological phrase. Several theological terminologies used by Christians for millennia are not in Scripture. For instance, "Trinity." Trinity is not a scriptural phrase, yet it summarizes the Bible's view of God. In the same way, inerrancy describes the Bible's perfection.
Tune in now, and let’s go bigger, better, and deeper!
If you enjoy this episode, please subscribe to the God Stuff Podcast, so you're always the first to know when a new episode is released.
Episode Timestamps:
Intro – [00:00]
Inerrancy – [03:12]
The Three Primary Views – [04:27]
Inerrancy: Key Point #1 The Bible is God's Word, and He Cannot Err [06:12]
Inerrancy: Key Point #2 Christ and Apostles Assumed the Absolute Inerrancy of Scripture. [07:18]
Inerrancy: Key Point #3 God's People Affirm Scripture's Perfection and Inerrancy. [08:02]
Inerrancy: Key Point #4 Foundation of Doctrines [09:30]
Inerrancy: Key Point #5 The Doctrine of Inerrancy is Under Attack [12:17]
Chicago Statement – [13:16]
Article X – [15:36]
Article XI – [19:07]
Article XII – [19:49]
Conclusion – [20:50]
Outro – [22:07]
Biblical References:
- Proverbs 30:5
- Psalm 111:7
- Psalm 19:7
- Hebrews 6:18
- Titus 1:2
- Psalm 19:7
- John 10:35
- Matthew 5:18
- 2 Peter 1:19
- Acts 15
Book References:
The Battle for the Bible - Harold Lindsell
https://www.amazon.com/Battle-Bible-Harold-Lindsell/dp/0310276810#:~:text=See%20more-,This%20book%20%22battle%20for%20the%20Bible'%20by%20Harold%20Lindsell%20is,it%20is%20done%20in%20detail.
About Our Host:
Bill Giovannetti is the Senior Pastor at Pathway Church, Redding, California — an experienced senior pastor with a demonstrated history of working in the religious institutions’ industry. He also teaches ministry-related college classes at Simpson University and the A. W. Tozer Theological Seminary. Bill has always had a passion to bring the deep things of God’s word to the everyday people of God.
Resources:
Veritas School Online Theological School
https://www.veritasschool.life/
The Battle for the Bible - Harold Lindsell
https://www.amazon.com/Battle-Bible-Harold-Lindsell/dp/0310276810#:~:text=See%20more-,This%20book%20%22battle%20for%20the%20Bible'%20by%20Harold%20Lindsell%20is,it%20is%20done%20in%20detail.
Connect with Bill Giovannetti:
● Visit the website: https://www.veritasschool.life/
● Subscribe to the podcast: https://maxgrace.com/category/podcasts/
● Follow Bill on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bill.giovannetti
● Follow Bill on Twitter: https://twitter.com/BillGiovannetti
● Follow Bill on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/billgiovannetti/
Thanks for tuning in! Please don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe!
In Episode 147, we continue with our mini-series about the book I authored, Grace Breakthrough, and discuss the last chapter about ‘The Confidence Breakthrough’. An actual act of repentance involves a complete shift of perspective. We are moving to a new computer system. God's Spirit applies God's Word to His child, bringing about true repentance.
As the Bible teaches, Repentance is never a different legalistic need for salvation. It's not that the Walking Dead can't do good, but instead that they can't handle having excessive behavioral expectations placed upon them. It does not include any actions taken by the individual to better themselves.
Tune in now, and let’s go bigger, better, and deeper!
If you enjoy this episode, please subscribe to the God Stuff Podcast, so you're always the first to know when a new episode is released.
Episode Timestamps:
Intro – [00:00]
Fear Keeps The Faithful Faithful – [02:51]
The Guilt Trip – [04:59]
Assurance – [08:19]
Breaking Bondage – [09:11]
Always More To Do– [12:41]
The Prayer – [16:37]
Biblical References:
- Matthew 10:26-27
- Isaiah 43:25
- Romans 8:15
- 1 Timothy 4:1
- Romans 1:18
- Hebrews 10:11-12
Book References:
Grace Breakthrough: Exploding the Lies that Wound Your Confidence and Joy (The Grace Awakening Trilogy)
https://www.amazon.com/Grace-Breakthrough-Exploding-Wound-Confidence/dp/0983681252
Satan Is Alive and Well on Planet Earth
https://www.amazon.com/Satan-Alive-Well-Planet-Earth/dp/0310277914
About Our Host:
Bill Giovannetti is the Senior Pastor at Pathway Church, Redding, California — an experienced senior pastor with a demonstrated history of working in the religious institutions’ industry. He also teaches ministry-related college classes at Simpson University and the A. W. Tozer Theological Seminary. Bill has always had a passion to bring the deep things of God’s word to the everyday people of God.
Resources:
Veritas School Online Theological School
https://www.veritasschool.life/
Grace Breakthrough: Exploding the Lies that Wound Your Confidence and Joy (The Grace Awakening Trilogy)
https://www.amazon.com/Grace-Breakthrough-Exploding-Wound-Confidence/dp/0983681252
Satan Is Alive and Well on Planet Earth
https://www.amazon.com/Satan-Alive-Well-Planet-Earth/dp/0310277914
Connect with Bill Giovannetti:
● Visit the website: https://www.veritasschool.life/
● Subscribe to the podcast: https://maxgrace.com/category/podcasts/
● Follow Bill on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bill.giovannetti
● Follow Bill on Twitter: https://twitter.com/BillGiovannetti
● Follow Bill on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/billgiovannetti/
Thanks for tuning in! Please don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe!
In Episode 146, we continue talking about one of the Grace Breakthrough books I authored, Grace Breakthrough: Exploding the Lies that Wound Your Confidence and Joy (The Grace Awakening Trilogy). What exactly is grace? It seems to be a simple question, yet the answer has many diverse perspectives. We may all be ashamed to confess that we have difficulty understanding one of the most often-used terms in the church today.
Grace is the word. We often hear it characterized as "undeserved favor" or "receiving something we don't deserve." Knowing that grace is merited and that we would be lost without it should humble us. And from that humility should spring an unwavering thankfulness exhibited through a faithful, obedient life.
Tune in now, and let’s go bigger, better, and deeper!
If you enjoy this episode, please subscribe to the God Stuff Podcast, so you're always the first to know when a new episode is released.
Episode Timestamps:
Intro – [00:00]
Whiny People – [03:30]
Anxious People – [05:47]
Insecure People – [10:52
Overwhelmed People – [16:10]
Smug People– [18:35]
The Prayer – [21:28]
Outro – [22:07]
Biblical References:
- Numbers 21:5
- Psalm 78:25
- Mark 4:38-40
- Philippians 4:6-7
- Romans 10:17
- Matthew 18:28-30
- Exodus 4:10
- Exodus 4:12
- Luke 10:40-42
- John 8:32
Book References:
Grace Breakthrough: Exploding the Lies that Wound Your Confidence and Joy (The Grace Awakening Trilogy)
https://www.amazon.com/Grace-Breakthrough-Exploding-Wound-Confidence/dp/0983681252
About Our Host:
Bill Giovannetti is the Senior Pastor at Pathway Church, Redding, California — an experienced senior pastor with a demonstrated history of working in the religious institutions’ industry. He also teaches ministry-related college classes at Simpson University and the A. W. Tozer Theological Seminary. Bill has always had a passion to bring the deep things of God’s word to the everyday people of God.
Resources:
Veritas School Online Theological School
https://www.veritasschool.life/
Grace Breakthrough: Exploding the Lies that Wound Your Confidence and Joy (The Grace Awakening Trilogy)
https://www.amazon.com/Grace-Breakthrough-Exploding-Wound-Confidence/dp/0983681252
Connect with Bill Giovannetti:
● Visit the website: https://www.veritasschool.life/
● Subscribe to the podcast: https://maxgrace.com/category/podcasts/
● Follow Bill on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bill.giovannetti
● Follow Bill on Twitter: https://twitter.com/BillGiovannetti
● Follow Bill on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/billgiovannetti/
Thanks for tuning in! Please don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe!
In Episode 145, we talk deeper about grace. Breakthrough grace is what we need in our lives. There is no barrier too great for God's kindness to overcome on its way to us. And it's the kind of grace that tops all others. What saved us was Jesus' mercy.
When we look back on our lives, we may be overcome with regret at the obstacles we've faced along the way, including the legalistic upbringing that gave us a misguided and potentially harmful view of God, the darkness and shame through which God has tried to reach us, the brokenness of our relationships, and the fact that all of these things at one time seemed insurmountable. But he managed to get through to us.
Tune in now, and let’s go bigger, better, and deeper!
If you enjoy this episode, please subscribe to the God Stuff Podcast, so you're always the first to know when a new episode is released.
Episode Timestamps:
Intro – [00:00]
Breakthrough Intro – [04:10]
The Fall – [05:51]
The Lies – [07:29]
The Spirit’s Sword – [09:55]
The Prayer – [12:10]
Chapter 1: The Grace Breakthrough – [12:53]
What’s in A Word? – [14:45]
Grace Breakthrough – [16:41]
Outro – [21:05]
Biblical References:
- Acts 20:24
- John 8:44
- 1 Timothy 4:1
- Hebrews 4:12
- 2 Peter 3:18
- 2 Corinthians 4:3-4
- 2 Corinthians 8:9
- Ephesians 4:18
Book References:
Grace Breakthrough: Exploding the Lies that Wound Your Confidence and Joy (The Grace Awakening Trilogy)
https://www.amazon.com/Grace-Breakthrough-Exploding-Wound-Confidence/dp/0983681252
About Our Host:
Bill Giovannetti is the Senior Pastor at Pathway Church, Redding, California — an experienced senior pastor with a demonstrated history of working in the religious institutions’ industry. He also teaches ministry-related college classes at Simpson University and the A. W. Tozer Theological Seminary. Bill has always had a passion to bring the deep things of God’s word to the everyday people of God.
Resources:
Veritas School Online Theological School
https://www.veritasschool.life/
Grace Breakthrough: Exploding the Lies that Wound Your Confidence and Joy (The Grace Awakening Trilogy)
https://www.amazon.com/Grace-Breakthrough-Exploding-Wound-Confidence/dp/0983681252
Connect with Bill Giovannetti:
● Visit the website: https://www.veritasschool.life/
● Subscribe to the podcast: https://maxgrace.com/category/podcasts/
● Follow Bill on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bill.giovannetti
● Follow Bill on Twitter: https://twitter.com/BillGiovannetti
● Follow Bill on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/billgiovannetti/
Thanks for tuning in! Please don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe!
In Episode 144, we discuss the church’s first impression. When we first visit a place, we have an instant judgment about it. The church isn't spared. When potential church members visit the place of worship, they make snap assessments. Even if churches are still evolving, we cannot afford to leave a poor first impression.
One of the first steps in improving a church's image among visitors is to receive an objective assessment of how they would rate it if they were first-time attendees. While it's true that you can identify certain problems on your own, in the end, it's best to have an objective second opinion.
Tune in now, and let’s go bigger, better, and deeper!
If you enjoy this episode, please subscribe to the God Stuff Podcast, so you're always the first to know when a new episode is released.
Episode Timestamps:
- Intro – [00:00]
- 37 Things That visitors See in Your Church – [07:07]
- Outro – [31:48]
Book References:
Alpha Christians: A Manifesto for Men
https://www.amazon.com./s?k=9781946654304&i=stripbooks&linkCode=qs
About Our Host:
Bill Giovannetti is the Senior Pastor at Pathway Church, Redding, California — an experienced senior pastor with a demonstrated history of working in the religious institutions’ industry. He also teaches ministry-related college classes at Simpson University and the A. W. Tozer Theological Seminary. Bill has always had a passion to bring the deep things of God’s word to the everyday people of God.
Resources:
Veritas School Online Theological School
https://www.veritasschool.life/
Grace Reset by Bill Giovanneti
https://www.amazon.com/Grace-Reset-Bill-Giovannetti/dp/1946654248
Connect with Bill Giovannetti:
● Visit the website: https://www.veritasschool.life/
● Subscribe to the podcast: https://maxgrace.com/category/podcasts/
● Follow Bill on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bill.giovannetti
● Follow Bill on Twitter: https://twitter.com/BillGiovannetti
● Follow Bill on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/billgiovannetti/
Thanks for tuning in! Please don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe!
In Episode 143, we talk about how to understand the concept or the doctrine of grace better. I will be sharing from one of my books, The Grace Reset, as a part of today’s episode. Grace is the assurance that you are forgiven before God if you have a personal relationship with Jesus.
A yearning for grace expresses the faith that, if God exists, He is loving, gracious, and compassionate among people who do not follow Jesus. However, what does it mean for God to be gracious? How does it work? How can we accept or encounter this incredible grace?
Tune in now, and let’s go bigger, better, and deeper!
If you enjoy this episode, please subscribe to the God Stuff Podcast, so you're always the first to know when a new episode is released.
Episode Timestamps:
Intro – [00:00]
What is Grace? – [03:33]
Grace Reset Chapter 4: Source – [07:21]
Grace Reset Chapter 5: Exclusivity – [10:07]
Grace Reset Chapter 7: Response – [13:20]
Outro – [20:35]
Biblical References:
- John 1:29
- Hebrews 10:27
- Romans 4:16
Book References:
Alpha Christians: A Manifesto for Men
https://www.amazon.com./s?k=9781946654304&i=stripbooks&linkCode=qs
Grace Reset by Bill Giovanneti
https://www.amazon.com/Grace-Reset-Bill-Giovannetti/dp/1946654248
About Our Host:
Bill Giovannetti is the Senior Pastor at Pathway Church, Redding, California — an experienced senior pastor with a demonstrated history of working in the religious institutions’ industry. He also teaches ministry-related college classes at Simpson University and the A. W. Tozer Theological Seminary. Bill has always had a passion to bring the deep things of God’s word to the everyday people of God.
Resources:
Veritas School Online Theological School
https://www.veritasschool.life/
Grace Reset by Bill Giovanneti
https://www.amazon.com/Grace-Reset-Bill-Giovannetti/dp/1946654248
Connect with Bill Giovannetti:
● Visit the website: https://www.veritasschool.life/
● Subscribe to the podcast: https://maxgrace.com/category/podcasts/
● Follow Bill on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bill.giovannetti
● Follow Bill on Twitter: https://twitter.com/BillGiovannetti
● Follow Bill on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/billgiovannetti/
Thanks for tuning in! Please don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe!
In Episode 142, we talk about the continuation of Episode 141 where we talk about the biblical concept of love. Love is the most powerful force in life; it sparks our emotions, directs us in the right direction, and gives our lives purpose. It is a strong or passionate connection or love that often includes an element of emotional attachment.
The definition of love and the elements connected with it may differ from person to person, relationship to relationship, and culture to culture. The virtue of Love is about much more than romantic sentiments. Love reflects God's character and purpose in creating the world.
Tune in now, and let’s go bigger, better, and deeper!
If you enjoy this episode, please subscribe to the God Stuff Podcast, so you're always the first to know when a new episode is released.
Episode Timestamps:
Intro – [00:00]
Biblical Love Depends on the Lover more than on the Beloved – [06:52]
Agape, Philos and Eros – [07:40]
Attraction Love – [10:02]
Virtue Love – [13:59]
Final Thought – [22:38]
Outro – [24:25]
Biblical References:
- 1 Timothy 1:5
- Colossians 3:14
- Hebrews 3:1
- 2 Peter 1:7
- Romans 5:17
- Leviticus 19:8
- Matthew 19:19
- 1 John 4:10
Book References:
Alpha Christians: A Manifesto for Men
https://www.amazon.com./s?k=9781946654304&i=stripbooks&linkCode=qs
About Our Host:
Bill Giovannetti is the Senior Pastor at Pathway Church, Redding, California — an experienced senior pastor with a demonstrated history of working in the religious institutions’ industry. He also teaches ministry-related college classes at Simpson University and the A. W. Tozer Theological Seminary. Bill has always had a passion to bring the deep things of God’s word to the everyday people of God.
Resources:
Veritas School Online Theological School
https://www.veritasschool.life/
Connect with Bill Giovannetti:
● Visit the website: https://www.veritasschool.life/
● Subscribe to the podcast: https://maxgrace.com/category/podcasts/
● Follow Bill on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bill.giovannetti
● Follow Bill on Twitter: https://twitter.com/BillGiovannetti
● Follow Bill on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/billgiovannetti/
Thanks for tuning in! Please don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe!
In Episode 141, we continue to welcome the new year by talking about Love. What does it really mean and how is it formed in our hearts by God through his spirit? We only understand what love is because of Jesus. He taught us all we needed to know about genuine love by laying down His life for us.
God loves all people equally, regardless of race, religion, gender, age, social status, etc. He loves all people because he created them in his own image and he cares for them like a parent loves a child. God loves all creation, both spiritual and natural. And he wants us to love and care for one another in the same way he loves us.
Tune in now, and let’s go bigger, better, and deeper!
If you enjoy this episode, please subscribe to the God Stuff Podcast, so you're always the first to know when a new episode is released.
Episode Timestamps:
Intro – [00:00]
Lesson #1: Biblical Love is the Antidote to Self-Absorption – [05:33]
Lesson #2: Biblical Love is a Choice – [08:07]
Lesson #3: Biblical Love Depends on the Lover than on the Beloved – [15:00]
Outro – [16:41]
Biblical References:
- 1 Timothy 1:5
- Romans 5:17
- Proverbs 30:15
- Galatians 5:14-15
- 1 Corinthians 13:13
- Colossians 3:14
- Romans 8:1
Book References:
Alpha Christians: A Manifesto for Men
https://www.amazon.com./s?k=9781946654304&i=stripbooks&linkCode=qs
About Our Host:
Bill Giovannetti is the Senior Pastor at Pathway Church, Redding, California — an experienced senior pastor with a demonstrated history of working in the religious institutions’ industry. He also teaches ministry-related college classes at Simpson University and the A. W. Tozer Theological Seminary. Bill has always had a passion to bring the deep things of God’s word to the everyday people of God.
Resources:
Veritas School Online Theological School
https://www.veritasschool.life/
Connect with Bill Giovannetti:
● Visit the website: https://www.veritasschool.life/
● Subscribe to the podcast: https://maxgrace.com/category/podcasts/
● Follow Bill on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bill.giovannetti
● Follow Bill on Twitter: https://twitter.com/BillGiovannetti
● Follow Bill on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/billgiovannetti/
Thanks for tuning in! Please don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe!
In Episode 140, we welcome the new year with a special interview with Dr. Erwin Lutzer about his latest book, “No Reason to Hide: Standing for Christ in a Collapsing Culture”. We previously had Dr. Lutzer with us last episode 100 where we talked about his other book, “We Will Not Be Silenced”.
Christians can no longer remain silent about the Bible's truth and the world's lies in a society that narrows tolerance. As we discuss the important points in the book, we will also explore the destructive roots of our nation. The book is also a rallying cry for Christians to stand up in today's repressive society and preach Scripture's truth to a culture longing for what only God can deliver.
Tune in now, and let’s go bigger, better, and deeper!
If you enjoy this episode, please subscribe to the God Stuff Podcast, so you're always the first to know when a new episode is released.
Episode Timestamps:
- Intro – [00:00]
- Opening Prayer – [00:18]
- Who is Dr Erwin Lutzer? – [00:55]
- Dr. Lutzer's Latest Book – [02:50]
- Opening Chapter: Surrender, Sink, or Swim – [03:53]
- Speaking in Truth – [07:24]
- The Culture Raises the Children – [12:23]
- Failure of the Doctrine of Sin – [19:22]
- Family and Christian Supremacy – [29:18]
- What is Christian Nationalism? – [30:53]
- Sufferings for Christ – [36:51]
- Outro – [39:42]
Biblical References:
- Philippians 1:29
Book References:
Alpha Christians: A Manifesto for Men
https://www.amazon.com./s?k=9781946654304&i=stripbooks&linkCode=qs
About Our Host:
Bill Giovannetti is the Senior Pastor at Pathway Church, Redding, California — an experienced senior pastor with a demonstrated history of working in the religious institutions’ industry. He also teaches ministry-related college classes at Simpson University and the A. W. Tozer Theological Seminary. Bill has always had a passion to bring the deep things of God’s word to the everyday people of God.
Resources:
Veritas School Online Theological School
https://www.veritasschool.life/
No Reason to Hide: Standing for Christ in a Collapsing Culture
https://www.amazon.com/No-Reason-Hide-Standing-Collapsing-ebook/dp/B09WZQS35Z
Connect with Bill Giovannetti:
● Visit the website: https://www.veritasschool.life/
● Subscribe to the podcast: https://maxgrace.com/category/podcasts/
● Follow Bill on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bill.giovannetti
● Follow Bill on Twitter: https://twitter.com/BillGiovannetti
● Follow Bill on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/billgiovannetti/
Thanks for tuning in! Please don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe!
In Episode 139, we talk about the five competitors to scripture and what it means. It’s also an alternative method that people use to find their truth that leads to mistakes. The world says one's truth may not be another's. Culture fosters the idea that everyone has the right to create and live by their own beliefs.
The Bible has much to say about truth, but the world doesn't. Thus, God's word is a priceless gift that helps believers find and realize God's truth in a world of dishonesty, misunderstanding, and confusion.
Tune in now, and let’s go bigger, better, and deeper!
If you enjoy this episode, please subscribe to the God Stuff Podcast, so you're always the first to know when a new episode is released.
Episode Timestamps:
- Intro – [00:00]
- Text #1: Emotions – [06:36]
- Text #2: Experience – [09:04]
- Text #3: Impressions, Dreams, Visions, and the Voice of Angels of God – [10:33]
- Text #4: Preachers and Pope – [14:29]
- Text #5: Self Will – [17:41]
- The Prayer – [20:35]
- Outro – [21:35]
Biblical References:
- Acts 17:10-12
- Galatians 1:8
Book References:
Alpha Christians: A Manifesto for Men
https://www.amazon.com./s?k=9781946654304&i=stripbooks&linkCode=qs
About Our Host:
Bill Giovannetti is the Senior Pastor at Pathway Church, Redding, California — an experienced senior pastor with a demonstrated history of working in the religious institutions’ industry. He also teaches ministry-related college classes at Simpson University and the A. W. Tozer Theological Seminary. Bill has always had a passion to bring the deep things of God’s word to the everyday people of God.
Resources:
Veritas School Online Theological School
https://www.veritasschool.life/
Connect with Bill Giovannetti:
● Visit the website: https://www.veritasschool.life/
● Subscribe to the podcast: https://maxgrace.com/category/podcasts/
● Follow Bill on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bill.giovannetti
● Follow Bill on Twitter: https://twitter.com/BillGiovannetti
● Follow Bill on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/billgiovannetti/
Thanks for tuning in! Please don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe!
In Episode 138, we continue with the last part of our Christmas series. We not only devote the whole month of December to celebrate Christmas but also to evangelize. Every Christian, not Santa, is responsible for keeping Christ at the center of Christmas. Therefore, whether we accomplish our goals by giving or singing, our attention should always be fixed on God's love and the glory of His Son.
God is against human efforts to steal His glory for themselves via ritual or tradition. It's not Santa. In my opinion. Glory is bestowed upon whatever one chooses. You may lay the blame on non-Christian marketing corporations all across the globe, but the fact remains that Santa serves as a constant reminder to give and a means to keep Christ's name in the spotlight.
Tune in now, and let’s go bigger, better, and deeper!
If you enjoy this episode, please subscribe to the God Stuff Podcast, so you're always the first to know when a new episode is released.
Episode Timestamps:
- Intro – [00:00]
- The Story of a Farmer – [02:31]
- Message #1: Thank You For Making This World A Better Place – [08:23]
- Message #2: The Gifts You Bring Can Never be Enough – [12:51]
- Message #3: As Good as you Maybe, You Still Need me – [17:28]
- Message #4: I am the Reason for this Season – [23:08]
- Final Thoughts – [32:11]
- Closing Prayer – [36:35]
- Outro – [38:24]
Biblical References:
1 John 4:9
Book References:
Alpha Christians: A Manifesto for Men
https://www.amazon.com./s?k=9781946654304&i=stripbooks&linkCode=qs
About Our Host:
Bill Giovannetti is the Senior Pastor at Pathway Church, Redding, California — an experienced senior pastor with a demonstrated history of working in the religious institutions’ industry. He also teaches ministry-related college classes at Simpson University and the A. W. Tozer Theological Seminary. Bill has always had a passion to bring the deep things of God’s word to the everyday people of God.
Resources:
Veritas School Online Theological School
https://www.veritasschool.life/
Connect with Bill Giovannetti:
● Visit the website: https://www.veritasschool.life/
● Subscribe to the podcast: https://maxgrace.com/category/podcasts/
● Follow Bill on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bill.giovannetti
● Follow Bill on Twitter: https://twitter.com/BillGiovannetti
● Follow Bill on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/billgiovannetti/
Thanks for tuning in! Please don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe!
In Episode 137, we continue with part two of our Christmas series. You can resonate with the message if you have been rejected like Rudolph. Seeing how light exposes and black hides, some individuals naturally prefer the latter. People hate it when their faults are brought to light. Seeing the light makes people nervous that they'll be mocked or rejected by their peers.
Unfortunately for Rudolph, his glowing red nose caused him to be teased and even shunned by his fellow animals. We all know that at first, they were hostile to his light. Even making fun of him for trying to help others, they mocked his use of his light. The same thing occurs here; we may face ridicule for being ourselves, but we must do it anyhow.
Tune in now, and let’s go bigger, better, and deeper!
If you enjoy this episode, please subscribe to the God Stuff Podcast, so you're always the first to know when a new episode is released.
Episode Timestamps:
Intro – [00:00]
The Story of Rudolph – [07:15]
Banquet of Pastors – [09:41]
Message #1: Thank You for Saving Christmas with your Bright Red Nose– [09:43]
Message #2: Your Differences Make No Difference to me – [11:47]
Message #3: Quit Listening to the Thugs, Trolls, and Jerks in Your Life – [16:33]
Message #4: You Don't Have to Help Me for Me to Love You – [24:14]
Message #5: Through Me, God Accepts You Just as You are – [28:09]
Closing Prayer – [31:46]
Outro – [33:37]
Biblical References:
1 John 4:9
Book References:
Alpha Christians: A Manifesto for Men
https://www.amazon.com./s?k=9781946654304&i=stripbooks&linkCode=qs
About Our Host:
Bill Giovannetti is the Senior Pastor at Pathway Church, Redding, California — an experienced senior pastor with a demonstrated history of working in the religious institutions’ industry. He also teaches ministry-related college classes at Simpson University and the A. W. Tozer Theological Seminary. Bill has always had a passion to bring the deep things of God’s word to the everyday people of God.
Resources:
Veritas School Online Theological School
https://www.veritasschool.life/
Connect with Bill Giovannetti:
● Visit the website: https://www.veritasschool.life/
● Subscribe to the podcast: https://maxgrace.com/category/podcasts/
● Follow Bill on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bill.giovannetti
● Follow Bill on Twitter: https://twitter.com/BillGiovannetti
● Follow Bill on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/billgiovannetti/
Thanks for tuning in! Please don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe!
It’s the start of the Christmas season, and I thought it would be fun to start with the Christmas series that I preached in 2014 and incorporate them with today’s episode. Jesus has always had a soft spot for misfits, and he often uses these individuals to bring about global peace.
Those who seem to have it all together don't have time for the messy beauty that is the life of God's Spirit. Those who are aware of their own flaws are the imperfect, the weak, those who have difficulty fitting in, and those who never manage to get anything right. God isn't looking for sinless disciples, but rather humble ones.
Tune in now, and let’s go bigger, better, and deeper!
If you enjoy this episode, please subscribe to the God Stuff Podcast, so you're always the first to know when a new episode is released.
Episode Timestamps:
- Intro – [00:00]
- What Would Jesus Say to the Island of Misfit Toys? – [04:41]
- Banquet of Pastors – [09:41]
- Message #1: God Wants You – [12:33]
- Message #2: God is Glad to be One of You – [17:47]
- Message #3: Your Imperfections Don't Reduce God's Love for you – [21:39]
- Message #4: If You're Going to be a Misfit, at least be a Saved Misfit – [31:50]
- Closing Prayer – [34:28]
- Outro – [40:42]
Biblical References:
1 John 4:10
John 12:46
Book References:
Alpha Christians: A Manifesto for Men
https://www.amazon.com./s?k=9781946654304&i=stripbooks&linkCode=qs
About Our Host:
Bill Giovannetti is the Senior Pastor at Pathway Church, Redding, California — an experienced senior pastor with a demonstrated history of working in the religious institutions’ industry. He also teaches ministry-related college classes at Simpson University and the A. W. Tozer Theological Seminary. Bill has always had a passion to bring the deep things of God’s word to the everyday people of God.
Resources:
Veritas School Online Theological School
https://www.veritasschool.life/
Connect with Bill Giovannetti:
● Visit the website: https://www.veritasschool.life/
● Subscribe to the podcast: https://maxgrace.com/category/podcasts/
● Follow Bill on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bill.giovannetti
● Follow Bill on Twitter: https://twitter.com/BillGiovannetti
● Follow Bill on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/billgiovannetti/
Thanks for tuning in! Please don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe!
In Episode 135, we go bigger by talking about blessing an Introverted child. It's natural to ask how raising an introverted kid can benefit anybody in today's world, when getting one's voice heard is seen as crucial to success and advancement. Introverted children tend to be more sensitive and can focus for longer periods of time than their extroverted peers.
Insight into their environment and social signals is improved for an introverted child because of this. It's no surprise that many of history's most brilliant minds in art and science also happened to be introverted kids.
Tune in now, and let’s go bigger, better, and deeper!
If you enjoy this episode, please subscribe to the God Stuff Podcast, so you're always the first to know when a new episode is released.
Episode Timestamps:
- Intro – [00:00]
- What is an Introvert? – [03:25]
- Tip #1: Never Label Your Child as Shy – [07:03]
- Tip #2: Never Push Your Child to be First – [09:31]
- Tip #3: Honor the Solitude – [11:18]
- Tip #4: Emphasize Individual Sports and Non-competitive Activities – [15:10]
- Tip #5: Wipe Away Your Disappointments – [18:00]
- Outro – [21:24]
Book References:
Alpha Christians: A Manifesto for Men
https://www.amazon.com./s?k=9781946654304&i=stripbooks&linkCode=qs
Quiet: The Power of Introverts in a World That Can't Stop Talking
https://www.amazon.com/Quiet-Power-Introverts-World-Talking/dp/0307352153
About Our Host:
Bill Giovannetti is the Senior Pastor at Pathway Church, Redding, California — an experienced senior pastor with a demonstrated history of working in the religious institutions’ industry. He also teaches ministry-related college classes at Simpson University and the A. W. Tozer Theological Seminary. Bill has always had a passion to bring the deep things of God’s word to the everyday people of God.
Resources:
Veritas School Online Theological School
https://www.veritasschool.life/
Connect with Bill Giovannetti:
● Visit the website: https://www.veritasschool.life/
● Subscribe to the podcast: https://maxgrace.com/category/podcasts/
● Follow Bill on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bill.giovannetti
● Follow Bill on Twitter: https://twitter.com/BillGiovannetti
● Follow Bill on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/billgiovannetti/
Thanks for tuning in! Please don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe!
In Episode 134, we celebrate Thanksgiving. Many individuals also gather with loved ones and celebrate the holiday of Thanksgiving. However, it is also an opportunity to show one's faith. Being grateful to God for one's blessings is central to the festival, which helps explain this.
Thanksgiving is a time to celebrate, and expressing gratitude often invites reflection. Now is a great time to evaluate your faith. Thanksgiving is a time for celebration, gratitude, and spiritual renewal. During this season, share your devotion to show your appreciation.
Tune in now, and let’s go bigger, better, and deeper!
If you enjoy this episode, please subscribe to the God Stuff Podcast, so you're always the first to know when a new episode is released.
Episode Timestamps:
Intro – [00:00]
Thanks yous in the Bible – [02:31]
List of Things in the Bible to be Thankful for – [06:57]
Championship Thankers – [08:55]
My Surprise – [11:30]
Outro – [12:48]
Biblical References:
Matthew 11:25
Matthew 26:27
John 11:41
Revelation 4:9
Revelation 7:11
Revelation 7:12
Revelation 11:16-17
2 Corinthians 9:15
Revelation 11:17
1 Thessalonians 2:13
Romans 7:23-25
1 Corinthians 15:57
Daniel 2:23
2 Corinthians 2:14
Romans 6:17
Romans 1:8
2 Thessalonians 1:3
1 Corinthians 1:4
Philippians 1:3-5
Colossians 1:3-6
Psalm 75:1
Romans 14:6-7
1 Timothy 4:3-4
2 Corinthians 9:11
Ephesians 5:20
Psalm 69:30
Psalm 1:16-17
Psalm 100:4
Daniel 6:10
Luke 2:38
Genesis 41:51-52
2 Chronicles 20:27-28
Luke 17:12-19
1 Thessalonians 5:18
Book References:
Alpha Christians: A Manifesto for Men
https://www.amazon.com./s?k=9781946654304&i=stripbooks&linkCode=qs
About Our Host:
Bill Giovannetti is the Senior Pastor at Pathway Church, Redding, California — an experienced senior pastor with a demonstrated history of working in the religious institutions’ industry. He also teaches ministry-related college classes at Simpson University and the A. W. Tozer Theological Seminary. Bill has always had a passion to bring the deep things of God’s word to the everyday people of God.
Resources:
Veritas School Online Theological School
https://www.veritasschool.life/
Connect with Bill Giovannetti:
● Visit the website: https://www.veritasschool.life/
● Subscribe to the podcast: https://maxgrace.com/category/podcasts/
● Follow Bill on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bill.giovannetti
● Follow Bill on Twitter: https://twitter.com/BillGiovannetti
● Follow Bill on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/billgiovannetti/
Thanks for tuning in! Please don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe!
In Episode 133, we go deeper into a walk with God through grace. Our episode today goes back to 2014 when I had my talk about Grace Intervention, where I referred Pathway Church by its old name, Neighborhood Church.
Actual graces are specific interventions from God to help us in our spiritual journey. We understand that God's particular love is such that he grants us support to live in a way that leads to sharing his life through grace and in many ways.
Tune in now, and let’s go bigger, better, and deeper!
If you enjoy this episode, please subscribe to the God Stuff Podcast, so you're always the first to know when a new episode is released.
Episode Timestamps:
Intro – [00:00]
What is Grace? – [03:48]
What is Intervention? – [11:48]
Grace Resistance: Blindness – [13:57]
Profile of a Legalist #1: Whiny People – [18:55]
Profile of a Legalist #2: Anxious People – [23:56]
Profile of a Legalist #3: Judgmental People – [28:14]
Profile of a Legalist #4: Insecure People – [31:41]
Profile of a Legalist #5: Guilty People – [38:22]
Profile of a Legalist #6: Overwhelmed People – [39:40]
Profile of a Legalist #7: Smug People – [42:29]
Closing Prayer – [45:44]
Outro – [47:57:]
Biblical References:
2 Corinthians 8:9
Ephesians 4:18
Matthew 23:24
Numbers 21:5
Mark 8:38
Mark 4:38-40
Matthew 18:28
Exodus 4:12
Luke 10:40
Book References:
Alpha Christians: A Manifesto for Men
https://www.amazon.com./s?k=9781946654304&i=stripbooks&linkCode=qs
Grace Intervention: The Radical, Scandalous, Counter-Intuitive Teaching of Jesus that Most Christians Just Don’t Get (The Grace Awakening Trilogy)
https://www.amazon.com/Grace-Intervention-Scandalous-Counter-Intuitive-Christians/dp/194665406X/ref=d_pd_sbs_sccl_2_1/137-1945557-0829710?pd_rd_w=vcZyY&content-id=amzn1.sym.3676f086-9496-4fd7-8490-77cf7f43f846&pf_rd_p=3676f086-9496-4fd7-8490-77cf7f43f846&pf_rd_r=MZY9ZPAVW1WWTKMK7QD9&pd_rd_wg=E8PI0&pd_rd_r=909d01a9-a8ed-42eb-9bde-ae5b454424c8&pd_rd_i=194665406X&psc=1
Grace Rehab: The Power of Labeling Yourself the Way God Labels You (The Grace Awakening Trilogy)
https://www.amazon.com/Grace-Rehab-Labeling-Yourself-Labels/dp/0983681228/ref=pd_bxgy_sccl_2/137-1945557-0829710?pd_rd_w=nlp7o&content-id=amzn1.sym.7757a8b5-874e-4a67-9d85-54ed32f01737&pf_rd_p=7757a8b5-874e-4a67-9d85-54ed32f01737&pf_rd_r=9K501625XM60D0YSQ52N&pd_rd_wg=Rzw60&pd_rd_r=7558a274-5a17-4343-96b2-27e6457fafa8&pd_rd_i=0983681228&psc=1
Grace Breakthrough: Exploding the Lies that Wound Your Confidence and Joy (The Grace Awakening Trilogy)
https://www.amazon.com/Grace-Breakthrough-Exploding-Wound-Confidence/dp/0983681252
About Our Host:
Bill Giovannetti is the Senior Pastor at Pathway Church, Redding, California — an experienced senior pastor with a demonstrated history of working in the religious institutions’ industry. He also teaches ministry-related college classes at Simpson University and the A. W. Tozer Theological Seminary. Bill has always had a passion to bring the deep things of God’s word to the everyday people of God.
Resources:
Veritas School Online Theological School
https://www.veritasschool.life/
Connect with Bill Giovannetti:
● Visit the website: https://www.veritasschool.life/
● Subscribe to the podcast: https://maxgrace.com/category/podcasts/
● Follow Bill on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bill.giovannetti
● Follow Bill on Twitter: https://twitter.com/BillGiovannetti
● Follow Bill on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/billgiovannetti/
Thanks for tuning in! Please don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe!
In Episode 132, we talk about one of the most interesting doctrines in all of the scriptures. It comes in pretty much every single day of our lives. God's purpose is carried out through divine providence. Providence exists because God is concerned about the universe and all of its inhabitants. Throughout history, there have been many who have found immense consolation in the fact of providence.
It involves acknowledging that God has been there before in particular situations in life. It is proof that God has not abandoned this planet in the vastness of the cosmos or forgotten about the human condition. God comes before and between man and his wants by visiting, touching, communicating, controlling, and intervening. Thank goodness for Providence.
Tune in now, and let’s go bigger, better, and deeper!
If you enjoy this episode, please subscribe to the God Stuff Podcast, so you're always the first to know when a new episode is released.
Episode Timestamps:
Intro – [00:00]
Introduction to Providence – [01:30]
Scriptures – [03:53]
The Nature of Providence – [05:54]
The Elements of Providence – [10:06]
Element #1: Preservation – [11:57]
Element #2: Concurrence – [14:33]
Element #3: Government – [22:38]
Final Thoughts – [26:26]
Outro – [27:43]
Biblical References:
Ephesians 1:11
Colossians 1:17
Hebrews 1:3
Romans 11:33
Psalm 104:14
Psalm 104:21
Daniel 2:21
Psalm 103:19
Acts 17:25
Nehemiah 9:6
Matthew 10:29
Genesis 45:5
1 Timothy 1:17
1 Timothy 6:15
Romans 8:28
Genesis 48:13-19
Romans 8:31
Book References:
Alpha Christians: A Manifesto for Men
https://www.amazon.com./s?k=9781946654304&i=stripbooks&linkCode=qs
Systematic Theology by Louis Berkhof
https://www.ebay.com/p/2309483218
About Our Host:
Bill Giovannetti is the Senior Pastor at Pathway Church, Redding, California — an experienced senior pastor with a demonstrated history of working in the religious institutions’ industry. He also teaches ministry-related college classes at Simpson University and the A. W. Tozer Theological Seminary. Bill has always had a passion to bring the deep things of God’s word to the everyday people of God.
Resources:
Veritas School Online Theological School
https://www.veritasschool.life/
Connect with Bill Giovannetti:
● Visit the website: https://www.veritasschool.life/
● Subscribe to the podcast: https://maxgrace.com/category/podcasts/
● Follow Bill on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bill.giovannetti
● Follow Bill on Twitter: https://twitter.com/BillGiovannetti
● Follow Bill on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/billgiovannetti/
Thanks for tuning in! Please don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe!
In Episode 131, we discuss systematic theology and its various publications. Before we go deeper into it, let's define theology as the process by which we arrange our thinking about God. It is not difficult to comprehend what theology is. It is when we go through the Bible subject by topic.
Systematic theology may seem to be a subject best left to the professionals—those pastors and instructors who have been called by God to perform the hard work for us. We trust them to comb through the Bible's language, ideas, and themes, tie everything together, and deliver it to us in an easy-to-digest format.
Tune in now, and let’s go bigger, better, and deeper!
If you enjoy this episode, please subscribe to the God Stuff Podcast, so you're always the first to know when a new episode is released.
Episode Timestamps:
Intro – [00:00]
What is Theology? – [01:43]
Different Approaches to Theology – [03:52]
Theological Big 10 – [06:03]
The Premises – [09:15]
What Will Happen Without Systematic Theology? – [11:24]
Books on Systematic Theology – [16:00]
Final Thoughts – [29:29]
Outro – [31:06]
Biblical References:
John 3:16
Romans 5:1
Ephesians 4:4
Book References:
Alpha Christians: A Manifesto for Men
https://www.amazon.com./s?k=9781946654304&i=stripbooks&linkCode=qs
Basic Christian Doctrine (book) Roger Nicole
Systematic Theology (Volume VI) Lewis Sperry Chafer
https://www.amazon.com/Systematic-Theology-Pneumatology-SYSTEMATIC-THEOLOGY/dp/B000V41V6M
The Living God: Systemic Theology: Volume One (Systematic Theology, Vol 1)
https://www.amazon.com/Living-God-Systemic-Theology-Systematic/dp/0060663634
Finney's Lectures in Systematic Theology
Lectures in Systematic Theology by Robert Lewis Dabney
Christian Theology an Introduction Alister McGrath
Christian Dogmatics by John Theodore Mueller
https://www.amazon.com/Christian-Dogmatics-John-Theodore-Mueller/dp/0570032210
Systematic Theology (Volume II) by Lewis Sperry Chafer
Christian Theology by Millard Erickson
Know What You Believe: Grace Pathway Milestone 3.3 (The Grace Pathway)
https://www.amazon.com/Know-What-You-Believe-Milestone/dp/1946654183
About Our Host:
Bill Giovannetti is the Senior Pastor at Pathway Church, Redding, California — an experienced senior pastor with a demonstrated history of working in the religious institutions’ industry. He also teaches ministry-related college classes at Simpson University and the A. W. Tozer Theological Seminary. Bill has always had a passion to bring the deep things of God’s word to the everyday people of God.
Resources:
Veritas School Online Theological School
https://www.veritasschool.life/
Connect with Bill Giovannetti:
● Visit the website: https://www.veritasschool.life/
● Subscribe to the podcast: https://maxgrace.com/category/podcasts/
● Follow Bill on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bill.giovannetti
● Follow Bill on Twitter: https://twitter.com/BillGiovannetti
● Follow Bill on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/billgiovannetti/
Thanks for tuning in! Please don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe!
In Episode 130, we talk about scriptures and how to interpret difficult verses. James 4:5 is a tough Bible verse to translate. But we’ll walk through the process and give you some tips on how to handle difficult verses.
The context is everything. It is critical to read a part in context before trying to grasp it. This would imply never reading a single verse from the Bible. Always make an effort to read at least one paragraph. Furthermore, contextual reading seeks to understand Biblical passages in their wider literary, theological, and historical contexts.
Tune in now, and let’s go bigger, better, and deeper!
If you enjoy this episode, please subscribe to the God Stuff Podcast, so you're always the first to know when a new episode is released.
Episode Timestamps:
Intro – [00:00]
Different Bible Translation – [04:25]
Translator and Interpreter – [08:09]
Grammatical Structure – [11:03]
Four Grammatical Possibilities – [12:22]
Clue #1: Compare Translation – [14:01]
Clue #2: Go to the Context – [15:44]
Divine Love – [20:42]
Outro – [22:54]
Biblical References:
James 4:5
James 4:4
Book References:
Alpha Christians: A Manifesto for Men
https://www.amazon.com./s?k=9781946654304&i=stripbooks&linkCode=qs
About Our Host:
Bill Giovannetti is the Senior Pastor at Pathway Church, Redding, California — an experienced senior pastor with a demonstrated history of working in the religious institutions’ industry. He also teaches ministry-related college classes at Simpson University and the A. W. Tozer Theological Seminary. Bill has always had a passion to bring the deep things of God’s word to the everyday people of God.
Resources:
Veritas School Online Theological School
https://www.veritasschool.life/
Connect with Bill Giovannetti:
● Visit the website: https://www.veritasschool.life/
● Subscribe to the podcast: https://maxgrace.com/category/podcasts/
● Follow Bill on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bill.giovannetti
● Follow Bill on Twitter: https://twitter.com/BillGiovannetti
● Follow Bill on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/billgiovannetti/
Thanks for tuning in! Please don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe!
In Episode 129, we continue to talk about the five revolutions at the second coming of Christ. His return will include a series of occurrences rather than a single one. It's like putting together a Lego set where every piece fits perfectly into every other piece.
We expect Christ's return. His return from heaven will be personal, visible, and spectacular; we should pray for it. Jesus Christ will come with the heavenly hosts and the Church to establish the Messianic Kingdom on earth. The Antichrist will be hurled into the Lake of Fire and Satan will be chained for a thousand years.
Tune in now, and let’s go bigger, better, and deeper!
If you enjoy this episode, please subscribe to the God Stuff Podcast, so you're always the first to know when a new episode is released.
Episode Timestamps:
Intro – [00:00]
Revolution #3: The Second Coming of Christ to Earth – [02:05]
Revolution #4: The Millennium – [07:26]
Revolution #5: The Eternal State – [14:43]
Outro – [18:31]
Biblical References:
- Revelation 19:11-16
- Revelation 19:21
- Revelation 20:1-3
- Revelation 7:1-7
- Daniel 12:7
- Ezekiel 23:3-38
- Philippians 2:9
- Romans 8:19-22
- Revelation 21:1-5
- Revelation 20:15
Book References:
Alpha Christians: A Manifesto for Men
https://www.amazon.com./s?k=9781946654304&i=stripbooks&linkCode=qs
Understanding End Times Prophecy by Paul Benware
https://books.google.com.ph/books/about/Understanding_End_Times_Prophecy.html?id=bCoOAAAACAAJ&redir_esc=y
About Our Host:
Bill Giovannetti is the Senior Pastor at Pathway Church, Redding, California — an experienced senior pastor with a demonstrated history of working in the religious institutions’ industry. He also teaches ministry-related college classes at Simpson University and the A. W. Tozer Theological Seminary. Bill has always had a passion to bring the deep things of God’s word to the everyday people of God.
Resources:
Veritas School Online Theological School
https://www.veritasschool.life/
Understanding End Times Prophecy by Paul Benware
https://books.google.com.ph/books/about/Understanding_End_Times_Prophecy.html?id=bCoOAAAACAAJ&redir_esc=y
Connect with Bill Giovannetti:
● Visit the website: https://www.veritasschool.life/
● Subscribe to the podcast: https://maxgrace.com/category/podcasts/
● Follow Bill on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bill.giovannetti
● Follow Bill on Twitter: https://twitter.com/BillGiovannetti
● Follow Bill on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/billgiovannetti/
Thanks for tuning in! Please don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe!
In Episode 128, we talk about the part one of the five great overturnings that will happen in connection with the second coming of the Lord Jesus Christ. We believe in Christ's second coming. His ascension will be personal, visible, and beautiful, a joyful hope for which we must continuously watch and pray.
Many find it incomprehensible that the Second Coming of Jesus Christ would be marked by the simultaneous outpouring of divine wrath and redemptive grace. However, it is not mercy against which people object. It is the belief that God is furious with those who oppose the gospel and will hold them forever responsible for rejecting Jesus Christ.
Tune in now, and let’s go bigger, better, and deeper!
If you enjoy this episode, please subscribe to the God Stuff Podcast, so you're always the first to know when a new episode is released.
Episode Timestamps:
Intro – [00:00]
The Second Coming of Jesus Christ – [01:45]
5 Revolutions – [06:18]
Revolution #1: Rapture – [08:44]
Revolution #2: Tribulation – [09:30]
Outro – [25:45]
Biblical References:
- 1 Thessalonians 4:16-17
- 1 Corinthians 15:50-52
- Philippians 3:20
- 1 Thessalonians 4
- Matthew 24:21
- Daniel 9:24-27
- 2 Thessalonians 2, 2 and 4
- Revelation 13, 15-18
- Revelation 12 and 13
- Revelation 9
- revelation 16: 14-16
- Revelation 14:20
- Revelation 19:11-16
Book References:
Alpha Christians: A Manifesto for Men
https://www.amazon.com./s?k=9781946654304&i=stripbooks&linkCode=qs
The Late Great Planet Earth by Hal Lindsey
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/031027771X/ref=x_gr_w_bb_sout?ie=UTF8&tag=x_gr_w_bb_sout-20&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=031027771X&SubscriptionId=1MGPYB6YW3HWK55XCGG2
Understanding End Times Prophecy by Paul Benware
https://books.google.com.ph/books/about/Understanding_End_Times_Prophecy.html?id=bCoOAAAACAAJ&redir_esc=y
About Our Host:
Bill Giovannetti is the Senior Pastor at Pathway Church, Redding, California — an experienced senior pastor with a demonstrated history of working in the religious institutions’ industry. He also teaches ministry-related college classes at Simpson University and the A. W. Tozer Theological Seminary. Bill has always had a passion to bring the deep things of God’s word to the everyday people of God.
Resources:
Veritas School Online Theological School
https://www.veritasschool.life/
The Late Great Planet Earth by Hal Lindsey
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/031027771X/ref=x_gr_w_bb_sout?ie=UTF8&tag=x_gr_w_bb_sout-20&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=031027771X&SubscriptionId=1MGPYB6YW3HWK55XCGG2
Understanding End Times Prophecy by Paul Benware
https://books.google.com.ph/books/about/Understanding_End_Times_Prophecy.html?id=bCoOAAAACAAJ&redir_esc=y
Connect with Bill Giovannetti:
● Visit the website: https://www.veritasschool.life/
● Subscribe to the podcast: https://maxgrace.com/category/podcasts/
● Follow Bill on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bill.giovannetti
● Follow Bill on Twitter: https://twitter.com/BillGiovannetti
● Follow Bill on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/billgiovannetti/
Thanks for tuning in! Please don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe!
In Episode 127, we are going to talk about how are evangelists called and what they do. The Holy Spirit empowers evangelists to share the good news of Jesus Christ with people in a special way. They have deep compassion for the lost and are willing to sacrifice for the sake of spreading the gospel to them.
Evangelists are able to talk to non-believers about Jesus without being deterred by the usual fear of rejection. They are able to reach out to all kinds of people because of their talent, and as a result, more people respond favorably to the good news of Jesus's redemption. They are always looking for new individuals to talk to and are willing to follow the Holy Spirit wherever He leads them.
Tune in now, and let’s go bigger, better, and deeper!
If you enjoy this episode, please subscribe to the God Stuff Podcast, so you're always the first to know when a new episode is released.
Episode Timestamps:
Intro – [00:00]
The Two Evangelists – [05:37]
Three Loves – [10:11]
Gift and Calling of an Evangelist – [10:47]
11 Characteristics of an Evangelist – [14:19]
11 Characteristics of an Evangelist Recap – [29:18]
Outro – [31:19]
Biblical References:
Ephesians 4:11
Acts 21:8
Book References:
Alpha Christians: A Manifesto for Men
https://www.amazon.com./s?k=9781946654304&i=stripbooks&linkCode=qs
About Our Host:
Bill Giovannetti is the Senior Pastor at Pathway Church, Redding, California — an experienced senior pastor with a demonstrated history of working in the religious institutions’ industry. He also teaches ministry-related college classes at Simpson University and the A. W. Tozer Theological Seminary. Bill has always had a passion to bring the deep things of God’s word to the everyday people of God.
Resources:
Veritas School Online Theological School
https://www.veritasschool.life/
Connect with Bill Giovannetti:
● Visit the website: https://www.veritasschool.life/
● Subscribe to the podcast: https://maxgrace.com/category/podcasts/
● Follow Bill on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bill.giovannetti
● Follow Bill on Twitter: https://twitter.com/BillGiovannetti
● Follow Bill on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/billgiovannetti/
Thanks for tuning in! Please don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe!
In Episode 126, we are going to talk about what good are Christians. To what end has Christianity influenced the world? The answer may be found in everything around us, from the rules and regulations put in place for our safety to the guiding principles by which we live our lives.
Because of its widespread influence, we sometimes fail to appreciate its legacy and forget that Christianity gave rise to our modern civilization. Christians are frequently hesitant to talk about the enormous positive impact that Christianity and its disciples have had on the world.
Tune in now, and let’s go bigger, better, and deeper!
If you enjoy this episode, please subscribe to the God Stuff Podcast, so you're always the first to know when a new episode is released.
Episode Timestamps:
Intro – [00:00]
"Christians Are Hate-Filled Hypocrites" – [03:07]
List of Christian Accomplishments – [05:18]
What's so Great about Christians Video – [11:53]
Final Thoughts – [16:41]
Outro – [18:22]
Book References:
Alpha Christians: A Manifesto for Men
https://www.amazon.com./s?k=9781946654304&i=stripbooks&linkCode=qs
Christians Are Hate-Filled Hypocrites
https://www.amazon.com/Christians-Hate-Filled-Hypocrites-Other-Youve/dp/0764207466
About Our Host:
Bill Giovannetti is the Senior Pastor at Pathway Church, Redding, California — an experienced senior pastor with a demonstrated history of working in the religious institutions’ industry. He also teaches ministry-related college classes at Simpson University and the A. W. Tozer Theological Seminary. Bill has always had a passion to bring the deep things of God’s word to the everyday people of God.
Resources:
Veritas School Online Theological School
https://www.veritasschool.life/
Christians Are Hate-Filled Hypocrites
https://www.amazon.com/Christians-Hate-Filled-Hypocrites-Other-Youve/dp/0764207466
Connect with Bill Giovannetti:
● Visit the website: https://www.veritasschool.life/
● Subscribe to the podcast: https://maxgrace.com/category/podcasts/
● Follow Bill on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bill.giovannetti
● Follow Bill on Twitter: https://twitter.com/BillGiovannetti
● Follow Bill on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/billgiovannetti/
Thanks for tuning in! Please don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe!
In Episode 125, we talk about biblical meditation and how we can use it as a way to reduce our anxieties, to drive the word of God deeply into our psyche and our soul and as a way of finding joy, a way to enter the God-blessed life.
Meditation helps us internalize God's Word so the Holy Spirit may lead, instruct, cleanse, and change us from the inside. We may listen to, read, and remember the scriptures to learn them, but we must also study them in our hearts to comprehend how it pertains to our lives.
Tune in now, and let’s go bigger, better, and deeper!
If you enjoy this episode, please subscribe to the God Stuff Podcast, so you're always the first to know when a new episode is released.
Episode Timestamps:
Intro – [00:00]
What is Meditation? – [03:49]
7 Ways to Meditate on God's Word – [10:15]
Method #1: Downshift – [11:17]
Method #2: Personalize – [14:44]
Method #3: Reword – [16:23]
Method #4: Enter – [18:14]
Method #5: Invoke – [20:15]
Method #6: Emphasize – [22:23]
Method #7 Recycle – [25:11]
7 Ways to Meditate on God's Word Recap – [29:14]
Outro – [30:39]
Biblical References:
- Acts 18:24-28
- Romans 12:2
- James 1:21
- 1 Peter 5:7
- Nahum 1:7
- Psalm 37:24
- Psalm 37:29
- Isaiah 44:22
- Psalm 46:1-3
- Deuteronomy 20:4
- Psalm 103:3
- Psalm 136:1-7
- Romans 8:28
Book References:
Alpha Christians: A Manifesto for Men
https://www.amazon.com./s?k=9781946654304&i=stripbooks&linkCode=qs
God’s Perfect Promises
https://www.dropbox.com/s/3o3h43aido761q7/Bible_Promises_Veritas.pdf?dl=0
About Our Host:
Bill Giovannetti is the Senior Pastor at Pathway Church, Redding, California — an experienced senior pastor with a demonstrated history of working in the religious institutions’ industry. He also teaches ministry-related college classes at Simpson University and the A. W. Tozer Theological Seminary. Bill has always had a passion to bring the deep things of God’s word to the everyday people of God.
Resources:
Veritas School Online Theological School
https://www.veritasschool.life/
God’s Perfect Promises
https://www.dropbox.com/s/3o3h43aido761q7/Bible_Promises_Veritas.pdf?dl=0
Connect with Bill Giovannetti:
● Visit the website: https://www.veritasschool.life/
● Subscribe to the podcast: https://maxgrace.com/category/podcasts/
● Follow Bill on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bill.giovannetti
● Follow Bill on Twitter: https://twitter.com/BillGiovannetti
● Follow Bill on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/billgiovannetti/
Thanks for tuning in! Please don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe!
Episode 124 is a recording of a sermon I did at Grace Pathway Church where I talk about what kind of person God uses and employs to do great things for Christ and the gospel. This would be sermon number seven in our series in the Book of Acts about Apollos.
Not a lot of people may have heard of Apollos but personally, he’s one of my favorite characters in the bible and you’ll learn more about him as we go along the podcast episode. How does God use us in ways that are satisfying to us and really make a difference in the world?
Tune in now and let’s go bigger, better, and deeper!
If you enjoy this episode, please subscribe to the God Stuff Podcast so you're always first to know when a new episode is released.
Episode Timestamps:
Intro – [00:00]
Who is Apollos? – [04:48]
God Uses Prepared People – [06:28]
Story of Apollos – [11:49]
Clue #1: Equipped – [16:16]
Clue #2: Knowledgeable – [19:58]
Clue #3: Passionate – [32:42]
Clue #4: Teachable – [40:35]
Two Principles – [42:15]
Closing Prayer – [44:46]
Outro – [46:15]
Biblical References:
Acts 18:24-28
Acts 18:24
Matthew 13:15
Isaiah 6:10
Acts 18:25-26
Acts 18:28
Book References:
Alpha Christians: A Manifesto for Men
https://www.amazon.com./s?k=9781946654304&i=stripbooks&linkCode=qs
About Our Host:
Bill Giovannetti is the Senior Pastor at Pathway Church, Redding, California — an experienced senior pastor with a demonstrated history of working in the religious institutions industry. He also teaches ministry related college classes at Simpson University and the A. W. Tozer Theological Seminary. Bill has always had a passion to bring the deep things of God’s word to the everyday people of God.
Resources:
Veritas School Online Theological School
https://www.veritasschool.life/
Connect with Bill Giovannetti:
● Visit the website: https://www.veritasschool.life/
● Subscribe to the podcast: https://maxgrace.com/category/podcasts/
● Follow Bill on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bill.giovannetti
● Follow Bill on Twitter: https://twitter.com/BillGiovannetti
● Follow Bill on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/billgiovannetti/
Thanks for tuning in! Please don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe!
In Episode 123, we talk about the problem of biblical illiteracy. It prohibits us from considering, understanding, and applying what is in the Bible to our lives. Instead, we get entangled in the rabbit holes of this inefficient and poor teaching.
What's the point of going to church if we don't help people learn from the Bible who we are and what we're supposed to do? What's the point of being a Christian if we never read the directions to find out what we should be doing? What's the point of being a Christian if we don't have a life that changes because of His Word, His Work, and the Holy Spirit?
Tune in now and let’s go bigger, better, and deeper!
If you enjoy this episode, please subscribe to the God Stuff Podcast so you're always first to know when a new episode is released.
Episode Timestamps:
Intro – [00:00]
Article #1: The Epidemic of Biblical Illiteracy in Our Churches – [02:13]
Article #2: The Scandal of Biblical Illiteracy – [06:19]
Bill's Opinion – [14:35]
Final Thoughts – [19:39]
Outro – [22:18]
Biblical References:
– Jude 1:3
– Psalm 33:12
– Genesis 18:32
– Isaiah 1:9
– Jeremiah 5:1
– Psalm 12:1and 8
– 2 Chronicles 7:14
– Romans 5:1
– 1 John 2:2
Book References:
Alpha Christians: A Manifesto for Men
https://www.amazon.com./s?k=9781946654304&i=stripbooks&linkCode=qs
About Our Host:
Bill Giovannetti is the Senior Pastor at Pathway Church, Redding, California — an experienced senior pastor with a demonstrated history of working in the religious institutions industry. He also teaches ministry related college classes at Simpson University and the A. W. Tozer Theological Seminary. Bill has always had a passion to bring the deep things of God’s word to the everyday people of God.
Resources:
Veritas School Online Theological School
https://www.veritasschool.life/
Connect with Bill Giovannetti:
● Visit the website: https://www.veritasschool.life/
● Subscribe to the podcast: https://maxgrace.com/category/podcasts/
● Follow Bill on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bill.giovannetti
● Follow Bill on Twitter: https://twitter.com/BillGiovannetti
● Follow Bill on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/billgiovannetti/
Thanks for tuning in! Please don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe!
In Episode 122, we continue to discuss how to better understand and handle the word of God, especially in the Gospels, particularly in Mark 10. It’s a really interesting chapter from the Bible yet it’s been always misinterpreted.
Mark 10 contains a handful of verses, one of which is Jesus's response to a wealthy man's question about what he must do to obtain everlasting life. He tells him, "You will have riches in paradise; then follow me." When riches separate us from others and God, we suffer. But I don’t find it to be true.
Let’s find out and go bigger, better, and deeper in God’s word!
Episode Timestamps:
Intro – [00:00]
Section #3: The Antithesis of Grace – [04:44]
Section #4: The Origin of Grace – [12:54]
Section #5: Giving Everything Up – [18:52]
Section #6: The True Cost of Grace – [23:51]
Section #7: Humans are Blind to Grace – [30:15]
Section #8: The Example of Grace – [34:34]
Outro – [44:06]
Biblical References:
– Mark 10:17-22
– Mark 10:23-27
– Mark 10:28-31
– Mark 10:32-34
– Mark 10:35-45
– Mark 10:36
Book References:
Alpha Christians: A Manifesto for Men
https://www.amazon.com./s?k=9781946654304&i=stripbooks&linkCode=qs
About Our Host:
Bill Giovannetti is the Senior Pastor at Pathway Church, Redding, California — an experienced senior pastor with a demonstrated history of working in the religious institutions industry. He also teaches ministry related college classes at Simpson University and the A. W. Tozer Theological Seminary. Bill has always had a passion to bring the deep things of God’s word to the everyday people of God.
Resources:
Veritas School Online Theological School
https://www.veritasschool.life/
Connect with Bill Giovannetti:
● Visit the website: https://www.veritasschool.life/
● Subscribe to the podcast: https://maxgrace.com/category/podcasts/
● Follow Bill on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bill.giovannetti
● Follow Bill on Twitter: https://twitter.com/BillGiovannetti
● Follow Bill on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/billgiovannetti/
Thanks for tuning in! Please don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe!
In Episode 121, we’re going to talk about a section of scripture and how to interpret it. There is a specific technique or methodology that we must use in order to correctly interpret the Gospels, and this is often overlooked, particularly in a passage like Mark 10.
It contains a lot of difficult sayings or what we call “The hard sayings of Christ”. If you read Mark 10, it would seem that it contradicts God’s grace and the Gospel. What I want to show you today is that if you interpret a section of the scripture like Mark 10 correctly, it teaches grace in a powerful way.
Let’s find out and go bigger, better, and deeper in God’s word!
Episode Timestamps:
Intro – [00:00]
Grace is the Hallmark of Biblical Christianity – [02:25]
Grace Books in the Bible – [03:38]
Index Cards – [06:32]
The Eight Sections – [11:25]
Section #1: The Prelude to Grace – [12:42]
Section #2: The Attitude of Grace – [21:45]
Outro – [28:33]
Biblical References:
– Matthew 11:25
– Deuteronomy 24:1
– Genesis 2:24
– Mark 10:13-16
Book References:
Alpha Christians: A Manifesto for Men
https://www.amazon.com./s?k=9781946654304&i=stripbooks&linkCode=qs
About Our Host:
Bill Giovannetti is the Senior Pastor at Pathway Church, Redding, California — an experienced senior pastor with a demonstrated history of working in the religious institutions industry. He also teaches ministry related college classes at Simpson University and the A. W. Tozer Theological Seminary. Bill has always had a passion to bring the deep things of God’s word to the everyday people of God.
Resources:
Veritas School Online Theological School
https://www.veritasschool.life/
Connect with Bill Giovannetti:
● Visit the website: https://www.veritasschool.life/
● Subscribe to the podcast: https://maxgrace.com/category/podcasts/
● Follow Bill on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bill.giovannetti
● Follow Bill on Twitter: https://twitter.com/BillGiovannetti
● Follow Bill on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/billgiovannetti/
Thanks for tuning in! Please don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe!
In Episode 120, we’re going to talk about what exactly happens after we die—in a biblical word view, Christian-evangelical Theology. Most of us have wondered what would happen next at some point in our lives. Death is scary and mysterious, and people's perceptions of what occurs and what it signifies differ significantly.
Death is merely a curve in the road, not the end of it. Death, for the believer, is the gateway to paradise. It is a gateway into terrible torment for the unbelieving. These statements are accurate, even if we may not wholly comprehend them. Even if we don't believe them, they are true.
What occurs after we die is determined by what happens before we die.
Let’s find out and go bigger, better, and deeper in God’s word!
Episode Timestamps:
Intro – [00:00]
What is Physical Death? [02:08]
The Two Destinies [04:21]
What Happens After a Person Dies on the Path of Unbelief? [05:58]
What Happens on the Path of Belief? [11:24]
Outro [19:52]
Biblical References:
- 2 Corinthians 5:8-9
- Matthew 7:13-14
- 1 John 5:13
- Luke 16:22-26
- Revelations 20:14-15
- Acts 4:12
- Philippians 2:9-11
- Romans 8:18
- Colossians 3:4
Book References:
Alpha Christians: A Manifesto for Men
https://www.amazon.com./s?k=9781946654304&i=stripbooks&linkCode=qs
About Our Host:
Bill Giovannetti is the Senior Pastor at Pathway Church, Redding, California — an experienced senior pastor with a demonstrated history of working in the religious institutions industry. He also teaches ministry related college classes at Simpson University and the A. W. Tozer Theological Seminary. Bill has always had a passion to bring the deep things of God’s word to the everyday people of God.
Resources:
Veritas School Online Theological School
https://www.veritasschool.life/
Connect with Bill Giovannetti:
● Visit the website: https://www.veritasschool.life/
● Subscribe to the podcast: https://maxgrace.com/category/podcasts/
● Follow Bill on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bill.giovannetti
● Follow Bill on Twitter: https://twitter.com/BillGiovannetti
● Follow Bill on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/billgiovannetti/
Thanks for tuning in! Please don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe!
In Episode 119, we’re going to answer the five misconceptions and statements that people commonly make about preaching that I want to challenge. You might have heard most of it and I don’t believe it’s true.
Confusions occur when it comes to what preaching really includes and how it should be carried out. If you want to know what preaching is really not, you might start by identifying common misconceptions. Preaching may involve several of the characteristics mentioned in today’s episode, but when any of them becomes the strongest factor, you may tell that it has changed course.
Let’s find out and go bigger, better, and deeper in God’s word!
Episode Timestamps:
Intro – [00:00]
Misconception #1: Jesus Used Stories to Make the Truth Simple – [02:12]
Misconception #2: People Remember Only a Fraction of what They Hear But Most of What They See or Feel – [05:52]
Misconception #3: Teaching and Preaching Must be Accompanied by Action – [08:52]
Misconception #4: Spirit-Led Means Structureless – [14:54]
Misconception #5: A Teaching Priority is an Either-or Proposition Related to Other Priorities – [17:54]
Five Misconceptions Recap – [21:34]
Outro – [21:14]
Biblical References:
- Luke 8:9
- Matthew 13:36
- Mark 7:17
- Luke 9:45
- 1 Corinthians 1:21
- 1 Corinthians 1:18
- 1 Corinthians 1:21
- 1 Corinthians 2:12
- Acts 18:4
- Romans 1-11
- Romans 12
- Ephesians 4:13-15
Book References:
Alpha Christians: A Manifesto for Men
https://www.amazon.com./s?k=9781946654304&i=stripbooks&linkCode=qs
About Our Host:
Bill Giovannetti is the Senior Pastor at Pathway Church, Redding, California — an experienced senior pastor with a demonstrated history of working in the religious institutions industry. He also teaches ministry related college classes at Simpson University and the A. W. Tozer Theological Seminary. Bill has always had a passion to bring the deep things of God’s word to the everyday people of God.
Resources:
Veritas School Online Theological School
https://www.veritasschool.life/
Connect with Bill Giovannetti:
● Visit the website: https://www.veritasschool.life/
● Subscribe to the podcast: https://maxgrace.com/category/podcasts/
● Follow Bill on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bill.giovannetti
● Follow Bill on Twitter: https://twitter.com/BillGiovannetti
● Follow Bill on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/billgiovannetti/
Thanks for tuning in! Please don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe!
In Episode 118, we talk about what it means to apply grace in difficult situations when someone does a heinous or unacceptable action and then they plead for grace. Are we supposed to forgive them and what do we need to do in those types of situations?
Although God is always eager to forgive us, He asks that we repent and forgive others as prerequisites for forgiveness. In certain cases, repentance and atonement may also be necessary. How could we pray the way Jesus teaches us if we don't want to forgive? How could we ask God to forgive us if we hold grudges or let resentment drag us down?
Let’s find out and go bigger, better, and deeper in God’s word!
Episode Timestamps:
Intro – [00:00]
The Golden Rule – [04:50]
What Does Grace Look Like under the Golden Rule? – [07:17]
Anger vs Grace – [08:40]
Tough Love – [11:37]
Final Thoughts – [13:20]
Outro – [14:02]
Biblical References:
- Matthew 7:12
- Luke 6:31
Book References:
Alpha Christians: A Manifesto for Men
https://www.amazon.com./s?k=9781946654304&i=stripbooks&linkCode=qs
About Our Host:
Bill Giovannetti is the Senior Pastor at Pathway Church, Redding, California — an experienced senior pastor with a demonstrated history of working in the religious institutions industry. He also teaches ministry related college classes at Simpson University and the A. W. Tozer Theological Seminary. Bill has always had a passion to bring the deep things of God’s word to the everyday people of God.
Resources:
Veritas School Online Theological School
https://www.veritasschool.life/
Connect with Bill Giovannetti:
● Visit the website: https://www.veritasschool.life/
● Subscribe to the podcast: https://maxgrace.com/category/podcasts/
● Follow Bill on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bill.giovannetti
● Follow Bill on Twitter: https://twitter.com/BillGiovannetti
● Follow Bill on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/billgiovannetti/
Thanks for tuning in! Please don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe!
In Episode 117, we go deeper into the topic of Jacob wrestling with God, the story behind it and what it means and why most people give it a different meaning. If you know Jacob's story, you know that his life was full of hardships. God told Jacob that he would be the father of a great nation and a whole group of nations, but Jacob was a very worried man.
Jacob's story teaches us that life is never easy. This is true when we battle with God and His will. As Christians, we learn that despite our difficulties and tribulations, God is always with us. In the end, Jacob does what all of us must do. He confronts all the things that are hurting him, including his failures, shortcomings, sins, and more... and faces God.
Let’s find out and go bigger, better, and deeper in God’s word!
Episode Timestamps:
Intro – [00:00]
A Different Take on Jacob Wrestling with God – [02:12]
Jacob's Judgment Day – [03:27]
Jacob's Approach in Retributive Justice #1: Pray to God – [05:28]
Jacob's Approach in Retributive Justice #2: Legalism – [06:54]
Jacob's Three Bribes and Ways For Esau's Forgiveness – [08:12]
Jacob's Lowest Point – [10:11]
Legalism Tentacle #1: We are Unequal Footing with God – [12:01]
Legalism Tentacle #2: We Must Strain Ourselves to Gain Anything From God – [13:17]
Legalism Tentacle #3: God is Against Us – [15:03]
Legalism Tentacle #4: If We Become Moral Winners, God will Owe Us – [16:06]
Jacob Wrestles with God – [17:05]
Jacob Asked for God's Blessing – [19:32]
Jacob Meets Esau – [24:09]
Final Thoughts/Outro – [27:02]
Biblical References:
- Genesis 32:24-28
- Genesis 32:9-10
- Genesis 32:13
- Genesis 32:17
- Genesis 32:25
- Genesis 32:24
- Genesis 32:26
- Genesis 33:1
- Genesis 33:3
- Genesis 33:4
Book References:
Alpha Christians: A Manifesto for Men
https://www.amazon.com./s?k=9781946654304&i=stripbooks&linkCode=qs
About Our Host:
Bill Giovannetti is the Senior Pastor at Pathway Church, Redding, California — an experienced senior pastor with a demonstrated history of working in the religious institutions industry. He also teaches ministry related college classes at Simpson University and the A. W. Tozer Theological Seminary. Bill has always had a passion to bring the deep things of God’s word to the everyday people of God.
Resources:
Veritas School Online Theological School
https://www.veritasschool.life/
Church Growth Lecture
https://bg-sermon-manuscripts-pdf.s3.us-west-1.amazonaws.com/CHURCH+GROWTH+LECTURE+1.pdf
Connect with Bill Giovannetti:
● Visit the website: https://www.veritasschool.life/
● Subscribe to the podcast: https://maxgrace.com/category/podcasts/
● Follow Bill on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bill.giovannetti
● Follow Bill on Twitter: https://twitter.com/BillGiovannetti
● Follow Bill on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/billgiovannetti/
Thanks for tuning in! Please don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe!
In Episode 116, we look at how teachers, preachers, and adults might successfully convey the word of God. These methods will enable them to make a greater effect on people's lives. It will not be simple. But keep in mind that God sends His Holy Spirit to empower us only if we ask for it.
Evangelism is sharing the good news with the people. How can someone accept God as their personal Lord and Savior if they didn’t know Him in the first place? That’s why evangelism plays an important role in our lives.
Don’t miss this episode. Tune in now and let’s go bigger, better, and deeper!
Episode Timestamps:
Intro – [00:00]
The Three Indispensable Qualities – [03:29]
Indispensable Quality #1: Theological System – [04:27]
Indispensable Quality #2: Have a View Point on Sanctification – [12:17]
Indispensable Quality #3: Evangelistic Spirit – [18:25]
Evangelism in Several Categories – [23:15]
Three Classifications of Evangelism – [24:15]
Outro – [28:59]
Biblical References:
- 2 Corinthians 4:7
- John 17:17
Book References:
Alpha Christians: A Manifesto for Men
https://www.amazon.com./s?k=9781946654304&i=stripbooks&linkCode=qs
Church Growth Lecture
https://bg-sermon-manuscripts-pdf.s3.us-west-1.amazonaws.com/CHURCH+GROWTH+LECTURE+1.pdf
About Our Host:
Bill Giovannetti is the Senior Pastor at Pathway Church, Redding, California — an experienced senior pastor with a demonstrated history of working in the religious institutions industry. He also teaches ministry related college classes at Simpson University and the A. W. Tozer Theological Seminary. Bill has always had a passion to bring the deep things of God’s word to the everyday people of God.
Resources:
Veritas School Online Theological School
https://www.veritasschool.life/
Church Growth Lecture
https://bg-sermon-manuscripts-pdf.s3.us-west-1.amazonaws.com/CHURCH+GROWTH+LECTURE+1.pdf
Connect with Bill Giovannetti:
● Visit the website: https://www.veritasschool.life/
● Subscribe to the podcast: https://maxgrace.com/category/podcasts/
● Follow Bill on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bill.giovannetti
● Follow Bill on Twitter: https://twitter.com/BillGiovannetti
● Follow Bill on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/billgiovannetti/
Thanks for tuning in! Please don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe!
In Episode 115, we talk a little bit about having a greater influence and significant impact on Christ and the gospel. What does being relevant mean, and why is it important? Christ-followers must focus their attention and energy on things of lasting importance, meaning, and value, which is why "relevance" is so important.
Being relevant means being ourselves and being able to connect with others and give them hope. Hope entails rebuilding trust. Without it, initiating tasks is difficult. Life needs hope. Hope guides life. It aids goal-setting. Without it, we'll become distracted and lose way of our faith.
Tune in now, and let’s go bigger, better, and deeper!
If you enjoy this episode, please subscribe to the God Stuff Podcast, so you're always the first to know when a new episode is released.
Episode Timestamps:
Intro [00:00]
The Gift of Authenticity [05:21]
The Gift of Difference [06:53]
All About Martyn Lloyd-Jones [09:24]
The Gift of Substance [12:15]
There's Beauty in Irrelevance [12:44]
Outro [15:24]
Biblical References:
- Romans 4:5
- Romans 4:4
- Romans 4:3
- Romans 4:6
- Romans 4:8
- 2 Corinthians 5:21
- Romans 5:21
Book References:
Alpha Christians: A Manifesto for Men
https://www.amazon.com./s?k=9781946654304&i=stripbooks&linkCode=qs
About Our Host:
Bill Giovannetti is the Senior Pastor at Pathway Church, Redding, California — an experienced senior pastor with a demonstrated history of working in the religious institutions industry. He also teaches ministry related college classes at Simpson University and the A. W. Tozer Theological Seminary. Bill has always had a passion to bring the deep things of God’s word to the everyday people of God.
Resources:
Veritas School Online Theological School
https://www.veritasschool.life/
Connect with Bill Giovannetti:
● Visit the website: https://www.veritasschool.life/
● Subscribe to the podcast: https://maxgrace.com/category/podcasts/
● Follow Bill on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bill.giovannetti
● Follow Bill on Twitter: https://twitter.com/BillGiovannetti
● Follow Bill on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/billgiovannetti/
Thanks for tuning in! Please don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe!
In Episode 114, we go deeper into one of scripture's core doctrines, justification. The definition of justified is "declared or considered as righteous." For a Christian, justification is God's act of forgiving the believer’s sins and inferring Christ's righteousness to him.
There is only one theological system in which the notion of justification by grace through faith is taught in the Bible. As a result of our trust in Jesus Christ, only by returning to Scripture can we see that justification is based only on faith and not on our deeds.
Tune in now and let’s go bigger, better, and deeper!
If you enjoy this episode, please subscribe to the God Stuff Podcast, so you're always the first to know when a new episode is released.
Episode Timestamps:
Intro [00:00]
Never Put God in our Debt [03:41]
William R. Newell's Commentary [04:40]
God Justifies the Ungodly [07:19]
What is Righteousness? [08:16]
How Did God Give You His Righteousness? [10:31]
Catholicism [12:42]
Council of Trent [15:48]
Why is Righteousness Imputed, Not Imparted? [17:42]
Final Thoughts [21:44]
Outro [22:07]
Biblical References:
Romans 4:5
Romans 4:4
Romans 4:3
Romans 4:6
Romans 4:8
2 Corinthians 5:21
Romans 5:21
Book References:
Alpha Christians: A Manifesto for Men
https://www.amazon.com./s?k=9781946654304&i=stripbooks&linkCode=qs
About Our Host:
Bill Giovannetti is the Senior Pastor at Pathway Church, Redding, California — an experienced senior pastor with a demonstrated history of working in the religious institutions industry. He also teaches ministry related college classes at Simpson University and the A. W. Tozer Theological Seminary. Bill has always had a passion to bring the deep things of God’s word to the everyday people of God.
Resources:
Veritas School Online Theological School
https://www.veritasschool.life/
Connect with Bill Giovannetti:
● Visit the website: https://www.veritasschool.life/
● Subscribe to the podcast: https://maxgrace.com/category/podcasts/
● Follow Bill on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bill.giovannetti
● Follow Bill on Twitter: https://twitter.com/BillGiovannetti
● Follow Bill on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/billgiovannetti/
Thanks for tuning in! Please don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe!
In Episode 113, we talk about assurance which is the flip side of the eternal security coin. Can we be certain that we will go to Heaven? God gives us assurance of salvation when He makes it clear that He has accepted Christ's sacrifice as payment for our sins.
The Bible tells us to make sure we know Christ and are right with God, but it also tells us not to feel too safe. It’s important not only to be sure we'll be saved that’s why the Bible gives us faith in the Lord's redemption. God instructs us to be confident, according to a contextual and methodical analysis of the Bible.
Tune in now and let’s go bigger, better, and deeper!
If you enjoy this episode, please subscribe to the God Stuff Podcast so you're always first to know when a new episode is released.
Episode Timestamps:
Intro [00:00]
What is Assurance? [02:57]
Catholic Theology [03:32]
Calvinism [05:51]
St. Agustine and Horatius Bonar's Definition of Salvation [08:32]
Do You Believe in Eternal Life? [09:53]
Proof of Christian Assurance #1: Word of God [11:18]
Evidence #1: Inward Testimony of the Spirit [15:10]
Evidence #2: A Lifestyle of Growth and Holiness and Good Works [16:29]
Outro [19:18]
Biblical References:
1 John 5:13
John 6:37
Colossians 2:2
Hebrews 6:11
Hebrews 4:16
Acts 2:41
Acts Chapter 2
Romans 8:16
2 Timothy 1:12
Book References:
Alpha Christians: A Manifesto for Men
https://www.amazon.com./s?k=9781946654304&i=stripbooks&linkCode=qs
About Our Host:
Bill Giovannetti is the Senior Pastor at Pathway Church, Redding, California — an experienced senior pastor with a demonstrated history of working in the religious institutions industry. He also teaches ministry related college classes at Simpson University and the A. W. Tozer Theological Seminary. Bill has always had a passion to bring the deep things of God’s word to the everyday people of God.
Resources:
Veritas School Online Theological School
https://www.veritasschool.life/
Connect with Bill Giovannetti:
● Visit the website: https://www.veritasschool.life/
● Subscribe to the podcast: https://maxgrace.com/category/podcasts/
● Follow Bill on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bill.giovannetti
● Follow Bill on Twitter: https://twitter.com/BillGiovannetti
● Follow Bill on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/billgiovannetti/
Thanks for tuning in! Please don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe!
Episode 112 is a recording of a lecture I delivered to the Central Pacific to 300 district pastors and their respective wives in my denomination, the Christian Missionary Alliance. I was requested to speak on the significance and urgency of evangelism a few weeks ago, on May 5, 2022.
You're going to hear me discuss something you may have heard of called "Cities of Refuge", what they were and what they represented, and what they signify for us now. Another purpose that day was to promote evangelism. I hope this is a benefit to you and an inspiration to others.
Tune in now and let’s go bigger, better, and deeper!
If you enjoy this episode, please subscribe to the God Stuff Podcast so you're always first to know when a new episode is released.
Episode Timestamps:
Intro [00:00]
There’s Power in the Gospel [04:52]
Principle #1: The Urgency to Share the Gospel [09:07]
Principle #2: Save Every Soul Before the Time Runs Out [16:38]
Principle #3: Christ Died For Our Sins [22:03]
Principle #4: Clear the Way to Refuge in Christ and the Gospel [25:23]
The Proposal/Commitment [32:56]
The Prayer of Commitment [42:56]
Closing Prayer [45:38]
Outro [48:04]
Biblical References:
Joshua 20:1
1 Corinthians 9:16
Romans 9:3
Acts 1:8
John 15:26
Acts 20:24
Galatians 6:14
1 Corinthians 1:23
Hebrews 12:29
Hebrews 10:31
Hebrews 6:18
Book References:
Alpha Christians: A Manifesto for Men
https://www.amazon.com./s?k=9781946654304&i=stripbooks&linkCode=qs
About Our Host:
Bill Giovannetti is the Senior Pastor at Pathway Church, Redding, California — an experienced senior pastor with a demonstrated history of working in the religious institutions industry. He also teaches ministry-related college classes at Simpson University and the A. W. Tozer Theological Seminary. Bill has always had a passion to bring the deep things of God’s word to the everyday people of God.
Resources:
Veritas School Online Theological School
https://www.veritasschool.life/
Connect with Bill Giovannetti:
● Visit the website: https://www.veritasschool.life/
● Subscribe to the podcast: https://maxgrace.com/category/podcasts/
● Follow Bill on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bill.giovannetti
● Follow Bill on Twitter: https://twitter.com/BillGiovannetti
● Follow Bill on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/billgiovannetti/
Thanks for tuning in! Please don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe!
In Episode 111, we go deeper into God's word, especially a few weird biblical words that most Christians have never heard of and what they imply. Many biblical words and concepts have spiritual meanings. By fitting these parts together, we may begin to understand the full meaning, and the effort engages our thoughts and, ideally, opens us to the Lord's guidance.
A book as large as the Bible is certain to include a few weird terms. But it's easy to overlook the weirdness that exists in our own culture outside of the Bible. That, when strange and peculiar Bible terminology is examined, they may not be so strange after all if understood in their appropriate context.
Tune in now and let’s go bigger, better, and deeper!
If you enjoy this episode, please subscribe to the God Stuff Podcast so you're always first to know when a new episode is released.
Episode Timestamps:
Intro – [00:00]
Word #1: Ebenezer – [03:17]
Word #2: Ichabod – [04:45]
Word #3: Maranatha – [07:28]
Word #4: Anathema – [09:04]
Word #5: Panoply – [10:12]
Word #6: Tsabaoth – [11:49]
6 Weirdy Meaningful Words Recap – [13:57]
Outro – [14:22]
Biblical References:
-1 Samuel 7:12
-1 Samuel 4:21
-1 Corinthians 16:22
-Galatians 1:8
-Ephesians 6:11
-1 Chronicles 11:9
Book References:
Alpha Christians: A Manifesto for Men
https://www.amazon.com./s?k=9781946654304&i=stripbooks&linkCode=qs
About Our Host:
Bill Giovannetti is the Senior Pastor at Pathway Church, Redding, California — an experienced senior pastor with a demonstrated history of working in the religious institutions industry. He also teaches ministry related college classes at Simpson University and the A. W. Tozer Theological Seminary. Bill has always had a passion to bring the deep things of God’s word to the everyday people of God.
Resources:
Veritas School Online Theological School
https://www.veritasschool.life/
Connect with Bill Giovannetti:
● Visit the website: https://www.veritasschool.life/
● Subscribe to the podcast: https://maxgrace.com/category/podcasts/
● Follow Bill on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bill.giovannetti
● Follow Bill on Twitter: https://twitter.com/BillGiovannetti
● Follow Bill on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/billgiovannetti/
Thanks for tuning in! Please don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe!
In Episode 110, we discuss the factors that contribute to the growth of the church, the ministry, and other parts of the body of Christ. Churches and ministries aim to expand their reach and expanding their reach results from growth.
Growth does not happen by chance; it needs a clear direction, thoughtful consideration, and a well-defined plan. The most successful churches pursue a God-given vision and purpose, specify the steps, and execute a strategic plan to get there.
Tune in now and let’s go bigger, better, and deeper!
If you enjoy this episode, please subscribe to the God Stuff Podcast so you're always first to know when a new episode is released.
Episode Timestamps:
Intro – [00:00]
A Church is A Living Thing – [02:27]
God Cares About the Numerical Growth of the Church – [04:28]
Where the Growth Comes From – [08:26]
What Does Not Cause Church Growth? – [15:16]
Three Categories of Good Growth – [16:23]
We Can't Make the Church Grow, But We Can Hinder the Growth – [18:43]
The Major Hindrance – [19:16]
The Five Spaces – [21:24]
Theological Framework – [29:30]
Final Thoughts/Outro – [31:14]
Biblical References:
Acts 16:5
Acts 2:47
Acts 4:4
Acts 5:14
Acts 6:7
Acts 2:41
Acts 9:31
Acts 11:21
Acts 12:24
Acts 13:49
Acts 19:20
1 Corinthians 3:6
2 Peter 3:9
2 Kings 4:3-7
Philippians 1:6
Hebrews 10:14
John 10:29
Ephesians 2:18
Romans 5:2
Book References:
Alpha Christians: A Manifesto for Men
https://www.amazon.com./s?k=9781946654304&i=stripbooks&linkCode=qs
Church Growth Lecture
https://bg-sermon-manuscripts-pdf.s3.us-west-1.amazonaws.com/CHURCH+GROWTH+LECTURE+1.pdf
About Our Host:
Bill Giovannetti is the Senior Pastor at Pathway Church, Redding, California — an experienced senior pastor with a demonstrated history of working in the religious institutions industry. He also teaches ministry related college classes at Simpson University and the A. W. Tozer Theological Seminary. Bill has always had a passion to bring the deep things of God’s word to the everyday people of God.
Resources:
Veritas School Online Theological School
https://www.veritasschool.life/
Church Growth Lecture
https://bg-sermon-manuscripts-pdf.s3.us-west-1.amazonaws.com/CHURCH+GROWTH+LECTURE+1.pdf
Connect with Bill Giovannetti:
● Visit the website: https://www.veritasschool.life/
● Subscribe to the podcast: https://maxgrace.com/category/podcasts/
● Follow Bill on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bill.giovannetti
● Follow Bill on Twitter: https://twitter.com/BillGiovannetti
● Follow Bill on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/billgiovannetti/
Thanks for tuning in! Please don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe!
In Episode 109, we discuss a very interesting topic about the Riches of Divine Grace, which is a follow-up from the previous episode, Union With Christ. We also reference Chapter 6: Riches of Grace in Christ Jesus from Lewis S. Chafer’s book, Salvation.
Understanding God's grace allows one to get insight into God's very nature. They perceive in the richness of God's generosity that He provides totally, freely, and abundantly. According to the riches of God's grace, the gracious and good news of the gospel is the free and complete forgiveness for those who are in Christ Jesus.
Tune in now and let’s go bigger, better, and deeper!
If you enjoy this episode, please subscribe to the God Stuff Podcast so you're always first to know when a new episode is released.
Episode Timestamps:
Intro – [00:00]
Who is Lewis Chafer? – [01:57]
Discovering The 33 Riches of Divine Grace– [04:53]
Remember Your R.I.C.H.es – [08:04]
R for Riches– [08:22]
I for Identity– [08:45]
C for Choose – [09:26]
H for Holiness – [10:20]
The 33 Riches of Divine Grace – [11:36]
Outro – [24:13]
Biblical References:
1 Corinthians 2:12
1 Corinthians 9:8
Colossians 1:14
1 John 2:2
Galatians 2:20
Romans 8:1
1 Peter 2:24
Romans 4:25
Col 2:20
2 Corinthians 6:8
2 Corinthians 5:17
Romans 8:15
Colossians 1:14
Colossians 1:13
Colossians 2:13
Ephesians 2:20
Colossians 3:24
Philippians 3:20
Ephesians 5:8
Romans 8:13
Colossians 3:10
Philippians 1:6
Hebrews 10:14
John 10:29
Ephesians 2:18
Romans 5:2
Book References:
Alpha Christians: A Manifesto for Men
https://www.amazon.com./s?k=9781946654304&i=stripbooks&linkCode=qs
Riches of Divine Grace
https://veritasschool-112-soteriology.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Riches+of+Grace+in+Christ+Jesus+by+Lewis+S.+Chafer+-+Bible+Doctrine+-+Wholesome+Words.pdf
About Our Host:
Bill Giovannetti is the Senior Pastor at Pathway Church, Redding, California — an experienced senior pastor with a demonstrated history of working in the religious institutions industry. He also teaches ministry related college classes at Simpson University and the A. W. Tozer Theological Seminary. Bill has always had a passion to bring the deep things of God’s word to the everyday people of God.
Resources:
Veritas School Online Theological School
https://www.veritasschool.life/
Riches of Divine Grace
https://veritasschool-112-soteriology.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Riches+of+Grace+in+Christ+Jesus+by+Lewis+S.+Chafer+-+Bible+Doctrine+-+Wholesome+Words.pdf
Connect with Bill Giovannetti:
● Visit the website: https://www.veritasschool.life/
● Subscribe to the podcast: https://maxgrace.com/category/podcasts/
● Follow Bill on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bill.giovannetti
● Follow Bill on Twitter: https://twitter.com/BillGiovannetti
● Follow Bill on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/billgiovannetti/
Thanks for tuning in! Please don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe!
In Episode 108, we dive deeper into the topic of union with Christ; what it means, how it was developed in the Bible and how it can apply radical identity changes to the members of your church group. This is theologically, one of the most central and most important of all doctrines, that include three types of union with Christ: Moral, Legal and Mystical.
Of all the things you could discuss with your loved ones, church group, pastor, women's or men's ministry, the doctrine of union with Christ and what it means is probably the most powerful and life-changing. And in the next episode, we’re going to follow up on another topic which is the Riches of Divine Grace.
Tune in now and let’s go bigger, better, and deeper!
If you enjoy this episode, please subscribe to the God Stuff Podcast so you're always first to know when a new episode is released.
Episode Timestamps:
Intro – [00:00]
"Who Am I with Christ?" – [03:33]
The Three Types of Union with Jesus Christ – [08:03]
Legal Union – [08:40]
Mystical Union – [12:58]
Moral Union – [18:28]
Outro – [21:57]
Biblical References:
- Romans 8:1
- Romans 8:39
- Isaiah 61:10
- Philippians 3:9 KJV
- 1 Corinthians 1:30, 31
- Colossians 1:27
- Galatians 2:20
- 2 Corinthians 13:5
- Romans 8:29
- Ephesians 4:1
- Ephesians 3:8
Book References:
Alpha Christians: A Manifesto for Men
https://www.amazon.com./s?k=9781946654304&i=stripbooks&linkCode=qs
About Our Host:
Bill Giovannetti is the Senior Pastor at Pathway Church, Redding, California — an experienced senior pastor with a demonstrated history of working in the religious institutions industry. He also teaches ministry related college classes at Simpson University and the A. W. Tozer Theological Seminary. Bill has always had a passion to bring the deep things of God’s word to the everyday people of God.
Resources:
Veritas School Online Theological School
https://www.veritasschool.life/
Connect with Bill Giovannetti:
● Visit the website: https://www.veritasschool.life/
● Subscribe to the podcast: https://maxgrace.com/category/podcasts/
● Follow Bill on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bill.giovannetti
● Follow Bill on Twitter: https://twitter.com/BillGiovannetti
● Follow Bill on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/billgiovannetti/
Thanks for tuning in! Please don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe!
In Episode 107, we reference Episode 99 where we talked about the ten unusual tips for public speakers. We all like hearing a motivating speech that piques our interest and inspires us to strive for greater heights. Your message and your emotions should be the focus of your attention.
Regardless, we have all been unlucky victims of a poorly planned and executed message. This might be a terrifying experience and we don't want our future listeners to suffer needlessly. Take advantage of any chance to tell people about your church, and you'll find yourself growing more at ease and natural over time.
Tune in now and let’s go bigger, better, and deeper!
If you enjoy this episode, please subscribe to the God Stuff Podcast so you're always first to know when a new episode is released.
Episode Timestamps:
Intro [00:00]
Denotation and Connotation [03:22]
Deal Sensitive Topics with Compassion and Care [04:18]
Never Drop A Heavy Topic Without Preparing Your Audience For It [04:55]
Speak in the Second Person, Singular [06:11]
Keep Your Prayer Short When Praying in Public [08:22]
It's Okay to Prepare a Public Prayer [12:05]
Keep Focused on Who God is [15:04]
Intercede Without Qualifiers [15:41]
Always Use Your Bible [17:23]
Outro [19:41]
Biblical References:
- John 3:16
Book References:
Alpha Christians: A Manifesto for Men
https://www.amazon.com./s?k=9781946654304&i=stripbooks&linkCode=qs
About Our Host:
Bill Giovannetti is the Senior Pastor at Pathway Church, Redding, California — an experienced senior pastor with a demonstrated history of working in the religious institutions industry. He also teaches ministry related college classes at Simpson University and the A. W. Tozer Theological Seminary. Bill has always had a passion to bring the deep things of God’s word to the everyday people of God.
Resources:
Veritas School Online Theological School
https://www.veritasschool.life/
Connect with Bill Giovannetti:
● Visit the website: https://www.veritasschool.life/
● Subscribe to the podcast: https://maxgrace.com/category/podcasts/
● Follow Bill on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bill.giovannetti
● Follow Bill on Twitter: https://twitter.com/BillGiovannetti
● Follow Bill on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/billgiovannetti/
Thanks for tuning in! Please don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe!
In Episode 106, at its root, youth ministry is a social endeavor. To help children flourish, adults in the church who love them as they are must be present in their lives. When it comes to creating a church that embraces youth as full members, the senior pastor has a critical role to play.
Rather than representing the church of the future, today's youth represent the church of the here and now. Senior pastors may lead the way and urge other pastors to incorporate youth as full members of the church. There are occasions when a senior pastor simply says, "Yes, you can."
Tune in now and let’s go bigger, better, and deeper!
If you enjoy this episode, please subscribe to the God Stuff Podcast so you're always first to know when a new episode is released.
Episode Timestamps:
Intro [00:00]
Tip #1: Your Walk is More Important than Your Service [05:13]
Tip #2: Your Personal Maturity is More Important than Your Popularity [08:03]
Tip #3: Church is More Important than Youth Groups [09:59]
Tip #4: Other People's Kids over Everything Else [12:32]
Tip #5: Parents are Equally Important with the Kids and the Students [14:57]
Tip #6: Go After the Introverts [17:33]
Tip #7: Go After the Unsaved Students [19:45]
Tip #8: Stick Around [21:18]
Outro [22:28]
Book References:
Alpha Christians: A Manifesto for Men
https://www.amazon.com./s?k=9781946654304&i=stripbooks&linkCode=qs
About Our Host:
Bill Giovannetti is the Senior Pastor at Pathway Church, Redding, California — an experienced senior pastor with a demonstrated history of working in the religious institutions industry. He also teaches ministry related college classes at Simpson University and the A. W. Tozer Theological Seminary. Bill has always had a passion to bring the deep things of God’s word to the everyday people of God.
Resources:
Veritas School Online Theological School
https://www.veritasschool.life/
Connect with Bill Giovannetti:
● Visit the website: https://www.veritasschool.life/
● Subscribe to the podcast: https://maxgrace.com/category/podcasts/
● Follow Bill on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bill.giovannetti
● Follow Bill on Twitter: https://twitter.com/BillGiovannetti
● Follow Bill on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/billgiovannetti/
Thanks for tuning in! Please don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe!
In Episode 105, I continue with the last part of a three-part mini-series about my journey and how I got here. I've never stopped learning, and I don't plan on stopping anytime soon. I didn't begin ministry as a fully formed Christian, and I still have a long way to go.
However, this journey has taught me a lot about myself, God, and how to pastor, and I'm thankful for God's patience with me. Quite the trip! Nothing has ended yet, and I have no idea what's coming next.
Tune in now and let’s go bigger, better, and deeper!
If you enjoy this episode, please subscribe to the God Stuff Podcast so you're always first to know when a new episode is released.
Episode Timestamps:
Intro [00:00]
How the Church Started [02:08]
Church's Location [08:27]
How the Church's Name got Changed [10:37]
How Bill Met His Wife [14:34]
How God Answered Bill's Prayer [16:12]
First Time in California [19:31]
Final Thoughts [20:37]
Outro [21:28]
Book References:
Alpha Christians: A Manifesto for Men
https://www.amazon.com./s?k=9781946654304&i=stripbooks&linkCode=qs
About Our Host:
Bill Giovannetti is the Senior Pastor at Pathway Church, Redding, California — an experienced senior pastor with a demonstrated history of working in the religious institutions industry. He also teaches ministry related college classes at Simpson University and the A. W. Tozer Theological Seminary. Bill has always had a passion to bring the deep things of God’s word to the everyday people of God.
Resources:
Veritas School Online Theological School
https://www.veritasschool.life/
Connect with Bill Giovannetti:
● Visit the website: https://www.veritasschool.life/
● Subscribe to the podcast: https://maxgrace.com/category/podcasts/
● Follow Bill on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bill.giovannetti
● Follow Bill on Twitter: https://twitter.com/BillGiovannetti
● Follow Bill on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/billgiovannetti/
Thanks for tuning in! Please don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe!
In Episode 104, we continue with the second part of a three-part mini-series to talk about my journey on how I entered the ministry and how I became a pastor. Was it God's plan for me to be a pastor? Almost every Christian has faced this dilemma at some time in their walk with Christ.
In the end, it's a wonder and a blessing when God gives someone an inclination towards pastoral leadership gifts to serve in a certain church and provides a path to lead and serve in that church. That’s when I knew I was called.
Tune in now and let’s go bigger, better, and deeper!
If you enjoy this episode, please subscribe to the God Stuff Podcast so you're always first to know when a new episode is released.
Episode Timestamps:
Intro [00:00]
Hunger for God's Word [03:32]
First Preaching [07:53]
Encounter with God [09:10]
Urban Ministry [13:02]
Why Bill Resigned [14:48]
Temporary Worker [21:48]
Starting a New Church [24:05]
Outro [24:57]
Book References:
Alpha Christians: A Manifesto for Men
https://www.amazon.com./s?k=9781946654304&i=stripbooks&linkCode=qs
Satan Is Alive and Well on Planet Earth
https://www.amazon.com/Satan-Alive-Well-Planet-Earth/dp/B00H054GIA/ref=pd_sbs_sccl_19/137-1945557-0829710?pd_rd_w=aVPWO&pf_rd_p=3676f086-9496-4fd7-8490-77cf7f43f846&pf_rd_r=5YW7F1TE0EW0E9R7BJWD&pd_rd_r=796824e5-5004-477b-b2f4-4ee355ff180e&pd_rd_wg=20uCw&pd_rd_i=B00H054GIA&psc=1
About Our Host:
Bill Giovannetti is the Senior Pastor at Pathway Church, Redding, California — an experienced senior pastor with a demonstrated history of working in the religious institutions industry. He also teaches ministry related college classes at Simpson University and the A. W. Tozer Theological Seminary. Bill has always had a passion to bring the deep things of God’s word to the everyday people of God.
Resources:
Veritas School Online Theological School
https://www.veritasschool.life/
Connect with Bill Giovannetti:
● Visit the website: https://www.veritasschool.life/
● Subscribe to the podcast: https://maxgrace.com/category/podcasts/
● Follow Bill on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bill.giovannetti
● Follow Bill on Twitter: https://twitter.com/BillGiovannetti
● Follow Bill on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/billgiovannetti/
Thanks for tuning in! Please don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe!
In Episode 103, we talk about how I entered the ministry and received my calling to God. Growing up, the church became my second home and family, and I was fortunate enough to have had the opportunity to learn about God and his word.
While each of us has a unique calling, we are committed to keeping an open ear to what the Lord has to say. Regardless of how vehemently we reject God's calling, he will sow a seed in our hearts. God's Will will always be carried out.
Tune in now and let’s go bigger, better, and deeper!
If you enjoy this episode, please subscribe to the God Stuff Podcast so you're always first to know when a new episode is released.
Episode Timestamps:
Intro [00:00]
The Call to Ministry [02:02]
High School Journey [06:37]
College Journey [09:47]
Children's Ministry [10:48]
Becoming A Children's Minister Pastor [14:48]
Bible Study for Awana leaders [16:33]
Awana Sunday School Teaching [17:41]
Roots of The Ministry [18:51]
The Path to Becoming a Reverend [22:24]
Turning in Resignation [31:42]
Outro [33:45]
Biblical References:
- Colossians 3:20
Book References:
Alpha Christians: A Manifesto for Men
https://www.amazon.com./s?k=9781946654304&i=stripbooks&linkCode=qs
Lance A Testament of Grace: The Inspiring Story of a Man and His Message Lance B. Latham, President, Awana Youth Association
https://www.amazon.com/Lance-Testament-Grace-Inspiring-Association/dp/B0006YL5G8
About Our Host:
Bill Giovannetti is the Senior Pastor at Pathway Church, Redding, California — an experienced senior pastor with a demonstrated history of working in the religious institutions industry. He also teaches ministry related college classes at Simpson University and the A. W. Tozer Theological Seminary. Bill has always had a passion to bring the deep things of God’s word to the everyday people of God.
Resources:
Veritas School Online Theological School
https://www.veritasschool.life/
Connect with Bill Giovannetti:
● Visit the website: https://www.veritasschool.life/
● Subscribe to the podcast: https://maxgrace.com/category/podcasts/
● Follow Bill on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bill.giovannetti
● Follow Bill on Twitter: https://twitter.com/BillGiovannetti
● Follow Bill on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/billgiovannetti/
Thanks for tuning in! Please don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe!
In Episode 102, we talk about the second and last part of two revival sermons. It is easy for Christians to be persuaded to compromise in a world that wants to welcome everyone and everything regardless of moral repercussions. Too frequently, instead of standing up for the Lord and His Word, we succumb to the "get along to get along" approach.
Gearing up refers to preparing for an action or event. Finally, remember to trust in the Lord and his powerful might. Put on all of God's gear so that you can stand firm against all of the devil's methods. Go to the foot of the cross and reflect on the Savior's sacrifice on your behalf. And, the next time you get the chance, turn up and do whatever you can to let them know you are on Jesus' side.
Tune in now and let’s go bigger, better, and deeper!
If you enjoy this episode, please subscribe to the God Stuff Podcast so you're always first to know when a new episode is released.
Episode Timestamps:
Introduction [0:00]
Opening Prayer [03:29]
Continuation of Introduction [05:26]
“War is the Natural State of Man” [06:39]
It’s Time To GEAR Up [07:40]
Definition of Revival [08:22]
God’s Instructions to Jonah [09:36]
6 Reasons Why It’s Time to Gear Up [15:23]
Closing Prayer [43:02]
Biblical References:
- Psalm 2
- James 4:1
- Jonah 1:2
- Nahum 3:1
- Psalm 2:1-3
Book References:
Alpha Christians: A Manifesto for Men
https://www.amazon.com./s?k=9781946654304&i=stripbooks&linkCode=qs
Enjoy free 1-month enrollment to our online theological school https://www.veritasschool.life/i0ogjjcu
About Our Host:
Bill Giovannetti is the Senior Pastor at Pathway Church, Redding, California — an experienced senior pastor with a demonstrated history of working in the religious institutions industry. He also teaches ministry related college classes at Simpson University and the A. W. Tozer Theological Seminary. Bill has always had a passion to bring the deep things of God’s word to the everyday people of God.
Resources:
Veritas School Online Theological School
https://www.veritasschool.life/
Connect with Bill Giovannetti:
● Visit the website: https://www.veritasschool.life/
● Subscribe to the podcast: https://maxgrace.com/category/podcasts/
● Follow Bill on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bill.giovannetti
● Follow Bill on Twitter: https://twitter.com/BillGiovannetti
● Follow Bill on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/billgiovannetti/
Thanks for tuning in! Please don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe!
In Episode 101, we talk about the first part of two revival sermons conducted at the Pathway Church. Looking at the state of affairs in our country, society, and culture, our main and only hope right now is revival. We look into one of the case studies of the Bible, under a king named Manasseh.
God retaliated upon King Manasseh for his sins. He let his adversaries overcome him. They kidnapped him and took him in chains to Babylon, where he worked as a slave. Manasseh, on the other hand, eventually repented of his sins and sought God for forgiveness and revival.
True revival occurs when God preached with the good news of His redemption. It always starts with His people being deeply convicted of sin and turning away from it in real repentance. It always entails the rediscovery of biblical truth, particularly the truth about how sinners are reconciled to God.
Tune in now and let’s go bigger, better, and deeper!
If you enjoy this episode, please subscribe to the God Stuff Podcast so you're always first to know when a new episode is released.
Episode Timestamps:
Introduction [00:43]
The Good and Bad Kings [03:47]
Spiritual Problems [06:03]
Short Story About The Seminary [08:41]
Prophet Ezekiel’s Vision [12:51]
Definition of Revival [13:59]
Great Awakening [14:54]
It’s Time to Go Back to the Bible [16:03]
Books of Moses [32:36]
The Word of God is Indestructible [33:32]
Prophet Ezekiel’s Prophecy [42:38]
Closing Prayer [46:20]
Biblical References:
- 2 Chronicles 33:1, 2
- Ezekiel 37:3, 1
- 2 Chronicles 34:1, 2
- 2 Chronicles 34:3-4
- 2 Chronicles 34:8
- 2 Chronicles 34:14
- 2 Chronicles 34:18,19
- 2 Chronicles 34:29-31
- 2 Chronicles 34:33
- Ezekiel 37:7, 8
- Ezekiel 37:10
Book References:
Alpha Christians: A Manifesto for Men
https://www.amazon.com./s?k=9781946654304&i=stripbooks&linkCode=qs
About Our Host:
Bill Giovannetti is the Senior Pastor at Pathway Church, Redding, California — an experienced senior pastor with a demonstrated history of working in the religious institutions industry. He also teaches ministry related college classes at Simpson University and the A. W. Tozer Theological Seminary. Bill has always had a passion to bring the deep things of God’s word to the everyday people of God.
Resources:
Veritas School Online Theological School
https://www.veritasschool.life/
Connect with Bill Giovannetti:
● Visit the website: https://www.veritasschool.life/
● Subscribe to the podcast: https://maxgrace.com/category/podcasts/
● Follow Bill on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bill.giovannetti
● Follow Bill on Twitter: https://twitter.com/BillGiovannetti
● Follow Bill on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/billgiovannetti/
Thanks for tuning in! Please don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe!
In our 100th episode, we celebrate a milestone together with a special guest: a best-selling author, a senior pastor, and a best-selling author, Dr. Erwin Lutzer. He is also an award-winning author of numerous books including Rescuing the Gospel, He Will Be the Preacher, The Cross in the Shadow of the Crescent, One Minute After You Die, When a Nation Forgets God, and Christian Bookseller’s Gold Medallion Award winner, Hitler’s Cross.
We take an in-depth look into his book, We Will Not Be Silenced, which discusses how you can train yourself to live out your convictions in the face of escalating opposition. Recognize the destructive answers secular society masquerades as solutions and gain a greater understanding of nonbelievers' worries about issues such as racism, misogyny, and poverty.
Tune in now and let’s go bigger, better, and deeper!
If you enjoy this episode, please subscribe to the God Stuff Podcast so you're always first to know when a new episode is released.
Episode Timestamps:
00:00 - Intro
04:09 - Why the Book was Written
06:51 - Where Evangelicals Have ‘Dropped the Ball’ With Evangelical Disaster Warnings
10:48 - Tips for Truthfully Delivering the Word of God
15:53 - Effective Christian Witness for the Gospel Vs Standing for Truth
18:50 - Freedom of Speech For Me, But Not For Thee
21:35 - Propaganda in the Christian Community
23:04 - “The Triumph of The Self”
24:52 - Evangelism in the World Today
29:29 - Outro
Biblical References:
- 2 Chronicles 20
Book References:
We Will Not Be Silenced by Dr. Erwin Lutzer
https://wewillnotbesilencedbook.com
The Evangelical Heritage by Bernard Ramm
https://www.amazon.com/Evangelical-Heritage-Study-Historical-Theology/dp/080102238X
Enjoy free 1-month enrollment to our online theological school https://www.veritasschool.life/i0ogjjcu
About Our Host:
Bill Giovannetti is the Senior Pastor at Pathway Church, Redding, California — an experienced senior pastor with a demonstrated history of working in the religious institutions' industry. He also teaches ministry-related college classes at Simpson University and the A. W. Tozer Theological Seminary. Bill has always had a passion to bring the deep things of God’s word to the everyday people of God.
About Our Guest:
Pastor Erwin Lutzer is Pastor Emeritus of The Moody Church in Chicago, where he served as Senior Pastor for 36 years. He has written numerous books and his radio program Running to Win is heard on several hundred radio stations in the United States and several other countries.
Resources:
Veritas School Online Theological School
https://www.veritasschool.life/
Connect with Bill Giovannetti:
● Visit the website: https://www.veritasschool.life/
● Subscribe to the podcast: https://maxgrace.com/category/podcasts/
● Follow Bill on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bill.giovannetti
● Follow Bill on Twitter: https://twitter.com/BillGiovannetti
● Follow Bill on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/billgiovannetti/
Thanks for tuning in! Please don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe!
In Episode 99, we employ the proper tactics to hone your public speaking abilities and learn to become a more successful speaker to your church group. Nobody expects you to be flawless, because good communication is never perfect. Putting in the necessary time to prepare, on the other hand, can help you produce a better speech to spread the word of God.
You may be wondering, "What makes a good public speaker?" The answer may appear simple: A successful public speaker employs effective public speaking skills. What are some good public speaking techniques?
Tune in now and let’s go bigger, better, and deeper!
If you enjoy this episode, please subscribe to the God Stuff Podcast so you're always first to know when a new episode is released.
Episode Timestamps:
Introduction [00:00]
Tip #1: Gesture Backwards [03:58]
Tip #2: Speak in The Singular, Not Plural [05:09]
Tip #3: Love Your Consonants [07:07]
Tip #4: Use the Second Person [08:46]
Tip #5: Microphone Management [09:18]
Tip #6: Keep Your Notes on One Side [13:01]
Tip #7: Don’t Look At Your Watch [13:57]
Tip #8: Don’t Shade Your Eyes Against the Stage Light [15:11]
Tip #9: Deliver Valuable Content [16:40]
Tip #10: Remember It’s Not About You [17:28]
Recap [19:01]
Bonus Public Speaking Tip [19:26]
Outro [22:14]
Biblical References:
- John 3:16
Enjoy free 1-month enrollment to our online theological school: https://www.veritasschool.life/i0ogjjcu
About Our Host:
Bill Giovannetti is the Senior Pastor at Pathway Church, Redding, California — an experienced senior pastor with a demonstrated history of working in the religious institutions industry. He also teaches ministry related college classes at Simpson University and the A. W. Tozer Theological Seminary. Bill has always had a passion to bring the deep things of God’s word to the everyday people of God.
Resources:
Veritas School Online Theological School
https://www.veritasschool.life/
Connect with Bill Giovannetti:
● Visit the website: https://www.veritasschool.life/
● Subscribe to the podcast: https://maxgrace.com/category/podcasts/
● Follow Bill on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bill.giovannetti
● Follow Bill on Twitter: https://twitter.com/BillGiovannetti
● Follow Bill on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/billgiovannetti/
Thanks for tuning in! Please don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe!
In Episode 98, we talk about the second and last part of a mini-series where we continue discussing Jesus' earthly existence and spiritual journey. In the previous episode, we revealed the first source of Jesus’ power where it instructs, equips, and enables Christians to grow in grace and spread the gospel across the world for the glory of God.
Although it is etched in the Bible’s pages in countless stories, how exactly did Jesus achieve his divine power? The answer: it was not his own. It was the Holy Spirit and another source of power, a non-negotiable, that allowed Jesus to walk the path he did.
Tune in now and let’s go bigger, better, and deeper!
If you enjoy this episode, please subscribe to the God Stuff Podcast so you're always first to know when a new episode is released.
Episode Timestamps:
Introduction [00:00]
Jesus’ Second Source of Power [02:40]
The Power of God’s Word [03:54]
“The Sword of The Spirit is The Word of God” [08:19]
How did Jesus Obtained His Power? [10:20]
Jesus’ Temptation from The Devil [11:50]
Every Word That We will ever Need is in The Bible [13:47]
We Have Access to the Same Resources as of Jesus Did [14:42]
Outro [16:37]
Biblical References:
- Hebrew 4:12
- 2 Corinthians 4-5
- Psalm 119:28
- Numbers 11:23
- Hebrews 1:3
- Ephesians 6:17
- Luke 2:52
- Matthew 4:3-4
- Romans 12
Book References:
Enjoy free 1-month enrollment to our online theological school https://www.veritasschool.life/i0ogjjcu
About Our Host:
Bill Giovannetti is the Senior Pastor at Pathway Church, Redding, California — an experienced senior pastor with a demonstrated history of working in the religious institutions industry. He also teaches ministry related college classes at Simpson University and the A. W. Tozer Theological Seminary. Bill has always had a passion to bring the deep things of God’s word to the everyday people of God.
Resources:
Veritas School Online Theological School
https://www.veritasschool.life/
Connect with Bill Giovannetti:
● Visit the website: https://www.veritasschool.life/
● Subscribe to the podcast: https://maxgrace.com/category/podcasts/
● Follow Bill on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bill.giovannetti
● Follow Bill on Twitter: https://twitter.com/BillGiovannetti
● Follow Bill on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/billgiovannetti/
Thanks for tuning in! Please don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe!
In Episode 97, we talk about the first part of a mini-series where we recall Jesus' earthly existence. Excluding the act of sin, Jesus is identical to us in every way –human body, heart, intellect, and volition. He matured and grew. He felt hunger, thirst, weariness, and the complete spectrum of human emotions. As a human being, he also serves as a paradigm for real human obedience.
How exactly did Jesus live out his spiritual life? Did he always have God’s word and the Holy Spirit bestowed upon him from birth? It’s important that we acknowledge this in theology as not only does it gives us a correct understanding of Christ, it also gives us a correct understanding of our own lives as Christians and what it means to walk with him.
Tune in now and let’s go bigger, better, and deeper!
If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe to the God Stuff Podcast so you're always first to know when a new episode is released.
Introduction [00:00]
The Prophet John [03:04]
Jesus is God and Human [04:33]
His Spiritual Life is a Prototype for the Modern Believer Today [05:41]
How did Jesus have a Spiritual Life? [06:57]
Where did Jesus’ Miracles Come From? [10:20]
God Invites Us to Use the Same Equipment as Jesus Christ [14:51]
The Growth of Jesus Christ [15:55]
Outro [16:55]
Biblical References:
- Luke 1:80
- Luke 2:40
- John 1:1
- John 10:30
- Philippians 2:6-7
- Hebrews 1:1-3
- Matthew 1:18
- Matthew 3:16
- Matthew 4:1
- Luke 4:18, 19
- Luke 4:14
- Matthew 12:28
- Hebrews 9:14
- 1 Peter 3:18
- John 3:34
- Ephesians 5:18
- Galatians 5:25
- Romans 15:13
- Galatians 5:22, 23
- Ephesians 3:16
- Romans 8:14
- Nehemiah 9:20
- 1 Corinthians 2:13
- Romans 5:5
- 1 Corinthians 16:11
- Acts 13:52
- Romans 1:4
- John 14:17
- Romans 8:15
- Revelation 11:11
- Luke 2:40
Book References:
Alpha Christians: A Manifesto for Men
https://www.amazon.com./s?k=9781946654304&i=stripbooks&linkCode=qs
Enjoy free 1-month enrollment to our online theological school https://www.veritasschool.life/i0ogjjcu
About Our Host:
Bill Giovannetti is the Senior Pastor at Pathway Church, Redding, California — an experienced senior pastor with a demonstrated history of working in the religious institutions industry. He also teaches ministry related college classes at Simpson University and the A. W. Tozer Theological Seminary. Bill has always had a passion to bring the deep things of God’s word to the everyday people of God.
Resources:
Veritas School Online Theological School
https://www.veritasschool.life/
Connect with Bill Giovannetti:
● Visit the website: https://www.veritasschool.life/
● Subscribe to the podcast: https://maxgrace.com/category/podcasts/
● Follow Bill on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bill.giovannetti
● Follow Bill on Twitter: https://twitter.com/BillGiovannetti
● Follow Bill on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/billgiovannetti/
Thanks for tuning in! Please don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe!
In Episode 96, we go deeper into the doctrine called grace, and explore three common myths that many Christians in the community mistakenly believe. The words we use over a certain time begin to lose their true meanings, and this applies with the word “grace”’. Many Christians know the word, but hardly understand it.
"Grace" is a crucial idea in the Bible, Christianity, and the world. It is most visibly reflected in God's promises revealed in Scripture and personified in Jesus Christ. However, beauty shines brightest against the seemingly gloomy backdrop of another facet of our Creator's essence - divine anger. Grace is a soul-stirring idea that must be truly appreciated while never being controlled or misunderstood.
Tune in now and let’s go bigger, better, and deeper!
If you enjoy this episode, please subscribe to the God Stuff Podcast so you're always first to know when a new episode is released.
Episode Timestamps:
Introduction [00:00]
Words Losing Meaning [03:16]
Lordship Salvation & Free Grace Salvation [05:44]
Three Myths of Grace [07:47]
Myth #1: Grace Means Leniency [08:04]
Myth #2: Grace Can’t be Earned [11:47]
Myth #3: Grace is Universal [18:34]
Final Thoughts [21:15]
Outro [22:33]
Biblical References:
- Ephesians 1:7
- Romans 4:4-6
- Philippians 4:19
- Matthew 5:45
- Matthew 7:13-14
- 1 John 5:11-12
- 1 John 4:8
- Hebrews 12:29
Book References:
Alpha Christians: A Manifesto for Men
https://www.amazon.com./s?k=9781946654304&i=stripbooks&linkCode=qs
Enjoy free 1-month enrollment to our online theological school https://www.veritasschool.life/i0ogjjcu
About Our Host:
Bill Giovannetti is the Senior Pastor at Pathway Church, Redding, California — an experienced senior pastor with a demonstrated history of working in the religious institutions industry. He also teaches ministry related college classes at Simpson University and the A. W. Tozer Theological Seminary. Bill has always had a passion to bring the deep things of God’s word to the everyday people of God.
Resources:
Veritas School Online Theological School
https://www.veritasschool.life/
Connect with Bill Giovannetti:
● Visit the website: https://www.veritasschool.life/
● Subscribe to the podcast: https://maxgrace.com/category/podcasts/
● Follow Bill on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bill.giovannetti
● Follow Bill on Twitter: https://twitter.com/BillGiovannetti
● Follow Bill on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/billgiovannetti/
Thanks for tuning in! Please don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe!
In Episode 95, we discuss the act of giving out invitations to the unsaved to receive Jesus Christ as their savior. God’s word is an invitation extended to all men. However, some churches have discontinued altar calls in recent years.
The time spent in the service of seeking God is more than a relic of a bygone period. Even now, the altar call plays a vital purpose, albeit under a new name, such as "response time."
People urged others to experience life with Jesus, and the Church flourished tremendously as a result. These invites were acted out by the early Christians as a natural manifestation of their lives. What if we, as Christians, recovered our faith's fundamentally public nature? How can we invite others to experience the life-changing power of the gospel for themselves?
Tune in now and let’s go bigger, better, and deeper!
If you enjoy this episode, please subscribe to the God Stuff Podcast so you're always first to know when a new episode is released.
Episode Timestamps:
Introduction [00:00]
The Devolution of Evangelism [03:09]
Everything Evangelism [04:51]
Preacher-based Evangelism [05:12]
Intrusional Evangelism [05:28]
Lifestyle Evangelism [06:51]
Non-Evangelism [07:38]
How To Give An Altar Call [08:44]
Engage Your Church Through Prayer [10:47]
Encourage Your Church to Invite Their Unsaved Friends They Pray For [12:18]
Shifting The Style of The Service [12:46]
Felt Needs [15:03]
Preach The Cross [16:15]
Giving A Heads Up About Receiving Jesus [17:40]
Don’t Embarrass the Unsaved in the Church [18:39]
Leave Time for the Invitation [19:28]
Walk the Unsaved Through Receiving Jesus as their Savior [20:17]
Don’t Preach Another Sermon & Say a Sample Prayer [21:51]
Tailor the Prayer to Your Message [28:11]
Invite those Who Prayed to Look at You [29:43]
Welcome to God’s Family [29:51]
Close in Prayer and Offer a Bible or Booklet [30:27]
Outro [32:20]
Enjoy free 1-month enrollment to our online theological school https://www.veritasschool.life/i0ogjjcu
Book References:
Alpha Christians: A Manifesto for Men
https://www.amazon.com./s?k=9781946654304&i=stripbooks&linkCode=qs
Lifestyle Evangelism: Learning to Open Your Life to Those Around You by Joe Aldrich https://www.amazon.com/dp/1590527542/ref=cm_sw_r_tw_dp_VXKNEB24ETMS046246QE
Welcome To God's Family (The Grace Pathway) by Bill Giovannetti https://www.amazon.com/dp/1946654086/ref=cm_sw_r_tw_dp_BTTX8111Q333EYC8NDKJ
About Our Host:
Bill Giovannetti is the Senior Pastor at Pathway Church, Redding, California — an experienced senior pastor with a demonstrated history of working in the religious institutions industry. He also teaches ministry related college classes at Simpson University and the A. W. Tozer Theological Seminary. Bill has always had a passion to bring the deep things of God’s word to the everyday people of God.
Resources:
Veritas School Online Theological School
https://www.veritasschool.life/
Connect with Bill Giovannetti:
● Visit the website: https://www.veritasschool.life/
● Subscribe to the podcast: https://maxgrace.com/category/podcasts/
● Follow Bill on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bill.giovannetti
● Follow Bill on Twitter: https://twitter.com/BillGiovannetti
● Follow Bill on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/billgiovannetti/
Thanks for tuning in! Please don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe!
In Episode 94, we talk about the benefits of giving invitations to receive Christ. Whether you’re a pastor or a leader of a small church group, it is important to discuss with your community about giving out invitations to receive Jesus Christ.
In the gospel, it says, “There is an invitation that is given to all mankind”. We have been taught to believe that the invitation must be “forced”. Or that we must not feel a calling to just simply invite someone to gospel teachings or our gospel meetings. If we're disciples of Jesus Christ, then this is something that we need to do.
We’re entering into a new season of energetic power and new anointing. We've been given the Holy Spirit, so let's go out and compel them to come in. Let's invite them in and let's build God's house up.
Tune in now and let’s go bigger, better, and deeper!
If you enjoy this episode, please subscribe to the God Stuff Podcast so you're always first to know when a new episode is released.
Episode Timestamps:
Introduction [00:00]
What it Means to Give an Invitation to Receive Christ [02:20]
“Conversion is our Aim” [05:06]
If You Don’t Hear Invitations To Receive Christ, Talk With Your Leadership [06:42]
Benefit 1: People Will Get Saved [8:40]
Benefit 2: A More Confident Congregation Bringing Unsaved Friends [13:01]
Benefit 3: Your Congregation Will be Solidified in the Gospel of Grace [17:34]
Benefit 4: Your Group Will Be Trained in Evangelism [20:08]
Final Summary [24:45]
Outro [26:03]
Biblical References:
- Romans 1:16
- Luke 14:23
- 2 Timothy 2:1
- 2 Timonthy 4:01
Book References:
The Assurance of Our Salvation | Martyn Lloyd-Jones
Enjoy free 1-month enrollment to our online theological school https://www.veritasschool.life/i0ogjjcu
About Our Host:
Bill Giovannetti is the Senior Pastor at Pathway Church, Redding, California — an experienced senior pastor with a demonstrated history of working in the religious institutions industry. He also teaches ministry related college classes at Simpson University and the A. W. Tozer Theological Seminary. Bill has always had a passion to bring the deep things of God’s word to the everyday people of God.
Resources:
Veritas School Online Theological School
https://www.veritasschool.life/
Connect with Bill Giovannetti:
● Visit the website: https://www.veritasschool.life/
● Subscribe to the podcast: https://maxgrace.com/category/podcasts/
● Follow Bill on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bill.giovannetti
● Follow Bill on Twitter: https://twitter.com/BillGiovannetti
● Follow Bill on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/billgiovannetti/
Thanks for tuning in! Please don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe!
In Episode 93, we continue with the fifth and final non-negotiable fundamentals of Christianity, where we reference the famous football coach Vince Lombardi, "Gentlemen, this is a football.” Awaiting the Second Coming is something to look forward to. It is a literal event, a personal and visible experience. It is the culmination of the salvation plan.
We can see from the Bible that the Second Coming is also a global event. As stated in the book of Revelations, "every eye will see Him"—regardless of time zone, continent, or location. Though Jesus stated unequivocally that He would return, He also stated that the specifics are not for us to know. If your church doesn’t believe in this or the other non-negotiable fundamentals, it is not in line with historic Biblical Christianity.
Tune in now and let’s go bigger, better, and deeper!
If you enjoy this episode, please subscribe to the God Stuff Podcast so you're always first to know when a new episode is released.
Episode Timestamps:
Introduction [00:00]
There is No Exact Date for When Jesus is Coming [03:17]
Jesus Will Return in His Physical Body [06:46]
Why Pre-Millennialism Matters [10:52]
The Second Coming Prophecies From The Bible [14:31]
The Rewards of The Second Coming [17:36]
The Warnings of The Second Coming [18:28]
Preparing For The Second Coming [20:11]
Outro [23:27]
Biblical References:
- Acts 1:9-11
- John 14:3
- Matthew 26:64
- Matthew 14:62
- Luke 21:26-27
- Acts 1:11
- Hebrews 9:28
- 2 Peter 3:10
- Matthew 24:27
- Matthew 24:36
- Luke 12:40
- 1 Thessalonians 5:2
- Revelations 3:3
- Revelations 16:15
- Philippians 4:5
- Hebrews 10:37
- James 5:8
- Revelations 3:11
- Revelations 22:7
- Revelations 22:20
- Matthew 16:27
- Matthew 25:31-32
- 1 Corinthians 4:5
- Titus 2:13
- 1 Peter 5:4
- Matthew 24:30
- Mark 8:38
- 2 Thessalonians 1:7-8
- Revelations 1:7
- 1 Corinthians 15:52
- 1 Kings 18:12
- 2 Kings 2:11
- 2 Kings 2:16
- 1 Thessalonians 4:16
Book References:
Alpha Christians: A Manifesto for Men
https://www.amazon.com./s?k=9781946654304&i=stripbooks&linkCode=qs
Enjoy free 1-month enrollment to our online theological school https://www.veritasschool.life/i0ogjjcu
Understanding End Times Prophecy https://www.amazon.com/Understanding-End-Times-Prophecy-Comprehensive/dp/0802490794
About Our Host:
Bill Giovannetti is the Senior Pastor at Pathway Church, Redding, California — an experienced senior pastor with a demonstrated history of working in the religious institutions industry. He also teaches ministry related college classes at Simpson University and the A. W. Tozer Theological Seminary. Bill has always had a passion to bring the deep things of God’s word to the everyday people of God.
Resources:
Veritas School Online Theological School
https://www.veritasschool.life/
Connect with Bill Giovannetti:
● Visit the website: https://www.veritasschool.life/
● Subscribe to the podcast: https://maxgrace.com/category/podcasts/
● Follow Bill on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bill.giovannetti
● Follow Bill on Twitter: https://twitter.com/BillGiovannetti
● Follow Bill on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/billgiovannetti/
Thanks for tuning in! Please don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe!
In Episode 92, we continue with the fourth non-negotiable fundamentals of Christianity, where we reference the famous football coach Vince Lombardi, "Gentlemen, this is a football.” Jesus Christ's resurrection is the foundation of our Christian faith. By rising from the dead, Jesus Christ demonstrated that He had cleansed us of our past sins and that He is capable of assisting us in our present lives.
Today, believers benefit from Christ's resurrection in terms of spiritual power. The bodily resurrection of Jesus Christ demonstrates that God will one day judge the world justly. However, some believe that He rose ‘spiritually’ rather than ‘physically’ which is a false truth far from the Bible.
If it wasn’t for Jesus’ resurrection, we would have no future, no salvation from sin and no hope of our own resurrection if Christ had not been raised from the dead, and this is something we all need to be reminded of.
Tune in now and let’s go bigger, better, and deeper!
If you enjoy this episode, please subscribe to the God Stuff Podcast so you're always first to know when a new episode is released.
Episode Timestamps:
Introduction [00:00]
The Bible Has No Errors [3:46]
The Resurrection of Jesus Christ [05:26]
G.K. Chesterton’s Comments on The Results of Materialistic Premise [13:39]
The Resurrection is Literal [15:43]
The Reasons For Resurrection [17:41]
Final Recap [26:12]
Outro [28:05]
Biblical References:
- Philippians 2:2
- 1 Corinthians 15:14
- 1 Corinthians 15:17
- John 2:19-21
- Ephesians 1:21
- 1 Corinthians 15:55
- 1 Corinthians 15:22
Book References:
Alpha Christians: A Manifesto for Men
https://www.amazon.com./s?k=9781946654304&i=stripbooks&linkCode=qs
Enjoy free 1-month enrollment to our online theological school https://www.veritasschool.life/i0ogjjcu
About Our Host:
Bill Giovannetti is the Senior Pastor at Pathway Church, Redding, California — an experienced senior pastor with a demonstrated history of working in the religious institutions industry. He also teaches ministry related college classes at Simpson University and the A. W. Tozer Theological Seminary. Bill has always had a passion to bring the deep things of God’s word to the everyday people of God.
Resources:
Veritas School Online Theological School
https://www.veritasschool.life/
Connect with Bill Giovannetti:
● Visit the website: https://www.veritasschool.life/
● Subscribe to the podcast: https://maxgrace.com/category/podcasts/
● Follow Bill on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bill.giovannetti
● Follow Bill on Twitter: https://twitter.com/BillGiovannetti
● Follow Bill on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/billgiovannetti/
Thanks for tuning in! Please don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe!
In Episode 91, we continue with the non-negotiable fundamentals of Christianity, where we reference the famous football coach Vince Lombardi, "Gentlemen, this is a football.” We talk about the third non-negotiable, where we look at the Old Testament sacrificial system to gain a better understanding of the atonement. To pay for our sins, Jesus died on the cross and saved us from suffering. He lovingly offered Himself up and died in our place.
However, the concept of substitutionary atonement is a controversial topic of debate amongst the Christian community, and to this day many individuals still continue to fight and deny the sacrifices Jesus made. How can this be?
Tune in now and let’s go bigger, better, and deeper!
If you enjoy this episode, please subscribe to the God Stuff Podcast so you're always first to know when a new episode is released.
Episode Timestamps:
Introduction [00:00]
What Does ‘The Cross’ Mean? [5:24]
The Moral Example Theory [8:35]
The Apostolic Preaching of The Cross [10:26]
“If Jesus is Just Our Moral Example, His Death Makes No Sense.” [11:38]
“Christus Victor” [12:47]
Substitutionary Atonement [17:36]
Christ Died for Our Sins [23:53]
Hymn by Wilbert Chapman [28:49]
Outro [32:44]
Biblical References:
- 1 Corinthians 15:1-4
- Mark 10:45
- Mark 10:28
- Isaiah 53:4-6
- Isaiah 53:10-12
- John 1:29
- Isaiah 53:7-8
- Matthew 26:48
Book References:
Alpha Christians: A Manifesto for Men
https://www.amazon.com./s?k=9781946654304&i=stripbooks&linkCode=qs
Enjoy free 1-month enrollment to our online theological school https://www.veritasschool.life/i0ogjjcu
About Our Host:
Bill Giovannetti is the Senior Pastor at Pathway Church, Redding, California — an experienced senior pastor with a demonstrated history of working in the religious institutions industry. He also teaches ministry related college classes at Simpson University and the A. W. Tozer Theological Seminary. Bill has always had a passion to bring the deep things of God’s word to the everyday people of God.
Resources:
Veritas School Online Theological School
https://www.veritasschool.life/
Connect with Bill Giovannetti:
● Visit the website: https://www.veritasschool.life/
● Subscribe to the podcast: https://maxgrace.com/category/podcasts/
● Follow Bill on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bill.giovannetti
● Follow Bill on Twitter: https://twitter.com/BillGiovannetti
● Follow Bill on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/billgiovannetti/
Thanks for tuning in! Please don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe!
In Episode 90, we talk about the divinity of Jesus Christ and what Christianity is truly all about. In the previous episode, we quoted the famous football coach Vince Lombardi, "Gentlemen, this is a football,” as reference to the concept of always drilling, renewing and reviewing the basics. In today's episode, we say, "Church, Christian, this is a football." These are the non-negotiable fundamentals and basics of what it means to be a Christian, to believe in Christian faith and the word of God.
One of the most heated theological debates in early church history is centered on Jesus Christ's Deity. Even today, there are those who deny His divinity. Is it possible that God and Jesus are one and the same? How do they differ from each other?
Tune in now and let’s go bigger, better, and deeper!
If you enjoy this episode, please subscribe to the God Stuff Podcast so you're always first to know when a new episode is released.
Episode Timestamps:
Introduction [00:00]
R. L. Dabney’s Definition of The Deity Of Christ [5:43]
‘Christian’ as an Insulting Term [6:20]
Jesus is God [7:11]
“I and the Father are One” [10:51]
Jesus Existed Before His Birthday [13:56]
The Huleatt Manuscript [15:53]
Letter of Barnabas [17:13]
Excerpt Readings of Aristides, Justin Martyr, Tatian the Syrian, Council of Chalcedon, S.D Gordon and Fyodor Dostoevsky [17:34]
Final Thoughts [19:49]
Outro [20:26]
Biblical References:
- Isaiah 7:14
- Matthew 1:21-23
- Isaiah 7:12
- Isaiah 9:6
- Matthew 1:21
- John 1:1
- Genesis 1:1
- Philippians 2:6
- John 10:30
- Titus 2:13
- Hebrews 1:8
- Psalm 45
- Hebrews 1:8
- Hebrews 1:6
- Romans 9:5
- Matthew 26
Book References:
Alpha Christians: A Manifesto for Men
https://www.amazon.com./s?k=9781946654304&i=stripbooks&linkCode=qs
Enjoy free 1-month enrollment to our online theological school https://www.veritasschool.life/i0ogjjcu
About Our Host:
Bill Giovannetti is the Senior Pastor at Pathway Church, Redding, California — an experienced senior pastor with a demonstrated history of working in the religious institutions industry. He also teaches ministry related college classes at Simpson University and the A. W. Tozer Theological Seminary. Bill has always had a passion to bring the deep things of God’s word to the everyday people of God.
Resources:
Veritas School Online Theological School
https://www.veritasschool.life/
Connect with Bill Giovannetti:
● Visit the website: https://www.veritasschool.life/
● Subscribe to the podcast: https://maxgrace.com/category/podcasts/
● Follow Bill on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bill.giovannetti
● Follow Bill on Twitter: https://twitter.com/BillGiovannetti
● Follow Bill on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/billgiovannetti/
Thanks for tuning in! Please don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe!
In Episode 89, we decide to go back to the beginning of the fundamentals when it comes to theology. The famous and legendary football coach Vince Lombardi was known for doing this with his players by holding up a football and saying, “Gentlemen, this is a football.”
Every good coach and pastor knows that you constantly have to drill the basics, and review and renew the fundamentals. Knowing the foundations of God’s word gives us a deeper insight into theology, which is the key to becoming better Christians within our community. Because without the fundamentals, what do you have?
Tune in now and let’s go bigger, better, and deeper!
If you enjoy this episode, please subscribe to the God Stuff Podcast so you're always first to know when a new episode is released.
Episode Timestamps:
Introduction [00:00]
How Does God Speak? [03:45]
“If you do not learn The Bible profoundly, God will not speak into your life.” [08:17]
The Inspiration of The Bible [10:51]
Article Reading of B.B. Warfield’s “Inspiration” [14:13]
Millard Erickson’s Inspiration Definition [16:43]
What Didn’t Happen When God Inspired The Bible [17:03]
The Extent & Intensiveness of Inspiration [19:55]
Final Thoughts [23:41]
Outro [24:35]
Biblical References:
- 1 Timothy 5:17
- Psalm 1:19-11
- Jeremiah 15:16
- Acts 4:29
- Acts 20:32
- 2 Timothy 3:16
- Mathew 5:17
- John 10:35
- Mathew 22:32
- Mathew 22:44
- Galatians 3:16
- Mathew 5:18
- Luke 24:27
Book References:
Alpha Christians: A Manifesto for Men
https://www.amazon.com./s?k=9781946654304&i=stripbooks&linkCode=qs
Enjoy free 1-month enrollment to our online theological school https://www.veritasschool.life/i0ogjjcu
About Our Host:
Bill Giovannetti is the Senior Pastor at Pathway Church, Redding, California — an experienced senior pastor with a demonstrated history of working in the religious institutions industry. He also teaches ministry related college classes at Simpson University and the A. W. Tozer Theological Seminary. Bill has always had a passion to bring the deep things of God’s word to the everyday people of God.
Resources:
Veritas School Online Theological School
https://www.veritasschool.life/
Connect with Bill Giovannetti:
● Visit the website: https://www.veritasschool.life/
● Subscribe to the podcast: https://maxgrace.com/category/podcasts/
● Follow Bill on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bill.giovannetti
● Follow Bill on Twitter: https://twitter.com/BillGiovannetti
● Follow Bill on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/billgiovannetti/
Thanks for tuning in! Please don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe!
In Episode 88, we talk about ‘bigger’. This is a different kind of podcast, perfect for the beginning of the New Year with Our Lord 2022. We’re putting all of my resources in one place. I have a number of websites, a bunch of books, and lots of goals for the future. God has blessed me and I’m grateful for this privilege, but it can be confusing and chaotic so I’m going to mention all my websites and that’ll link together in a one-stop-shop.
This might come across as a bit self-serving, but if you know me and you know my heart, you would know that I’m pretty much absorbed in serving Christ, the Gospel and spreading the word of God. That is my main ambition.
Connect wherever you feel that I can help you move forward with God. That is the main goal, helping people find and follow God. Disconnect wherever you’re not onboard with what I am doing if it does not resonate with you.
Tune in now and let’s go bigger, better, and deeper!
If you enjoy this episode, please subscribe to the God Stuff Podcast so you're always first to know when a new episode is released.
Episode Timestamps:
Introduction [00:00]
Calling to Ministry [02:33]
Pathway Church [07:13]
The God Stuff Podcast [09:22]
Pathway Sermons [10:29]
Veritas School of Biblical Ministry [12:37]
Book Dominion [17:58]
Alpha Christians [20:58]
The Grace Pathway [26:57]
Pastor & Evangelist [29:22]
Max Grace [33:39]
Outro [34:32
Book References:
Alpha Christians: A Manifesto for Men
https://www.amazon.com./s?k=9781946654304&i=stripbooks&linkCode=qs
Enjoy free 1-month enrollment to our online theological school https://www.veritasschool.life/i0ogjjcu
About Our Host:
Bill Giovannetti is the Senior Pastor at Pathway Church, Redding, California — an experienced senior pastor with a demonstrated history of working in the religious institutions industry. He also teaches ministry related college classes at Simpson University and the A. W. Tozer Theological Seminary. Bill has always had a passion to bring the deep things of God’s word to the everyday people of God.
Resources:
Veritas School Online Theological School
https://www.veritasschool.life/
The God Stuff Podcast
https://www.veritasschool.life/podcast
Sermons
https://www.veritasschool.life/sermon-archive
Book Dominion
https://www.veritasschool.life/book-dominion
Alpha Christians
https://www.veritasschool.life/alpha
Max Grace
https://maxgrace.com
The Grace Pathway Book Series
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09F3NMKLG?searchxofy=true&binding=kindle_edition&qid=1639058786&sr=8-1&linkCode=sl2&tag=maxgracecom-20&linkId=c8e69cd212ea0a10c8eb53cfd05922c9&language=en_US&ref_=as_li_ss_tl
Pathway Church:
Website: https://pathwaychurch.life/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCK8z02w6Gu0lTbbB4Cxi7Hg
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pathwaychurchredding
Twitter: https://twitter.com/pathwayredding
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pathwaychurch.life/
Connect with Bill Giovannetti:
● Visit the website: https://www.veritasschool.life/
● Subscribe to the podcast: https://maxgrace.com/category/podcasts/
● Follow Bill on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bill.giovannetti
● Follow Bill on Twitter: https://twitter.com/BillGiovannetti
● Follow Bill on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/billgiovannetti/
Thanks for tuning in! Please don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe!
In Episode 87, we dive into a new approach when it comes to New Year’s resolutions. The current approach is rather backwards, and not everyone likes them. They mock, embarrass, burden and can make fun of you.
As Christians, we’re determined, devoted, and want to follow through with these resolutions we’ve spoken to God about. However, most people struggle to keep them, and some resort to not creating any resolutions at all because of this.
However, what if we were to shift the focus from our resolutions, what goes out by our labour, energy, and exertions, onto someone else? Such as God himself?
If you feel unmotivated and stuck when it comes to creating New Year resolutions for yourself, this episode is for you!
Tune in now and let’s go bigger, better, and deeper!
If you enjoy this episode, please subscribe to the God Stuff Podcast so you're always first to know when a new episode is released.
Episode Timestamps:
Introduction [00:00]
What are God’s Resolutions? [03:17]
Jonathan Edwards’ Resolutions of a Saintly Scholar [04:37]
“During this coming year, I resolve to bless you better than you deserve.” [05:46]
“I resolve to continue seeing you, just as I see my son Jesus.” [07:47]
“I resolve to never throw your sins and failures back in your face.” [09:39]
“I resolve to continue loving you even when you don’t love me back.” [10:33]
“I resolve to keep you safely wrapped in the bubble of eternal salvation.” [11:41]
“I resolve to punch the Devil and his minions in their ugly little noses as soon as they try to get close to you.” [13:00]
“I resolve to surprise you with goodness and mercy you never saw coming.” [13:59]
“I resolve to remain the same, yesterday, today and forever, so you never have to wonder who you’re dealing with.” [14:52]
“I resolve to keep on furnishing your mansion in heaven [15:29]
“I resolve to draw close to you in tough times.” [16:57]
“I resolve to never shut off the lavish flow of Grace coming your way.” [17:28]
Resolution to God [19:02]
Outro [19:59]
Biblical references:
- Isaiah 57:15
- 1 John 4:10
- Romans 16:20
- Psalm 23:6
- Hebrew 13:9
Book References:
Alpha Christians: A Manifesto for Men
https://www.amazon.com./s?k=9781946654304&i=stripbooks&linkCode=qs
Resolutions of a Saintly Scholar by Jonathan Edwards
https://www.amazon.com/Resolutions-saintly-scholar-Jonathan-Edwards/dp/0890662290
Enjoy free 1-month enrollment to our online theological school https://www.veritasschool.life/i0ogjjcu
About Our Host:
Bill Giovannetti is the Senior Pastor at Pathway Church, Redding, California — an experienced senior pastor with a demonstrated history of working in the religious institutions industry. He also teaches ministry related college classes at Simpson University and the A. W. Tozer Theological Seminary. Bill has always had a passion to bring the deep things of God’s word to the everyday people of God.
Resources:
Veritas School Online Theological School
https://www.veritasschool.life/
Connect with Bill Giovannetti:
● Visit the website: https://www.veritasschool.life/
● Subscribe to the podcast: https://maxgrace.com/category/podcasts/
● Follow Bill on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bill.giovannetti
● Follow Bill on Twitter: https://twitter.com/BillGiovannetti
● Follow Bill on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/billgiovannetti/
Thanks for tuning in! Please don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe!
In Episode 86, we dived into the topic of “I’ll Be Home for Christmas” a festive feel good story wrapped together in theology. Unlike the story of Herod the Great, in this episode, things take a merrier approach. We uncover the true backstory to this heartfelt story, and it’s striking similarities to Jesus Christ and his three homes.
The key takeaway however, is the parallels of love between the two stories. It shows us that the love we continuously receive from God is, and will always be infinite. Although God may not be physically there with us during times of hardship and celebration, he will always be present within us.
If your festive spirits are high or if you’re looking to hear a feel good story that’ll get you into the Christmas spirit, this is an episode for you!
Tune in now and let’s go bigger, better, and deeper!
If you enjoy this episode, please subscribe to the God Stuff Podcast so you're always first to know when a new episode is released.
Episode Timestamps:
Introduction [00:00]
The Backstory of ‘I’ll Be Home for Christmas’ [01:50]
The Original Christmas Story & Jesus’s Homes [02:39]
God’s Love is Always With Us [04:52]
Jesus’s Third Home [06:08]
The Ending of ‘I’ll Be Home for Christmas’ [06:22]
The Greatest Christmas Gift of All [07:34]
Outro [15:27]
Book References:
Alpha Christians: A Manifesto for Men
https://www.amazon.com./s?k=9781946654304&i=stripbooks&linkCode=qs
Enjoy free 1-month enrollment to our online theological school https://www.veritasschool.life/i0ogjjcu
About Our Host:
Bill Giovannetti is the Senior Pastor at Pathway Church, Redding, California — an experienced senior pastor with a demonstrated history of working in the religious institutions industry. He also teaches ministry related college classes at Simpson University and the A. W. Tozer Theological Seminary. Bill has always had a passion to bring the deep things of God’s word to the everyday people of God.
Resources:
Veritas School Online Theological School
https://www.veritasschool.life/
Connect with Bill Giovannetti:
● Visit the website: https://www.veritasschool.life/
● Subscribe to the podcast: https://maxgrace.com/category/podcasts/
● Follow Bill on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bill.giovannetti
● Follow Bill on Twitter: https://twitter.com/BillGiovannetti
● Follow Bill on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/billgiovannetti/
Thanks for tuning in! Please don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe!
In Episode 85, we dive into a more festive topic, however it is not as merry as you think! We take a different approach to what you commonly might around this time of the year and investigate the almost forgotten, dark underbelly of the Christmas tale about, ‘The King Who Almost Killed Christmas’.
Whilst this is a story we don’t share very often, the meanings behind, ‘The King Who Almost Killed Christmas’ is quite profound. It contains five major lessons that’ll deepen our relationship with God, and in the long run is an important message we all need to hear.
Tune in now and let’s go bigger, better, and deeper!
If you enjoy this episode, please subscribe to the God Stuff Podcast so you're always first to know when a new episode is released.
Episode Timestamps:
- Introduction [00:00]
- Who is the King who Almost Killed Christmas? [01:41]
- Lesson 1: We Are Ultimately Defined by What We Do with Jesus [04:27]
- Lesson 2: We Have Nobody to Blame if We Reject Jesus [07:14]
- Lesson 3: Some Will Not Embrace Jesus, No Matter What Testimony We Offer [08:56]
- Lesson 4: All Must be Invited and Summoned to Him [11:05]
- Lesson 5: You Can’t Break Jesus or God’s Word or Truth [13:11]
- Outro [15:27]
Biblical references:
- Mathew 2:16-18
- Romans 1:20
- Luke 16:31
- John 7:5
- Titus 2:10
- Romans 10:14
- Luke 2:1-20
Book References:
Chaos: As Goes the Church So Goes the World
https://www.amazon.com/dp/1946654221/
Alpha Christians: A Manifesto for Men
https://www.amazon.com./s?k=9781946654304&i=stripbooks&linkCode=qs
● Enjoy free 1-month enrollment to our online theological schoolhttps://www.veritasschool.life/i0ogjjcu
About Our Host:
Bill Giovannetti is the Senior Pastor at Pathway Church, Redding, California — an experienced senior pastor with a demonstrated history of working in the religious institutions industry. He also teaches ministry related college classes at Simpson University and the A. W. Tozer Theological Seminary. Bill has always had a passion to bring the deep things of God’s word to the everyday people of God.
Resources:
● Veritas School Online Theological Schoolhttps://www.veritasschool.life/
Connect with Bill Giovannetti:
● Visit the website: https://www.veritasschool.life/
● Subscribe to the podcast:https://maxgrace.com/category/podcasts/
● Follow Bill on Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/bill.giovannetti
● Follow Bill on Twitter:https://twitter.com/BillGiovannetti
● Follow Bill on Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/billgiovannetti/
Thanks for tuning in! Please don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe!
In Episode 84, we discuss about having a philosophy when it comes to spiritual growth. Whilst some members of the Christian community refer this to Discipleship, we instead offer you a new philosophy to adopt called the Grace Pathway.
Unfortunately, most Christians learn their Christianity in bits and pieces with a few bible studies, sermons, and books. The solution is to have a coherent and biblical pattern of spiritual growth, which is the Grace Pathway.
Having a philosophy of spiritual growth is super important, and links to everything. If a church or ministry are not about getting individuals saved, grown up and activated in the church, then what is the purpose?
If you’re someone who’s wanting to get a better understanding on spiritual growth, or a pastor wanting to create impactful changes to their church, this is episode for you!
Tune in now and let’s go bigger, better, and deeper!
If you enjoy this episode, please subscribe to the God Stuff Podcast so you're always first to know when a new episode is released.
Episode Timestamps:
- Introduction [00:00]
- The Importance of Having a Philosophy of Spiritual Growth [04:30]
- What is The Grace Pathway? [06:54]
- Milestone One: God Serves You [10:40]
- Milestone Two: God Blesses You [13:21]
- Milestone Three: God Grows You [19:27]
- Milestone Four: God Uses You [25:49]
- Final Thoughts [30:02]
- Outro [32:29]
Biblical references:
- Luke 10:27
Book References:
Chaos: As Goes the Church So Goes the World
https://www.amazon.com/dp/1946654221/
Alpha Christians: A Manifesto for Men
https://www.amazon.com./s?k=9781946654304&i=stripbooks&linkCode=qs
● Enjoy free 1-month enrollment to our online theological schoolhttps://www.veritasschool.life/i0ogjjcu
About Our Host:
Bill Giovannetti is the Senior Pastor at Pathway Church, Redding, California — an experienced senior pastor with a demonstrated history of working in the religious institutions industry. He also teaches ministry related college classes at Simpson University and the A. W. Tozer Theological Seminary. Bill has always had a passion to bring the deep things of God’s word to the everyday people of God.
Resources:
● Veritas School Online Theological Schoolhttps://www.veritasschool.life/
Connect with Bill Giovannetti:
● Visit the website: https://www.veritasschool.life/
● Subscribe to the podcast:https://maxgrace.com/category/podcasts/
● Follow Bill on Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/bill.giovannetti
● Follow Bill on Twitter:https://twitter.com/BillGiovannetti
● Follow Bill on Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/billgiovannetti/
Thanks for tuning in! Please don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe!
In Episode 83, we talked about the Antichrist. We’re watching Bible prophecy unfold before our very own eyes, and one of the key elements of Bible prophecy is this person called the Antichrist. So, it is important that we know something of what the Bible says about the Antichrist.
Knowing about the Antichrist will erase a lot of confusion and can possibly save you from a lot of pain in your life as you go down dangerous and deceptive pathways. It can also teach you the art of discernment, and how to separate good from evil.
We also touch base on Satan and his motives, the world system and what it all means, and then wrapping it altogether with the Antichrist, his motives, goals and where he is placed within the pages of the Bible.
If you’re trying to make sense of the world around you, if you’re wanting to know more about Biblical doctrines concerning the Antichrist, this is an essential episode for you!
Tune in now and let’s go bigger, better, and deeper!
If you enjoy this episode, please subscribe to the God Stuff Podcast so you're always first to know when a new episode is released.
Episode Timestamps:
- Introduction [00:00]
- What is Satan and What is His Motive? [03:53]
- The Different Names of Satan [09:23]
- Who is the Antichrist? [11:35]
- Lewis Sperry Chafer’s Take on the Antichrist [19:53]
- Scripture Verses on the Antichrist [22:28]
- Outro [31:00]
Biblical References:
- Isaiah 12:14
- 2 Corinthians 11:14
- Matthew 4:10
- Matthew 4:01
- 2 Corinthians 4:4
- John 12:41
- Revelations 12:19
- Matthew 25:41
- Revelations 12:7
- Revelations 12:8
- Revelations 12:9
- Ephesians 6:12
- Ephesians 6:13
- 1 John 2:15
- 1 John 2:16
- 1 John 2:17
- 1 John 2:18
- 2 Thessalonians 2:1-12
- Revelations 11:7
- Daniel 7:8
- Matthew 24:24
- Isaiah 5:20
Book Reference:
Chaos: As Goes the Church So Goes the World
https://www.amazon.com/dp/1946654221/
Alpha Christians: A Manifesto for Men
https://www.amazon.com./s?k=9781946654304&i=stripbooks&linkCode=qs
● Enjoy free 1-month enrollment to our online theological schoolhttps://www.veritasschool.life/i0ogjjcu
About Our Host:
Bill Giovannetti is the Senior Pastor at Pathway Church, Redding, California — an experienced senior pastor with a demonstrated history of working in the religious institutions industry. He also teaches ministry related college classes at Simpson University and the A. W. Tozer Theological Seminary. Bill has always had a passion to bring the deep things of God’s word to the everyday people of God.
Resources:
● Veritas School Online Theological Schoolhttps://www.veritasschool.life/
Connect with Bill Giovannetti:
● Visit the website: https://www.veritasschool.life/
● Subscribe to the podcast:https://maxgrace.com/category/podcasts/
● Follow Bill on Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/bill.giovannetti
● Follow Bill on Twitter:https://twitter.com/BillGiovannetti
● Follow Bill on Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/billgiovannetti/
Thanks for tuning in! Please don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe!
In Episode 82, we talked specifically about worship music in our churches. We introduce the philosophy of worship music, which is called Content-Based Worship. Diving in deep into this philosophy will grant you a better understanding of the relationship between the musical portion of a worship service and the rest of the service, especially the preaching.
There are existing issues within contemporary Christian worship music. There is shallow theology, a lot of repetitiveness, but most importantly, the music is too generic and can be played around the globe sounding like it’s ‘Christian music’, when it isn’t. We want just as big of an impact with our music compared to the rest of our church.
Tune in now and let’s go bigger, better, and deeper!
If you enjoy this episode, please subscribe to the God Stuff Podcast so you're always first to know when a new episode is released.
Episode Timestamps:
- Introduction [00:00]
- What is Worship? [04:12]
- Worship Music & It’s Goal [06:00]
- What Worship Music is Not About [08:12]
- The Top Ten Qualities of a CBW Song [11:58]
- Why You Should Consider Using Throwback CBW Songs [22:41]
- Outro [24:00]
Book Reference: Alpha Christians https://www.amazon.com/Alpha-Christians-Manifesto-Bill-Giovannetti-ebook
● Enjoy free 1-month enrollment to our online theological schoolhttps://www.veritasschool.life/i0ogjjcu
About Our Host:
Bill Giovannetti is the Senior Pastor at Pathway Church, Redding, California — an experienced senior pastor with a demonstrated history of working in the religious institutions industry. He also teaches ministry related college classes at Simpson University and the A. W. Tozer Theological Seminary. Bill has always had a passion to bring the deep things of God’s word to the everyday people of God.
Resources:
● Veritas School Online Theological Schoolhttps://www.veritasschool.life/
Connect with Bill Giovannetti:
● Visit the website: https://www.veritasschool.life/
● Subscribe to the podcast:https://maxgrace.com/category/podcasts/
● Follow Bill on Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/bill.giovannetti
● Follow Bill on Twitter:https://twitter.com/BillGiovannetti
● Follow Bill on Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/billgiovannetti/
Thanks for tuning in! Please don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe!
In Episode 81, we talked about a topic that’s not a ‘feel good’ one. It’s not popular within the Christian community, but it is a deep Bible truth that is foundational to everything else. The Wrath of God himself. We hope that you feel that by the time we’re done.
Once you erase the Wrath of God or diminish it or try to hide it, you create way more problems to your own heart, your psychology, and our Universe, more than you think you can solve. Also, If you know the modern hymn “In Christ Alone” we have a story about that song that you probably didn’t know about until now.
Tune in now and let’s go bigger, better, and deeper!
If you enjoy this episode, please subscribe to the God Stuff Podcast so you're always first to know when a new episode is released.
Episode Timestamps:
- Introduction [00:00]
- The Story Behind “In Christ Alone” [05:28]
- What Does the Bible Say About the Wrath of God? [07:55]
- The Distributive & Remunerative Justice of God [12:16]
- Shying Away from the Wrath of God [20:04]
- Why We Should Thank God for His Wrath [23:10]
- Outro [27:53]
Biblical References:
- Jeremiah 21:5
- Romans 1:18
- Galatians 6:7
- Romans 3:10
- 2king 22:13
- Psalm 2:12
- John 3:36
- Roman 1:18
- Roman 2:8
- Ephesians 5:6
- Psalms 50:21
- Psalms 97:12
- Deuteronomy 32:43
- Revelation 19:1-3
Book Reference:
Chaos: As Goes the Church So Goes the World
https://www.amazon.com/dp/1946654221/
● Enjoy free 1-month enrollment to our online theological schoolhttps://www.veritasschool.life/i0ogjjcu
About Our Host:
Bill Giovannetti is the Senior Pastor at Pathway Church, Redding, California — an experienced senior pastor with a demonstrated history of working in the religious institutions industry. He also teaches ministry related college classes at Simpson University and the A. W. Tozer Theological Seminary. Bill has always had a passion to bring the deep things of God’s word to the everyday people of God.
Resources:
● Veritas School Online Theological Schoolhttps://www.veritasschool.life/
Connect with Bill Giovannetti:
● Visit the website: https://www.veritasschool.life/
● Subscribe to the podcast:https://maxgrace.com/category/podcasts/
● Follow Bill on Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/bill.giovannetti
● Follow Bill on Twitter:https://twitter.com/BillGiovannetti
● Follow Bill on Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/billgiovannetti/
Thanks for tuning in! Please don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe!
In Episode 80, we dive into a deeper understanding of God’s word, and how to interpret it. We obviously talk about biblical interpretation, but we also go beyond that. We’re going deeper together in this episode, going through visual pages of the Bible, looking at charts, and some Greek words. Specifically, we investigate the famous ‘love’ part of the Bible, 1 Corinthians 13, 10, 11, and 12!
What is it about love that is being said here? We’re going to show you some things about this chapter in the Bible that we guarantee you’ve never seen or been taught before. Once you see it, you won’t be able to unsee it!
Tune in now and let’s go bigger, better, and deeper!
If you enjoy this episode, please subscribe to the God Stuff Podcast so you're always first to know when a new episode is released.
Episode Timestamps:
- Introduction [00:00]
- Variations of “The Perfect Thing” and What Is It? [04:48]
- The Translation of Spiritual Maturity & ‘In Part’ in connection to Teleos [10:59]
- Interpreting Translations in 1 Corinthians 13 [15:11]
- Superficiality vs Intimacy [26:13]
- Summary [29:08]
- Outro [30:39]
Biblical References:
- 1 Corinthians 13:10
- 1 Corinthians 13:11
- 1 Corinthians 13:12
- 1 Corinthians 13:13
- Romans 10:14
- Acts 2:41
- Acts 4:4
Book References:
The Englishman’s Greek Concordance of the New Testament
https://www.amazon.com/Englishmans-Greek-Concordance-New-Testament/dp/1565632079
Alpha Christians
https://books.google.com.au/books/about/Alpha_Christians.html?id=O9ShzgEACAAJ&redir_esc=y
● Enjoy free 1-month enrollment to our online theological schoolhttps://www.veritasschool.life/i0ogjjcu
About Our Host:
Bill Giovannetti is the Senior Pastor at Pathway Church, Redding, California — an experienced senior pastor with a demonstrated history of working in the religious institutions industry. He also teaches ministry related college classes at Simpson University and the A. W. Tozer Theological Seminary. Bill has always had a passion to bring the deep things of God’s word to the everyday people of God.
Resources:
● Veritas School Online Theological Schoolhttps://www.veritasschool.life/
Connect with Bill Giovannetti:
● Visit the website: https://www.veritasschool.life/
● Subscribe to the podcast:https://maxgrace.com/category/podcasts/
● Follow Bill on Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/bill.giovannetti
● Follow Bill on Twitter:https://twitter.com/BillGiovannetti
● Follow Bill on Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/billgiovannetti/
Thanks for tuning in! Please don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe!
In Episode 79, we talk about the Second Coming of Christ. Being a debatable topic, we specifically dive into the millennial reign of Christ; not so much as establishing the doctrine, as well as defending it.
We also discuss why Premillennialism matters. Unfortunately, so many students of scripture are really just giving up. They look at scripture and go, “Wow, that’s hard,” and decide to turn away from it, seeing competing viewpoints and see the whole thing as a disastrous mess.
The sad thing about that is that it’s going to create a meaningless church that has no power to have an impact on culture and entice people to eternal life through the Gospel and faith alone. So this is why Premillennialism matters, the view that Jesus is coming again to establish his kingdom and coming before does so as well.
Tune in now and let’s go bigger, better, and deeper!
If you enjoy this episode, please subscribe to the Godstuff podcast so you're always first to know when a new episode is released.
Episode Timestamps:
- Introduction [00:00]
- It’s Okay to Have a Different Perspective [02:33]
- What is Premillennialism? [04:01]
- Why is Premillennialism a Topic Today? [09:36]
- Reasons Why We Shouldn’t Abandon Premillennialism [12:37]
- Outro [35:30]
Biblical References:
- Revelations 20
- Jeremiah 23:5
- 2 Corinthians 4:4
- 1 John 5:19
- Proverbs 22:28
● Enjoy free 1-month enrollment to our online theological schoolhttps://www.veritasschool.life/i0ogjjcu
About Our Host:
Bill Giovannetti is the Senior Pastor at Pathway Church, Redding, California — an experienced senior pastor with a demonstrated history of working in the religious institutions industry. He also teaches ministry related college classes at Simpson University and the A. W. Tozer Theological Seminary. Bill has always had a passion to bring the deep things of God’s word to the everyday people of God.
Resources:
● Veritas School Online Theological Schoolhttps://www.veritasschool.life/
Connect with Bill Giovannetti:
● Visit the website: https://www.veritasschool.life/
● Subscribe to the podcast:https://maxgrace.com/category/podcasts/
● Follow Bill on Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/bill.giovannetti
● Follow Bill on Twitter:https://twitter.com/BillGiovannetti
● Follow Bill on Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/billgiovannetti/
Thanks for tuning in! Please don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe!
In Episode 78, we talked about the act of giving talks to the Christian community, specifically on the topic of practical application and rethinking that application in a refined manner. If you lead a men’s group or a women’s bible study or a youth group or a retreat; and you’re thinking you’re going to share a message – listen up.
How we think about the practical application and how we think about the ways God changes lives is currently messed up. With this new framework, you’ll be able to approach practical application more effectively that actively benefits the Christian group you lead.
Tune in now and let’s go bigger, better, and deeper!
If you enjoy this episode, please subscribe to the Godstuff podcast so you're always first to know when a new episode is released.
Episode Timestamps:
- Introduction [00:00]
- What is Applicational Part of a Message? [04:10]
- The Fallen Condition Statement [12:52]
- The Fallen Condition Framework [21:30]
- Labels [22:28]
- Lies [24:15]
- Legalisms [26:04]
- Framework Application Summary [27:14]
- Outro [28:32]
Biblical References:
· Romans 12:2
· Gal 5:1
· John 8:44
· Tim 4:1
● Enjoy free 1-month enrollment to our online theological school https://www.veritasschool.life/i0ogjjcu
About Our Host:
Bill Giovannetti is the Senior Pastor at Pathway Church, Redding, California — an experienced senior pastor with a demonstrated history of working in the religious institutions industry. He also teaches ministry related college classes at Simpson University and the A. W. Tozer Theological Seminary. Bill has always had a passion to bring the deep things of God’s word to the everyday people of God.
Resources:
● Veritas School Online Theological School https://www.veritasschool.life/
Connect with Bill Giovannetti:
● Visit the website: https://www.veritasschool.life/
● Subscribe to the podcast: https://maxgrace.com/category/podcasts/
● Follow Bill on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bill.giovannetti
● Follow Bill on Twitter: https://twitter.com/BillGiovannetti
● Follow Bill on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/billgiovannetti/
Thanks for tuning in! Please don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe!
In Episode 77, we talked about gaining a deeper understanding of God and his work in the world today, specifically the link between evangelism and being evangelical. We hone in on a statement made by John Wilbur Chapman, who quotes, “If you’re not evangelistic, you’re not evangelical” as the foundation of this podcast.
Although this is a topic that may cause a stir amongst the Christian community, it is something that we should take a stand and share with others. Priority number one in the church is the Great Commission, which is to save those who are lost.
Tune in now and let’s go bigger, better, and deeper!
If you enjoy this episode, please subscribe to the Godstuff podcast so you're always first to know when a new episode is released.
Episode Timestamps:
- Introduction [00:00]
- “If a church is not evangelistic, it will soon cease to be evangelical.” [02:09]
- Evangelist VS Evangelical: What Do They Mean and How They Relate [04:59]
- To Be Evangelical [10:20]
- Evangelism is Dead [15:19]
- The Consequences of Demoting Evangelism as First Priority [21:12]
- How We Can Be More Evangelistic [32:19]
- Outro [35:49]
Biblical References:
- Luke 14:23
- Luke 24:47
- John 10:21
- John 4:14
- Acts 1:8
- Romans 10:13
- Romans 10:14
- Acts 2:41
- Acts 4:4
Book Reference:
Present-Day Evangelism by John Wilbur Chapman
https://www.amazon.com/Present-Day-Evangelism-John-Wilbur-Chapman/dp/1437092691
● Enjoy free 1-month enrollment to our online theological schoolhttps://www.veritasschool.life/i0ogjjcu
About Our Host:
Bill Giovannetti is the Senior Pastor at Pathway Church, Redding, California — an experienced senior pastor with a demonstrated history of working in the religious institutions industry. He also teaches ministry related college classes at Simpson University and the A. W. Tozer Theological Seminary. Bill has always had a passion to bring the deep things of God’s word to the everyday people of God.
Resources:
● Veritas School Online Theological Schoolhttps://www.veritasschool.life/
Connect with Bill Giovannetti:
● Visit the website: https://www.veritasschool.life/
● Subscribe to the podcast:https://maxgrace.com/category/podcasts/
● Follow Bill on Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/bill.giovannetti
● Follow Bill on Twitter:https://twitter.com/BillGiovannetti
● Follow Bill on Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/billgiovannetti/
Thanks for tuning in! Please don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe!
In Episode 76, we talk about the transmission of biblical texts in the New Testament. Transmission refers to how an original text (e.g. Paul’s Letter to the Romans) has been copied and duplicated through the ages to what we have today.
Unfortunately, there is a widespread perception that the Bible is just a messy copy of multiple copies, therefore making it an unreliable source. This is far from the truth, which is why it’s important that we learn and understand the transmission of biblical information.
So, if you’ve ever been faced with this argument in a discussion or have your own doubts, then today’s episode is for you.
Tune in now and let’s go bigger, better, and deeper!
If you enjoy this episode, please subscribe to the Godstuff podcast so you're always first to know when a new episode is released.
Video Timestamps:
- Introduction [00:00]
- What is Biblical Transmission? [03:44]
- Scribes & Copyists [05:26]
- Rules of the Scribes for the Old Testament [08:03]
- Archaeological Discoveries of Biblical Text [14:27]
- The Variations of Biblical Text [18:17]
- Biblical Transmission Summary & Outro [25:05]
Audio Timestamps:
● Enjoy free 1-month enrollment to our online theological schoolhttps://www.veritasschool.life/i0ogjjcu
About Our Host:
Bill Giovannetti is the Senior Pastor at Pathway Church, Redding, California — an experienced senior pastor with a demonstrated history of working in the religious institutions industry. He also teaches ministry related college classes at Simpson University and the A. W. Tozer Theological Seminary. Bill has always had a passion to bring the deep things of God’s word to the everyday people of God.
Resources:
● Veritas School Online Theological Schoolhttps://www.veritasschool.life/
Connect with Bill Giovannetti:
● Visit the website: https://www.veritasschool.life/
● Subscribe to the podcast:https://maxgrace.com/category/podcasts/
● Follow Bill on Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/bill.giovannetti
● Follow Bill on Twitter:https://twitter.com/BillGiovannetti
● Follow Bill on Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/billgiovannetti/
Thanks for tuning in! Please don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe!
The Story of D.L. Moody
Today’s episode is extra special because I’m going to do something that I normally don't do.
I'm going to read portions of the book, “They Gathered at the River” by Bernard A. Weisberger to inspire you with the story of Dwight L. Moody, an incredible evangelist who blew apart Satan's domain in the USA, and in England 200 years ago.
It's remarkable in a time before the internet to think about how Moody spread the good news to millions and millions of people so imagine what we can do in this digital age.
Tune in to this episode now and let’s raise another generation of D.L. Moody’s!
If you enjoy this episode, please subscribe to the God Stuff podcast so you're always first to know when a new episode is released.
Episode Highlights:
- Introduction [0:00]
- Moody’s transition from an entrepreneurship to Christian work [5:39]
- The 2nd step in Moody’s final polishing for his life work [11:19]
- Moody’s evangelist success in England [14:42]
- Some content of what Moody preached about [19:02]
- Moody’s troubled return to America [20:21]
● Enjoy free 1-month enrollment to our online theological school https://www.veritasschool.life/
About Our Host:
Bill Giovannetti is the Senior Pastor at Pathway Church, Redding, California — an experienced senior pastor with a demonstrated history of working in the religious institutions industry. He also teaches ministry related college classes at Simpson University and the A. W. Tozer Theological Seminary. Bill has always had a passion to bring the deep things of God’s word to the everyday people of God.
Resources:
● Veritas School Online Theological School https://www.veritasschool.life/
● “They Gathered at the River” by Bernard A. Weisberger https://archive.org/details/theygatheredatth009996mbp/page/n15/mode/2up
Connect with Bill Giovannetti:
● Visit the website: https://www.veritasschool.life/
● Subscribe to the podcast: https://www.veritasschool.life/podcast
● Follow Bill on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bill.giovannetti
● Follow Bill on Twitter: https://twitter.com/BillGiovannetti
● Follow Bill on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/billgiovannetti/
Thanks for tuning in! Please don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe!
7 Verses Proving the Deity of Christ
What do you think of Christ? Who is he? Who is he to you? Who is he in history? Who will he be in your everyday life?
To know Christ is to know yourself in him. So I want to go over seven verses on the deity of Christ. So many people read the Bible they say, well, nowhere did Jesus ever claim to be God or the Bible doesn't really teach it. Well, yes, it does.
If you care about your Christian faith, if you care about truth, if you care about Christianity, this episode is for you.
So we're going to go over seven verses on the deity of Christ.
Let’s go bigger, better, and deeper !
If you enjoy this episode, please subscribe to the God Stuff podcast so you're always first to know when a new episode is released.
Episode Highlights:
- Introduction [0:00]
- Isaiah 7:14 [0:19]
- John 1:1 [3:08]
- John 10:30 [8:18]
- Philippians 2:6 [16:25 ]
- Titus 2:13 [20:42]
- 2 Peter 1:1 [24:25]
- Hebrews 1:8 [25:27]
- Romans 9:5 [29:15]
Biblical References:
- Isaiah 7-12
- Isaiah 9:6
- Isaiah 7:14
- Matthew 1:21
- Matthew 1:22
- Matthew 1:23
- John 1:1
- John 10:30
- Genesis 1:1
- John 10:24
- Philippians 2:6
- Titus 2:13
- Titus 2:11
- Titus 2:12
- 2 Peter 1:1
- Hebrews 1:8
- Psalm 45
- Romans 9:5
- Enjoy free 1-month enrollment to our online theological school https://www.veritasschool.life/
About Our Host:
Bill Giovannetti is the Senior Pastor at Pathway Church, Redding, California — an experienced senior pastor with a demonstrated history of working in the religious institutions industry. He also teaches ministry related college classes at Simpson University and the A. W. Tozer Theological Seminary. Bill has always had a passion to bring the deep things of God’s word to the everyday people of God.
Resources:
- Veritas School Online Theological School https://www.veritasschool.life/
Connect with Bill Giovannetti:
- Visit the website: https://www.veritasschool.life/
- Subscribe to the podcast: https://www.veritasschool.life/podcast
- Follow Bill on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bill.giovannetti
- Follow Bill on Twitter: https://twitter.com/BillGiovannetti
- Follow Bill on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/billgiovannetti/
Thanks for tuning in! Please don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe!
Meet the Chicago Statement
on Biblical Hermeneutics
Many Christians today claim to believe that the Bible is supreme, only to hear their pastors or themselves interpret the Bible in ways that defy every biblical interpretation rule.
So today, we dedicate our episode to better biblical understanding. We look at a very important document called the “Chicago Statement on Biblical Hermeneutics,” a doctrinal statement produced in 1982 aimed to improve our biblical interpretation.
The Statement, which was hammered out by some of the biggest scholars in Christianity, is made of 15 articles. I originally planned to touch on four articles but since I got some extra time, I decided to do a fifth one.
After this episode, you should be able to come away with a clear framework for how to interpret the Bible, one that has been agreed to and signed on by some of the best scholars in biblical and evangelical Christianity so tune in now and let’s go bigger, better, and deeper !
If you enjoy this episode, please subscribe to the Godstuff podcast so you're always first to know when a new episode is released.
Episode Highlights:
- Introduction [0:00]
- Who is the “Chicago Statement”? [2:11]
- Article 1: Inseparability of the authority of Scripture and the authority of God [4:43]
- Article 4: God through the Holy Spirit, as the Inspirer of the Scripture [7:37]
- Article 8: Universality and Eternality of the Bible [10:24]
- Article 14: Historical factuality of Biblical events [17:38]
- Article 15: Grammatical-Historical sense of Biblical interpretation [20:38]
Biblical References:
- Matthew 5:17
- Matthew 5:18
- Matthew 24:44
- John 10:34
- John 10:35
- John 14:16
- John 16:13
- Book of Acts
- Book of Colossians
- 1 Corinthians
- Enjoy free 1-month enrollment to our online theological school https://www.veritasschool.life/
About Our Host:
Bill Giovannetti is the Senior Pastor at Pathway Church, Redding, California — an experienced senior pastor with a demonstrated history of working in the religious institutions industry. He also teaches ministry related college classes at Simpson University and the A. W. Tozer Theological Seminary. Bill has always had a passion to bring the deep things of God’s word to the everyday people of God.
Resources:
- Veritas School Online Theological School https://www.veritasschool.life/
- Read the Chicago Statement on Biblical Hermeneutics and Norman Geisler’s commentary on it http://www.bible-researcher.com/chicago2.html
- Read also the Chicago Statement on Biblical Inerrancy https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/themelios/article/the-chicago-statement-on-biblical-inerrancy/
Connect with Bill Giovannetti:
- Visit the website: https://www.veritasschool.life/
- Subscribe to the podcast: https://www.veritasschool.life/podcast
- Follow Bill on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bill.giovannetti
- Follow Bill on Twitter: https://twitter.com/BillGiovannetti
- Follow Bill on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/billgiovannetti/
Thanks for tuning in! Please don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe!
Six Cliches that Wreck the Gospel
In Episode 69, we talked about how to tie the knot or how to lead a friend to Christ. Today, we’re going the other way as we talk about how not to mislead someone to Christ.
We're going to touch on the six cliches that wreck the gospel. There are a lot of cliches that have crept into Christian vocabulary, most of which distort the truth. In fact, there are particular ones that twist the way of salvation and the gospel.
We've all used them. We've all heard them. They muddy the waters of the gospel of grace.
It is necessary for us to have a conversation about these 6 destructive cliches so we can, once and for all, put an end to using them in spreading the word of God.
Let’s go bigger, better, and deeper !
If you enjoy this episode, please subscribe to the Godstuff podcast so you're always first to know when a new episode is released.
Episode Highlights:
- Introduction [0:00]
- Cliché #1: “Ask Jesus into your heart or life.” [3:48]
- Cliché #2: “Give your life (or your heart) to Christ.” [6:26]
- Cliché #3: “Commit your life to Christ” [10:01]
- Cliché #4: “Make Jesus your Lord and/or master” [12:42]
- Cliché #5: “Surrender your life to God or give Him anything.” [14:21]
- Cliché #6: “Follow Jesus.” [21:37]
Biblical References:
- 1 Corinthians 15
- Ephesians 1:13
- John 3:36
- 1 Timothy 2:3
- 1 Timothy 2:4
- Revelation 22:2
- Galatians 3:16
- The Book of Exodus
- 1 John 3:15
- Deuteronomy 23:13
- Deuteronomy 23:14
About Our Host:
Bill Giovannetti is the Senior Pastor at Pathway Church, Redding, California — an experienced senior pastor with a demonstrated history of working in the religious institutions industry. He also teaches ministry related college classes at Simpson University and the A. W. Tozer Theological Seminary. Bill has always had a passion to bring the deep things of God’s word to the everyday people of God.
Resources:
- Veritas School Online Theological School https://www.veritasschool.life/
Connect with Bill Giovannetti:
- Visit the website: https://www.veritasschool.life/
- Subscribe to the podcast: https://maxgrace.com/category/podcasts/
- Follow Bill on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bill.giovannetti
- Follow Bill on Twitter: https://twitter.com/BillGiovannetti
- Follow Bill on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/billgiovannetti/
Thanks for tuning in! Please don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe!
Federal Headship
For today’s episode, I want to talk about one of the most important but least taught bits of theology and scripture, the Doctrine of Federal Headship which is the foundation of everything we believe, about sin, salvation, and our riches in Christ.
We look at the main idea of Federal Headship and go through several scriptures to develop this teaching. Lastly, we answer the question of whether or not this doctrine is fair.
This episode is great for anyone who wants their mind blown and their heart filled. Let’s go bigger, better, and deeper!
If you enjoy this episode, please subscribe to the Godstuff podcast so you're always first to know when a new episode is released.
Episode Highlights:
- Introduction [0:00]
- What is the Doctrine of Federal Headship? [3:45]
- Adam as our Federal Head [4:42]
- Adam merits death, Christ merits life [7:50]
- All sinned when Adam sinned [13:47]
- From being in Adam to being in Christ [14:57 ]
- We were, by nature, children of wrath [18:37]
- Abraham as the prototype of the plan of salvation [20:53]
- Christ as our Federal Head [23:28]
- Is Federal Headship fair? [27:25`]
Biblical References:
- Romans 5:12
- Romans 5:15
- Romans 5:17
- Romans 5:18
- 1 Corinthians 15:22
- Ephesians 2:3-4
- Acts 17
- John 3:36
- Genesis 12:3
- Galatians 3:8
- 1 Corinthians 15:45
- Galatians 3:22
-
Romans 11:32
-
Enjoy free 1-month enrollment to our online theological school https://www.veritasschool.life
About Our Host
Bill Giovannetti is the Senior Pastor at Pathway Church, Redding, California — an experienced senior pastor with a demonstrated history of working in the religious institutions industry. He also teaches ministry related college classes at Simpson University and the A. W. Tozer Theological Seminary. Bill has always had a passion to bring the deep things of God’s word to the everyday people of God.
Resources:
- Veritas School Online Theological School https://www.veritasschool.life/
Connect with Bill Giovannetti:
- Visit the website: https://www.veritasschool.life/
- Subscribe to the podcast: https://maxgrace.com/category/podcasts/
- Follow Bill on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bill.giovannetti
- Follow Bill on Twitter: https://twitter.com/BillGiovannetti
- Follow Bill on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/billgiovannetti/
Thanks for tuning in! Please don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe!
9 Rules of Biblical Interpretation
For today’s episode, I’m going to talk about the nine rules of biblical interpretation to help you better evaluate how preachers are operating when you hear them teach the Word of Go
These rules are really everything when it comes to understanding and interpreting the Bible so if you're having trouble reading the Bible for yourself, or if you're hearing Bible teaching and something doesn't feel right, just go over this list of nine biblical interpretation rules.
Let’s go bigger, better, and deeper in this episode! Be enlightened, and serve God by rightly delivering His gospel.
If you enjoy this episode, please subscribe to the Godstuff podcast so you're always first to know when a new episode is released.
Episode Highlights:
Introduction [0:00] 1. The grammatical historical interpretation [2:14] 2. The context principle [5:53] 3. The scripture interprets the scripture principle [10:01] 4. The accommodation principle [12:42] 5. The single-interpretation principle [14:21]
Sensus plenior [17:15]
- The harmony of scripture principle [21:37]
- The grammatical principle [22:40]
- The historical background principle [25:24]
- The abiding principle [28:35]
Biblical References:
- John 10:9
- Matthew 26:26
- John 3:36
- 1 Timothy 2:3
- 1 Timothy 2:4
- Revelation 22:2
- Galatians 3:16
- The Book of Exodus
- 1 John 3:15
- Deuteronomy 23:13
- Deuteronomy 23:14
About Our Host:
Bill Giovannetti is the Senior Pastor at Pathway Church, Redding, California — an experienced senior pastor with a demonstrated history of working in the religious institutions industry. He also teaches ministry related college classes at Simpson University and the A. W. Tozer Theological Seminary. Bill has always had a passion to bring the deep things of God’s word to the everyday people of God.
Resources:
- Veritas School Online Theological School https://www.veritasschool.life/
Connect with Bill Giovannetti:
- Visit the website: https://www.veritasschool.life/
- Subscribe to the podcast:
- Follow Bill on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bill.giovannetti
- Follow Bill on Twitter: https://twitter.com/BillGiovannetti
- Follow Bill on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/billgiovannetti/
Thanks for tuning in! Please don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe!
Today’s episode is all about showing somebody the way to Christ.
For Christians, multiplying believers in the Lord Jesus Christ is the equivalent of giving CPR. So in this episode, I want to give you a simple three-part framework for leading someone to God.
A conversation on this is important and will be very useful for us in fulfilling our mission of spreading the Christian faith. This will help us obtain the blessing of an eternal life - the biggest deal out of all deals in a person's life.
Be enlightened, and serve God by rightly delivering His gospel. In today's episode, we'll show you how. So go ahead and spread the Word!
Episode Highlights:
- Introduction [0:00]
- The question of what must be done to be saved [2:38]
- Five key benefits of salvation [4:13]
- The Gospel of Christ dying for our sins [8:16]
- The ABC of Salvation [10:20]
- Admitting that there is a need to tie the knot [11:35]
- Believing in Jesus and His saving work [19:55]
- Choosing Jesus as your Savior and only hope for time and eternity [26:55]
- Tying the knot through the ABC prayer [31:04]
- Some post-spiritual conversation gems [33:43]
Biblical References:
- 2 Corinthians 5:20
- 1 John 5:11-12
- Romans 5:1
- 2 Corinthians 5:17
- 1 Corinthians 15:3-4
- Acts 4
- John 1:29
-
Isaiah 53:6
-
Grab a copy of ‘Welcome To God’s Family’
https://maxgrace.com/product/welcome-to-gods-family-grace-pathway-1-0/
- Download the ABC card (Click Here for Full Color or Click Here for Printable Black & White)
- Enjoy free 1-month enrollment to our online theological school https://www.veritasschool.life/i0ogjjcu
About Our Host:
Bill Giovannetti is the Senior Pastor at Pathway Church, Redding, California — an experienced senior pastor with a demonstrated history of working in the religious institutions industry. He also teaches ministry related college classes at Simpson University and the A. W. Tozer Theological Seminary. Bill has always had a passion to bring the deep things of God’s word to the everyday people of God.
Resources:
- Veritas School Online Theological School https://www.veritasschool.life/
Connect with Bill Giovannetti:
- Visit the website https://www.veritasschool.life/
- Subscribe to the podcast https://maxgrace.com/category/podcasts/
Thanks for tuning in! Please don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe!
Today’s episode is all about having a deeper understanding of the Word of God.
Most Christians, nowadays, keep talking about the Kingdom but do not even know what Kingdom really means. So in this episode, I tackle the different meanings of Kingdom and how you can correctly use them or for another reason, just altogether quit using the word “kingdom” without understanding what it really means.
Explaining this is very essential to me because I don’t want to conjure up the wrong idea in most people’s heads. This will also serve as a warning that we should all be careful of cliches, as cliches are wrecking the church.
Be informed, serve God through serving His gospel correctly. Find out how in today’s episode. Let’s get started!
Episode Highlights:
- Introduction [0:00]
- What today’s topic is all about [5:02]
- In what kind of context does the Bible use the word “kingdom”? [6:40]
- Kingdom Category 1: Heaven [7:01]
- Kingdom Category 2: Cosmos [7:59]
- Kingdom Category 3: Jewish Theocracy [9:53]
- Kingdom Category 4: Jewish Monarchy [12:15]
- Kingdom Category 5: Future Kingdom in the Millenium [13:00]
- Kingdom Category 6: Salvation [15:45]
- Kingdom Category 7: Societal Kingdom [19:55]
- Kingdom Category 8: Spiritual Kingdom[24:35]
Biblical References:
- Psalms 103:19
- 2 Timothy 4:18
- Isaiah 66:1
- Psalms 19:1
- Psalms 150:1
- Psalms 47:2
- Daniel 4:34
- Exodus 19:6
- 1 Samuel 10:19
- 2 Chronicles 13:8
- Psalms 22:28
- Colossians 1:13
- Mark 1:15
- Romans 5:21
- Acts 28
- Romans 14:17
- Psalms 82:3
- Micah 6:8
- James 1:17
- Luke 17:21
- Mark 4:11
About Our Host:
Bill Giovannetti is the Senior Pastor at Pathway Church, Redding, California — an experienced senior pastor with a demonstrated history of working in the religious institutions industry. He also teaches ministry related college classes at Simpson University and the A. W. Tozer Theological Seminary. Bill has always had a passion to bring the deep things of God’s word to the everyday people of God.
Resources:
- Veritas School Online Theological School https://www.veritasschool.life/
Connect with Bill Giovannetti:
- Visit the website https://www.veritasschool.life/
- Subscribe to the podcast https://www.veritasschool.life/god_stuff_podcast
Thanks for tuning in! Please don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe!
Today’s episode is all about having a better understanding of God’s word.
When you enter a Christian bookstore, and you’re looking for a Bible, you’ll surely be welcomed by a dizzying array of Bibles and might have a hard time picking which one is right for you.
So, let me tell you about the different philosophies of Bible translations — which is more accurate, and which is more readable.
If you’d like to have a better understanding of Bibles and want to pick out the best version for you. Go ahead and listen to today’s podcast episode. I hope you enjoy it!
Episode Highlights:
- Introduction [0:00]
- What’s our topic for today? [2:59]
- First theory of translation: Formal Equivalence [5:01]
- The benefits of a formal equivalence translation [6:16]
- The trade-off of a formal equivalence translation [10:20]
- Second theory of translation: Dynamic Equivalence [11:04]
- The goal of dynamic equivalence translation [12:06]
- The drawback of dynamic equivalence [12:52]
- Third theory of translation: Complete equivalence [16:05]
- What Bible does Bill recommend for daily use? [17:56]
- What Bible does Bill recommend for studying? [19:11]
Bibles using Formal Equivalence Translation:
- NASB, NASB, ESV, RSV
Bibles using Dynamic Equivalence Translation:
- NIV, GNT, NLT, CEV, VOICE, MSG
Bibles using Complete Equivalence Translation:
- NKJV
Biblical References:
- Matthew 6:19
About Our Host:
Dr. Bill Giovannetti is the Senior Pastor of Pathway Church in Redding, California and the founder of Veritas School of Biblical Ministry, offering online theological training for everyday Christians. Bill has always had a passion to bring the deep things of God’s Word to the everyday people of God
Resources:
- Veritas School Online Theological School https://www.veritasschool.life/
Connect with Bill Giovannetti:
- Visit the website https://www.veritasschool.life/
- Subscribe to the podcast
Thanks for tuning in! Please don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe!
Linking In and Out: Telling Bible Stories With Power and Meaning
A believer’s way of life is sharing the goodness of God by sharing His word. But how do we approach unbelievers and share with them God’s word in a way with which they can relate?
In wanting to achieve a bigger gospel impact in one’s ministry, it’s essential to share God’s word in such a way that it can touch people’s hearts and inspire change, action, and willingness to submit one’s life to the Lord Jesus Christ.
In today’s episode, we’re going after a bigger ministry impact and I share with you an efficient technique in sharing Bible stories to both old and young. Help people find and follow God, listen to this episode and pick up these valuable lessons that will help you create a bigger impact in your ministry. Enjoy!
If you have faith in a big and giant God, every other giant in your life looks like a mouse and God’s about to spring a trap on them.
Episode Highlights:
- Introduction [0:00]
- What is our topic for today? [3:30]
- Bill gives an example of linking out and linking in [4:29]
- How do you link in? [8:01]
- How do you link out? [8:04]
- Linking out to the life of the listener [8:53]
- Linking back in and involving the listener in the Bible story [9:20]
- Recap of linking in and linking out [13:51]
- Why is it important to link in and link out? [16:40]
- What you should go after when you link out to your listeners [17:34]
Biblical References:
● 1 Samuel 17
● Hebrews 13:9
About Our Host:
Dr. Bill Giovannetti is the Senior Pastor of Pathway Church in Redding, California and the founder of Veritas School of Biblical Ministry, offering online theological training for everyday Christians. Bill has always had a passion to bring the deep things of God’s Word to the everyday people of God
Resources:
● Veritas School Online Theological School https://www.veritasschool.life/
Connect with Bill Giovannetti:
● Visit the website https://www.veritasschool.life/
● Subscribe to the podcast https://maxgrace.com/category/podcasts/
Thanks for tuning in! Please don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe!
What We Believe About Heaven and Hell
Know What You Believe —12 — Heaven and Hell
Today’s podcast episode is the completion of the series “Know What You Believe”, and here we talk about heaven and hell.At some point in our lives, I’m pretty sure we’ve come to ask ourselves what happens when Earth and history is complete? Is there life after death? Or do we go back to nothingness — oblivion?
This is one of the hot topics that seems to come up all the time, hence the need to clarify according to what is really said in the Bible. What does the Bible tell us about heaven and hell? Why does it matter?
Find out about it’s truth in this episode. Enjoy!
We believe that God commands everyone everywhere to believe the gospel by turning to Him in repentance and receiving the Lord Jesus Christ. We believe that God will raise the dead bodily and judge the world, assigning the unbeliever to condemnation and eternal conscious punishment and the believer to eternal blessedness and joy with the Lord in the new heaven and the new earth, to the praise of His glorious grace. Amen.
“No one who is ever in hell will be able to say to God, you put me here. And no one who is in heaven will ever be able to say, I put myself here.” - John Hannah
Episode Highlights:
- Introduction [0:00]
- The end is nothing but a new beginning [2:46]
- What is hell and why is there hell? [4:11]
- Do people get a second chance after they die? [6:21]
- What is Heaven? [8:13]
- What does heaven offer you? [8:17]
- Mansion Over the Hilltop by Ira Stanphill [11:20]
Biblical References:
● Isaiah 65:17
● 2 Peter 3:13
● Revelations 21:1
● Matthew 25:46
● Matthew 23:33
● Hebrews 9:27
● Matthew 8:12
● Revelations 21:4
About Our Host:
Dr. Bill Giovannetti is the Senior Pastor of Pathway Church in Redding, California and the founder of Veritas School of Biblical Ministry, offering online theological training for everyday Christians. Bill has always had a passion to bring the deep things of God’s Word to the everyday people of God.
Resources:
● Free Download: Know What You Believe by Bill Giovannetti https://veritasschool.life/know-what-believe
● Veritas School Online Theological School https://www.veritasschool.life/
Connect with Bill Giovannetti:
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Today's podcast continues the series, Know What You Believe... In this series, we're looking at the basic doctrines of the Christian faith. I hope you enjoy.
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We believe in the personal, bodily and premillennial1 return of our Lord Jesus Christ. The coming of Christ, at a time known only to God, demands constant expectancy and, as our blessed hope, motivates the believer to godly living, sacrificial service and energetic mission. Jesus promised his followers “I will come again” (John 14:3). When he ascended to heaven, two angels said, “This same Jesus, who was taken up from you into heaven, will so come in like manner as you saw Him go into heaven” (Acts 1:11).
Jesus is coming again.
We still await the fulfillment of that promise.
The Second Coming of Christ gives shape and definition to all of world history.
We can think of Christ’s return as a series of related events. Each event fulfills numerous prophecies of Scripture. Each event fulfills the long-developing purposes of God, and finalizes all the wonderful promises of God.
Like many important doctrines, reasonable, Bible-believing Christians disagree on certain details. While all believe that Jesus will come again, not all agree on the sequence or timing of end-time events.
The reason for these disagreements can be found in the nature of biblical prophecy. Much of end-times prophecy overflows with imagery and metaphor. For example: Immediately I was in the Spirit; and behold, a throne set in heaven, and One sat on the throne. And He who sat there was like a jasper and a sardius stone in appearance; and there was a rainbow around the throne, in appearance like an emerald. Around the throne were twenty-four thrones, and on the thrones I saw twenty-four elders sitting, clothed in white robes; and they had crowns of gold on their heads. And from the throne proceeded lightnings, thunderings, and voices. Seven lamps of fire were burning before the throne, which are the seven Spirits of God. (Revelation 4:2-5) Old Testament prophecies can be equally loaded with imagery: The ten horns are ten kings Who shall arise from this kingdom. And another shall rise after them; He shall be different from the first ones, And shall subdue three kings. He shall speak pompous words against the Most High, Shall persecute the saints of the Most High, And shall intend to change times and law. Then the saints shall be given into his hand For a time and times and half a time. (Daniel 7:24, 25) I am by no means suggesting that these texts are impossible to correctly interpret. I am suggesting that they are tougher than most, and that reasonable, faithful Bible scholars can disagree, even after they have done the hard work of biblical interpretation.
As long as we agree that Jesus is coming again, we might not agree on the details, and we might not agree on the exact sequence. But we can still love each other. We can still work together on the all-important mission of helping people find and follow God.
Here are some of the main events related to the second coming of Christ. As we go through them, we will mention where Christians might have differing interpretations. The Rapture There is a lot of discussion around the Rapture. There is significant debate on whether or not there even is a Rapture. The Rapture is the event in which Jesus Christ returns, not to earth, but to the sky, to gather up believers from the earth, and to escort them back to heaven.
For the Lord Himself will descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of an archangel, and with the trumpet of God. And the dead in Christ will rise first. Then we who are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in...
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We believe that God created an innumerable company of sinless, spiritual beings, known as angels; that one, “Lucifer, son of the morning”—the highest in rank—sinned through pride, thereby becoming Satan; that a great company of the angels followed him in his moral fall, some of whom became demons and are active as his agents and associates in the prosecution of his unholy purposes, while others who fell are “reserved in everlasting chains under darkness unto the judgment of the great day.” ~Dallas Theological Seminary There is more to this world than we can see with our eyes, view through telescopes, or explain through science and math.
We are living in a profoundly spiritual universe—something most of the world takes for granted, but the Western world has often forgotten.
It is as if a veil separates the material realm we can access through our five senses from a spiritual realm we can only discover through Scripture. Unless God reveals these things to us, we have no way of knowing about them. While we do not look at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen. For the things which are seen are temporary, but the things which are not seen are eternal. (2 Corinthians 4:18) The spiritual realm is alive with realities to stagger the imagination. God and the devil, angels and demons, heaven and hell, truth and deception—these things are as real as the ground on which we walk.
There is a great deal of superstition around the spiritual realm. Folklore, visions, prophetic utterances, seers, and seances must never be used to learn about this realm. These sources are deceptive. They create confusion and fear. God’s Word is all we need, and God’s Word is all we should seek.
The spiritual realm is greater than the material realm. The eternal truths of heaven undergird everything in our temporal experience. It is God who makes all things real. From God’s nature and character flow the laws that govern everything in space and time—everything science, philosophy, and math might ever discover comes from him. And [Jesus Christ] is before all things, and in Him all things consist. (Colossians 1:17) One of the more startling revelations of Scripture is the existence of angels and demons. These are powerful spiritual beings, possessing intelligence and will.
God’s Word tells us the struggles of our everyday lives involves them. Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might. Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places. (Ephesians 6:10-12) The principalities and powers refer to fallen spiritual beings. Let’s think through who these beings are and how this matters for our lives today. Angels God created angels. As we learned in Knowing God (Grace Pathway 3.1), God is omnipotent—infinite in power. Neither angels, nor demons, nor the devil are omnipotent. Their power doesn’t come close to God’s. Nor are they omniscient like He is.
Angels are spiritual beings, meaning they do not occupy bodies made of matter, like ours. Because they are spiritual, they are normally invisible to us. However, the Bible records many times when they appeared to people in visible, and sometimes human, form.2
Though they are not omnipotent, they are still very powerful. Peter says “they are greater in power and might” than humans (2 Peter 2...
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We believe that God’s justifying grace must not be separated from His sanctifying power and purpose. God commands us to love Him supremely and others sacrificially, and to live out our faith with care for one another, compassion toward the poor and justice for the oppressed. With God’s Word, the Spirit’s power, and fervent prayer in Christ’s name, we are to combat the spiritual forces of evil. In obedience to Christ’s commission, we are to make disciples among all people, always bearing witness to the gospel in word and deed. The Grace Pathway is God’s plan to lead you through all the stages of spiritual growth. The end result is that the incredible life of Christ would be reflected through you.
To achieve that end result, God brings you through a process called sanctification. What is sanctification? Sanctification is the grace-filled work of God in unburying you from the avalanche of sin, and enabling you to live every day with the holiness, joy, and love of Christ flowing through you.
Sanctification is the grace-filled work of God in unburying you from the avalanche of sin, and enabling you to live every day with the holiness, joy, and love of Christ flowing through you.
Sanctification is God, rewiring the circuits of your mind, instincts, and emotions so they align with his reality and truth. Sanctification is God strengthening you to be like Christ. Sanctification is God setting you free from addiction, dysfunction, self-absorption, and every form of bondage. Sanctification is God lifting you to new levels of holiness in your words, thoughts, and actions. You could say that to sanctify is to “saint-i-fy.” The words sanctify, saint, and holy are different forms of the same word in the biblical languages.
On the day you were saved, God named you a Saint. Saint means holy one. This is your true identity in Christ, no matter how you behave. From the moment of salvation onward, you are a holy one forever.
Hello, Saint ____ [insert your name here].
But, if a friend followed you around for a week, would they actually describe you as a holy one? Would they say you were pure and good in all your words, thoughts, and deeds?
Odds are low.
It is super important to understand that no matter how you behave, you are already a saint in God’s eyes.1 He sees the deepest truth about you, and the deepest truth is that there is no flaw in the truest, deepest you.
Just like salvation, there is a past tense, once for all, finality to your position of holiness before God.
However, your everyday practice might not reflect that reality.
This is where sanctification comes in.
In salvation, God calls you a saint—this is a fact about your life in Christ. In sanctification, God begins to make you saintly—this is to become the fact of your lifestyle of Christ-in-you (Galatians 2:20). In salvation, you believe Jesus as Savior. In sanctification, you increasingly respond to Jesus as Lord. Justification is instantaneous—it happened the nano-second you first believed in Jesus. Sanctification is a process—it happens over time as you grow along the Grace Pathway. Justification is perfect—you can’t be more justified than you already are in Christ. Sanctification is imperfect—there is always more spiritual maturity for us to experience. Justification is a birth. Sanctification is a lifetime of growth in grace (2 Peter 2:18,19).
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We believe that Jesus Christ, as our representative and substitute, shed His blood on the cross as the perfect, all-sufficient sacrifice for our sins. His atoning death and victorious resurrection constitute the only ground for salvation.
Jesus came to save. That was his main thing. Nobody understands Christianity without not only understanding salvation, but receiving it too.
Any group or denomination or church or preacher that does not communicate and prioritize salvation is missing the main reason Jesus came.
“For the Son of Man has come to seek and to save that which was lost.” (Luke 19:10)
Salvation is non-negotiable. It is definitional of being a Christian. There is no such thing as a Christian who has not yet been saved! Salvation is a clear dividing line.
It is not optional.
Jesus said, “You must be born again” (John 3:7). Peter said, “We must be saved” (Acts 4:12). Paul said, “Now if anyone does not have the Spirit of Christ, he is not His” (Romans 8:9).
Christianity is not like a coat you pull on top of your clothes. It is a radical transformation of your status and being. You literally become “a new creation” (2 Corinthians 5:17). In your relationship with God, there is nothing more important than salvation (Galatians 6:15).
Of all the big deals in your life, salvation is by far the biggest deal of all. What Is Salvation? Salvation is the free gift of God, based on the sacrifice of Christ, by which God welcomes an undeserving sinner, now called a saint, into his family forever through faith alone in Christ alone.
Salvation is the free gift of God, based on the sacrifice of Christ, by which God welcomes an undeserving sinner, now called a saint, into his family forever through faith alone in Christ alone. 1. Salvation is Step One. The Grace Pathway begins with “God Saves You.” That’s the first step. God cannot bless you, grow you, or use you until you are saved.
If life with God is a palace, then salvation is the threshold. It is an absolute dividing line. You have either stepped across the threshold or not. In or out.
Every person is either saved or not saved. There are no gray areas here.
This is not a matter of getting involved in a church or being a good person. It is completely about what you have done with Jesus Christ.
Who is Jesus to you?
Where is your hope for eternity?
Is Jesus part of your trust or is he all?
Are you saved? 2. Salvation is pure grace. There is no part of salvation that we earn. No part that we deserve. No part that we merit. No part that we pay for. All the burden rests on God’s shoulders. All the cost is paid by him. Salvation is one hundred percent grace. The biggest mistake anyone can ever make is to add costs, conditions, and fine print to the wonderful gift of salvation.
For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God, not of works, lest anyone should boast. (Ephesians 2:8, 9)
A free gift is a free gift.
Our job is to guard the gospel from all sorts of legalistic (duty-based) additions.
It is a gigantic mistake to load people with duties and obligations they simply cannot bear. What a tragedy when church people turn the good news of an utterly free gift into the bad news of sweating for a paycheck!
Jesus is no partial Savior.
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We believe that the true church comprises all who have been justified by God’s grace through faith alone in Christ alone. They are united by the Holy Spirit in the body of Christ, of which He is the Head. The true church is manifest in local churches, whose membership should be composed only of believers. The Lord Jesus mandated two ordinances, baptism and the Lord’s Supper, which visibly and tangibly express the gospel. Though they are not the means of salvation, when celebrated by the church in genuine faith, these ordinances confirm and nourish the believer.
If Jesus is the hope of the world, then the Church is the dispenser of that hope. Since the church is made up of people, however, we dispense that hope imperfectly.
Many people criticize the church—in many cases, rightly so.
But God loves the Church. To God, the church is beautiful, even with her imperfections. She is the Bride of Christ and the Body of Christ (Ephesians 5:26,27 and 1 Corinthians 12:27). God is always working on his church that he might work through the church to summon a lost world to himself.
Jesus said,
And I also say to you that you are Peter, and on this rock I will build My church, and the gates of Hades shall not prevail against it. (Matthew 16:18)
Peter, whose name means “little rock,” has just confessed that Jesus is the “Messiah, the Son of the Living God” (v. 17). This confession is the rock—the giant boulder—on which Jesus will build his church. What Is the Church? When we think of the Church, the first thing we have to do is separate the idea of the church from its buildings. The place and buildings do not make up the church.
The people make up the church.
In fact, the New Testament word for church is ecclesia, which gives us words like ecclesiastical, and ecclesiology. Ecclesia means “called out.” Christians are people who have been called out from the world and into the family of God.
That is why we think of the church in two main ways: the Universal Church and the local church. The Universal Church The Universal Church is made up of all believers in Jesus Christ, past, present, and future, living and dead, wherever they may be in creation. This is sometimes called the Invisible Church or simply the Church.
All people who confess Jesus Christ as their Savior are part of this one, holy, universal, and apostolic—meaning resting on the biblical teaching of the early apostles—church.
For by one Spirit we were all baptized into one body—whether Jews or Greeks, whether slaves or free—and have all been made to drink into one Spirit. (1 Corinthians 12:13)
It’s incredible to think that we are one in spirit with believers on other continents, in other socio-economic groups, who speak other languages, and express their faith within other cultures, than our own. We are even one in spirit with those who have already gone to heaven!
This is the marvelous diversity of the body of Christ. We are brothers and sisters with believers from every tongue and tribe and nation around the world and across the millennia.
The devil is afraid of the Universal Church. He resists it with all his might. The Local Church The Local Church is made up of believers in Jesus who gather regularly to worship God, grow in grace, and be equipped to serve him in the world.
Local churches are the churches that will gather in buildings on street corners and in homes and shops.
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We believe that God created Adam and Eve in His image, but they sinned when tempted by Satan. In union with Adam, human beings are sinners by nature and by choice, alienated from God, and under His wrath. Only through God’s saving work in Jesus Christ can we be rescued, reconciled and renewed.
The story the Bible tells of humankind rings true to experience. This story is the exact opposite of the story being told by the spirit of the age, by the philosophies of the world, and by the presuppositions of non-objective science.
One story says humans are evolving. We are improving physiologically, intellectually. We are even improving morally. The human race is ascending. This is the spirit of evolution.
But the Bible’s story smashes that story in the face. Not evolution, but devolution. We are not stepping up. What we are today is a massive step down from what we once were.
Which story rings true to experience? Which story better explains the world? Your world? Does history show us being less brutal?
No.
Technology has improved, but we are the same brutes we’ve been since the Fall revealed in Genesis 3. Thank God for the redeeming grace of the Cross. Adam and Eve The original parents of our race were created by the hand of God. Adam and Eve were utterly perfect. They possessed the unlimited capacities of a perfect and true human nature. Having been created in God’s image, they were sacred to God in ways unlike any other being.
And the LORD God formed man of the dust of the ground, and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life; and man became a living being. (Genesis 2:7)
They were real. They were ideal.
As humans, Adam and Eve possessed a body, soul, and spirit.
Their bodies were perfect.
No pains, no diseases, no process of death was at work in them. Whatever is the ideal age for a human, that’s how old they were. They were healthy, vibrant, and strong. They didn’t need glasses. They didn’t lose any hair. They didn’t need pain-killers. Their bodies were formed by the hand of God with utter and complete perfection. Physically, Adam and Eve could live indefinitely, without ever showing signs of age.
Their souls were perfect.
Consisting of mind, will, and emotions, their souls possessed astounding capacities. Their minds were completely awake, functional, and of mega-genius I.Q. Their wills were completely and utterly free, with no internal temptation to sin. Their emotions were pure joy and boundless love. No sadness, no depression, no neediness, and no dysfunction marred their inner worlds.
Their spirits were perfect.
The spirit is the part of a human that interfaces with God. God’s Spirit connects with our human spirit. Every day, Adam and Eve enjoyed the company of God in the Garden of Eden. He walked and talked with them “in the cool of the day” (Genesis 3:8). There was nothing between them and God.
Perfect in body, soul, and spirit. Dwelling in the perfect environment of the Garden of Eden. This is the profile of Adam and Eve before the terrible, horrible, no good, very bad day called the Fall. The Fall Everything changed the day Adam and Eve invited sin into the world....
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We believe in one God, the Father, the Almighty, Maker of heaven and earth, of all that is seen and unseen. -The Nicene Creed
As we study the basics of our faith along the Grace Pathway, it is important to make sure we are on solid footing. There can be no more solid footing than knowing that the universe and everything in it—including our lives—are the creation of God.
You can look at society as not only a clash of cultures, but also as clash of stories about who we are.
I grew up in two worlds—the world of church, and the world of the Chicago public school system.
In the world of church, I learned the story I was created in the image of God.
In the world of the public school system, I learned the story that I evolved from lower forms of life.
My church taught me I was body, soul, and spirit, with a spark of life lit by the breath of God. The universe was God-centered. It was created by him, and existed for his glory. I had an eternal soul and would live forever, either with or without God.
In my church, I learned all creation was infused with the presence of God, and every day of my life was supercharged with transcendent value.
My school told me a different story. I was a matter and energy molecular machine plus nothing. The universe was an accident, and had no purpose. I was an accident too, bound by time, and when my chemical machine wore out, I snuffed out like a candle, and that was it. There was nothing after death.
In my school, I learned that the space-time continuum was all there is, and every day of life was defined by the survival of the fittest.
The world of church lifted the veil of existence and showed me the face of a Creator God upholding and redeeming all things. It taught me a story in which I am the epitome of creation.
The world of school showed me a mechanical universe with no soul. I am the product of evolution.1
The message of creation resounds from Scripture with undeniable power and logic. In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth. The earth was without form, and void; and darkness was on the face of the deep. And the Spirit of God was hovering over the face of the waters. Then God said, “Let there be light”; and there was light. (Genesis 1:1-3) The whole creation tells of the majesty of God. It is a testament to his creative power and genius, a monument to his love. Whether the beauty of a flower, or the wonders of a baby’s hand, or the glories a vast cosmos, all-that-is testifies to an Infinite God whose mind imagined and whose hand created all things.
While Christians may hold a variety of viewpoints as to the precise dating and methodology by which God created all things and outfitted earth for our habitation, all Bible-believing Christians see the cosmos as sitting in the hand of the God who made it.
“He’s got the whole wide world in his hands…”
The issue is bigger than creation alone. Your view on creation reveals something deeper about you. Will you submit your beliefs and life to the authority of God’s Word or not? Where will you find your truth?
If you find your truth in the Bible, you will discover the wonderful blessings of a universe created by God from nothing.
There are plenty of excellent apologetics-type books that demonstrate the truthfulness of the Genesis account. This is not a book on apologetics, so I will save some of that discussion for book 4.3 in the Grace Pathway. However,
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We believe that the Holy Spirit, in all that He does, glorifies the Lord Jesus Christ. He convicts the world of its guilt. He regenerates sinners, and in Him they are baptized into union with Christ and adopted as heirs in the family of God. He also indwells, illuminates, guides, equips and empowers believers for Christ-like living and service.
As we have already seen, God is a Trinity. The third person of the Trinity is the Holy Spirit. In some older Bibles, you may sometimes read Holy Ghost, though Spirit is the preferred translation of the underlying Hebrew and Greek words.
The Holy Spirit is God, co-equal and co-eternal with the Father and the Son.
He is not simply an impersonal force. He is not some kind of energy pervading the cosmos. He is not an “it.” Nor is he some kind of junior God.
The Holy Spirit is a fully divine person, with all the qualities of divine personhood.
• The Holy Spirit possesses the divine mind, able to teach God’s people: “But the Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in My name, He will teach you all things, and bring to your remembrance all things that I said to you.” (John 14:26)
• The Holy Spirit possesses the divine will, able to give spiritual gifts to God’s people according to his own will: “But one and the same Spirit works all these things, distributing to each one individually as He wills.” (1 Corinthians 12:11)
• The Holy Spirit possesses divine emotions, able to be grieved and vexed in a uniquely divine way: “And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, by whom you were sealed for the day of redemption.” (Ephesians 4:30)
Since the Holy Spirit possesses the divine mind, will, and emotions, he is far more than an impersonal force in the universe.
He is fully God. In fact, Scripture calls him the Lord.
Now the Lord is the Spirit; and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is liberty. (2 Corinthians 3:17)
It is the Spirit of God who inspired the writers of Scripture:
For prophecy never came by the will of man, but holy men of God spoke as they were moved by the Holy Spirit. (2 Peter 1:21)
This is one reason why Scripture is called “the sword of the Spirit” (Ephesians 6:17).
The Spirit of God brings God’s truth to bear on your life, illuminating the gospel and causing you to be saved in the first place. This is why every inch of your Grace Pathway journey is by grace. Your power is never going to be enough for your salvation or life, so God swoops down with his own power in the person of the Spirit.
Here is a quick summary of how God the Holy Spirit works in the life of a believer in Jesus. We’ll break it down into the Spirit’s pre-salvation, at salvation, and post-salvation ministries.
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We believe that Jesus Christ is God incarnate, fully God and fully man, one Person in two natures. Jesus—Israel’s promised Messiah—was conceived through the Holy Spirit and born of the virgin Mary. He lived a sinless life, was crucified under Pontius Pilate, arose bodily from the dead, ascended into heaven and sits at the right hand of God the Father as our High Priest and Advocate.
Everything in your faith rises and falls on Jesus. Who is he? What do you make of him? What do you do with his claims?
You probably wouldn’t have made it this far into the Grace Pathway without having believed in him as your Savior. That moment is like stepping through a doorway into a breathtaking palace. Having Jesus as your Savior first makes it possible to begin experiencing Jesus in all his other titles and roles too.
When we organize all the wonderful truths the Bible tells us about Jesus, we wind up with two main sub-topics: his Person and his Work.
The Person of Christ tells us who he is and what he is like.
The Work of Christ tells us what he did for us, focused mainly on his saving work in the Cross and Resurrection.
For example, in the doctrinal statement at the beginning of this chapter, there are three sentences. The first two sentences talks about the Person of Christ. The third sentence talks about the Work of Christ. Take a look.
In a short chapter like this, we can only study a tiny tip of a gigantic iceberg about the Person and Work of Jesus Christ. The Bible affirms the immensity of his Person and Work:
And there are also many other things that Jesus did, which if they were written one by one, I suppose that even the world itself could not contain the books that would be written. Amen. (John 21:25)
But it has never been truer of a person to say that to know him is to love him. The more you learn about Jesus, the stronger your love for him will grow. And the stronger your love for him grows, the more you begin to think, believe, live, and choose a life that honors him.
The Person of Christ: Fully Human / Fully Divine Just as the Trinity puts God in a class by himself, the Person of Christ puts Jesus in a class by himself too.
Jesus is the only person who pre-existed his own birthday. Long before that first Christmas, long before Joseph and Mary traveled to Bethlehem, and the Virgin gave birth to a child, the Son of God enjoyed the glories of heaven, since the ages of eternity past.
The first, most important, non-negotiable truth to understand about Jesus is that he is fully human and fully divine. Jesus is the God-Man in ways utterly unlike any of the hybrids of ancient religion.
Jesus is fully God. He is co-equal and co-eternal with God the Father and God the Holy Spirit. He is not a junior god, as we’ve already seen. Some verses that affirm the deity of Christ include:
• In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. (John 1:1)
• Jesus said to them, “Most assuredly, I say to you, before Abraham was, I AM.” (John 8:58)
• Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever. (Hebrews 13:8)
This is not the place to defend doctrine as much as to just lay it out, so I’ll not add the overwhelming Scriptural teaching that Jesus Christ is truly, fully, and eternally God Most High. At the same time…
Jesus is fully Human. In his human nature, the only difference between Jesus and everybody else is the complete absence of sin from hi...
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We believe in one God, Creator of all things, holy, infinitely perfect, and eternally existing in a loving unity of three equally divine Persons: the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. Having limitless knowledge and sovereign power, God has graciously purposed from eternity to redeem a people for Himself and to make all things new for His own glory.
If God were small enough to be understood, he wouldn’t be big enough to be God.
We believe there is one and only one God. We also believe that our God is united within himself, so that he isn’t at all like a bunch of parts rattling around in a box. He is perfectly united and singular and one.
I’m saying all this, because the Trinity is hard to think about. But to grow along the Grace Pathway means we have to stretch our minds around ideas we might have never thought about before.
There is one God, and one nature of God.
At the same time, our one God is three Persons, God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit.
The essence of God—his nature and being—is always singular and one.
The Persons of God—his way of existing—is always plural and triune.
The three persons of the Godhead are co-equal and co-eternal. The Father is fully God, the Son is fully God, and the Holy Spirit is fully God. Everything that God is and everything that God has belongs equally to each person of the Godhead forever. But there is no sense whatsoever in which God is divided, like three different people, or like a beast with three heads. He is One. He is Three.
Mind blown?
Good.
There is nothing in the truth of the Trinity that can possibly be of human origin. Not only are we unlike the Trinity, we find it extremely hard to even imagine such a divine being.
God is not like us.
God is not just a bigger, better version of a human being. Our Triune God is without peer and without parallel.
“For My thoughts are not your thoughts, Nor are your ways My ways,” says the LORD. “For as the heavens are higher than the earth, So are My ways higher than your ways, And My thoughts than your thoughts.” (Isaiah 55:8, 9)
This is super important.
All the gods of all other religions are essentially bigger, better, stronger projections of human nature. But not our God. There is no good comparison to the Trinity.
The people of God would have never in a million years come up with such a teaching. Unless God himself dropped it down from heaven through the inspired writers of Scripture, there would never be any idea of such a being.
To say that the doctrine of the Trinity is hard in no way implies it is irrational. It simply means we are dealing with a transcendent person we can never fully wrap our minds around.
Although the word Trinity is not in the Bible, it doesn’t need to be. The teaching echoes across the ages of history and is found throughout the pages of Scripture. The Scriptural Case for the Trinity Jesus teaches, “Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit…” (Matthew 28:19).
Jesus did not say “names” but “name.” In his mind, though God is Three, God is One.
In chapter four, we will look at Scriptures that show that Jesus is God. In chapter five, we will look at Scriptures that show the Holy Spirit is God. This is simply to say that the writers of Scripture saw the Father, Son,
All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work. (2 Timothy 3:16, 17)
If you’ve ever had a sweater with a loose thread, you’ve probably noticed something. Some threads are no problem. You pull on them till they lock up, then you snip them off.
No big deal.
But other loose threads aren’t so easy. If you pull on them, the whole sweater comes unravelled.
It’s the same way with basic teachings in the Bible. Some of them won’t cause huge issues if we don’t get them right. But there are other teachings in the Bible that are so important, if we get them wrong, the whole message of Christ comes unravelled.
In this book, I want to introduce you to those most important teachings of the Bible. I want to help you know what you believe, and why you believe it.
To do that, let’s nail down some terms.
Doctrine
The word doctrine simply means teaching. Doctrine especially refers to biblical teachings that have a technical term attached to them, like the doctrine of justification, or the doctrine of propitiation. We met both of those doctrines in The Cross, book 3.2 in the Grace Pathway Series.
I love doctrine! Doctrine is God’s gift to us. It is a gift that makes truth clear, and organized, and consistent. Doctrine also lets us think deep thoughts about God, his world, and our lives. It is how we grow mature in our understanding, and in our whole lives. And it is how we organize the Bible’s teaching, topic by topic.
The more you know doctrine, and doctrinal terms, the more you can read any part of your Bible with confidence and understanding.
Cardinal Doctrines
Another helpful term is the term cardinal. No, not the bird, and no, not the religious leaders of Catholicism.
Cardinal means “of chief importance.” Some doctrines are cardinal doctrines and some doctrines are not. The cardinal doctrines are the ones that unravel the whole sweater if you get them wrong.
In this book, I want to introduce you to the cardinal doctrines. Consider these the core of our faith.
They are the basics of everything we believe as Christians.
The cardinal doctrines are the heart of the heart of what we believe and of who we are.
Everything we believe and everything we teach has to come from Scripture. More than that, it has to come from the clear and abundant teaching of Scripture. You can’t pick out obscure Bible verses and put together doctrines from them.
When God reveals his heart on a topic, he makes it super-clear. He weaves his most important truths throughout many places in Scripture. That way, we can’t miss his message.
Truth Fits With Truth
One last thing before we get into the basics....
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Chapter 12: It's the Devil, Stupid Pardon the play on a famous political line—“It’s the economy, stupid”—but it’s important to know that all of the disturbing trends we have seen are not disconnected bits floating on a sea of chaos. They are, rather, gnarly outgrowths from a single malignant root.
It’s the devil, stupid.
The fact that the body of Christ has forgotten this, and scarcely references it with any theological accuracy, is my final disturbing trend in today’s church. It is the ground and being of every other disturbing trend too.
Chaos is irrationality’s excrement. And irrationality is the devil’s calling card. Sin is irrational. A coup against heaven is irrational. A wolf dressed in sheep’s clothing is irrational.
I am coming to realize that every time I scratch my head over something in the church or in the world and say, “That makes no sense whatsoever,” the devil is only inches away, hiding in the corner.
It is too kind to say that irrationality is just uninformed, or stupid, or senseless. Irrationality is evil. It is, in fact, the essence of evil. It is the unreality of demonic lies battering themselves against the bedrock laws of our eternal God.
The lies of Satan will burn themselves out trying to batter God’s people. Herein lies the chaos. The Church, grounded in Scriptural truth, will prevail—ultimately, in the long run.
The near term is another story. More Cunning Now the serpent was more cunning than any beast of the field which the LORD God had made. And he said to the woman, “Has God indeed said, ‘You shall not eat of every tree of the garden’?” (Genesis 3:1) When the Bible introduces us to Satan, the first description applied to him is “cunning.” Different translations say subtle, crafty, shrewd, and wise.
Of all the possible descriptors of the devil, this is the one that is most easily forgotten. This dark lord is cunning. He is crafty. He is wily.
But this is forgotten. It is forgotten by pastors. It is forgotten by Christians. It is forgotten by politicians. It is forgotten by the world. It is forgotten by virtually every person posting on social media.
The Head and Fount of all evil, and murder, and darkness, and deception in the world is, above all else, subtle.
Much later, in the New Testament, St. Paul would say the same thing: “And no wonder! For Satan himself transforms himself into an angel of light” (2 Corinthians 11:14).
What does this cunning prince of demons look like?
An angel of light.
When humans encounter this master of treachery, they think they have encountered a messenger of beauty and truth.
This verse is the conclusion of a longer argument. Paul writes, “And no wonder!” Why does he say this?
He says this because, in context, he is talking about his profound concern that his friends who knew the Lord would be seduced away from the simple gospel of the grace of God, and the clear teachings of the Word of God. For I am jealous for you with godly jealousy. For I have betrothed you to one husband, that I may present you as a chaste virgin to Christ. (2 Corinthians 11:2) Every Christian is married to Christ, he says. By definition. The great miracle of the new birth immediately generates the closest union possible between the believer and Christ. The child of God is instantly purified, as a chaste virgin, and is made one with Christ.
The basis of that relationship is as secure as the triumph of the Crucified and Risen One.
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Reformation and Justification You could smell the sweat, the discomfort in the classroom. Pastors-in-training, some of them in the employ of my own church, sat in my classroom at a local Christian college. It was time for an exam. An oral exam. A bit of Socratic tough love for an easy A.
“Sam, tell me what justification means,” I said.
My student blushed and looked around vainly for help. “Um… being made righteous?”
“Oh,” I said, “so after a person is justified, their lives are immediately righteous, and they start doing good things, right?”
“Um… no?”
“Tony, help Sam out,” I said, letting Sam off the hook.
“After you’re saved you’re supposed to do good works,” he said.
“So, we teach salvation by works, is that what you mean?” I said.
“No, no. Um, it’s like, well, like…”
These were Bible majors in a Christian college. Juniors and seniors. Most of this particular group had grown up in Christian homes, attending youth groups and church on a regular basis.
Yet none of them could articulate what is arguably the single most important doctrine in the salvation-package, the doctrine of justification by faith — the very doctrine that revolutionized the life and impact of Martin Luther.
To be more specific, my students were unable to articulate the difference between being made righteous and being declared righteous, the very wedge that Luther would use to unintentionally split the church. Night and day I pondered until I saw the connection between the justice of God and the statement that 'the just shall live by his faith.' Then I grasped that the justice of God is that righteousness by which through grace and sheer mercy God justifies us through faith. Thereupon I felt myself to be reborn and to have gone through open doors into paradise. ~Martin Luther
Justification is the main hinge on which salvation turns. ~John Calvin Knowing the centrality of justification, I have made exploring this doctrine a huge part of most of my classes for aspiring ministers. It is a foundational doctrine. Just as cracks in a wall point to a shifting foundation, so chaos in the church points to a defective doctrine of justification.
Why?
Imagine being the proud owner of a vintage car. A friend suggests spending some time tinkering under the hood. A few days later, you’re checking fluids together, setting the points, adjusting the timing, and tuning things up. Your friend points to the carburetor and says, “Let’s yank that thing out.”
You immediately object. “The car can’t run without a carburetor! Besides, that thing is bolted to the engine, and it connects with pretty much every other system under the hood. Friends don’t let friends mess with carburetors!”
Friends don’t let friends mess with the doctrine of justification by faith either.
The doctrine of justification by faith is bolted tightly to the engine of Scripture. It interconnects with the doctrine of God, the doctrine of human nature, the doctrine of Christ, of salvation, of the church, and even of eschatology.
When they made justification by faith the paramount doctrine of the Reformation, Luther and Calvin identified the one doctrine that makes all the other doctrines go.
Unless we are crystal clear on this doctrine, we will muddy the waters of salvation, defame the character of God, fracture the stability of the church, and create a doctrinal vacuum that will suck in all sorts of error and chaos. Catholics and Protestants Together What do evangelical heavyweights of yesteryear, such as Charles Colson,
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Reformation and Scripture When Luther nailed his 95 Theses to the Wittenburg Door, he threw the first punch in a doctrinal fight. It was not Luther’s objective to split the church. He only wanted to correct the ship’s doctrinal course, and to return the Church to her most fundamental truths such as justification by faith and the authority of Scripture.
This triggered an epic brawl scholars call the Protestant Reformation.
It is Protestant because it flowed out of Luther’s protest against the false teaching and excesses of the church.
It is a Reformation because it unburied important theological structures from an avalanche of ecclesiastical, political, and theological debris.
Reformation has to do mainly with theology and doctrine. The Protestant Reformation also happened to trigger a Revival, but let’s save that for the final chapters.
The first urgent requirement to deliver the church from her chaotic condition is a thoroughgoing theological Reformation. We stand in desperate need of a penitent return to the Bible and our first principles
Chief among these principles would be: a) the authority of Scripture, and b) justification by faith. Ironic, isn’t it. I would like to devote this chapter to the first principle and the next to the second. The Authority of Scripture For Luther, the tug of war was between the Authority of Scripture vs. the Teaching Magisterium of the Catholic Church. “A simple layman armed with Scripture is to be believed above a pope or a council without it.”1 Fighting words.
Today’s tug of war is different. On one side stands the Authority of Scripture. On the other stand all the forces that would topple Scripture from its epistemological throne. These would include empiricism, rationalism, irrationalism, nihilism, emotionalism, subjectivism, hedonism, pragmatism, and a diabolical host of other -isms.
These boil down to a ceaseless tug of war between two possible sources of ultimate truth. Source one: ME. Source two: NOT ME.
When we take our stand on the authority of Scripture, we are saying that the source of Ultimate Truth is found, not by looking within, but by looking to an external authority, i.e., the pages of Scripture.
When we take our stand on any other source, we are saying that we find truth by looking within and deciding what structure of reality best comports with our subjective opinion. This, in effect, makes us our own gods. “In those days there was no king in Israel; everyone did what was right in his own eyes” (Judges 17:6).
That must have been a very weird time to be alive.
So it is today. It’s a very weird time to be alive.
Post-modernism has made truth into a choose-your-own buffet. Look within for what resonates. Put that on your plate. Enjoy.
The first reformation must be epistemological.
Where do we get our truth? I know I am only echoing a thousand other voices, but for some reason the echo keeps fading.
How can we shout this to a church caught in a maelstrom of conflicting ideologies?
• In a culture built on Reason, the church could make the case for Scripture based on reason. Logic. Presuppositions. Apologetics.
• In a culture built on Emotion, the church might make its case based on emotion — that there has never been a more life-giving, emotionally healthy worldview than biblical Christianity. Jesus Christ and his message radiate a beauty and social goodness unparalleled in the annals of human thought.
• In a culture built on Empiricism, we might argue that the five senses had to come from somewhere,...
In this episode of the podcast. Bill Giovannetti continues sharing new book, CHAOS:As Goes the Church, So Goes the World.
Below you have a short snippet of each chapter...
The Whole Bible for the Whole Church Andy Stanley is one of the most influential evangelical preachers in America today. In fact, a 2010 survey found him to be one of America’s top ten most influential preachers. I imagine he’s only grown in popularity since then. The son of Charles Stanley, his roots sink deeply into fundamentalist soil. So it created quite a stir when he told us all it was time to “unhitch our faith from the Old Testament” in his now infamous sermon, timed to coincide with the release of his 2019 book, Irresistible.
Think of what it means for a major evangelical leader to jettison three-quarters of the Bible.
The Bible!
Michael J. Kruger’s analysis is exactly right: “According to Stanley, virtually everyone in the history of the church has been wrong about the role of the Old Testament—until now. It’s truly a jaw-dropping claim.”1 Kruger is the president of Reformed Theological Seminary’s Charlotte campus.
A “jaw-dropping claim” sums it up nicely.
And the fact that not enough jaws have dropped to at least reconsider his evangelical credentials proves my thesis of theological chaos pandemic in the church.
Someone might say, “You’re taking Andy Stanley out of context.” I’m not. He says, “The Ten Commandments have no authority over you. None. To be clear: Thou shalt not obey the Ten Commandments” (136).
Again, Stanley’s defenders might say, “You’re not representing his position correctly.” But he declares, “Paul never leverages the old covenant as a basis for Christian behavior” (209).
I read this and scratch my head, because, when I read Paul I find his whole argumentation a leveraging of Old Testament Scriptures to preach a Both Testaments faith: Owe no one anything except to love one another, for he who loves another has fulfilled the law. For the commandments, “You shall not commit adultery,” “You shall not murder,” “You shall not steal,” “You shall not bear false witness,” “You shall not covet,” and if there is any other commandment, are all summed up in this saying, namely, “You shall love your neighbor as yourself.” Love does no harm to a neighbor; therefore love is the fulfillment of the law. (Romans 13:8-10) I’d call that whole Pauline paragraph a leveraging of the old covenant for Christian behavior. Stanley’s assertions are flat out unbiblical.
Christians are already flaky enough with their Bibles. No Christian leader should ever utter a syllable that weakens our trust in and stance upon the sixty-six books of Scripture.
No Christian leader should ever utter a syllable that weakens our trust in and stance upon the sixty-six books of Scripture.
Why does Andy Stanley go here? He says it is for the sake of evangelism. I’m all for evangelism, so…. fine. He suggests, in a nutshell, that the reason we Christians are losing the younger generation is the offensiveness of Old Testament stories and laws. Therefore, to make the gospel message “irresistible,” we must “unhitch our faith from the Old Testament.”
Not fine.
Welcome to a church ruled by people who are better leaders and more engaging speakers than they are expositors of Scripture. The Whole Bible for the Whole Church Stanley’s confusion is on full display when he writes,
The fact that someone chose to publish the old covenant with the new covenant in a genuine leather binding doesn’t mean we should treat them or apply them the same way. The Bible is all God’s Word . . . to somebody. But it’s not all God’s word to everybody.
Do not misunderstand what he is saying.
In this episode of the podcast. Bill Giovannetti continues sharing new book, CHAOS:As Goes the Church, So Goes the World.
Below you have a short snippet of each chapter...
Chapter 11 - How the Church Murdered Grace I come from a theological perspective some have labeled the Free Grace Movement. I am happy with that label, because what’s not to like? It’s free. It’s grace. No, I don’t endorse everything the Free Grace Movement stands for, but I’m sure the feeling is mutual. That’s where charity comes in.
I also feel certain affinities toward what is called Sovereign Grace, a euphemism for Calvinism, though my theological disagreements there are more pronounced.
As a guy who’s known for a grace-oriented theology, I am routinely greeted with enthusiastic statements such as, “My pastor preaches grace too!” Or, “We have a new song about grace.” Or, “I’m glad God is gracious, because I’m such a wreck.” The people I meet in my travels are generally eager to show that their church/ministry/book/etc. proclaims grace too.
Nevertheless, the simple fact of the matter is that the evangelical church has unceremoniously murdered grace. We have committed this crime by misuse, dilution, and the death of a thousand cuts.
The great Bible teacher and founder of Dallas Theological Seminary, Lewis Sperry Chafer, began his book on grace by saying, “The precise and discriminate meaning of the word grace ought to be crystal clear to every child of God.”
Now, there’s an “ought” I can get behind.
The problem is that we are not “crystal clear,” not even close. We barely reach the “murky” threshold. The church is to blame. The church at large has murdered grace, thereby relegating the people of God to the terminally stunted Phariseeism which Jesus verbally crucified.
Once again, the motive for this crime is less obvious than it might at first appear. Let’s dispatch a few obvious motives, and then get down to brass knuckles. The Obvious Stuff We can rattle off quite a few obvious reasons for the death of grace in the church today. We have already fretted over a general theological illiteracy in the land, which easily applies to the rigorous doctrine we call grace. We have also lamented the thug ironically called ultra-tolerance, and the way it has bullied itself into churches and seminaries today. Unless we’re virtue-signaling our acceptance — actually advocacy —of every moral deviancy that has a name, we’re accused of being anti-grace.
Perhaps a deeper etching on Grace’s tombstone says something as simple as They Never Understood the Cross. And it’s true. By neglecting theology, we have starved God’s children of the meat of Calvary: propitiation, expiation, regeneration, redemption, vicarious substitution, and all the doctrines stained crimson by Jesus’ blood.
The heart of Scripture is Christ. The heart of Christ is grace. The heart of Grace is the Cross.
Without Christ’s Cross, there is no grace, not in reality, and not conceptually either. There is no such thing as a Christless grace, yet this is certainly abroad in the land. But even worse, there is no such thing as a Crossless grace, and this is pandemic.
Every time we say that God accepts you just as you are, we think we are talking about grace, when in reality we are jabbing a knife in grace’s back unless we connect that acceptance to the Old Rugged Cross.
Every time we tell an immoral person not to worry because God forgives them, we only set them up for an even deeper guilt later on, unless we explain exactly how and where that forgiveness was procured. We need a forgiveness that means something — one that the devil can’t undermine — and such a forgiveness requires ideational linkages to the Cross.
The late,
In this episode of the podcast. Bill Giovannetti continues sharing new book, CHAOS:As Goes the Church, So Goes the World.
Below you have a short snippet of each chapter...
Chapter 6 - The Pharisees are Back Nobody riled up Jesus like legalists. But the problem then, as it is today, is that legalists don’t know they’re legalists. And even when Jesus told them so, they had the temerity to argue back.
It’s not that we are legalists, they argued. It’s that you, Jesus, are a bottom-feeding antinomian.
There never was a legalist that ‘fessed up without a major whack upside the head.
Witness Paul on the road to Damascus. Or Peter after the vision of the sheets.
The human heart is hopelessly addicted to impressing God in its own strength. But this is impossible. Jesus said so: “With humans it is impossible” (Mark 10:27).
I won’t go into the whole case for grace, as I have written a trilogy of books on this most glorious theme. It will be more helpful to explore some subtle ways the evangelical church has constituted itself around legalism, and doesn’t even know it. What Shall We Teach the Kids? As a novice pastor, I had the enormous benefit of rubbing shoulders with some giants of the faith. Lance B. Latham was the revered founder of Awana (a worldwide Bible memory club for kids) and Camp Awana. By the time I joined the staff of the church he founded, he was retired. Doc, as we called him, looked to be about 300 years old. But there was strength in his handshake and a sparkle in his crystal-blue eyes. He still kept office hours at the church. He was a living legend and a hero to countless thousands of kids who grew up through Awana.
As the leader of Awana clubs in the church he founded, I had the incredible privilege of benefiting from Doc’s mentorship. When I asked him once what to teach the children in our clubs, he didn’t hesitate. “Teach them their riches in Christ,” he said.
That was decades ago, and I have never budged from this simple wisdom.
I have spent the bulk of my ministry life, however, lamenting the scarcity of this kind of thinking.
I would argue, in Christian love, that most children’s curriculum constitutes institutionalized legalism. What else can it be when we offer endless lessons about sharing and character? What else is it when we continually shove behavioral lessons down vulnerable kids’ throats, like a robin shoving worm-bits down its hatchlings’ gullets? Be nice. Obey. Share. Tell the truth. Sit still.
What are we, dog trainers?
We possess an invincible God, an incomparable gospel, and an invaluable mission. We possess riches to last a lifetime — enough positive affirmations to establish a young soul on a theological rock that will support their psychological health forever.
Let’s teach that.
Let’s lay out a feast of who God is. Let’s feed them who Christ is, and what he has done. Let’s walk them through a bloody Old Testament sacrifice, and show them how each minute detail points to Christ. Let’s wear a priest’s ephod, and show how each gem sparkles with the radiance of who God has designed them to be. Let’s build a giant fish and have it swallow a prophet who resents grace.
Let’s teach them theology.
Let’s serve up the whole counsel of God.
Let’s teach them the wonders of a grace so deep the devil can’t uproot it. Chapter 8 - The "Discipleship" Captivity of the Church First it was “evangelism” and “follow up.” Then the two were melded into discipleship. We’ve been a bunch of legalists ever since.
Fact: the word discipleship never occurs in the Bible. We have disciples as a noun, and making disciples as a verb, but never discipleship as a title for a theological category or p...
In this episode of the podcast. Bill Giovannetti continues sharing new book, CHAOS:As Goes the Church, So Goes the World.
This episode also includes the Afterword: What Is an Evangelical?
Chapter 4 - Whatever Happened to Hell? Some things are true. Some things are false. You might get an argument about that.
Some people go to heaven. Some people go to hell. Jesus is the only way to heaven. You will definitely get an argument about that, tragically, even from those who call themselves evangelicals.
The Church can either warn people to flee from the wrath to come, or, in the name of so-called tolerance, spit on substitutionary atonement and define into meaninglessness the Cross of Christ. There is no middle ground.
Such “Particularism,” as it is called, though eminently biblical, is enormously unpopular in our age of secular intolerance. It also turns out to be unpopular to many good, church-going people too.
Whatever became of hell? The simple fact of it will never change. To extinguish the fires of hell is to diminish grace and to disrespect the Cross. It is to put the world we serve into grave peril. If we Christians offer a Savior, what, exactly, is he saving us from?
Generations of Christians have staunchly maintained a binary vision of the eternal state: the redeemed enjoy the bliss of heaven and the unredeemed suffer the fires of hell. This doctrine dates back to the foundations of the Christian faith and beyond. Michael Green, in his classic study on evangelism in the early church, wrote: A clear dualism runs through every strand of the gospel record of Jesus’s teaching. Mankind is divided into those who accept Him as the way to God and those who do not. There are two ways a man may tread—the broad way which leads to destruction or the narrow way which leads to life: no third option. Entry into the kingdom of God depends upon a relationship with Jesus. Always we meet this religious dualism. It is one of the most objectionable elements in the gospel to modern man. No doubt it was to men of the first century, but those Christians believed implicitly that Jesus was the only hope for the world, and the only way to God for the human race.1 The fires of hell have always stoked the engine of world mission and evangelism. Green noted: Now if you believe that outside of Christ there is no hope, it is impossible to possess an atom of human love and kindness without being gripped with a great desire to bring men to this one way of salvation.2 More Than Paper The doctrine of eternal damnation is painful and complex, and there are a number of positions one might take while remaining within the realm of orthodoxy. Yet the doctrine has always been seen as essential. Virtually all evangelical institutions affirm two destinies, one of salvation in Christ alone, and the other of a Christless eternity under the condemnation of God — with the determination made prior to death based upon faith or unbelief in Christ.
But that’s on paper.
Today’s evangelical church has gone virtually silent on a bucketful of crucial doctrines. The Trinity. Heaven. Hell. The doctrines of the Cross. True grace. The doctrine of Union with Christ. The priority of evangelism. The authority and sufficiency of Scripture.
Our theological underpinnings are rotting away.
1 Michael Green, Evangelism in the Early Church, TBK
2 Michael Green, Evangelism in the Early Church, TBK
To read the rest of Chaos, please pick up the book! [Please click here to be notified when the book is released.]
You might have caught some changes in file names, podcasts episode names and titles, because I have basically changed the numbering system to make the whole structure of the book more clear,
In this episode of the podcast. Bill Giovannetti continues sharing new book, CHAOS:As Goes the Church, So Goes the World.
Chapter 3 - The Song That Never Ends If you wish to rant about the state of affairs in the contemporary church, worship music is low-hanging fruit, I know. God help us.
The burden of this book is that God’s people have welcomed chaos into the church and our lives. Sometimes, our worship music is both a symptom and a contributing factor.
And let me say right away it’s not just the repetition that’s to blame.
In the worship song commonly called “Psalm 136,” you will find the words “his mercy endures forever” 26 times in 26 verses. I’d call that repetitious. Repetition per se is not the problem.
Arguably the greatest extra-biblical worship song of all time – one that the church has stood up for ever since King George II launched the tradition at its 1742 debut – is Handel’s Hallelujah Chorus. This chorus repeats the word Hallelujah at least 36 times, King of kings 8 times, Lord of lords 8 times, and for ever and ever 12 times. And I’m not even counting the echoes. The finale is nothing but repetition:
King of Kings And Lord of Lords King of Kings And Lord of Lords And He shall reign for ever and ever King of Kings And Lord of Lords Hallelujah! Hallelujah! Hallelujah! Hallelujah!
Repetition is not the core problem in contemporary worship music.
The core problem is that worship music is written all too often by worship leaders who can strum a guitar and sing decently and have never swum to the deep end of theology’s pool.
They don’t even know it’s there.
The deepest thing they can say about God is, “He’s a good, good, good, good God,” like a good, good dog, so we can demand he fetch us a blessing.
Yes, God is good. In theology, this is called the Benevolence of God, and is a doctrine rich in meaning. Yet I suspect not one worship leader in a hundred has bothered to crack open the theology books and launch a voyage into the wonders of this theology before they pen their ditties. They cannot deliver the depths of divine benevolence because they haven’t even heard the word, much less studied it out.
We get the impression that the primary method of writing a contemporary worship hit is to first run the lyrics through the Random Phrase Generator, to produce a collection of Twitter-sized fragments assembled into a series of non-sequiturs, colored by mixed-metaphors to be sung at gradually swelling volume with maximum pathos. Little concern logos, or for cadence, and even less for the poetry’s beauty.
So the church hums along in the theological shallows. There is little content to make our hearts skip a beat. All too many songwriters are incapable of painting a picture of a God so grand he takes our breath away, because they have rarely gone there themselves. So the church stands and watches while song leaders do their thing and the people on stage have their own little worship moment, eyes closed, bodies swaying, congregation forgotten.
The hymns I learned as a boy in church, I still sing today when I walk my dog in the early morning hours. I doubt that anybody will be singing many of today’s praise songs thirty years from now as they walk along. There’s no “there” there.
As all the church grandparents are nodding their heads in self-righteous disapproval, let me say that the fat, old hymnal has had the benefit of centuries of culling. There were plenty of horrible hymns composed back in the day. The large majority of them, no doubt. They just didn’t stand the test of time, so the church spit them out. Don’t be so smug, fellow Curmudgeons.
And please don’t complain it’s too loud.
In this episode of the podcast. Bill Giovannetti continues sharing new book, CHAOS:As Goes the Church, So Goes the World.
Chapter 2 - Cheap Epistemology I have in my library a worn out, orange, paperback book entitled Basic Christian Doctrines, first published in 1962 and then reprinted in 1971.1
I do not remember when I first picked up this book, but I do know I was in my twenties. I also recall wanting to be personally equipped to teach and defend these doctrines to the Awana leaders I served with.
The book contains 45 chapters on the essential foundations of evangelical faith. Each chapter is written by a theological heavyweight of a bygone era. The whole work is edited by the late, great Carl F. H. Henry. Forty-five chapters, each one plumbing the depths, the nuances, and the distinctive features of evangelicalism’s cardinal doctrines.
The book is remarkable to me today for two main reasons.
First, it uses the word basic in its title.
By today’s standards, however, this book is anything but basic. It explores theology in deep and meaningful ways. It deals with nuances that would be lost on most modern Christians.
What I am saying is that what a past generation considered basic, today's generation would consider too advanced to bother with.
The book differentiates the communicable from the incommunicable attributes of God. It discusses Original Sin, and the imputation of Adam’s guilt. It opens up the doctrine of the Mystical Union between Christ and His people, and includes a chapter on the Kenotic Theory relative to the person of Christ.
If these are yesterday’s basics, doesn’t that indicate there is something radically different today?
A second equally disturbing reason I find the book remarkable is that each of its chapters was first published, not in some abstract theological journal, but in the popular level magazine Christianity Today. The theologically rich content of this book was considered suitable for the average Christian reader of its day.
In my estimation, the seminary student of today would have a hard time plowing through this book. Many pastors would struggle with it. Yet Christianity Today found it needful and suitable for its broad readership back in the day.
Something has changed.
I suspect that what has changed is the answer to a singularly important question which we must never stop asking.
That question is: Where do you get your truth?
The technical name for this topic is epistemology. Ever since Satan suckered Eve into questioning God's Word in the Garden of Eden, God’s people have fought the downward pull of cheap epistemology.
Cheap Epistemology
There is a growing roster of cheap substitutes for the in-depth teaching of the Word of God. These substitutes are cheap because they are imitations of the real thing. They are cheap because they are intellectually effortless. They are cheap because they capitulate to the spirit of the age, wimping out rather than confronting the destructive lies of our demonically hypnotized culture.
Dear Christian, where do you find your truth?
- Contemporary opinion
A 2019 article in Christian Headlines described a seminary president who rejects the literal bodily resurrection of Christ. She also rejects the virgin birth, prayer for healing, and miracles. She has no faith in heaven, or life after death, yet she is the president of Union Theological Seminary. 2
Of course this is the sad trend in liberal branches of theology. Once they discard the Bible anything goes, including the teaching of Wicca and other forms of paganism in schools that were once solely devoted to the Word of God.
In this episode of the podcast. Bill Giovannetti continues sharing new book, CHAOS:As Goes the Church, So Goes the World.
You might have caught some changes in file names, podcasts episode names and titles, because I have basically changed the numbering system to make the whole structure of the book more clear, it's a work in progress. I'm also changing chapter titles...
With this episode Bill continues giving away most of this book, as he shares it with you on the podcast. The message is urgent. The message is timely. If it strikes a chord with you, please share it with your friends. I appreciate your prayers.
There has never been a more important moment in the life of the modern church. It is time for us to return to our roots and seek God as never before.
Here's the Table of Contents (subject to change)
CHAOS: AS GOES THE CHURCH SO GOES THE WORLD
Preface: Fire on the Horizon Intro: As Goes the Church Part One: Disturbing Trends in Today's Church 1. The Giants Have Perished 2. [[[Renaming this one]]] 3. The Song that Never Ends 4. The Worship War Irony 5. For the Love of All That’s Holy 6. To Hell With Hell 7. Modern Day Pharisees 8. Kingdom Mania 9. The Discipleship Captivity of the Church 10. The Leadership Captivity of the Church 11. The Brokenness of “Woken-ness” 12. How the Church Murdered Grace Part Two: The Revival We Need 13. Grow Big / Reformation pt 1 14. Grow Big / Reformation pt 2 15. Stand Tall / Some Theology Concerning Revival 16. Stand Tall / Some History Concerning Revival 17. Proclaim Christ
Afterword: What’s an Evangelical? If you enjoy it please subscribe and share it with your friends. Thanks.
Please click here to be notified when the book is released.
In this episode of the podcast. Bill Giovannetti continues sharing new book, CHAOS:As Goes the Church, So Goes the World.
With this episode Bill continues giving away most of this book, as he shares it with you on the podcast. The message is urgent. The message is timely. If it strikes a chord with you, please share it with your friends.
There has never been a more important moment in the life of the modern church. It is time for us to return to our roots and seek God as never before.
Here's the Table of Contents
CHAOS: AS GOES THE CHURCH SO GOES THE WORLD
Preface: Fire on the Horizon Intro: As Goes the Church Part One: Disturbing Trends in Today's Church 1. The Preaching Giants Have Perished 2. Francis Schaeffer, Please Come Back 3. The Song that Never Ends 4. The Worship War Irony 5. For the Love of All That’s Holy 6. To Hell With Hell 7. Modern Day Pharisees 8. Kingdom Mania 9. The Discipleship Captivity of the Church 10. The Leadership Captivity of the Church 11. The Brokenness of “Woken-ness” 12. How the Church Murdered Grace Part Two: The Revival We Need 13. Grow Big / Reformation pt 1 14. Grow Big / Reformation pt 2 15. Stand Tall / Some Theology Concerning Revival 16. Stand Tall / Some History Concerning Revival 17. Proclaim Christ
Afterword: What’s an Evangelical? If you enjoy it please subscribe and share it with your friends. Thanks.
Please click here to be notified when the book is released.
In this episode of the podcast. Bill Giovannetti talks about his new book, CHAOS:As Goes the Church, So Goes the World.
With this episode Bill begins giving away most of this book, as he begins to share it with you on the podcast. The message is urgent. The message is timely. If it strikes a chord with you, please share it with your friends.
There has never been a more important moment in the life of the modern church. It is time for us to return to our roots and seek God as never before.
Here's the Table of Contents (subject to change)
CHAOS: AS GOES THE CHURCH SO GOES THE WORLD
Preface: Fire on the Horizon Intro: As Goes the Church Part One: Disturbing Trends in Today's Church 1. The Preaching Giants Have Perished 2. Francis Schaeffer, Please Come Back 3. The Song that Never Ends 4. The Worship War Irony 5. For the Love of All That’s Holy 6. To Hell With Hell 7. Modern Day Pharisees 8. Kingdom Mania 9. The Discipleship Captivity of the Church 10. The Leadership Captivity of the Church 11. The Brokenness of “Woken-ness” 12. How the Church Murdered Grace Part Two: The Revival We Need 13. Grow Big / Reformation pt 1 14. Grow Big / Reformation pt 2 15. Stand Tall / Some Theology Concerning Revival 16. Stand Tall / Some History Concerning Revival 17. Proclaim Christ
Afterword: What’s an Evangelical? If you enjoy it please subscribe and share it with your friends. Thanks.
Please click here to be notified when the book is released.
...but with the precious blood of Christ, as of a lamb without blemish and without spot. (1 Peter 1:19) As Christians, we believe that Christ was the spotless, sinless Lamb of God. As the unique Person -- fully God, fully human -- he rose above every dark force, triumphant over death, the devil, Hell, and sin.
In this episode, Bill talks about an important teaching called the Impeccability of Christ.
There is no doubt that Christ was utterly, perfectly sinless. But could he have sinned? Was he able to sin?
And what about temptation? Could he really face temptation?
Welcome to a theological dive into the Impeccability of Christ.
In this episode of the GodStuff podcast, Travis Osborne joins Bill Giovannetti for a conversation about Prophecies of the Messiah. How did the Old Testament Scriptures foreshadow and predict the coming of Christ? How was Christmas promised? There's a lot here, and we only get to scratch the surface, but it's pretty awesome to think that all of ancient history was a Countdown to Christmas.
If you've always thought of going to seminary, and going deep with God, but you never had time... now you do. Find out more about Veritas School of Biblical Ministry, a new graduate school from Dr. Bill Giovannetti, designed with busy people in mind.
Announcing a Free Webinar: Can I lose my salvation? Monday, December 9, 2019, at 6:00 pm (PT). Please visit Veritasschool.life/eternal-security to find out more or watch the video below.
Video Link Here Please save me a seat
I this episode of God Stuff, Bradley Thomas joins Bill in a discussion of Angels and Demons. Where did they come from? How do they get their wings, really? And how do they impact our lives? Should Christians worry about demonic possession?
This fallen world is a morally broken pain machine.
That is one of the sad lessons of the biblical teaching of the Fall. In this world, Jesus said, we will have troubles. Truer words were never spoken.
There is hope, however. The grace of God, obtained for us at the Cross, triumphs over the darkness and suffering of this world.
In this episode of GodStuff, Bill Giovannetti is joined by author, speaker, and survivor, Michele Cushatt. The topic is Suffering and Faith, based on Michele's latest book, Relentless. Michele shares the powerful story of struggling with cancer, three times, adverse childhood experiences, and more.
Here is a link to Michele Cushatt's website: MicheleCushatt.com
Here is Michelle's latest book, Relentless, which I highly recommend.
As always, subscribing, reviewing, and sharing are appreciated.
Christians have been gathering beside lakes and streams, pools and seas, since the very beginning to practice the rite of baptism. In this episode, Bradley Thomas joins Bill to talk about baptism. What does it mean? How should it be done? Who should be baptized and why?
The first thing to die in a church, without constant encouragement from leadership, is evangelism. In this episode of God Stuff, Bill is joined by Todd Skinner to discuss why evangelism seems to be at a low point, and how we can move forward.
In today's episode, Bradley Thomas joins Bill Giovannetti to talk through what it sounds like to pray using the Lord's Prayer as a template.
Faith is trust in an authority: for empiricism, the authority is our senses. For rationalism, the authority is our postulates—the logical concepts that get the rational ball rolling. For Christianity, the authority is Jesus and his Word.
The heart of Scripture is Christ. The heart of Christ is grace. The heart of Grace is the Cross.
Without Christ’s Cross, there is no grace, not in reality, and not conceptually either. There is no such thing as a Christless grace, yet this is certainly abroad in the land. But even worse, there is no such thing as a Crossless grace, and this is pandemic.
Let me start by saying please do not confuse humanism with humanitarianism. Humanitarianism means caring for people, and as Christians, we are fans of that.
Humanism is something different. It is, ultimately, a worldview painfully out of sync with reality. What is Humanism? Humanism is a philosophy of life that puts humans at the pinnacle of existence. There is an organization called the American Humanist Association. Their motto is “Good without a god.” Humanists say that Reason and Science are all we need to create a just and good society. In fact, they say, it is religion that gets in the way. This is because religion always leads to superstition, and superstition always brings us backwards. Humanism almost always goes hand in hand with atheism.
If humans are at the top of existence, they are either higher than God, or there is no God. We humans—with our philosophies and values—occupy the top rung of the existential ladder. You might hear the term, secular humanism, because secular means the opposite of sacred. It means a world without reference to God, or faith, or the supernatural. Secular humanism stands against anything that rises above matter and energy and science and reason and the space-time continuum. Secular humanism is atheism organizing itself into an “unreligion” and working to evangelize the world.
Since 1933 there has been a humanist “manifesto.” You can find it online. It’s now in its third edition. Here is what humanists say about themselves:
Humanism is a progressive philosophy of life that, without supernaturalism, affirms our ability and responsibility to lead ethical lives of personal fulfillment that aspire to the greater good of humanity.
Don’t miss the operative words: “without supernaturalism.”
Here are some famous humanists. If you enjoy science fiction, you’ll know the names Isaac Asimov, Kurt Vonnegut, and Gene Roddenberry (created Star Trek). For astronomy, there’s Carl Sagan, author of The Cosmos. For political activists, there is Jack Kevorkian (aka Dr. Death), Gloria Steinem, Karl Marx, and Barney Frank. In the media, Oliver Stone… it’s a long list of accomplished people.
Let’s break down humanism’s essence point by point.
Some Features of Humanism EVOLUTION. Humans are the products of evolution. Humanists don’t just apply the theory of evolution to our biology, they also apply it to our sociology and psychology. Perhaps this is because they see a material (i.e., made of matter) cause for basically everything — even our passions and loves.
As we continue to evolve, the world and society will keep getting better and better, or so the humanist idea goes.
One huge sticking point is that it simply isn’t happening. Violence isn’t going away. Corruption isn’t going away. Man’s inhumanity to man isn’t going away. Humanism’s core proposition is manifestly unreal.
Furthermore, think of humanism this way: to make evolution the driving principle of your cultural system is to create a whole society based on survival of the fittest.
How is survival of the fittest as a core philosophy going to make the world a more compassionate place? Isn’t compassion for the vulnerable and weak the opposite of survival of the fittest? Shouldn’t we just take out the weak, and help evolution along?
That is exactly where dedicated humanists go in their thinking. The elderly. The infirm. Those with certain handicaps. Infants. The unborn. They are pulling down the species so they just have to go.
In Iceland recently there has been a movement to abort all Down Syndrome babies. What is this, but humans making the world a colder, crueler place in the name of improving the gene pool.
It isn’t humanism; it’s in-humanism.
In this episode, Bradley Thomas joins Bill to talk about the Grace Pathway.
The Grace Pathway is a four step approach to discipleship and spiritual growth. Here are the four steps:
God Saves You God Blesses You God Grows You God Uses You
There is a logic behind these four steps, and their order. More importantly, there are theological reasons why these steps happen in this order. That's what Bill and Bradley talk about.
Bill is developing a 10 book curriculum to lead people along the Grace Pathway. These are great for churches, small groups, and Bible studies. Six of the ten books are currently available, and you can find out more here.
As always, sharing and subscribing are appreciated.
This is a follow up to my post and podcast about the high-profile defections of Christian leaders. This content is the opening chapter of a proposed book called Stunted. I've been around long enough to be considered a veteran pastor, and in this book, I'm dissecting 11 trends I see in the church that are keeping the church stuck in immaturity and vulnerability. Here is the first chapter of Stunted.
Trend 1: The Death of Expository Preaching There were giants in the land. Crowds gathered. Hearts opened. The greatest message ever conceived among humankind pushed back the darkness and fueled generations of heaven’s ambassadors. Henrietta Mears, Ruben Archer Torrey, William R. Newell, Donald Grey Barnhouse, Harry Ironside, Ray Stedman, D. Martyn Lloyd-Jones, A.W. Tozer, Francis Schaeffer, Carl F.H. Henry. A legion more. Forgotten giants. They were nineteenth- and twentieth-century evangelical preachers and teachers of God’s invincible Word. They opened the Scriptures and invited audiences to open their Bibles with them. They brought forth treasures. Their listeners’ hearts burned within.
They were not known for charisma, humor, or eloquence. They did not promote themselves. They had no social media platforms. No gimmicks in their arsenal. Their clothing and style were conventional to a fault. Nothing hip. Nothing cool. They would describe themselves not as “visionary leaders,” but as expositors of the sacred Scriptures.
What each one had was a deep reservoir of theology coupled with a surgical ability to cut through a messy web of demonic lies, that they might stitch Scripture’s truth to the deepest part of their listeners’ souls.
Crowds did not follow them because they were glib story-tellers. Crowds followed them because they were fire hoses of doctrine, and the people were parched deserts, eager to be saturated with the living water of God.
They were Bible expositors first and foremost. They taught verse-by-verse, and sometimes word-by-word. They did not rush. They did not preach three messages in a row and call it “a series.” They lingered over great texts. D. Martin Lloyd-Jones preached 366 sermons on the book of Romans and 255 on the Gospel of John. His sanctuaries were as packed as his sermons.
They weren’t after a practical application that would last a few days and fizzle by Wednesday. They were simple without being simplistic. Nor did they manipulate emotion. They were after a slow, methodical transformation that would last a lifetime. They threw the Bible Bus into low gear, and churned up every inch of biblical pavement, slowly and methodically. Not hype. Not a pep rally. But the patient construction of a theological edifice in the soul that could withstand the storms of life, and uphold a beacon of the gospel in this tempestuous world.
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The rash of recent high-profile defections from Christianity only shows the insanity of how we have elevated unprepared men and women to leadership in the church. Quit looking to fallible leaders and start looking to the Word of God. Leaders come and go, but the Word of God endures forever.
There has never been a more life-giving and true worldview than biblical Christianity. It is getting harder and harder to say so, especially for students. In this episode, Bill joins Travis Osborne, the Student Ministries pastor at our church, to talk about challenges to faith for students today.
I blame Bradley Thomas, but this episode is a rambling conversation on a lot of topics, mainly tending toward the topic of Perfectionism. We enjoyed a wide-ranging conversation, and I hope you enjoy it.
In this episode of God Stuff, Bill talks about three important reasons why Creation matters.
Bill and Todd discuss different kinds of Determinism, and show how there has never been a more empowering, liberating, and dignifying message than the biblical Christian worldview.
You have a story. It is uniquely yours. It is the story of the day you met the Savior. In this episode of God Stuff, you will be inspired and motivated to tell it often and to tell it well. Featuring Bill Giovannetti and Travis Osborne.
Join the conversation on why theology matters for everyday Christians, and how God uses theology to heal our psychology.
And because you are sons, God has sent forth the Spirit of His Son into your hearts, crying out, “Abba, Father!” (Galatians 4:6, NKJV) God... the Spirit.... his Son...
The Trinity. It's the big one, as far as theological confusion goes. The doctrine of the Trinity has puzzled and awed believers since the beginning. God is one. God is three. Which is it? How can these two go together? Why do we even believe this teaching?
In this episode, Bill Giovannetti explores the awesome doctrine of the Trinity. What it means. What it doesn't mean. Why it matters. You will come away with a greater sense of the grandeur of God than ever before.
As always, please use the Subscribe and Share buttons to help spread the word!
Today's guest, Brad Fulton, was a militant atheist who met Jesus. His story will inspire you to not give up living and sharing your faith with friends who think they don't need the Savior.
In this God Stuff episode, Bill discuss the fact that Jesus is both God and Human in one person. How does that work? And more importantly, how doesn't that work? Tune in and be ready to go deep into the Person that Jesus is.
In this episode, Bill and Bradley discuss the true human nature of Jesus and what it means for our lives
What does the Bible say about the deity of Christ? Does the Bible actually say Jesus really God?
It's called Moralistic Therapeutic Deism (MTD), and it has wormed its way into pretty much every aspect of western society, specially among younger generations. It has even worked its way into the church. In this episode, Bill Giovannetti,
In this episode, Bill and Bradley have an awesome conversation about how Bible translations are made, and how to pick the best one for your Bible study and reading!
There's a philosophical and theological error called The Noble Savage. Even Star Trek wove it into its philosophy. In this episode Bill talks about the Myth of the Noble Savage.
Can you know for sure that you're saved? That you're going to heaven? This episode of God Stuff talks about the controversial topic of assurance.
"Christ died for our sins." (1 Corinthians 15:3) Christ died -- that's history. A horrible event we talked about in God Stuff podcast #11. - For our sins -- that's theology. That's the meaning of his death. -
What Scripture records in five icy words would have been devastating to behold: Christ died for our sins.
In this episode, I'm joined by two awesome guests: Tim Hawkins, the Worship Pastor at Neighborhood Church, and Mark Toney, our Young Adults Pastor. We're talking about Young Adults and the Church. What are some of the struggles,
In this episode, Bill gives an overview of the Books of the Bible. We basically fly over the Table of Contents page, and show how the Books of the Bible is classified. From the Law of Moses to the Prophecy of Revelation,
Do all roads lead to heaven or not? How do we even approach this question? In this episode, Bradley Thomas joins Bill to have a wide-ranging discussion on 5 key viewpoints on Hell. We explain, discuss, and critique each viewpoint. -
One of the coolest, most important, and yet oldest tools for Bible Study and research is Strong's Exhaustive Concordance. What is it and why should we use it today?
Here at the God Stuff Podcast, we're dedicated to a positive, upbeat approach to faith. But some things just get me riled up, like today's topic. We are talking about the gospel. Specifically, we're talking about Cliche's that Christians us.
In the category, Weird Words of the Bible, in this short episode, Bill talks about the word Jubilee. After the worship team used the word in a song, Bill asked if they knew what it meant. They didn't, and when they found out, their reaction was great.
This one is a real passion for Bill. The most important thing for a new believer in Jesus to learn is their identity and riches in Christ. Now we have received, not the spirit of the world, but the Spirit who is from God,
It all starts here, and I'm super excited to be joined by my buddy and colleague at Neighborhood Church, Pastor Bradley Thomas as we talk about dating, love, marriage, and the Bible's Love Chapter. Find out how we met our spouses, and see something you probably never saw before in 1 Corinthians 13. The show will evolve, so leave some suggested topics in the comments.
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