Thundering Legion Podcast: Armed Forces Members United In Christ: Recent Episodes
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Today we are continuing our monthly "Big Question" series where we wrestle with personal questions or questions submitted by listeners. Today we will be digging into the question "How should Christians in Military Think about Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI)?”
Resources:
- Oath of Commissioned Officers
- Department of Defense Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility Strategic Plan
- DELETED after recording - WhiteHouse.gov executive order: 2021/06/25/executive-order-on-diversity-equity-inclusion-and-accessibility-in-the-federal-workforce/
- Commentary: Equity vs. Equality By Andrew Duffield, Ed.D AFIMSC Chief Diversity and Inclusion Officer
Episode Notes:
- Why should anyone care about this question? How does our answer impact how we live our lives? Prevalent in any western society, including social institutions like the military. Military leaders will have to decide if they will promote DEI policies
- Clarify definitions from common sources: Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, Accessibility
- What can we all observe about this question based on the human experience, realities of life, nature, our consciences, etc. (Paint as wide of a brush as possible): Is diversity really unity? Is equality a guarantee?
- What does the Bible have to say about DEI? “No soldier on service entangleth himself in the affairs of this life; that he may please him who enrolled him as a soldier.” 2 Timothy 2:4. Gospel is not fair - God always promised to save a remnant. Diversity - “After this I looked, and there before me was a great multitude that no one could count, from every nation, tribe, people and language, standing before the throne and before the Lamb. They were wearing white robes and were holding palm branches in their hands.” Revelation 7:9. Equality vs Equity. Inclusion - Choice, parable of the talents
- How can we practically apply our answers to everyday life? Oath, Constitution, Christian Mindset, Stand on principle
- Challenge: Continue asking big questions and seeing big answers. Be willing to follow the truth where it leads.
Reflect:
- What does this episode reveal about God’s character?
- How does this episode cause us to see our need for a Savior?
- How can we apply lessons learned from this episode to our life?
Follow Christ today:
- ✝️ “Choose this day whom you will serve...” Joshua 24:15
- ✝️ “If you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.” Romans 10:9
Next steps:
- Share with an armed forces member
- Follow Instagram, Facebook, Podcast
https://linktr.ee/thunderinglegion
https://linktr.ee/thunderinglegion
Today we intervew prior enlisted New York Air National Guard C-17 Pilot, Captain Jonathan “Rooster” Guagenti. Rooster's crew flew missions in support of the Afghanistan withdrawl. Rooster's crew evacuated hundreds of refugees and returned 13 fallen servicemembers home after the Kabul Airport bombing. For their efforts, Rooster's crew received Air Medals with Valor and Combat Action Medals, and the aircraft commander received a Distinguished Flying Cross with Valor
Resources:
- Daily Stoic
- Bible in a Year Reading Plan
- Spiritual Disciplines by David Mathis
Episode Notes:
- Background: Grew up in a Christian household. Enlisted before commissioning to become an officer and love for aviation drew him to attend pilot training.
- Testimony: Grew up with lukewarm faith then experienced a failed relationship. Started Bible in a Year plan and God drew him into ministry by closing doors and opening others.
- Successes and failures / struggles: Honor violation during pilot training. Rooster flew missions during the Afghanistan pullout participating in refugee evacuation, bombing and ramp ceremony, returned 13 fallen servicemembers home after the Kabul Airport bombing.
- Calling: Active Guard Reserve, Part time Pastor, then eventually full time Pastor
- Favorite Books of the Bible: Psalms
- Daily Spiritual Growth: Going deeper in Bible readings. Prayer guide: ACTS - Adoration, Confession, Thanksgiving, Supplication.
- Advice: God is with you and is guiding you. Don’t be afraid to live out your faith.
Reflect:
- What does this episode reveal about God’s character?
- How does this episode cause us to see our need for a Savior?
- How can we apply lessons learned from this episode to our life?
Follow Christ today:
- ✝️ “Choose this day whom you will serve...” Joshua 24:15
- ✝️ “If you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.” Romans 10:9
Next steps:
- Share with an armed forces member
- Follow Instagram, Facebook, Podcast
https://linktr.ee/thunderinglegion
https://linktr.ee/thunderinglegion
Today we interview Army Major Daniel Cartwright. Daniel is a Ohio Army Guard Chaplain who is currently deployed.
Episode Notes:
- Background: Military history goes back to American revolution. Grandparents served in WWII, Uncles served in Vietnam and Korea.
- Testimony: Daniel's dad was a pastor, came to christ at 3 and baptized at 4. Backslid ages 12-16 then rededication, backslid ages 19-20 then rededication. Attempted suicide after becoming hopeless do to bad theology - Daniel thought salvation depended upon him and became hopeless.
- Successes and failures: Falsely accused of an EO violation which threatened his career and took 5 months to resolve. Daniel never had his name publicly cleared... Enriched ministry with other members of the unit. God will repay, so trust in him.
- Struggles: the Army is broken: renaming bases and rejecting identity, reorganizing, recruitment issues, vaccine mandate, retention issues.
- Calling: Called to share the message: suicide is a lie. God is the only one who know hearts of those who have committed suicide. Daniel aspires to stay in to get to Lt Col and possibly become state chaplain. Unit chaplain is a commander’s moral and ethical compass.
- Favorite Books of the Bible: Proverbs (Wisdom)
- Daily Spiritual Growth: Morning routine, read bible, listen to music. Set alarm to pray 3x/day. Evening Routine: Confess sins.
- Advice: Ephesians 6:10. Satan is the enemy - we are engaged in a spiritual battle. Jesus already won the war with Satan.
- Hobbies: Family, pastor, businessman, politician, chaplain.
Reflect:
- What does this episode reveal about God’s character?
- How does this episode cause us to see our need for a Savior?
- How can we apply lessons learned from this episode to our life?
Follow Christ today:
- ✝️ “Choose this day whom you will serve...” Joshua 24:15
- ✝️ “If you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.” Romans 10:9
Next steps:
- Share with an armed forces member
- Follow Instagram, Facebook, Podcast
https://linktr.ee/thunderinglegion
https://linktr.ee/thunderinglegion
Thanks for joining us for today’s interview episode where we will be digging into the story of Jeremy Stalnecker. Jeremy is the CEO of the Mighty Oaks Foundation, aids America’s military and families battling combat-related wounds like PTSD. A Marine Corps veteran, he served in Operation Iraqi Freedom, acquiring leadership skills. As a USMC Infantry Officer, Jeremy received a Veteran Navy Commendation Medal with “V” for Combat Valor. Transitioning to ministry after the military, he counseled at Coastline Baptist, then served as Senior Pastor at Bay Area Baptist Church. Feeling the calling, Jeremy merged his ministry and military background, leading Mighty Oaks Foundation full-time where today he strives to provide healing for veterans and their families to battle PTSD and veteran suicide. Additionally, Jeremy is often a speaker on the topic of leadership and discipleship.
Resources:
- Mighty Oaks Foundation
- OCF Crosspoint Podcast “March or die”: Turning to Christ & community in times of trauma
- The Anatomy of Courage: The Classic WWI Study of the Psychological Effects of War
Episode Notes:
- Background: Determined not to follow parents into ministry. Interested in military but parents required college.
- Testimony: Questioned if military and faith are compatible and how to walk out witness as a military member.
- Successes and failures: Peacetime training to wartime with kickoff of Iraq war. Led first marine infantry battalion into Iraq.
- Calling: Transitioned into ministry and sruggled with anger and PTSD. Sever ties to the marine corps but reunited with unit 10 years later. After hearing about post war realities, realized that he still has a mission to do serving veterans
- Leadership: Maintain team cohesion. Stay focused on the mission that is in front of us. If we don’t ask for help, it kills us.
- Bible: Brevity, Seriousness, Constantly in God’s Word
- Fear: Resilience is the ability to bounce back. Make a decision ahead of time: Doing hard things, making good decisions, and following through determines how we will respond in critical moments.
- Transtioning out of military: Make a decision to march instead of stay where you are and die. Life is putting one faith-filled step in front of another. Looking at the eternal makes current mission clear. (Rev 4:11)
- Daily Spiritual Growth: Heb 12:1. Cut out the things that prevent. 4 Be's: Be in the word every day, Be in prayer every day, Be in fellowship, Be in contact (cornerman)
- Advice: Never fight alone. Always hope in the resurrection
- Contact Jeremy: Mightyoaksprograms.org
Reflect:
- What does this episode reveal about God’s character?
- How does this episode cause us to see our need for a Savior?
- How can we apply lessons learned from this episode to our life?
Follow Christ today:
- ✝️ “Choose this day whom you will serve...” Joshua 24:15
- ✝️ “If you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.” Romans 10:9
Next steps:
- Share with an armed forces member
- Follow Instagram, Facebook, Podcast
https://linktr.ee/thunderinglegion
https://linktr.ee/thunderinglegion
Today we continue Part 12 of our “Man After God’s Heart: Life of David” when David Becomes King and Dedicates Temple (2 Samuel 5:4-12; 1 Chronicles 22:1-5/Psalm 30)
Episode Notes:
- Recap Parts 1-11: Part 1: Reign of Saul in 1 Samuel 1-18 and rise of David (1 Samuel 19:11-18/Psalm 56). Part 2: David Flees from Saul (1 Sam 21:10-15/Psalm 56). Part 3: David hides from Saul in a cave (1 Sam 22:1-2/Psalm 142). Part 4: David’s contact with Ahimelech Results in Priests’ Death (1 Sam 22:7-18/Psalm 52). Part 5: David exiled into wilderness of Judah (1 Sam 22:5; 23:14-18/Psalm 63) & David cornered by Saul (1 Sam 23:19-29/Psalm 54). Part 6: David again hides from Saul in a cave (1 Sam 24/Psalm 57). Part 7: David’s Victories (2 Samuel 8/1 Chronicles 18, Psalm 60). Part 8: David Sleeps with Bathsheba and Murders Uriah (2 Samuel 12:7;9-14/Psalm 51. Part 9: David Flees from His Son Absalom (2 Samuel 15:13-23/Psalm 3). Part 10: David’s Reputation is Attacked (2 Samuel 16:5-13/Psalm 7). Part 11 of our “Man After God’s Heart: Life of David” when David Praises God’s Deliverance from Enemies and Saul (2 Samuel 22/Psalm 18). Part 11: David Praises God’s Deliverance from Enemies and Saul (2 Samuel 22/Psalm 18)
- Part 12 Takeaways: Mission/Vision, Purpose, Legacy, Hope
Reflect:
- What does this episode reveal about God’s character?
- How does this episode cause us to see our need for a Savior?
- How can we apply lessons learned from this episode to our life?
Follow Christ today:
- ✝️ “Choose this day whom you will serve...” Joshua 24:15
- ✝️ “If you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.” Romans 10:9
Next steps:
- Share with an armed forces member
- Follow Instagram, Facebook, Podcast
https://linktr.ee/thunderinglegion
https://linktr.ee/thunderinglegion
Today we interview Air Force Lieutenant Colonel (Retired) William “Buck” Buckingham who throughout his career flew the C-17 Spec Ops, C-130J initial cadre, C-32 (Boeing 757) at the 89th Air Wing.
Episode Notes:
- Background: Navy Enlisted 1990, Embry Riddle AFROTC, Laughlin Pilot Training, C-17 Spec Ops & Weapons School, CJSC, ACSC
- Testimony: Refining process in bootcamp. Personal encounter with God (through Gideon Bible on aircraft carrier) in April 1992 then whole family came to Christ after him. Deviated from faith during Air Force career and went through a divorce and came back to place of repentance.
- Successes and failures:
- Parallels between teaching and applying the Word and instructing in aviation.
- Personal trauma with older daughter after divorce. Must trust God in the brokenness in family.
- Lots of alcohol consumption while traveling on high-dollar accounts. When we gain success and power by God’s grace, we tend to become prideful. Became distracted by work and began drinking to numb marital challenges at home. Broke down in 2015 when daughter alienated by fallout of divorce.
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Calling: We were created for one purpose: worship. We get worship wrong which lead to all kinds of consequences. Called to ministry to trauma cases. People who are contrite in heart are closer to God than those who are self-righteous (the Pharisees). Psalm 51:17. Secular counseling programs don’t go deep enough to really deal with the heart issues underlying addiction. Core issue of addiction was that God was not #1.
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Favorite Books of the Bible: Philippians 2:12 work out salvation in fear and trembling, because God is working through us for His joy.
- Daily Spiritual Growth: 0400 reading Bible for 2 hours. Need quiet in the mornings: Lamentations 3:23. Spiritual experience to wake up unhurried early and see creation anticipate dawn. Becoming Biblically literate with “spiritual breakfast”
- Advice: Look to warriors of the faith like Joshua. Seek the Lord daily. God’s people are all over the world and He has us in our current position for a purpose. Be focused on where you are at the time. Be the change. Don’t get pulled into the distraction. Our purpose in life is to worship God first and foremost. God’ word will help us live our best life.
- Contact Buck: jherc06@gmail.com
Reflect:
- What does this episode reveal about God’s character?
- How does this episode cause us to see our need for a Savior?
- How can we apply lessons learned from this episode to our life?
Follow Christ today:
- ✝️ “Choose this day whom you will serve...” Joshua 24:15
- ✝️ “If you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.” Romans 10:9
Next steps:
- Share with an armed forces member
- Follow Instagram, Facebook, Podcast
https://linktr.ee/thunderinglegion
https://linktr.ee/thunderinglegion
Today we continue Part 11 of our “Man After God’s Heart: Life of David” when David Praises God’s Deliverance from Enemies and Saul (2 Samuel 22/Psalm 18)
Episode Notes:
- Recap Parts 1-10: Part 1: Reign of Saul in 1 Samuel 1-18 and rise of David (1 Samuel 19:11-18/Psalm 56). Part 2: David Flees from Saul (1 Sam 21:10-15/Psalm 56). Part 3: David hides from Saul in a cave (1 Sam 22:1-2/Psalm 142). Part 4: David’s contact with Ahimelech Results in Priests’ Death (1 Sam 22:7-18/Psalm 52). Part 5: David exiled into wilderness of Judah (1 Sam 22:5; 23:14-18/Psalm 63) & David cornered by Saul (1 Sam 23:19-29/Psalm 54). Part 6: David again hides from Saul in a cave (1 Sam 24/Psalm 57). Part 7: David’s Victories (2 Samuel 8/1 Chronicles 18, Psalm 60). Part 8: David Sleeps with Bathsheba and Murders Uriah (2 Samuel 12:7;9-14/Psalm 51. Part 9: Part 9: David Flees from His Son Absalom (2 Samuel 15:13-23/Psalm 3). Part 10: David’s Reputation is Attacked (2 Samuel 16:5-13/Psalm 7)
- Part 11 Takeaways: How do we respond to success? Who gets credit for our successes? How do we see God working through our efforts? How do we avoid complacency after success?
Reflect:
- What does this episode reveal about God’s character?
- How does this episode cause us to see our need for a Savior?
- How can we apply lessons learned from this episode to our life?
Follow Christ today:
- ✝️ “Choose this day whom you will serve...” Joshua 24:15
- ✝️ “If you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.” Romans 10:9
Next steps:
- Share with an armed forces member
- Follow Instagram, Facebook, Podcast
https://linktr.ee/thunderinglegion
https://linktr.ee/thunderinglegion
Today we continue Part 10 of our “Man After God’s Heart: Life of David” when David’s Reputation is Attacked (2 Samuel 16:5-13/Psalm 7)
Episode Notes:
- Recap Parts 1-9: Part 1: Reign of Saul in 1 Samuel 1-18 and rise of David (1 Samuel 19:11-18/Psalm 56). Part 2: David Flees from Saul (1 Sam 21:10-15/Psalm 56). Part 3: David hides from Saul in a cave (1 Sam 22:1-2/Psalm 142). Part 4: David’s contact with Ahimelech Results in Priests’ Death (1 Sam 22:7-18/Psalm 52). Part 5: David exiled into wilderness of Judah (1 Sam 22:5; 23:14-18/Psalm 63) & David cornered by Saul (1 Sam 23:19-29/Psalm 54). Part 6: David again hides from Saul in a cave (1 Sam 24/Psalm 57). Part 7: David’s Victories (2 Samuel 8/1 Chronicles 18, Psalm 60). Part 8: David Sleeps with Bathsheba and Murders Uriah (2 Samuel 12:7;9-14/Psalm 51. Part 9: Part 9: David Flees from His Son Absalom (2 Samuel 15:13-23/Psalm 3)
- Part 10 Takeaways: How do we know when to act and when to accept? Psalms 141:5. How can David claim to be upright in heart after previous failures (Bathsheba and Uriah)? How can someone before Christ have the same hope that we have now looking back on Christ?
Reflect:
- What does this episode reveal about God’s character?
- How does this episode cause us to see our need for a Savior?
- How can we apply lessons learned from this episode to our life?
Follow Christ today:
- ✝️ “Choose this day whom you will serve...” Joshua 24:15
- ✝️ “If you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.” Romans 10:9
Next steps:
- Share with an armed forces member
- Follow Instagram, Facebook, Podcast
https://linktr.ee/thunderinglegion
https://linktr.ee/thunderinglegion
Today we build on Episode 37: Spiritual Threats, Weapons, and Tactics (w/ Major James “Hook” Knauss). In Episode 37, we discussed the Word of God as our our offensive weapon. In today’s interview, we are going to get to know our weapon better.
- Hebrews 4:12 “For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any twoedged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.”
- Ephesians 6:17 "Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God."
Resources:
- Thundering Legion Episode 37: Spiritual Threats, Weapons, and Tactics (w/ Major James “Hook” Knauss)
- Bonhoeffer: Pastor, Martyr, Prophet, Spy
- Alexander the Great and Hellenization
- Old Testament Passages Cited by Jesus Christ
- The Case for Christ: A Journalist's Personal Investigation of the Evidence for Jesus
- Secular historical sources: "The Bible Says Jesus Was Real. What Other Proof Exists?"
Discussion questions:
- What is the Bible? Inerrant, Infallible, Inspired Word of God
- What are some common objections to the authority of the bible?
- How did the Bible as we have it today come into existence? Old Testament: Jewish scriptures as accepted by the Jews. New Testament: Process of textual criticism by councils and people.
- How did history, language, and culture affect the Bible? New Testament written in Greek (Alexander the Great hellinization).
- Manuscript evidence: We have numerous fragments of scripture within 25 to a couple hundred years of the actual event.
- 1 Cor 15:3 lists “in accordance of the scriptures” people that Jesus appeared to. If original witnesses are still alive when manuscripts published, they are more likely to be accure
- Other secular historical sources document basic parts of Jesus' life and the Gospel narrative.
- How can Christians be confident in the authority of the Bible? All the disciples go to death confessing Jesus as Lord and resurrection, except John who was exiled to Patmos. Nobody will die for a lie, but people will die for something they believe is true.
- If we claim the Gospel message, Jesus claims the scriptures are true. So we either accept or reject Jesus as Lord.
Reflect:
- What does this episode reveal about God’s character?
- How does this episode cause us to see our need for a Savior?
- How can we apply lessons learned from this episode to our life?
Follow Christ for this day!
- ✝️ “Choose this day whom you will serve...” Joshua 24:15
- ✝️ “If you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.” Romans 10:9
Next steps:
- Share with an armed forces member
- Follow Instagram, Facebook, Podcast
https://linktr.ee/thunderinglegion
Today we continue Part 9 of our “Man After God’s Heart: Life of David” when David Flees from His Son Absalom (2 Samuel 15:13-23/Psalm 3)
Episode Notes:
- Recap Parts 1-8: Part 1: Reign of Saul in 1 Samuel 1-18 and rise of David (1 Samuel 19:11-18/Psalm 56). Part 2: David Flees from Saul (1 Sam 21:10-15/Psalm 56). Part 3: David hides from Saul in a cave (1 Sam 22:1-2/Psalm 142). Part 4: David’s contact with Ahimelech Results in Priests’ Death (1 Sam 22:7-18/Psalm 52). Part 5: David exiled into wilderness of Judah (1 Sam 22:5; 23:14-18/Psalm 63) & David cornered by Saul (1 Sam 23:19-29/Psalm 54). Part 6: David again hides from Saul in a cave (1 Sam 24/Psalm 57). Part 7: David’s Victories (2 Samuel 8/1 Chronicles 18, Psalm 60). Part 8: David Sleeps with Bathsheba and Murders Uriah (2 Samuel 12:7;9-14/Psalm 51.
- Part 9 Takeaways: When do we act and when do we accept? What kind of legacy are we leaving? How do we accept responsibility despite our flaws? How do we have confidence of an upright heart before God?
Reflect:
- What does this episode reveal about God’s character?
- How does this episode cause us to see our need for a Savior?
- How can we apply lessons learned from this episode to our life?
Follow Christ today!
- ✝️ “Choose this day whom you will serve...” Joshua 24:15
- ✝️ “If you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.” Romans 10:9
Next steps:
- SHARE with another armed forces member
- FOLLOW Instagram, Facebook, Podcast
https://linktr.ee/thunderinglegion
https://linktr.ee/thunderinglegion
Today we dig into the story of Jason Bilbro who is a 24-year veteran of the United States Navy. While on active duty, he made seven deployments, visiting 39 countries around the globe. He completed his BA in English from the University of Missouri (Columbia) and his MS in Human Systems Integration from the Naval Postgraduate School in Monterey, CA. He retired as a Lieutenant Commander in 2019 to pursue the call of God on his life and moved with his wife and two daughters to Ozark, MO. Jason completed his MA in Theological Studies from the Assemblies of God Theological Seminary, in May of 2023 and is currently enrolled in the Doctorate of Ministry program, with an emphasis in contextual leadership and spiritual formation. Jason and his wife Tatum both have a heart for pastoral and marriage ministry, and to develop passionate followers of Jesus Christ.
Resources:
- Vimeo: Jason and Tatum’s Marriage Testimony
- Broken Bonds Ministry (Website)
- Broken Bonds Ministry (Facebook)
- The great porn experiment | Gary Wilson | TEDxGlasgow
- Your Brain on Porn: Internet Pornography and the Emerging Science of Addiction
- The Good and Beautiful God: Falling in Love with the God Jesus Knows
- Brene Brown TED Talk: The power of vulnerability
- Soul Care: 7 Transformational Principles for a Healthy Soul
- Atomic Habits: An Easy & Proven Way to Build Good Habits & Break Bad Ones
- Jesus Is the Question: The 307 Questions Jesus Asked and the 3 He Answered
- Talk: Do You Want to Get Well?
- Thundering Legion Podcast Episode 19: Is Pornography Killing Your Soul, Relationships, and Military Unit? (with Sam Logan)
Episode Notes:
- Background: Diagnosted with ADHD early. Achievement oriented: joined Navy out of high school. Got married after deployment and immediately regretted decision, which kicked off 5 years of pain. Jason and Tatum saw multiple counselors and relationship struggles continued to escalate to physical danger, causing separation and nearly divorce.
- Testimony: Preacher’s kid. Check the box “Christian.” Pornography addiction caused detachment, suppression of conscience, and years of marital problems which nearly led to divorce.
- Calling: Started informally mentoring other couples. Online testimony began to spread and help other couples. Now leading Broken Bonds Ministry and pursuing Doctorate of Ministry program with a heart for pastoral and marriage ministry.
- Favorite Books of the Bible: Questions of Jesus. "Do you want to get well?"
- Advice: Have a battle plan. Find community and accountability
- Contact Jason
Reflect:
- What does this episode reveal about God’s character?
- How does this episode cause us to see our need for a Savior?
- How can we apply lessons learned from this episode to our life?
Follow Christ for this day!
- ✝️ “Choose this day whom you will serve...” Joshua 24:15
- ✝️ “If you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.” Romans 10:9
Next steps:
- Share with an armed forces member
- Follow Instagram, Facebook, Podcast
https://linktr.ee/thunderinglegion
https://linktr.ee/thunderinglegion
Today we welcome back Maj James “Hook” Knauss who shared his testimony on episode 32 - go back and give episode 32 a listen. During Hook’s interview, he mentioned applying a military mission planning construct of “threats-weapons-tactics” to teach a class on mortification of sin at his church. Today’s Hook is going to provide us a pristine, 50 minute fighter pilot brief on spiritual threats, weapons and tactics. But before we hop in, let’s talk objectives and definitions:
Resources
- Heritage Bible Church
- Mortification of Sin - John Owen
- Habits of Grace - David Mathis
- Atomic Habits (Identity-Processes-Outcomes) - James Clear
- Morning Battle Rhythm (Identity in Christ)
Episode Notes:
- What are our overall mission objectives (or purpose) of this brief? We were God’s enemies, at war with God before coming to Christ. We cannot win a war against God - we will be destroyed. When we come to Christ we change sides of the war and we are to put to death the deeds of the flesh and mortify sin.
- Threats: Our flesh, our sin, specific sins we struggle with (Rom 1, Gal 5). We must identify our specific sin threats to effectively mitigate
- Weapons: The Holy Spirit - amazing promises in scripture as our offensive weapon
- Tactics: Romans 8:26- Spirit helps us pray effectively as we are unable by ourselves. Convictions show us our sin (no conviction indicates no Spirit). Ephesians 6: The Armor of God - sword of the Spirit is the word of God. Mediate and fill mind with the scriptures. Prayer. Accountability/fellowship
- How do we identify our specific sin patterns? Romans 1.
- How do we identify areas where we have suppressed the truth and are suppressing the truth? Changed heart is work of God - Ezekiel 36 / John 3: born again of the Spirit. Hebrews 10: Drawing connection between mortification of sin, new hearts/new identity. Romans 8: no condemnation if we are in Christ
Reflect:
- What does this episode reveal about God’s character?
- How does this episode cause us to see our need for a Savior?
- How can we apply lessons learned from this episode to our life?
Follow Christ for this day!
- ✝️ “Choose this day whom you will serve...” Joshua 24:15
- ✝️ “If you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.” Romans 10:9
Next steps:
- Share with an armed forces member
- Follow Instagram, Facebook, Podcast
https://linktr.ee/thunderinglegion
Today we continue Part 8 of our “Man After God’s Heart: Life of David” Study David Sleeps with Bathsheba and Murders Uriah (2 Samuel 12:7;9-14/Psalm 51)
Episode Notes:
- Recap Parts 1-7: Reign of Saul in 1 Samuel 1-18 and rise of David (1 Samuel 19:11-18/Psalm 56). Part 2: David Flees from Saul (1 Sam 21:10-15/Psalm 56). Part 3: David hides from Saul in a cave (1 Sam 22:1-2/Psalm 142). Part 4: David’s contact with Ahimelech Results in Priests’ Death (1 Sam 22:7-18/Psalm 52). Part 5: David exiled into wilderness of Judah (1 Sam 22:5; 23:14-18/Psalm 63) & David cornered by Saul (1 Sam 23:19-29/Psalm 54). Part 6: David again hides from Saul in a cave (1 Sam 24/Psalm 57). Part 7: David’s Victories (2 Samuel 8/1 Chronicles 18, Psalm 60)
- Part 8 Takeaways: Are we blind to our sin? What do we do when we are convicted of sin? How do we own consequence of our sin and move forward? Are we grieved by our sin?
Reflect:
- What does this episode reveal about God’s character?
- How does this episode cause us to see our need for a Savior?
- How can we apply lessons learned from this episode to our life?
Follow Christ today!
- ✝️ “Choose this day whom you will serve...” Joshua 24:15
- ✝️ “If you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.” Romans 10:9
Next steps:
- SHARE with another armed forces member
- FOLLOW Instagram, Facebook, Podcast
https://linktr.ee/thunderinglegion
https://linktr.ee/thunderinglegion
Today’s guest is Major Aaron Rosheim, who we previously interviewed on Episode 17 (Aaron's testimony) and Episode 23 (Balancing Faith and Family). Aaron has been posting daily scripture on VoDgrams for several years and he's a great resource on morning routines.
Resources:
- @Vodgrams on Instagram
- Morning Battle Rhythm
- Podcast: Morning Mindset Daily Devotional Podcast
- App: YouVersion Bible App Verse of the Day
- Podcast: Ten Minute Bible Talks
- Article: Why our morning routines matter
Episode Notes:
- What are some benefits of a morning routine? Why not before bed?
- How do we make our morning routines flexible with military and family life?
- What are the elements of an effective morning routine?
- What does the Bible say about morning routines? What did Jesus' morning routine look like?
- Lessons learned from daily scripture posts on VoDgrams and Thundering Legion?
Reflect:
- What does this episode reveal about God’s character?
- How does this episode cause us to see our need for a Savior?
- How can we apply lessons learned from this episode to our life?
Follow Christ for this day!
- ✝️ “Choose this day whom you will serve...” Joshua 24:15
- ✝️ “If you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.” Romans 10:9
Next steps:
- Share with an armed forces member
- Follow Instagram, Facebook, Podcast
https://linktr.ee/thunderinglegion
https://linktr.ee/thunderinglegion
Today we continue Part 7 of our “Man After God’s Heart: Life of David” Study David’s Victories (2 Samuel 8/1 Chronicles 18, Psalm 60)
Episode Notes:
- Recap Parts 1-6: Reign of Saul in 1 Samuel 1-18 and rise of David (1 Samuel 19:11-18/Psalm 56). Part 2: David Flees from Saul (1 Sam 21:10-15/Psalm 56). Part 3: David hides from Saul in a cave (1 Sam 22:1-2/Psalm 142). Part 4: David’s contact with Ahimelech Results in Priests’ Death (1 Sam 22:7-18/Psalm 52). Part 5: David exiled into wilderness of Judah (1 Sam 22:5; 23:14-18/Psalm 63) & David cornered by Saul (1 Sam 23:19-29/Psalm 54). Part 6: David again hides from Saul in a cave (1 Sam 24/Psalm 57)
- Part 7 Takeaways: How do we handle success without pride? How do we prevent pride and ego from destroying our lives? How do we recognize prideful motives in our lives? How do we keep ourselves humble? How do we recognize false humility?
Reflect:
- What does this episode reveal about God’s character?
- How does this episode cause us to see our need for a Savior?
- How can we apply lessons learned from this episode to our life?
Follow Christ today!
- ✝️ “Choose this day whom you will serve...” Joshua 24:15
- ✝️ “If you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.” Romans 10:9
Next steps:
- SHARE with another armed forces member
- FOLLOW Instagram, Facebook, Podcast
https://linktr.ee/thunderinglegion
https://linktr.ee/thunderinglegion
Today we dig into the question “Can Christians Serve in Armed Forces and Use Violence?"
Our interview guest is Patrick Miller, cohost of Truth Over Tribe Podcast and coauthor of Truth Over Tribe book. Patrick and Keith Simon did a 3-Part "Biblical Theology of Violence" Series (Part 1, Part 2, Part 3) in which Patrick argues the side of Christian non-violence. In this episode, we focus on questions and case studies on the use of force in an official governmental capacity.
Resources:
- Mere Christianity by C.S. Lewis
- Hell One Step at a Time by Jordan Peterson
- Mil Spec Believer: An Occupation of Killing (As a Christian)
- Military as unreached people group: Major Aaron Rosheim
- Oppeenheimer
- Bonhoeffer: Pastor, Martyr, Prophet, Spy
- What Do We Swear An Oath To?
- Can We Serve Both Nation and Christ
- Should Christians Be in the Armed Forces?
Episode Notes:
Background:
-
There are around 27 million people worldwide service in the armed forces in some capacity. Can armed forces be a calling for Christians?
- Armed Forces Personnel, Total
- Map of World Military Personnel
- List of Countries by Number of Military Personnel
Patrick and Trevor present theses on question
Episode Discussion Topics:
- Does Bible uphold role of government to bear the sword?
- Is there a difference between personal/unofficial and governmental/official use of violence?
- Who ultimately bears moral responsibility for violence?
- Can armed forces be a legitimate calling for a Christian?
- How does official use of violence go wrong?
- What does an armed force swear an oath to and can Christians take the oath?
- Killing vs. murder: Does heart condition matter?
- Are there cases where war and violence are justified?
Reflect:
- What does this episode reveal about God’s character?
- How does this episode cause us to see our need for a Savior?
- How can we apply lessons learned from this episode to our life?
Follow Christ for this day!
- ✝️ “Choose this day whom you will serve...” Joshua 24:15
- ✝️ “If you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.” Romans 10:9
Next steps:
- SHARE with another armed forces member
- FOLLOW Instagram, Facebook, Podcast
https://linktr.ee/thunderinglegion
https://linktr.ee/thunderinglegion
In today’s interview episode where we are digging into the story of Major James "Hook" Knauss. Hook is former A-10C Instructor and Experimental Test Pilot with over 3,000 flight hours in more than 25 aircraft types. He is a graduate of the United States Air Force Test Pilot School and currently serves as a Flight Safety Officer at Headquarters Air Force Reserve Command specializing in the analysis of MFOQA (Military Flight Operations Quality Assurance) data. During his time on active duty, Hook earned a Master of Divinity from the Southern Baptist Theological Seminary in Louisville, KY. He now serves on staff at Heritage Bible Church in Greer, SC as Director of Discipleship and Training. Hook resides in the upstate of South Carolina with his wife of 15 years and their two boys ages 10 and 5.
Resources:
- ROTC
- Heritage Bible Church
- DoD Skillbridge Program
- SBTS Active Duty Military Grant
Episode Notes:
- Background: Grew up Baptist in Georgia, joined Air Force ROTC to get school paid for, majored in Civil Engineering, then took a pilot slot.
- Testimony: Accepted Christ and was baptized in Middle School after retreat weekend sermon on repentance
- Successes and failures: Failed checkride in Introductory Flight Screening and graduated Test Pilot School
- Calling: Completed degree at SBTS while on active duty with tuition assistance and military grant. Military prepared Hook for vocational ministry leadership and teaching.
- Favorite Books of the Bible: Psalms, Gospel of John
- Daily Spiritual Growth: Flying career taught Hook how to prepare and learn (chairfly) and apply that to spiritual growth. Make God's Word and Biblical community a priority.
- Contact Hook
Reflect:
- What does this episode reveal about God’s character?
- How does this episode cause us to see our need for a Savior?
- How can we apply lessons learned from this episode to our life?
Follow Christ for this day!
- ✝️ “Choose this day whom you will serve...” Joshua 24:15
- ✝️ “If you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.” Romans 10:9
Next steps:
- SHARE with another armed forces member
- FOLLOW Instagram, Facebook, Podcast
https://linktr.ee/thunderinglegion
https://linktr.ee/thunderinglegion
Today we continue Part 6 of our “Man After God’s Heart: Life of David” Study when David again hides from Saul in a cave (1 Sam 24/Psalm 57)
Episode Notes:
- Recap Parts 1-5: Reign of Saul in 1 Samuel 1-18 and rise of David (1 Samuel 19:11-18/Psalm 56). Part 2: David Flees from Saul (1 Sam 21:10-15/Psalm 56). Part 3: David hides from Saul in a cave (1 Sam 22:1-2/Psalm 142). Part 4: David’s contact with Ahimelech Results in Priests’ Death (1 Sam 22:7-18/Psalm 52). Part 5: David exiled into wilderness of Judah (1 Sam 22:5; 23:14-18/Psalm 63) & David cornered by Saul (1 Sam 23:19-29/Psalm 54)
- Part 6 Takeaways: Does the end justify the means? How do we seek God's will? How does God reveal Himself to us? What does it man to be a "man after God's heart"?
Reflect:
- What does this episode reveal about God’s character?
- How does this episode cause us to see our need for a Savior?
- How can we apply lessons learned from this episode to our life?
Follow Christ today!
- ✝️ “Choose this day whom you will serve...” Joshua 24:15
- ✝️ “If you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.” Romans 10:9
Next steps:
- SHARE with another armed forces member
- FOLLOW Instagram, Facebook, Podcast
https://linktr.ee/thunderinglegion
https://linktr.ee/thunderinglegion
Today we continue Part 5 of our “Man After God’s Heart: Life of David” Study when David is Exiled into Wilderness of Judah and Cornered by Saul (1 Sam 22:5; 23:14-29/Psalm 54/63)
Episode Notes:
- Recap Parts 1-4: Reign of Saul in 1 Samuel 1-18 and rise of David (1 Samuel 19:11-18/Psalm 56). Part 2: David Flees from Saul (1 Sam 21:10-15/Psalm 56). Part 3: David hides from Saul in a cave (1 Sam 22:1-2/Psalm 142). Part 4: David’s contact with Ahimelech Results in Priests’ Death (1 Sam 22:7-18/Psalm 52)
- Takeaways: How is God sovereignly working over and through our circumstances? Do we use the Lord's name in vain to advance our personal causes? Or do we wait and suffer patiently trusting in God's character/promises? What is the heart of God?
REFLECT:
- What does this episode reveal about God’s character?
- How does this episode cause us to see our need for a Savior?
- How can we apply lessons learned from this episode to our life?
Follow Christ today!
- ✝️ “Choose this day whom you will serve...” Joshua 24:15
- ✝️ “If you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.” Romans 10:9
Next steps:
- SHARE with another armed forces member
- FOLLOW Instagram, Facebook, Podcast
https://linktr.ee/thunderinglegion
https://linktr.ee/thunderinglegion
Jerry St. Pierre overcame significant life adversity including violence, abuse, and poverty during Jerry's formative years then enlisted in the Army Guard as an engineer and deployed to combat in Afghanistan. Jerry went to seminary and now serves as an active duty Air Force chaplain. Jerry is a certified performance coach for the Department of the Air Force and coaches leaders across the Air Force at all levels to practice self-reflection, creativity in problem solving, and accountability. Additionally, Jerry gives back to college students rising from adversity through the St. Pierre Alliance, leads the “Life and Money Podcast,” participates in real estate investing, and has been married for 20 years with 3 children.
Resources:
- Jerrystpierre.com
- Life and Money Coach Podcast
- Thundering Legion Episode 22: Man After God’s Heart Study
- St Pierre Alliance
Episode Notes:
- Background: Unstable family background, enlisted as Army engineer
- Testimony: Mom was mentally handicapped, raised in inner city New Orleans, came to Christ in high school, heart loved Lord but didn’t love school, went to church but home life was a different story, too scared to go to college and too scared to go active duty
- Successes and failures: Unemployed for 18 months, more committed to calling than career
- Struggles: Deal with a lot of fear in own life - self work to mature
- Calling: Ministry is currently through the Air Force, but not capped at the Air Force, Life and money coach podcast
- Favorite Books of the Bible: Psalms, Proverbs
- Daily Spiritual Growth: Word, Prayer, Family Bible studies
- Advice: Connect with other Christians, PCS - find a new church
- Hobbies: Link - St. Pierre Alliance
- Contact Jerry
REFLECT:
- What does this episode reveal about God’s character?
- How does this episode cause us to see our need for a Savior?
- How can we apply lessons learned from this episode to our life?
Follow Christ for this day!
- ✝️ “Choose this day whom you will serve...” Joshua 24:15
- ✝️ “If you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.” Romans 10:9
Next steps:
- SHARE with another armed forces member
- FOLLOW Instagram, Facebook, Podcast
https://linktr.ee/thunderinglegion
https://linktr.ee/thunderinglegion
Today we dig into the story of Elliot “Willie” Nelsen, a graduate of the U.S. Air Force Academy and recently retired 22-year Air Force veteran. Lt Col Elliot Nelsen flew the F-15C early in his career but spent the majority of it instructing fighter fundamentals in the T-38 as a Reservist at Sheppard AFB, finishing with 2,600 T-38 hours and, even better, a thousand moments spent mentoring. He now lives near Hill AFB in Utah and flies for Delta Air Lines.
Resources:
- Podcast: Is Pornography Killing Your Soul, Relationships, and Military Unit?
- Shane and Shane - Though He Slay Me
Episode Notes:
- Background: Missionary kid, put God on hold in while in college, desire to fly fighters, earned a slot to fly F-15Cs.
- Testimony: Hit rock bottom during fighter fundamentals. Realized he had become someone he despised and lost what was most important. Turned back to Jesus and threw himself to God’s grace. Desired authenticity, total transparency, and confession in relationships.
- Successes and failures: Missed oppotunities to go to US Air Force Weapons School and Thunderbirds. Felt alone during first several months in Alaska, but God put key Christians in his life to support his growth in faith.
- What is the most important lesson you learned about following Christ while serving in the military? We each have a unique personality and gifting. God is glorified when we are satisfied in Him.
- How have you influenced the lives and faith of your students while in the instructor role? Take an interest in the lives of your students. Be excllent at your jobs. Start with gentleness and humility and asking socratic questions.
- Challenges to living out faith in the military
- Next Steps: Submit to God's will - the Great Commission is for all of us.
- What book of the Bible do you go to in times of difficulty? Psalms, Colossians 1, Joshua, Proverbs, Acts (Stephen)
- How do you make spiritual growth a daily priority? Strive to be in the word every day. Intimacy with our Creator through prayer - especially praying for others.
- Closing words: Satan wants us to feel alone and peer pressured to give up our values. In the end the only thing that matters is following Christ wholeheartedly. Take your struggles to God - He’s a good father.
REFLECT:
- What does this episode reveal about God’s character?
- How does this episode cause us to see our need for a Savior?
- How can we apply lessons learned from this episode to our life?
Follow Christ for this day!
- ✝️ “Choose this day whom you will serve...” Joshua 24:15
- ✝️ “If you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.” Romans 10:9
Next steps:
- SHARE with another armed forces member
- FOLLOW Instagram, Facebook, Podcast
https://linktr.ee/thunderinglegion
https://linktr.ee/thunderinglegion
Today we continue Part 4 our “Man After God’s Heart: Life of David” Study when David’s contact with Ahimelech Results in Priests’ Death (1 Sam 22:7-18/Psalm 52)
Episode Notes:
- Recap Parts 1-3: Reign of Saul in 1 Samuel 1-18 and rise of David (1 Samuel 19:11-18/Psalm 56). Part 2: David Flees from Saul (1 Sam 21:10-15/Psalm 56). Part 3 David hides from Saul in a cave (1 Sam 22:1-2/Psalm 142)
- Takeaways: Why do we choose to suffer for obeying God & doing the right thing rather than obeying mankind? Why did David have to endure affliction and suffering? How did David's suffering prophecy Jesus' future suffering? What is our greater hope that goes beyond suffering?
REFLECT:
- What does this episode reveal about God’s character?
- How does this episode cause us to see our need for a Savior?
- How can we apply lessons learned from this episode to our life?
Follow Christ today!
- ✝️ “Choose this day whom you will serve...” Joshua 24:15
- ✝️ “If you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.” Romans 10:9
Next steps:
- SHARE with another armed forces member
- FOLLOW Instagram, Facebook, Podcast
https://linktr.ee/thunderinglegion
https://linktr.ee/thunderinglegion
Today we will be digging into the question “How Should Armed Forces Members Respond to Immoral Policies and Orders?” We live in a fallen world, so all Christians will inevitably disagree with authority figures or leaders at some point. So what is our Biblical framework to handle these disagreements?
What does the Bible have to say about this question?
-
Book of Daniel. Background: Daniel encounters a variety of situations in his life of service that inform us of options of how to respond when we disagree with our leaders (Daniel 1: 17-20, 2:14, 5:10-12)
- Appeal to Conscience and Solve Issue at Lowest Level. (Daniel 1:7-16)
- Private Disobedience. (Daniel 6)
- Public Disobedience. (Daniel 3: 4-6, 12-23)
- Book of Exodus
- Exodus 1: Midwives do not follow the Pharaoh’s direct order to kill all baby boys.
- Exodus 2: Moses’ parents hide him away for 3 months, disregarding the Pharaoh’s order to kill Hebrew boys
- Acts 4: Peter and John go before the Sanhedrin: “Which is right in God’s eyes: to listen to you, or to him? You be the judges! As for us, we cannot help speaking about what we have seen and heard.”
How can we practically apply our answer to everyday life?
- Represent Christ well even when we disagree with the authorities placed over us - strive for respect, peace, and reconciliation in all interactions.
- Strive to solve the problem at the lowest level, as peaceably as possible, using appeals to logic and conscience to change policy.
- Our ultimate goal is to point others to Christ through the issue we are confronting. If the issue draws you into the public eye then use that opportunity to proclaim Christ.
- The road to salvation is marked with suffering. Like Christ, we must be prepared to suffer for His righteousness. Jesus says we must pick up our own cross of suffering in order to follow Him as a disciple (Luke 9:23, 14:27).
- How we respond to hardship, suffering, and persecution is the greatest testament to our faith to a watching world. View suffering as an opportunity to share faith in Christ.
REFLECT:
- What does this episode reveal about God’s character?
- How does this episode cause us to see our need for a Savior?
- How can we apply lessons learned from this episode to our life?
Follow Christ for this day!
- ✝️ “Choose this day whom you will serve...” Joshua 24:15
- ✝️ “If you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.” Romans 10:9
Next steps:
- SHARE with another armed forces member
- FOLLOW Instagram, Facebook, Podcast
https://linktr.ee/thunderinglegion
https://linktr.ee/thunderinglegion
Today we continue Part 3 our “Man After God’s Heart: Life of David” Study when David hides from Saul in a cave (1 Samuel 22:1-2 & Psalm 142)
Episode Notes:
- Recap Parts 1: Reign of Saul in 1 Samuel 1-18 and rise of David (1 Samuel 19:11-18/Psalm 56) and Part 2: David Flees from Saul (1 Sam 21:10-15/Psalm 56)
- This Week's Reading: David hides from Saul in a cave (1 Sam 22:1-2/Psalm 142)
- Takeaways: 1) Differences in leadership styles between Saul and David 2) Sauls men refuse to kill priests - when do we disobey an order? 3) Ownership of consequences of our decisions 4) Demanding vs. commanding respect from followers
REFLECT:
- What does this episode reveal about God’s character?
- How does this episode cause us to see our need for a Savior?
- How can we apply lessons learned from this episode to our life?
Follow Christ today!
- ✝️ “Choose this day whom you will serve...” Joshua 24:15
- ✝️ “If you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.” Romans 10:9
Next steps:
- SHARE with another armed forces member
- FOLLOW Instagram, Facebook, Podcast
https://linktr.ee/thunderinglegion
https://linktr.ee/thunderinglegion
Today we continue our “Man After God’s Heart- Life of David” Study Part 2 when David Flees from Saul to Gath (1 Samuel 21:10-15/Psalm 56)
Episode Notes:
- Recap Part 1: Reign of Saul in 1 Samuel 1-18 and rise of David in 1 Samuel 19:11-18/Psalm 56
- Background: 1 Samuel 19-1 Samuel 21
- This Week's Reading: 1 Samuel 21:10-15/Psalm 56 when David Flees from Saul to Gath
- Takeaways: 1) When you're in over your head, cry out to God like David 2) Understand that God hears the depth of our emotions and meets us with compassion 3) Our lasting hope in suffering is God's deliverance, fulfilled in Christ.
REFLECT:
- What does this episode reveal about God’s character?
- How does this episode cause us to see our need for a Savior?
- How can we apply lessons learned from this episode to our life?
Follow Christ today!
- ✝️ “Choose this day whom you will serve...” Joshua 24:15
- ✝️ “If you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.” Romans 10:9
Next steps:
- SHARE with another armed forces member
- FOLLOW Instagram, Facebook, Podcast
https://linktr.ee/thunderinglegion
https://linktr.ee/thunderinglegion
Today we welcome back Major Aaron Rosheim, who we previously interviewed on Episode 17. Major Aaron Rosheim is a Blackhawk helicopter pilot in the Iowa Army National Guard. He supervises aircraft maintenance and also serves on a headquarters staff. During his 19 years of service, he has commanded two companies (an assault helicopter company and an aviation maintenance company) and has served in various leadership and staff roles. He has deployed three times. When not serving in uniform, Aaron enjoys sports (both coaching and playing), home projects, and serving in his local church. He is married with five children. Our interview today will focus in on balancing Faith, Family, and Military Service.
Resources:
- Tech Wise Family
- Habits of the Household
- Dad Tired Podcast
- Praying Through the Bible for Your Kids
- VOGgrams
- Blue Star Program
- GI Bill
Episode Notes:
- Prioritizing "Faith, Family, Function"
- Identity is key: military is what we do, not who we are. Seeking ultimate joy in assignment is a dead end. Our hope must be in something much greater. God prioritizes holiness over happiness
- Prioritize consensus and remain “rigidly flexible”: Rigid in commitment to God and family values but flexible to handle changing situations. Time is the largest point of conflict. Military gets more of a say than we or our families do. Get victories when we can: Go TDY together, travel together & leverage benefits such as Blue Star Program, establish rhythms, use GI Bill
- Regular rhythms to prioritize family: Date night - "keep dating your spouse." Connection point in house. Be more present when home from work: “Come along” ministry. Use prayer Cards or Journal
- Advice for those who are not married and don’t have kids but would like to in the future: Ask God “Is this the best you have for me?” before pursuing marriage. Seek compatible mission with spouse. Never a good time to have kids in the military - plan ahead but must take a step of faith. Get community rapidly - who does my family need around them when I’m gone? Communicate, communicate, communicate.
REFLECT:
- What does this episode reveal about God’s character?
- How does this episode cause us to see our need for a Savior?
- How can we apply lessons learned from this episode to our life?
Follow Christ for this day!
- ✝️ “Choose this day whom you will serve...” Joshua 24:15
- ✝️ “If you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.” Romans 10:9
Next steps:
- SHARE with another armed forces member
- FOLLOW Instagram, Facebook, Podcast
https://linktr.ee/thunderinglegion
https://linktr.ee/thunderinglegion
Today we began our “Man After God’s Heart: Life of David” Study Part 1: Background on David + Saul seeking to kill David (1 Sam 19:11-18/Psalm 59)
Resources:
- CS Lewis: The Problem of Pain
Episode Notes:
- Intro: Who are we? Why are we studying the life of David?
- Overview: Anointing as king, downfall of Saul, rise of David (1 Samuel 1-18)
- Scripture Deep Dive: Saul seeking to kill David (1 Sam 19:11-18/Psalm 59)
- Dicussion: What can we learn from David and Saul? Why did Saul's kingdom fall? What makes David a man after God's heart? Why does life become harder when we follow God?
REFLECT:
- What does this episode reveal about God’s character?
- How does this episode cause us to see our need for a Savior?
- How can we apply lessons learned from this episode to our life?
Follow Christ for this day!
- ✝️ “Choose this day whom you will serve...” Joshua 24:15
- ✝️ “If you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.” Romans 10:9
Next steps:
- SHARE with another armed forces member
- FOLLOW Instagram, Facebook, Podcast
https://linktr.ee/thunderinglegion
https://linktr.ee/thunderinglegion
Today we dig into the story of Ron Breland, a US Army Veteran of Somolia, Kosovo, and Iraq. Ron now serves as a Chaplain through a military outreach ministry called Warfighter Ranch. This ministry helps heal the invisible wounds of the heart, mind, and soul through Jesus Christ. Ron has reached out to over 20,000 Warfighters over the last 13 years using parachute cord pieces. Ron is the author of four books; including ”Ghost Nation – Post Traumatic Stress Disorder and Society”, which he co-wrote with his wife . The Breland's currently reside in Glendale, Arizona, have 5 children and 3 grandchildren.
Resources
- Desert Storm
- Somalia Conflict
- Kosovo Conflict
- Iraq War
- KLove 30 Day Challenge
- Isaiah 6:8 Outreach
- Warfighter Ranch
Episode Notes:
- Ron was homeless in high school then joined the Army and during his caareer deployed to Somalia, Kosovo, Iraq. Experienced mental health issues in Iraq. Medically retired from the military and struggled with anger and PTSD. Wife, Helen, led Ron back to Jesus.
- Nearly 10 years ago, Ron was on the brink of suicide. Standoff with family and public meltdown. Could he stand before God and justify that decision? Gave AirborneRon mission and shop to God and has seen things take off. Started Isaiah 6:8 outreach ministry
- 3 year social media fast and wife started KLove 30 day challenge
What book of the Bible do you go to in times of difficulty?
- John and Psalms (91)
How do you make spiritual growth a daily priority?
- Read and pray together with wife
- Walk with those who are struggling where they’re at
REFLECT:
- What does this episode reveal about God’s character?
- How does this episode cause us to see our need for a Savior?
- How can we apply lessons learned from this episode to our life?
Follow Christ for this day!
- “Choose this day whom you will serve...” Joshua 24:15
- “If you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.” Romans 10:9
Next steps:
- SHARE with another armed forces member
- FOLLOW Instagram, Facebook, Podcast
- JOIN our online Slack community
https://linktr.ee/thunderinglegion
A short review of news and current events affecting Christians in the military for 20 April 2023.
REFLECT:
- What does this episode reveal about God’s character?
- How does this episode cause us to see our need for a Savior?
- How can we apply lessons learned from this episode to our life?
Follow Christ for this day!
- ✝️ “Choose this day whom you will serve...” Joshua 24:15
- ✝️ “If you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.” Romans 10:9
Next steps:
- SHARE with another armed forces member
- FOLLOW Instagram, Facebook, Podcast
- JOIN our online Slack community
- https://linktr.ee/thunderinglegion
https://linktr.ee/thunderinglegion
Today Sam Logan, Royal Marines Veteran and Training Coach joins us to wrestle with the Big Question: "Is Pornography Killing Your Soul, Relationships, and Military Units?"
Episode Notes. Specific questions we wrestle with in this episode:
- What is pornography?
- What does pornography do to the soul?
- What does pornography do to relationships and family?
- What does pornography do to military culture?
- What does the Bible say about pornography?
- How can Christians fight against pornography?
REFLECT:
- What does this episode reveal about God’s character?
- How does this episode cause us to see our need for a Savior?
- How can we apply lessons learned from this episode to our life?
Follow Christ for this day!
- ✝️ “Choose this day whom you will serve...” Joshua 24:15
- ✝️ “If you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.” Romans 10:9
Next steps:
- SHARE with another armed forces member
- FOLLOW Instagram, Facebook, Podcast
- JOIN our online Slack community
https://linktr.ee/thunderinglegion
https://linktr.ee/thunderinglegion
Today we dig into the story of Stu Grazier, a retired Naval Officer who is passionate about helping men become the best husbands, dads, friends, and leaders they can be. Stu partners with David Gutierrez on Storehouse 310 ventures, Storehouse Mastermind, and Kinetic Men Mastermind.
Resources:
- Storehouse 3:10
- Filling the Storehouse Podcast
- Storehouse Mastermind
- Roles Execise
- Wild at Heart
- Ruthless Elimination of Hurry
- Tech Wise Family
- Habits of the Household
- 7 Habits of Highly Effective People
- Family Discipleship
Episode Notes:
- Stu's Testimony: Texas friend went to Naval Academy, hooked by football game and Top Gun. Turned off by “nominal” Christians in Texas. Ended up going to Naval Academy. Joined small group during Iraq deployment (2008) and and started his faith walk.
- How have you seen God working through your successes and failures in your military career? God allows us to go to dark places to get us to change and grow. Experienceed death, suicide, spiritual darkness while on deployment.
- What are the biggest struggles you’ve experienced while serving as a Christian? Balance: how do I know what to give over, and what to take action. Ambiguity of exiting the military: Put most important things to the side unintentionally.
- How do we balance faith, trust, listening with planning, goal setting, action? Mimic Jesus. Ruthless Elimination of Hurry: 1) Slow 2) Simplify 3) Silence and Solitude 4) Sabbath
- What are your thoughts on identity? Men tend to place identity in career, wealth. Ask what’s going to last the longest, into eternity? Leave a legacy with our children of loving God (their eternal destiny)
- How do you shepherd your children especially with technology? Family discipleship: daily rhythms (morning routine, sabbath, get outside). Modeling responsible technology use to children. Be intentional.
- How do you make spiritual growth a daily priority? Used to get up and go straight to work. New routine: Daily appointment with God (read/study/journal)
- What book of the Bible do you go to in times of difficulty? James: Straight up, calls you out, action taker.
- How do you apply your faith in the work you’re currently doing? Military members need to be ready to stand and sacrifice for our faith, speak out, disciple, maybe build a business. Aha moment: refocus on what’s most important in our lives. Weekly focus on community and accountability. Passion to help men realize there’s more in life than our careers and work. Refine men of God. Kinetic Men: Take action
- Where do you think God is leading you next? Future goals/ambitions? Continue investing in Storehouse small groups, mastermind, and retreats.
- What advice would you give to other believers in the military who are struggling? Stay strong. Find a community of people who you can surround yourself with who are fighting the same fight
- How can listeners get in contact with you? www.storehouse310.com
REFLECT:
- What does this episode reveal about God’s character?
- How does this episode cause us to see our need for a Savior?
- How can we apply lessons learned from this episode to our life?
Follow Christ for this day!
- ✝️ “Choose this day whom you will serve...” Joshua 24:15
- ✝️ “If you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.” Romans 10:9
Next steps:
- SHARE with another armed forces member
- FOLLOW Instagram, Facebook, Podcast
- JOIN our online Slack community
https://linktr.ee/thunderinglegion
https://linktr.ee/thunderinglegion
Today's interview is with Major Aaron Rosheim. Major Rosheim is a Blackhawk helicopter pilot in the Iowa Army National Guard. He supervises aircraft maintenance and also serves on a headquarters staff. During his 19 years of service, he has commanded two companies (an assault helicopter company and an aviation maintenance company) and has served in various leadership and staff roles. He has deployed three times. When not serving in uniform, Aaron enjoys sports (both coaching and playing), home projects, and serving in his local church. He is married with five children.
Resources:
- VODgrams
- Navigators
- CRU
- Valor CRU Ministry
Episode Notes:
- Background and testimony: Raised in Christian home and developed superficial and external faith. Wanted to play and coach football forever but parents’ divorce and football career ending in college shattered his identity. Aaron took a year off from God then came back to God all in… And God led him to join Iowa State ROTC to become Army aviator
- What specifically drew you to the military and how did God nudge you in that direction? 2004: War in Iraq. Felt like he should join and serve. Dream guided him.
- How have you seen God working through your successes and failures in your military career? Early on: survival mode. Then started Bible study group with friends. Airborne: Met Navigators ministry and learned how to share faith and disciple others. Military discipleship: Live life together (Navigators Bible Study/”Ft Rucker Seminary”), apply and do scripture - James, apply Bible to leadership roles.
- Military is an unreached people group: Diverse socioeconomic ranks → Cross-cultural ministry. Dark spiritual place at timess so believers feel isolated. Started Bible study 19 years ago in Iowa State ROTC that still meets today. Started out watching Band of Brothers and discussing. Bible Study continued with Aaron left for flight school then Aaron came back to Iowa State Guard and continued to invest in ministry. Bible study partnered with Navigators and CRU (Valor ROTC ministry). Goal: Disciple and connect people.
- Everyone must go through wilderness journey: Maybe called by job requirements or self-induced by personal sin. Elijah calling down fire then hid in cave. Ask God why he has planted you here? Find someone to disciple you. Find someone to disciple (build community). Can’t just wallow and wait!
- How do we start a Bible study? Start with just one other person (pray!). Or find an existing community and plug in. That one person may grow into a small group. Read Scripture then discuss: Head, heart, hands
- What are the biggest struggles or failures you’ve experienced while serving as a Christian? Failure to take spiritual opportunities. Relational failures (fear or busyness) prevent pride from growing. Passed up for promotion, job, assignment, deployment
- Crossfit WOD enthusiasts suggested Aaron start VODgrams: Share daily verse and connect cadets.
- Where do you think God is leading you next? Approaching retirement full time with Guard Spiritual inertia concept but open to redirection
- What book of the Bible do you go to in times of difficulty? Romans 8. Galatians 2:20 = life verse
- What advice would you give to other believers in the military who are struggling? Keep asking, searching, knocking. John 14:21. Love is based on obedience. Reset and repent of sin. Relationship over religion!
- How can listeners get in contact with you? DM VODgrams on instagram
REFLECT:
- What does this episode reveal about God’s character?
- How does this episode cause us to see our need for a Savior?
- How can we apply lessons learned from this episode to our life?
Follow Christ for this day!
✝️ “Choose this day whom you will serve...” Joshua 24:15
✝️ “If you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.” Romans 10:9
Next steps:
- SHARE with another armed forces member
- FOLLOW Instagram, Facebook, Podcast
- JOIN our online Slack community
https://linktr.ee/thunderinglegion
A short review of news and current events affecting Christians in the military for 1 February 2023.
REFLECT:
- What does this episode reveal about God’s character?
- How does this episode cause us to see our need for a Savior?
- How can we apply lessons learned from this episode to our life?
Follow Christ for this day!
- ✝️ “Choose this day whom you will serve...” Joshua 24:15
- ✝️ “If you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.” Romans 10:9
Next steps:
- SHARE with another armed forces member
- FOLLOW Instagram, Facebook, Podcast
- JOIN our online Slack community
- https://linktr.ee/thunderinglegion
https://linktr.ee/thunderinglegion
Today we interview of Peter Martin, a Marine combat veteran who currently serves as a Biblical counselor at Calvary Christian Fellowship in Tucson Arizona. Using his own unique experiences, Peter has a heart to show people healing and growth through broken past and present difficulties through relationship with Christ and the church.
Resources:
- Running Light Ministry
- Setting Captives Free
- Fellowship of Suffering
- Rooted in Sin, Rescued by Love
- Sabastian Junger: Tribe
- The Terminal List
- JRR Tolken/Lord of the Rings/Trauma
- Peter Martin's Perspective on Afghanistan Withdrawl
- “A Reason 4 Hope” Podcast: Live Bible Podcast
- Cavalry Christian Fellowship
Episode Notes:
- Peter's testimony and background: Parents from broken families, father in Navy/ connected with military service, parents were strong Christians but Peter fell away from God due to sexual sin. What causes us to turn from God? 1)Tragedy 2)Idolatry 3)Drift. Disconnected from world on combat deployment and started reading Bible. Not a lot of military members have active relationship with God so faith of Peter's pastor started becoming his own faith. Faced challenges from military alcohol and sexual culture. Peter struggled with sexual sin: legalistic foundation, feeling of failure, desire to earn worth, envy of non-Christians hedonisic lifestyle. Then Peter read Daniel Chapter 4: Don’t forget that God’s in charge. Failure do to improper motives to obey God. Started Running Light ministry to break struggles with lust and pornography. Started Setting Captives Free: online course and realized Motive + Will = Progress. Major sin of the Bible is pride and self-serving motives = pride. The pleasure of God: God wants to give us better pleasure, not deprive us. Human pleasures detached from higher purpose and prevent us from getting to higher pleasures. Higher pleasures require discipline and sacrifice
- What are the biggest struggles you’ve experienced while serving as a Christian? Alcohol culture, sexual sin and culture, life and death situations in combat. Struggled with suicidal thoughts and concepts of death since he was 3 years old. PTSD for 6th months after deployment, then blowup lead to apology. Recognition of behavior and holding standard helps people who experience trauma feel responsible, not like a victim. Spent life running away from problems but long term relationships cause us to confront our problems.
- How have you seen God working through your successes and failures in your military career? Met wife while recovering from PTSD and she exhibited PTSD behavior from toxic family environment. Wife encouraged him to write his first book the Fellowship of Suffering. We can grow in relationship with someone through trauma, contrary to what American culture teaches. We understand neurology and psychology behind it but cultural factors impact recovery. That’s where our cultural response falls short. Tribal cultures tend to have lower PTSD rate: Israel ~1% whereas America ~20%.
- How do you apply your faith as a pastor and family man? Always make time for veterans because of PTSD experiences, long term family relationships, opening counseling facility, Writing books: Rooted by Sin Rescued by Love, Fellowship of Suffering (PTSD), Using Christianity and the Arts to express inner person with adequate language.
- What book of the Bible do you go to in times of difficulty? Jeremiah: how to express emotions to God. Lamentations
- How do you make spiritual growth a daily priority? Get in God's word every day
- What advice would you give to other believers in the military who are struggling? Get and stay involved in a church community, and invest in positive long-term relationships that will hold you accountable.
- Contact Peter
REFLECT:
- What does this episode reveal about God’s character?
- How does this episode cause us to see our need for a Savior?
- How can we apply lessons learned from this episode to our life?
Follow Christ for this day!
- ✝️ “Choose this day whom you will serve...” Joshua 24:15
- ✝️ “If you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.” Romans 10:9
Next steps:
- SHARE with another armed forces member
- FOLLOW Instagram, Facebook, Podcast
- JOIN our online Slack community
https://linktr.ee/thunderinglegion
https://linktr.ee/thunderinglegion
Today we will be digging into the story of Linwood “Fang” Steiner who is a husband, father, active duty Air Force pilot, elder at Trinity Baptist Church in Shrieveport, and seminary student.
Resources:
- Southern Seminary Military Grant
- Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary
- 2 Corinthians 5:21 "God made him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God."
Episode Notes:
- Background: Basketball career un South Alabama let to United States Air Force Academy. Struggled academically and militarily before finding Christ.
- Testimony: Nominal Christian. Saved 2 weeks prior to review boards. Believed in “God of my imagination." God revealed holiness in the quiet of the night → conviction of sin
- How do you apply your faith in your work? Not trying to please men but also being excellent in the military. Romans 8:28: God is working in all things!
- Biggest struggles while serving as a Christian: Assignments/outcomes we don’t desire require us to submit and trust.
- God working through successes and failures: Covid-10 vaccine mandate religous exemption. Recognition that Christ is King and we must obey God over man.
- Journey through leading Bible Study at Church to attending seminary.
- Biblical Encouragement: 1 Cor 5:21 Jesus became sin for us = Substitution
- How do you make spiritual growth a daily priority? Wake up and make Christ our vision, not our phones. No growth apart from God’s word
- What advice would you give to other believers in the military who are struggling? Focus on God’s identity, our identity, and our mediator. Then what we do.
- Contact Fang
REFLECT:
- What does this episode reveal about God’s character?
- How does this episode cause us to see our need for a Savior?
- How can we apply lessons learned from this episode to our life?
Follow Christ for this day!
- ✝️ “Choose this day whom you will serve...” Joshua 24:15
- ✝️ “If you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.” Romans 10:9
Next steps:
- SHARE with another armed forces member
- FOLLOW Instagram, Facebook, Podcast
- JOIN our online Slack community
https://linktr.ee/thunderinglegion
https://linktr.ee/thunderinglegion
Today we interview Joshua K. Mcmillion, a father, servant leader, and combat veteran with over 16 years of leadership experience and still serving in the Army. Joshua received the 2008 George C. Marshall Leadership Award and the 2018 General Douglas MacArthur Leadership Award. Joshua is a certified Army Leadership and International Coaching Federation (ICF) leadership coach. Joshua’s passion is to help leaders avoid drifting through life and to find fulfillment. He has led and helped thousands of men and women take inspired action and desires to guide you in unlocking your leadership potential and becoming a transformational leader
Resources:
- John Maxwell
- McMillion Leadership Consulting
- Tales of Leadership Podcast
- McMillion Leadership Consulting Facebook
- McMillion Leadership Consulting Instagram
- Joshua McMillion Linkedin
Episode Notes:
- Joshua's background and how he ended up joining the military:
- Coal miner
- Parents’ divorce
- Seeking happiness in degree, joined ROTC for leadership
- Desire to bring light into peoples’ lives
- Joshua's testimony and how this played into military service:
- Loss taught gratitude and caused Joshua to question faith
- Lost 2 soldiers from West Virginia and caused big questions about purpose of life
- How does Joshua define leadership? What is transitional vs. transformational leadership?
- Army vs Marine vs John Maxwell leadership
- “Inspire” to journey not destination
- PRO: Proficiency, Reputation, Output
- Transitional: Lead w/ fear. Transformational: lead with security, flexibility, and confidence
- How Joshua is applying faith in the military and future vision:
- Mission: I will end transitional leadership practices by equipping leaders with transformational leadership skills.
- Vision: I have seen the true cost of toxic leadership in the military and civilian workforce. I refuse to allow transitional leadership practices to shape future leaders. I will impact 1 million lives in the next ten years by equipping leaders in the military and civilian realm with transformational leadership skills. Those leaders will multiply value into their workforce and families, ultimately creating more Purposeful Accountable Leaders (PALs).
- Biggest struggles Joshua experienced while serving as a Christian. How do you transform pain and suffering and discipline into intensely focused meaning?
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- 3 P’s: Perspective, Passion, Purpose
- Why are you on this earth?
-
- How Joshua has seen God working through your successes and failures in his military career
- What book of the Bible Joshua goes to in times of difficulty
- How Joshua makes spiritual growth a daily priority
- SAVERS
- Intentional prayer time
- Read Bible intentionally
- Advice to other believers in the military who are struggling
- RAD: Routine, Accountability, Discipline
- Wilderness Journey Groups for healing
- What hobbies do you engage in outside of the military and faith realm?
- Silence and solitude
- Garden
- Hunting
- Joshua closes us in prayer
REFLECT:
- What does this episode reveal about God’s character? How do these verses cause us to see our need for a Savior? How can we apply these verses to our life?
Follow Christ for this day!
✝️ “Choose this day whom you will serve...” Joshua 24:15
✝️ “If you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.” Romans 10:9
Next steps:
SHARE with another armed forces member
FOLLOW Instagram, Facebook, Podcast
JOIN our online Slack community
Link: https://linktr.ee/thunderinglegion
https://linktr.ee/thunderinglegion
Today we have the pleasure of interviewing Joshua Brown, recently retired Marine and now Pastor to the military. He’s a pastor with the ministry the Praetorian Project, a ministry which plants pillar churches near military bases. Joshua, welcome to the show.
Resources:
- Praetorian Project
- Pillar Church of TopSail
Episode Notes:
- Joshua's background and how he ended up joining the military
- Joshua's testimony and how this played into military service: Secular worldview implosion to faith
- How Joshua is applying faith in the military and future vision: 20 years in Marine, now a Pastor at Pillar church with Praetorian Project. Pillar Churches are a military focused ministry effort that understands the military lifestyle and seeks to ease transition between duty locations and shorten/eliminate church search.
- How Joshua applies faith to family, especially with raising multiple teenagers: Being a marine = better father, being a father = better marine, doing them a Christian refines us by absolute truth. Impossible to grow in the same direction as spouse unless growing towards Christ
- Biggest struggles Joshua experienced while serving as a Christian: Temptation to cover things up while in the artillery career field.
- How Joshua has seen God working through your successes and failures in his military career: Failures from not being in the word. Successes from working hard to follow Jesus
- What book of the Bible Joshua goes to in times of difficulty: Psalms and Gospels
- How Joshua makes spiritual growth a daily priority: Start with scripture
- Advice to other believers in the military who are struggling
- Joshua closes us in prayer
REFLECT:
- What does this episode reveal about God’s character? How do these verses cause us to see our need for a Savior? How can we apply these verses to our life?
Follow Christ for this day!
✝️ “Choose this day whom you will serve...” Joshua 24:15
✝️ “If you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.” Romans 10:9
Next steps:
SHARE with another armed forces member
FOLLOW Instagram, Facebook, Podcast
JOIN our online Slack community
Link: https://linktr.ee/thunderinglegion
https://linktr.ee/thunderinglegion
At the age of 17, Brian Samuel enlisted into the Army National Guard out of patriotism and a desire to share the Gospel through military service. Growing up in a Christian family, he always felt the Lord calling him towards the Armed Forces, and he knew God would guide him no matter what hardships he faced. After spending time enlisted, Brian received an appointment to the United States Military Academy at West Point where he currently is a Cadet, continuing to share the Gospel with those around him.
Resources:
- Instagram: @brian.samuel76
- Army West Point
- Officers' Christian Fellowship
- West Point Baptist Campus Ministry
Episode Notes:
- Brian's background and how he ended up joining the military
- Brian's testimony and how this played into military service
- How Brian is applying faith in the military and future vision
- Biggest struggles Brian experienced while serving as a Christian
- How Brian has seen God working through your successes and failures in his military career
- What book of the Bible Bible goes to in times of difficulty
- How Brian makes spiritual growth a daily priority
- Advice to other believers in the military who are struggling
- Brian closes us in prayer
REFLECT:
- What does this episode reveal about God’s character? How do these verses cause us to see our need for a Savior? How can we apply these verses to our life?
Follow Christ for this day!
✝️ “Choose this day whom you will serve...” Joshua 24:15
✝️ “If you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.” Romans 10:9
Next steps:
SHARE with another armed forces member
FOLLOW Instagram, Facebook, Podcast
JOIN our online Slack community
Link: https://linktr.ee/thunderinglegion
Today we will be digging into the Big Question "Why Do Evil and Suffering Exist?"
Resources:
Epicurean Paradox
Metanarrative of Scripture
-
Point 1: How do we define evil and suffering?
- The Merriam-Webster Dictionary lists several definitions: “the fact of suffering, misfortune, and wrongdoing… a cosmic evil force… something that brings sorrow, distress, or calamity… morally reprehensible : SINFUL, WICKED… arising from actual or imputed bad character or conduct.” “Pain” … In summary: Evil is bad; evil is the opposite of good, and pain/suffering is the result of evil.
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Point 2: Why should anyone care about evil and suffering?
- Ultimately, evil and suffering are a reality of human life on earth. We all must decide how we will respond to this reality. In the end, how we respond to evil and suffering will determine our lives... We will either become the victim of evil & suffering, or we fight to overcome evil and grow through suffering.
-
Point 3: We can observe evil and suffering in the human experience:
- 1) Humans are designed to feel pain. “congenital analgesia is an extraordinarily rare conditions in which a person cannot feel (and has never felt) physical pain... Because feeling physical pain is vital for survival, [this disorder] is extremely dangerous. It is common for people with the condition to die in childhood due to injuries or illnesses going unnoticed. Burn injuries are among the more common injuries.”
- 2) Life begins with suffering, childbirth, and ends with suffering, death. Most have all lost loved ones and seen them suffer.
- 3) Turn on the news for 5 minutes… We see pandemics, shootings, theft, natural disasters. What is our natural response to these tragedies?
-
Point 4: How do we separate good and evil?
- As defined earlier, evil and suffering are “not good”… so the definition of evil depends on our definition of good. So this drives us to ask the question “What is the definition of good which is our basis to judge evil and suffering?”
- Epicurean Paradox, linked in show notes: Life is basically pointless suffering unless God is 1) All-powerful 2) All-knowing 3) All-good/loving. If not, then God cannot prevent evil, doesn’t know about evil, and/or perpetuates evil. If this is our view of God, we are simply helpless victims of evil. But an all-powerful, all-knowing, all-good God can and would have a master plan to destroy evil which we can hope and trust in despite evil and suffering.
- As we move towards the bottom of the logic flowchart: “Could God have created a universe with free will but without evil?” If yes, then why didn’t he?
- My personal answer: If God created everything, God created relationship. Can a genuine, free relationship exist without a genuine, free choice to deny that relationship? My logical answer to this question: God chose to allow evil to exist temporarily in order to give people the opportunity to seek relationship with Him by free choice, BUT has always had a plan to destroy evil. Therefore, God is good even though evil exists.
-
Point 5: What does the Bible have to say about this question?
- Metanarrative of Scripture is Creation, Fall, Redemption, Restoration. The greater story that ties the entire Bible together as God’s greater story.
- Creation: In Genesis 1-2, we read about creation being “good… good… good… then very good (mankind)… then the first thing that’s not good (isolation)… Adam and Eve exist in a state of blissful ignorance and perfect relationship with God in Garden of Eden…
- Fall: BUT, in Genesis 3 we read of evil’s existence in the garden… Serpent tempts and Adam and Eve break God’s command… Response is denial of responsibility, blaming, excuses… Eternal life and newfound human capacity for evil cannot coexist, so God places limits on Adam and Eve via physical death… Eve cursed with painful childbearing… Adam cursed with endless toil… Both expelled from Garden of Eden and humanity begins to devolve quickly into broken relationships via polygamy and murder, suffering via natural disasters and disease, and spirital death via evil hearts.
- Redemption: From Genesis 3 to Jesus’ 1st coming, we see that God had always intended to redeem humanity (Genesis 3:15: [Eve’s offspring] he will crush [evil’s] head, and you will strike his heel.” as prophesied throughout the Old Testament) and fulfilled in the person of Jesus Christ’s life, death, and resurrection.
-
Restoration: Jesus’ 1st coming – Jesus’ 2nd coming. Promised in Revelation for those who trust in God: New heaven and earth free of sin, evil and suffering.
-
Point 6: How can we practically apply what we’ve learned about evil and suffering to everyday life?
- When we are confronted with evil and suffering of the world, we can play the victim and blame others, or fight against evil… But how do we fight against evil without reciprocating evil? Answer: Christ’s perfect life, death, and resurrection allows us by faith to break the cycle of sin through grace. We are no longer slaves to responding to sin with more sin, but can now respond with resolute forgiveness and grace by the blood of Christ and his finished work on the cross.
- When evil comes from within us and causes suffering, we can play the victim and blame others, or repent, seek God’s forgiveness, and fight against evil. We must repent of sin and seek forgiveness for sin by the blood of Christ, so that we will not be slaves to our sin nature but be conformed into the image of Christ.
- We must respond with faith and hope in God’s grand plan (metanarrative of scripture) to destroy evil and suffering and restore all things.
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What is our definition of good upon which we determine evil? In Mark 10:18, Jesus says “God alone is good.” We must seek to know God if we desire to know what is good. Matthew 7:7 says “Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you.” We seek God, the source of all good through Prayer, reading our Bible, seeking wise Christian counsel, observing God’s creation. The more we seek the goodness of God, the more empowered we are to overcome evil and suffering.
-
REFLECT:
- What do the verses we covered in this episode reveal about God’s character? How do these verses cause us to see our need for a Savior? How can we apply these verses to our life?Follow Christ for this day!
✝️ “Choose this day whom you will serve...” Joshua 24:15
✝️ “If you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.” Romans 10:9
Next steps:
SHARE with another armed forces member
FOLLOW Instagram, Facebook, Podcast
JOIN our online Slack community
Link: https://linktr.ee/thunderinglegion
https://linktr.ee/thunderinglegion
Today we interview Adrian Chuquillangui: a husband, father, Coast Guard officer, Salesforce Professional, and Real Estate Investor. We discuss Adrian's story, talk about passive real estate investing, and shares his free course.
Resources:
- Adrian's Real Estate Business - St. Joseph Capital
- O Club Podcast Interview with Adrian
- Department of Defense Skillbridge Program
- US Chamber of Commerce - Hiring Our Heroes
Episode Notes:
- Adrian's background and how he ended up joining the military
- Adrian's testimony and how this played into military service
- How Adrian is applying faith in the military and future vision
- Biggest struggles Adrian experienced while serving as a Christian
- How Adrian has seen God working through your successes and failures in his military career
- What book of the Bible Sam goes to in times of difficulty
- How Adrian makes spiritual growth a daily priority
- Advice to other believers in the military who are struggling
- Adrian closes us in prayer
REFLECT:
- What does this episode reveal about God’s character? How do these verses cause us to see our need for a Savior? How can we apply these verses to our life?
Follow Christ for this day!
✝️ “Choose this day whom you will serve...” Joshua 24:15
✝️ “If you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.” Romans 10:9
Next steps:
SHARE with another armed forces member
FOLLOW Instagram, Facebook, Podcast
JOIN our online Slack community
Link: https://linktr.ee/thunderinglegion
Big Question: Can War Be Just? Today we will wrestle with the morality of warfare.
- On episode 3, we wrestled with the question “should Christians be in the armed forces?” which dealt with how a citizen of God’s kingdom can also be a citizen of a nation, agent of that nation’s armed forces, and bear the sword for that nation (reference Romans 13:4). This episode wrestled with these questions on an individual/tactical level. So as we move up into the operational/strategic level, how do we think about warfare? Today we will wrestle with the question “Can any war be just?” Ecclesiastes chapter 3 says “There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens… a time to kill and a time to heal, a time to tear down and a time to build, a time to tear and a time to mend, a time to love and a time to hate, a time for war and a time for peace.” The Bible takes a practical view of our sin fallen world, although the general arc of the Bible moves towards peace in the culmination of the person of Jesus (reference Truth Over Tribe series linked in Episode 3 show notes)
- Ancient philosophers from Egypt, China, India, Greece, and Rome wrestled with ethics of warfare. These schools of thought likely impacted later thinking on ethics of war. “Christian theory of the Just War begins around the time of Augustine of Hippo. The Just War theory, with some amendments, is still used by Christians today as a guide to whether or not a war can be justified.” Wikipedia
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First off, how does our culture define is justice? Marriem-Webster
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“the maintenance or administration of what is just especially by the impartial adjustment of conflicting claims
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the quality of being just, impartial, or fair.
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Just War Theory
- On one side lies pacifism. There is no such thing as a just war. War is never justified, therefore we should never choose to engage in war. Pacifism fails to address human nature, which is inherently sinful, and humans are bound to fall into conflict from their sinfulness.
- On the other side is militarism/nationalism. This position would argue that war is simply a tool to use as a nation, whenever the benefits of war outweigh the cause. I’d argue that Nazi Germany and Switzerland both practice this war theory.
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In the middle is Just War Theory.
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How does the Bible define justice?
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Isaiah 51:5 “My righteousness draws near speedily, my salvation is on the way, and my arm will bring justice to the nations.”
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Psalm 37:27-29 “Turn from evil and do good; then you will dwell in the land forever. For the LORD loves the just and will not forsake his faithful ones. Wrongdoers will be completely destroyed ; the offspring of the wicked will perish. The righteous will inherit the land and dwell in it forever.”
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Leviticus 19:15 “Do not pervert justice; do not show partiality to the poor or favoritism to the great, but judge your neighbor fairly.”
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Zechariah 7:9 “This is what the LORD Almighty said: ‘Administer true justice; show mercy and compassion to one another.’”
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Isaiah 1:17 “Learn to do right; seek justice. Defend the oppressed.Take up the cause of the fatherless; plead the case of the widow.”
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Christian scholars agree that, to be considered just, a war must meet several jus ad bellum requirements. The four most important conditions are:
- (1) the war must be declared openly by a proper sovereign authority (e.g., the governing authority of the political community in question);
- (2) the war must have a just cause (e.g., defense of the common good or a response to grave injustice);
- (3) the warring state must have just intentions (i.e., it must wage the war for justice rather than for self-interest); and
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(4) the aim of the war must be the establishment of a just peace.
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Since the end of World War II it has become customary to add three other conditions:
- (1) there must be a reasonable chance of success;
- (2) force must be used as a last resort; and
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(3) the expected benefits of war must outweigh its anticipated costs.
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Not every nation subscribes to Just War Theory, and countries often sidestep it when it conflicts with their military objectives. One challenge to Just War Theory is that the criteria are too vague and easily twisted/rationalized. But we as Christians believe that God will judge everyone according to the motives of their hearts. Hebrews 10:30 says “For we know him who said, “It is mine to avenge; I will repay,” and again, “The Lord will judge his people.””
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Example: Putin has justified the invasion of Ukraine as self-defense of Russia, but these claims have been widely condemned by the UN and internationally.
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Lots of talk on war crimes in the news lately Russians have been accused of committing war crimes and atrocities in Ukraine lately. What is a War Crime? (2 minutes)
- Britannica Just war theory led to formation of international law and rules of engagement. Examples include the United Nations, Geneva Conventions, Hague Convention, and Law of Armed Conflict (LOAC). Three principles established by the conventions generally govern conduct during war:
- (1) targets should include only combatants and legitimate military and industrial complexes;
- (2) combatants should not use unjust methods or weapons (e.g., torture and genocide); and
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(3) the force used should be proportionate to the end sought.
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How do we respond when we are persecuted by those who walk upon justice and persecute truth?
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Proverbs 25: 21-22, 26: “If your enemy is hungry, give him food to eat; if he is thirsty, give him water to drink. In doing this, you will heap burning coals on his head, and the Lord will reward you… Like a muddied spring or a polluted well are the righteous who give way to the wicked.”
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Matthew 5:38-39 “You have heard that it was said, ‘Eye for eye, and tooth for tooth.’ But I tell you, do not resist an evil person. If anyone slaps you on the right cheek, turn to them the other cheek also.”
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1 Peter 3:18 “For Christ also suffered once for sins, the righteous for the unrighteous, to bring you to God. He was put to death in the body but made alive in the Spirit.”
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Conclusion: Reflection questions to leave you with
- How do we as Christians act to provide justice on earth, while also trusting in the Lord to provide ultimate justice?
- How does our response to and use of violence look different in our private, individual life and in our service as armed forces members?
- How can we mimic the selfless love and sacrifice of Christ in how we confront injustice?
REFLECT:
- What do the verses we covered in this episode reveal about God’s character? How do these verses cause us to see our need for a Savior? How can we apply these verses to our life?
Follow Christ for this day!
✝️ “Choose this day whom you will serve...” Joshua 24:15
✝️ “If you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.” Romans 10:9
Next steps:
SHARE with another armed forces member
FOLLOW Instagram, Facebook, Podcast
JOIN our online Slack community
Link: https://linktr.ee/thunderinglegion
Today we interview Sam Logan, a Royal Marines Commando who now runs Complete Commando. Check out Complete Commando's content: https://www.instagram.com/complete_commando_/
Episode Notes:
- Sam's background and how he ended up joining the military
- Sam's testimony and how this played into military service
- How Sam is applying faith in current Complete Commando efforts and future vision
- Biggest struggles Sam experienced while serving as a Christian
- How Sam has seen God working through your successes and failures in his military career
- Sam's future plans and ambitions
- What book of the Bible Sam goes to in times of difficulty
- How Sam makes spiritual growth a daily priority
- Advice to other believers in the military who are struggling
- Sam closes us in prayer
Resources:
- Case for Christ by Lee Stroebel: https://www.amazon.com/Case-Christ-Journalists-Personal-Investigation/dp/0310209307
- Chariots of Fire about Eric Liddel: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0082158/
REFLECT:
- What do the verses we covered in this episode reveal about God’s character? How do these verses cause us to see our need for a Savior? How can we apply these verses to our life?
Follow Christ for this day!
✝️ “Choose this day whom you will serve...” Joshua 24:15
✝️ “If you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.” Romans 10:9
Next steps:
SHARE with another armed forces member
FOLLOW Instagram, Facebook, Podcast
JOIN our online Slack community
Link: https://linktr.ee/thunderinglegion
Big Question of the Week: "What is Thundering Legion?" Today we explore the story behind the namesake of this movement, community, and podcast.
Podcast Links:
- https://linktr.ee/thunderinglegion
- https://tacticalathlete.com/the-thundering-legion/
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S6Rsv_k8RVo
Camdidus Replied, “You offer us money that remains behind and glory that fades away. You seek to make us friends of the Emperor, but alienate us from the true King. We desire one gift, the crown of righteousness. We are anxious for one glory, the glory of the heavenly kingdom. We love honors, those of heaven.
“You threaten fearful torments and call our godliness a crime, but you will not find us faint hearted or attached to this life or easily stricken with terror. For the love of God, we are prepared to endure any kind of torture.”
The governor was enraged. They were ordered to remove their armor and clothing, herded onto the middle of a frozen lake, standing there naked to die a slow, painful death. He set soldiers to guard them to prevent any from escaping. They were told, “You may come ashore when you are ready to deny your faith.”
The forty encouraged each other as though they were going to battle. “How many of our companions in arms fell on the battle front, showing themselves loyal to an earthly king? Let us not turn aside, O warriors, let us not turn our backs in flight from the devil”.
Follow Christ for this day!
✝️ “Choose this day whom you will serve...” Joshua 24:15
✝️ “If you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.” Romans 10:9
Next steps:
SHARE with another armed forces member
FOLLOW Instagram, Facebook, Podcast
JOIN our online Slack community
Link: https://linktr.ee/thunderinglegion
Big Question - What is a worldview?
- Welcome to the MC podcast, inspired by the faith of the Roman centurion in Matthew 8:5-13 and Luke 7:1-10. Our goal is to encourage Christians who serve in the military to stand upon God’s truth and under God’s authority.
- Today we are kicking off a new monthly “Big Question” episode where we will wrestle with a question that we have walked through personally.
- Every person, whether religious or “spiritual”, atheist or agnostic, Jew or Muslim, holds a worldview. Societies function when members hold a shared worldview.
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Generally, a worldview is composed of 5 primary components: 1) origin, 2) identity, 3) meaning, 4) morality, and 5) destiny
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Origin: Where did I and everything come from?
- Identity: What and who am I, and what and who are we?
- Meaning: Why am I here?
- Morality: What is right and wrong, good and evil? How should I live?
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Destiny: Is there meaning and consequence after this physical life? Where am I going?
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Even if you’ve never thought about these questions before, you do hold a view on each of these components of a worldview. It was probably just learned and inherited subconsciously from the culture around you.
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So how does Christianity answer these questions?
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Origin: “In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth… And God said, “Let there be light,” and there was light…”Genesis 1:1,3 ESV
- Identity: “God created man in his own image, in the image of God he created him; male and female he created them.” Genesis 1:27 ESV
- Meaning:
- “And God said to them, “Be fruitful and multiply and fill the earth and subdue it, and have dominion over the fish of the sea and over the birds of the heavens and over every living thing that moves on the earth.”” Genesis 1:28 ESV
- “And Jesus came and said to them, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit,” Matthew 28:18-19 ESV
- Morality: “But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” Romans 5:8
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Destiny: “Christ was sacrificed once to take away the sins of many people; and will appear a second time, not to bear sin, but to bring salvation to those who are waiting for him.” Hebrews 9:28
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We will keep our Big question podcasts coming. Be sure to subscribe and share. If you have a Big Question you want us to address in a future episode, DM us with suggestions!
- If you’re enjoying our content, please follow and share! #modern #centurion #military #airforce #army #navy #coastguard #police
Today's episode addresses whether Christians should be involved in warfare. This will be a quick overview and we could write many books on this subject. Additional resources to broaden your knowledge and seek other perspectives:
1) 3 part series by Truth Over Tribe:
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/mil-spec-believer/id1552817873?i=1000550261507
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/truth-over-tribe/id1580807177?i=1000558010766
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/truth-over-tribe/id1580807177?i=1000558129162
2) Episode by Mil Spec Believer:
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/truth-over-tribe/id1580807177?i=1000558714477
3) Mere Christianity by C.S. Lewis
https://www.amazon.com/Mere-Christianity-C-S-Lewis/dp/0060652926
REFLECT: •What does this episode reveal about God and Christ our Savior?
GROW: •Apply this episode to your life today! •Serve under God’s authority and upon God’s word: Matt 8:5-13 & Luke 7:1-10 •Surround yourself with others who serve in faith
ACT: •Subscribe for daily content and click link in our bio for more resources: https://linktr.ee/modern.centurion
•Share this podcast with a military member needs faith 🙏
Today's episode looks at military oaths of office for Russia, Iran, China, and the United States. We discuss what these oaths say about national values, and how military members should think about taking an oath.
REFLECT: •What does this passage reveal about God and Christ our Savior? GROW: •Apply this passage to your life today!
•Serve under God’s authority and upon God’s word: Matt 8:5-13 & Luke 7:1-10 •Surround yourself with others who serve in faith
ACT: •Subscribe for daily content and click link in our bio for more resources: https://linktr.ee/modern.centurion
•Share this podcast with a military member needs faith 🙏
Today's episode dives into the "Faith of the Centurion" story from Matthew 8:5-13 & Luke 7:1-10 and discusses the importance of faith for military members.
REFLECT: •What does this passage reveal about God and Christ our Savior? GROW: •Apply this passage to your life today! •Serve under God’s authority and upon God’s word: Matt 8:5-13 & Luke 7:1-10 •Surround yourself with others who serve in faith
ACT: •Subscribe for daily content and click link in our bio for more resources: https://linktr.ee/modern.centurion •Share this podcast with a military member needs faith 🙏