BEYOND WORDS with Dr. William Campbell: Recent Episodes
Dr. William Campbell
BEYOND WORDS will help you move beyond just talking about Biblical truth — to living it. Featuring topics relevant to life and the Christian faith, BEYOND WORDS hosts authors, ministry leaders, and others who can help us to make the vital connection between our faith and life. BEYOND WORDS is hosted by Dr. William Campbell, Founder and President of Scripture Awakening.
As modern Christians, we embrace Jesus as the Lamb, but have a difficult time understanding Him as a Lion. When confronted with the Biblical theme of God’s wrath in Revelation 15 & 16, we may find ourselves rushing past the descriptions of His anger and justice that we might get to the celebration at the end of the book. To accept God’s love, however, without embracing the necessity of His justice is to denigrate both. Understood correctly, God’s wrath will motivate us to love and trust God more deeply.
How easily we humans become entrenched in our patterns of thinking. The media rides on the rails of polarization, enforcing our tendencies to react rather than reason, making it increasingly difficult for the average person to look squarely at both sides of an issue. Revelation 14’s description of the 144,000 and of the winepress of God challenges us to see God and the world in a more holistic manner; our either/or mentality is challenged by a both/and God.
Movies and books about the apocalypse highlight “the mark of the beast.” But what is this mark really? Revelation 12 & 13 provide, through pictorial representations, an understanding about “the mark” that is often overlooked. Once we see this deeper meaning, our focus turns to being sealed with “the mark of the Lamb” rather than with “the mark of the beast.”
Revelation 10 & 11 contain four mysteries, that like hidden pictures, are easily missed by the average reader. We will reveal the often-overlooked pictures in this section to highlight four points of application for every believer. Together, these four application points can inspire us to move beyond debate and division that we might unite with fresh resolve, and strengthen our faith.
What could be more unsettling than a Biblical description of the Great Tribulation, a time of world distress of unparalleled proportions? Revelation 8 & 9 and their seven trumpets depict horrific terrors released on earth from the gates of hell. Buried within this passage are profound promises that those who trust in God will be protected.
Revelation 6 and 7 describe six of the seven seals that are opened by God to launch end-time events. In this video, we note the parallels between the seven seals and the Olivet Discourse of Matthew 24. Both passages speak of the birth pains required for this world to give birth to the next. By reflecting on God’s purpose for the coming birth pains, we find reason to trust His sovereign plan.
The world produces several million books each year. But none has ever come close to the importance of the book described in Revelation 5. Produced in scroll format, this tome unlocks the master plan of redemption. By studying this Revelation 5 scroll, we learn how to prepare for our journey from the throne room of God into the difficulties that will face planet earth at the end of the ages.
One of the keys to understanding the book of Revelation is to read it from the right vantage point, which is what Revelation 4 is all about. When we read the book from the perspective of our temporal world, it seems confusing and convoluted. When, however, we view the events described in Revelation from the vantagepoint of the throne of God, they make more sense. Join us to gain a heavenly perspective of God’s plan for planet earth.
One of the strikingly accurate descriptions of the real problems and solutions in the Church that must be understood if we hope to live for God’s glory today is found in Revelation 3. This fourth message in the series, “Understanding Revelation,” brings fresh insights about the Seven Churches in Revelation with a special focus on the church at Laodicea, including specific applications for our lives.
Have you ever thought about why God commands us, above all, to love Him? If so, how seriously do you take this command? In this third part of the series, Understanding Revelation, we will allow these two questions to prod our thinking that the Spirit of God might search our hearts and help us to reclaim our first love from the opening words in Revelation 2.
Once we understand who Christ is, we are able to engage in what Christ does. This second lesson in the Understanding Revelation series moves us from our Lord’s attributes (last week) into his actions; from his person to His purpose. In Revelation 1:9-20, we are confronted with a unique vision of Christ’s roles as prophet, priest and king, each fulfilled by Him in fulness. These three functions, as well documented by Christian leaders of the past, empower believers today to follow Christ victoriously.
Unveiling Christ is the first lesson in a series titled “Understanding Revelation.” This opening study, from Revelation 1:1-8, shows us how the book of Revelation unveils the person and purpose of Christ in all of His glory, and lays the framework for a greater appreciation of the entire book.
This introduction to the coming 18-week series, “Understanding Revelation,” is designed to give you a blueprint of what is ahead. It is the appetizer before the meal, the teaser designed to help you set apart 30 minutes each week to listen, ponder, and embrace critical teachings from the closing book of the Bible that you might live faithfully in times of trail, right until the end. A discussion guide will be provided with the first of the series next week, along with directions to download the optional video format, all free of charge.
When the way is thorny and your deepest values are challenged, will you continue to live for the Lord? This is the fundamental question Christ calls every Christian to address. The Benham Brothers faced it when they gave up their reality television show with HGTV. We will learn how they came to become so committed and how we can be the same.
When the way is thorny and your deepest values are challenged, will you continue to live for the Lord? This is the fundamental question Christ calls every Christian to address. The Benham Brothers faced it when they gave up their reality television show with HGTV. We will learn how they came to become so committed and how we can be the same.
In this interview, we consider the idea that only in Christian nations were the circumstances right for science to progress to the point it has today. Based on the work of Stanley Jaki and Pierre Duhem, Transancos has researched this concept in depth. If indeed science was born of Christianity, the implications are significant in our day and age. People often think of science and Christianity as two separate entities (or magisterium) that do not and cannot overlap. What if in fact they are inseparable expressions of truth, with theology being the king of the sciences?
Dr. Campbell exhorts the Church in America to seriously reconsider where their trust lies and find an unfailing source of peace. The national confusion, conflicts, and political distress in our present time needs a heavenly perspective, but many have been deceived and lulled into an unholy, dangerous, and earthly mindset. Campbell firmly, yet graciously, calls his listeners to “get on track” with their relationship with Christ.
The world seems to be turning upside down. The formation of a global government feels relatively certain to many and opposition to truth and belief in God is widespread. Much like a storm on the horizon, the powers of darkness threaten to overwhelm us. How should we respond? In this recording, Dr. Bill Campbell offers four practical suggestions for facing the storm with confidence from the book of 2 Timothy.
Is the Christian Church, with such a profound message and with the supernatural empowerment of the God of the Universe, not more influential on the world scene? Why is the task of bringing God’s light and love to every nation not yet complete? Seth Barnes, founder and director of Adventures in Missions, has some unique thoughts based on his extensive experience in equipping and sending tens of thousands of short-term missionaries around the world.
What caused a young Communist to abandon his atheism in favor of belief in the God of the Bible? And how did the same person then become a prominent voice for Biblical Christianity? Marvin Olasky, editor-in-chief of WORLD Magazine and the author of more than 20 books tells his story to inspire each of us to believe that our faith has potential to impact and change our culture. Marvin worked at The Boston Globe, taught at the University of Texas at Austin from 1983 through 2007, and was provost of The King’s College in New York City from 2007 to 2011. He joined WORLD in 1990, and is holder of the Distinguished Chair in Journalism and Public Policy at Patrick Henry College.
What is hindering revival from occurring in our generation? Are there steps we can take to help make it a possibility? Dr. Alex McFarland, Director for Christian Worldview and Apologetics at the Christian Worldview Center of North Greenville University in Greenville, SC presents his perspective on this important topic. As an author, speaker, and researcher on Christian apologetics and Western culture, Alex has fresh and clear perspectives on this topic.
Beyond the physical world is the unseen world of the spirit. The Scriptures tell us that spiritual entities, both good and evil, impact everything on earth. We are in a battle, “not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the powers, against the world forces of this darkness, against the spiritual forces of wickedness in the heavenly places” (Eph 6:12). Author and expert on spiritual warfare, Francis Frangipane, offers insights to help us discern the pathway to victory in the battle that rages for our souls.
What does it mean to be “seated with Christ” (Ephesians 2:6)? Heather Holleman, a professor in Penn State’s English department, pondered this concept and experienced a dramatic change in her outlook and life. Her new understanding brought her from a life of constant comparisons to a place of great confidence in the Lord. Tune in to understand what it means for you to be “seated with Christ” both Biblically and practically. It can change your life.
If you know God, you are in some manner a teacher. The way you live teaches others about God. Can you supplement your life story with the ability to teach God’s Word? For more than a decade, Glenn Brooke has been training ordinary peoples to become extraordinary teachers. Tune in to glean insights that will help you to “teach to change lives.”
How often are your prayers answered? What explanation do you have for prayers that were never answered? Has God failed you? Is the problem a lack of faith on your part? Perhaps such questions dodge the real issue. Dynamic answers to prayer are the byproduct of an intimate relationship with God. While we look for the big miracle, God is looking for our hearts. Once we surrender all to God, even the small things in our lives become opportunities for God’s glorious interventions.
Why is the Church losing its influence on culture? Is it because we no longer believe the truth enough to proclaim it? Or is the problem that we don’t show enough grace to gain a hearing for the truth? Bestselling author Randy Alcorn argues in favor of neither and both at the same time. Pointing to the example of Jesus and his disciples and lacing logic with stories from his own life, Alcorn speaks convincingly and insightfully to help us move beyond the paradox to become a people who make a difference.
Our society is big on home makeovers. But what about God’s house? Does it need a makeover as well? Speaker and author Bob Russell is convinced that it does. As a pastor to pastors, he has practical advice that can help each of us make the house of God the kind of home the Lord of the Universe longs to inhabit. Link
Each of us is called to pass the faith and hope of Christ to the next generation. How are we doing? Cultural experts tell us that we are missing the mark, and a whole generation is missing God. We can turn this around. Dr. Kenneth Ulmer, author of Passing the Generation Blessing, offers keen insight and personal stories to help us along the way.
Do you have the peace of God in your heart, or do anxiety, anger, depression, loneliness, and inner turmoil tend to pull you around like waves on the sea? In this message, Bill draws insights from the book of Hebrews to help you reclaim and live in peace once again, despite the challenges and changes in the world that threaten you every day. Tune in for a spiritual tune-up!
Do you believe prayer changes things? Jim Cymbala does. When he and Carolyn Cymbala founded the multi-racial Brooklyn Tabernacle in 1973, they never imagined it would eventually have over 16,000 members. And they attribute it all to prayer. Join us as Jim tells his story: the founding and growth of ministry, overwhelming difficulties, and striking demonstrations of the power of prayer.
Think of fun trivia about Christmas: The number of homes Santa would have to visit per second to keep everyone happy; the tallest Christmas tree ever decorated; or the largest snow man ever built. Such trivia can be interesting. Juxtaposed against the true message of Christmas, however, it becomes fascinating. It highlights something much greater, and much better. Tune in to gain a fresh, insightful, even humorous perspective on the most amazing fact about Christmas.
Everywhere we look there are signs of the conflict between the kingdom of this world and the kingdom of God. As we stand in the midst of it all, where can we look for peace? In this season of Advent, Dr. Campbell offers insights that can help you put things in perspective—God’s perspective. The story of Christ’s coming speaks afresh to our current crises, reminding us that God is in control and that we can indeed trust Him!
What comes to our minds when we think about God is the most important thing about us.” This quote, from A. W. Tozer, deeply impacted Chip Ingram’s life. It inspired him to write his recent book, The Real God. If one could read your mind, what kind of understanding about God would they discover? Tune into this program to fine-tune the way you think about God.
Do you know what you believe? And do you know why? Upon these two questions your faith depends. And based on these two questions we will seek to strengthen faith through dialogue with Bobby Conway. Bobby is the voice behind the “One Minute Apologist,” a website featuring short and direct answers to the questions skeptics often ask about Christianity. If you do not find answers to all of your questions in this short interview, you may be stirred to begin asking questions that can make your faith more relevant.
Do you know the history of the black swan? More to the point, what do you believe about the role of women in the church? Felicity Dale is a physician who came to believe this is a critical issue for the expansion of God’s work in the world today. Her viewpoints may unsettle you. Or you may find them refreshingly accurate. Perhaps both. Tune in for an inspirational perspective on a topic that has been debated as long as the church has existed.
The Bible tells us God loves us; but, do we really believe it? If our beliefs lined up with Biblical truth, how might our lives be changed? Join us as Bill Campbell takes us on a journey through Scripture, highlighting the theme of the Bride and Bridegroom to describe God’s love—a love too expansive and incredible to be comprehended by mortal minds. But we can experience it every day and be changed by it.
Dr. John Walton, Professor of Old Testament at Wheaton College, shares his perspectives on Genesis and Exodus, the beginnings of the world and of every major theme in the Word. As the primary teacher for the small group videos in Bible in 90 Days, Dr. Walton brings a fitting introduction to Scripture Awakening’s new online Bible in 90 Days Plus. Tune in to glean insights from Dr. Walton’s research about how these early Biblical narratives were written and how they apply to our lives today.
When we consider Biblical values and educational quality, higher education in the United States seems to be lowering its standards. If this is so, how can this trend be reversed? Paul Maurer, President of Montreat College, draws from more than 25 years of experience in leadership for nonprofit and higher education administration to offer insights that show why there is hope, and how we can make a difference.
Trying times make us either better or bitter, all depending on our attitude. We can choose to trust God and develop supernatural endurance, or to turn from God and take on the struggle to survive. In this interview, Jennifer Pharr Davis calls us to trust God, even as we face the challenges of a pandemic. Having set the overall (male or female) fastest known hike through time on the Appalachian Trail, she shares insights from her journey.
Have you thought seriously about the implications of words like “church,” and “community”? Bible teacher Kendra Graham believes that a right understanding of these words can inspire a holy boldness in our witness for the Lord. Join us as she unpacks several concepts in the book of Acts to show the immense importance of true community and how it moved believers in the early church. As you ponder what community and church should look like today, you too may be inspired to live boldly for the Lord.
In 1969, Laurence J. Peter wrote a satire, promoting what is now known as “The Peter Principle,” which states that in a hierarchy, every employee tends to rise to his level of incompetence. More than 2,000 years ago, our Lord’s disciple, Peter, demonstrated a different Peter Principle, focused not on hierarchy but on service, leading not to personal incompetence, but to God-inspired competence. Michelle Coleman, Promotions Manager at the Billy Graham Training Center at the Cove, offers advice to help us follow in Peter’s steps.
As Christians, we often feel the guilt and responsibility of meeting the needs of unhealthy people in our lives. Whether a sibling, parent, spouse, coworker, or friend, toxic people frequently seek to frustrate our life’s calling. Author Gary Thomas urges us to turn away from the impossible task of mollifying toxic people; it’s time we dedicate our energy to the only worthwhile effort: completing the work God has given us by investing in reliable people. It’s only when we learn to say no to bad patterns that we can say yes to the good work God has planned for us.
What are the dynamics that can bring a bored Christian or a dull church experience and bring it to life? Jorge Pina, founder of DC for Jesus, shares his story and describes principles that have launched him into a movement of God’s Spirit that has touched many. As you learn from his story, consider your own and ask God to use you as an instrument to bring life into the church of our day.
The Christ of the Bible exuded power over darkness; he set the captive free. Why then do so many Christians today seem weighed down with burdens and overcome by doubt, temptation, and fear? The Bible says we are engaged in spiritual warfare every day, and unless we learn how to fight with the wisdom and armor of God, we are likely to walk in defeat. Neil Anderson, who has taught countless Christians how to overcome darkness through Christ, provides key understanding for your life and mine. Link
We read in John 10 that Christ speaks to us by name and with a clarity that causes us to follow him. Yet how often do we really hear God’s voice? Spiritual mentor and coach Paul Norcross believes that, rightly understood, the Scriptures teach us how to hear God’s voice not just on rare occasions, but for every occasion. God is not content to leave us abandoned to our own devices and directions, but He desires to lead us with the shepherd-like love and care that we read about in the Bible—it is available for us today.
Why is it that so many churches and Christians seem to be losing their connection with the world? When Jesus walked the earth 2,000 years ago, he related to everyone. Kings were challenged by him, children were welcomed to him, the downtrodden were encouraged by him, the sick were healed by him and his disciples followed him. If we are following his ways, should the Biblical message of love and truth not also be relevant today? Ministry expert Steve Harris offers practical insights and tools to help us make the Gospel relevant by making Christ central and discipleship natural.
Well-known author and pastor Jerry Vines shares vital truth for dynamic preaching based on decades of effective ministry. As a nationally-known expert on sermon development and delivery, his thoughts can motivate pastors to sharpen their preaching and teaching skills. These same insights can also lay the groundwork for more effective teaching for anyone who is influencing others with God’s matchless Word.
What separates business in general from business done in God’s way with God’s heart and passion? Eva Steward shares key principles for being a Christian in the marketplace and for making impact in the lives of clients and employees. She believes that God’s kingdom is as vast and pervasive as the Bible declares it to be, having implications for your life and mine no matter what kind of business or ministry we lead.
Those who believe God has called them into ministry are stepping into a life of great challenge. David Horton, President of Fruitland Baptist Bible College, offers personal insights based on years of ministry experience to help us learn what must follow such a call. Through seven steps to impactful ministry, you will receive guidance that can help you be faithful in the ministry God has given to you.
Has America and the entire Western world slipped into an inescapable crevasse of darkness? Is the hope for a great awakening past? Should we live in despair about the state of our society and give up all hope of a great move of God today? Revival historian Richard Owen Roberts is convinced otherwise. Based on his in-depth study of the history of awakening, he believes that it is in times such as this, when darkness seems to grow ever darker, that God often steps in. Tune in to find out why. Link
We each have a life story; do we think our stories are worth sharing? There is one who knows us better than we know ourselves and who is in the process of writing His will into our lives: the God of the Bible. Join us to hear nationally-syndicated author, Nancy Demoss Wolgemuth, and expert writing coach, Robert Wolgemuth, talk about the means by which our stories are part of God’s greater narrative. Sharing openly about their lives, the Wolgemuths will help you to have more appreciation for your own. They explain how God uses even the dark ink of life’s challenges to masterfully create a plot and to write a glorious ending we do not yet understand.
Is the Catholic Church more grounded in ancient roots than are today’s Evangelical and Protestant believers? Perhaps not in the manner that many Christian leaders have long assumed. Protestants carry an inferiority complex in this regard, having forgotten their ancient roots. Kenneth J. Stewart, professor of theological studies at Covenant College in Lookout Mountain, GA, uses historic figures and trends to help Protestants realize their strong connection with the Early Church.
Jesus told us that when he left the world, He would send the Holy Spirit to guide, empower, and unite His people. Unfortunately, many Christians consider the Holy Spirit to be a divisive topic. Anne Graham Lotz shows us how, rightly understood, the Spirit of God not only unites us, but brings us through our trials and enables us to live more like Jesus. Sharing personal testimonies from her heart, she will encourage your walk with God.
Learn how to communicate love to your spouse, your children and your friends in such a way that they really feel loved. Dr. Gary Chapman wrote a book called The Five Love Languages in 1992, and it has since been translated into 49 languages and sold over 10 million copies, in its various forms. He came across a formula for understanding love that is impacting lives around the world.
The Bible tells us that Christ died for people of every ethnicity. Yet, even Christians find it sometimes difficult to live and get along with those who are different from themselves. Author and leadership trainer, Adrian Pei, brings fresh insights about who minority peoples are, and how we can and should work together for God’s glory.
We tend to think of the Puritans as rigid and legalistic. Practical theologian Joanne Jung, who has researched Puritan sources extensively, describes an aspect of Puritan practice that we need to reclaim for our day. It involves conversation and life sharing in small group contexts. This interview challenges us to move beyond the individualism that has a grip on Western society and to live out the kind of community the Bible calls forth. Dr. Jung is associate professor of Biblical and theological studies at Biola University.
Everyone suffers disappointment, rejection, injustices, and losses — perhaps even traumatic ones. The spiritual pain born of such suffering can paralyze us, leaving us broken inside and barely getting by. Whether we remain stuck or move forward is determined in large part by our resilience. Join us as Donna Gibbs, a 20+ year Christian counselor, gives us wisdom on how to become more resilient.
Today we have our worship wars. Should the guitar and audio-visual enhancements or the piano and hymns dominate the worship service on Sunday morning? Have you ever pondered, “What were the central concerns around worship in the days of the Early Church?” How did they view the sacraments? What influence did the monastic movement have on worship? Do they have anything to teach us about prayer and approaching God? Set aside your preconceived notions about worship and join us to learn more about what it was like in an era closer to the time that Jesus had walked the earth.
When Paul and Silas came to Thessalonica, they changed the community. How? By collaborating with God to bring His kingdom on earth. We are called to do the same. Leadership coach Reggie McNeal offers eight signature practices for leaders who want to partner with God and others for kingdom growth. This interview may inspire you to become a kingdom collaborator in a specific sector of our society, such as: business, education, media, arts, healthcare, or spiritual growth.
Christianity started in Jerusalem. For many centuries it was concentrated in the West, in Europe and North America. But in the past century the church expanded rapidly across Africa, Latin America, and Asia. What led to the church’s vibrant growth throughout the Global South? Brian Stiller identifies five key factors. Discover the surprising story of the global advance of the gospel. And be encouraged that Jesus’ witness continues to the ends of the earth.
The average person thinks of Iran as a Muslim stronghold, impenetrable to the Gospel. In truth, Iran has the fastest growing segment of Evangelical Christians on the world scene, according to Dr Hormoz Shariat, the founder of Iran Alive. His ministry is broadcasting the Christian message via satellite television into Iran 24/7, and hundreds of thousands of Muslims have come to Christ. Tune in to be encouraged and challenged by what God is doing in the Muslim world. Link
Over twenty years ago, Yancey wrote the bestseller, “What’s So Amazing About Grace?” So much has changed in the past two decades that he has recently found reason to write again about grace, now from a whole new angle. Join us to learn why it is that secular people look at the Church with so much disdain. Learn also how you can dispense grace to a hurting world as a pilgrim, an activist, or as an artist. Yancey’s keen insights and his clear communication style make him one of the top selling authors in the Evangelical world.
Division. Poloarization. Strife. That’s life-as-usual in today’s world. But it shouldn’t describe the church. It’s time for Christians to listen, reach out, and work together for the common good. But how can God’s people achieve true unity in a fallen world? What sort of cooperation is actually possible? Luder Whitlock has an answer—a good one—and an appeal. He shows how we can learn from studying God’s views on church unity and from historical schisms as well as agreements. And, once we embrace the goal of unity, Whitlock points us to specific, realistic steps we can take to realize a united community under God.
Job, arguably the most ancient book in the Bible, focuses especially on the age-old problem of suffering. When you face trials and challenges, what Biblical insights and guidelines can help you through? Why does a good God allow evil in the world? How can we remain faithful when trials overwhelm us and cause us to doubt? Tune in as Walt Kaiser brings the concerns that have long plagued the world into the present day, in a simple and accessible manner.
Is the Bible full of contradictions and discrepancies as some people claim? Dr. Norm Geisler, apologist, teacher, and author, co-author, or editor of over 90 books, believes there are apparent discrepancies in the Bible, but none that are real. Considering Bible difficulties from Genesis to the Gospels, this interview debunks the idea that the Bible is full of errors. Link
Who is God? Many of us call God our Father, Lord, Friend, and Savior. But when we delve into the perplexing bits of Scripture, we discover a God who cannot be pinned down, explained, or predicted. Is it possible that we have missed the Bible’s consistent teaching that God is other, higher, stranger? Krish Kandiah offers us a fresh look at some of the difficult, awkward, and even troubling Bible passages, helping us discover that when God shows up unannounced, uninvited, and unrecognized, that’s precisely when big things happen.
The prolife/prochoice debate has become entrenched in our land, causing people to think it will go on forever and that nothing will change. But love overcomes. In this interview we will hear the life story of a woman who was caught by surprise though the facts uncovered surrounding the abortion debate. Many of these insights come right from the mouth and heart of a key founder of the abortion movement. This interview provides vital information to understand more fully what is really behind Roe v Wade, Planned Parenthood, and the cultural acceptance of abortion on demand. The topic is difficult; the insights are timeless. Don’t miss it!
The prolife/prochoice debate has become entrenched in our land, causing people to think it will go on forever and that nothing will change. But love overcomes. In this interview we will hear the life story of a woman who was caught by surprise though the facts uncovered surrounding the abortion debate. Many of these insights come right from the mouth and heart of a key founder of the abortion movement. This interview provides vital information to understand more fully what is really behind Roe v Wade, Planned Parenthood, and the cultural acceptance of abortion on demand. The topic is difficult; the insights are timeless. Don’t miss it!
The “Big Bang Theory” posits that the entire cosmos came from a singularity, from a space about the size of a pea and a moment shaved thinner than a second. Whether the Big Bang occurred or not, there is significant evidence about a bigger bang. That is, the Bible can be demonstrated to correlate with science more clearly than any other religious book. Join us as internationally recognized author and physicist Dr. Schroeder unpacks these important truths.
The creation/evolution controversy has troubled and sometimes divided the Church through the centuries. This controversy has also diminished the witness of Christians to the scientific community. The problem of reconciling Scripture and science never seems to go away. Orthodox Jewish scholar and author of the book, The Science of God, Dr. Gerald Schroeder, has developed a theory of correlation that has led even staunch atheists to believe there is a God after all. In this interview he will explain the thesis behind his writings.
How has the Bible impacted the cultures of the world? How large is the remaining task of bringing God’s Word to all peoples? Carl Moeller, former CEO of Biblica, shares his passion and understanding of these topics based on first-hand experience. For more than 200 years, Biblica has been providing God’s Word to the world. This Colorado Springs-based non-profit organization works in Africa, Asia Pacific, Europe, Latin America, Middle East/North Africa, North America, and South Asia. Biblica translates the complete Bible into the world’s top 100 major languages. Carl will also offer insights about how God’s Word can impact each of us personally.
In Christian circles, divorce is an all too common experience. We believe in God’s grace but don’t seem to know how to bring that grace into a marriage to bring it to life. One of the most difficult challenges is the marriage that is marked by emotional abuse, but not necessarily physical abuse. How do we recognize and deal with such a marriage? Relationship coach Leslie Vernick, a licensed clinical social worker, shares insights on how to recognize damaging behaviors, how to gain skill to respond wisely, how to promote healthy change, and how to stay safe and make wise choices when an emotionally abusive spouse is unwilling to change.
Racism made its mark on our national history all the way through the days of the Spanish conquistadors, the removal of Native Americans, the importation of slaves, and beyond. Have we overcome racism in our day? Ken Wytsma believes we still have some work to do and he has ideas to get us started. Ken is founder of The Justice Conference and president of Kilns College.
The gender confusion in our day is impacting everyone, from the university professor to the grade school student. People tend to either avoid this topic or to argue about it. Rare is the person who researches what is behind it. Mike McClymond, author of numerous groundbreaking academic studies and books, takes on this difficult topic to give listeners deep insights for today. He earned his PhD from the University of Chicago and uses his research to help Christians live more like Christ.
Are there many paths to heaven? Will everyone get there? Universalism, the belief that everyone will make it to heaven is becoming rather popular in our day. And no wonder — it fits with the cultural idea of a God who is completely loving, even to the neglect of divine justice. Michael McClymond has spent years researching this topic and recently published a comprehensive evaluation. Tune in to learn about his conclusions and how they impact our lives. Mike is professor of Modern Christianity in the Department of Theological Studies at Saint Louis University. His insights will inspire your faith and challenge you to live faithfully.
Lee Strobel describes how his best-selling book, The Case for Christ, and the related series was created and gives insider stories about the movie released by the same title. Once an award-winning investigative journalist and an avowed atheist, Lee was determined to use his legal and journalistic skills to disprove the newfound faith of his wife. He was in for a surprise. Based on his own experience he shares how we can reach others and encourage them to trust in Christ. He also shares about the journey of creating the movie.
With the transition of presidents and the conflicting political ideologies that divide our country, some are wondering what shape America will take over the next several years. If we are to find the answer in the news, we need to discern what is real and what is fake. How then can we get a grasp on where things are heading? Marvin Olasky, former Editor-in-Chief of World Magazine and author of 30 books, provides his insights on these questions and more.
One of our favorite Christmas interviews through the years was recorded in 2013 with Kenneth Bailey, titled, “Christmas Through Middle Eastern Eyes.” Dr. Bailey stepped into the Lord’s presence in 2016, and we replay this program in his honor to the glory of God. Kenneth E. Bailey was a prolific author, a pioneering professor in theology and an accomplished linguist. His book, “Jesus Through Middle Eastern Eyes,” along with the rest of his books and writings, has blessed the world with insights, unlocking a deeper understanding about God and His Word.
Do the holidays bring you joy or loneliness, purpose or emptiness? Alice Wisler, author of Getting Out of Bed in the Morning: Reflections on Comfort in Heartache, brings insight and practical tips on how we can make the most of the holidays, even if we are facing heartache. With God’s help, we can turn the days of Advent into special days to celebrate God, family, friends and our lives. Based on popular demand and in keeping with our holiday focus, this interview is being aired again from its original recording in December of 2013.
How does one survive the loss of a loved one? Is there a proper technique for handling the hard edge of grief? Douglas Groothuis, professor of philosophy at Denver Seminary asks himself such questions as his wife, Becky, has slipped into a debilitating form of dementia. As a philosopher, he has journeyed into a land of shadows that he never hoped to visit. And there, he found God along with help for the journey, and growth and insights that can help the rest of us when we too are called to walk through twilight.
Host Bill Campbell describes the Biblical call to prayer and discusses the peace and hope that arises when people gather to pray in unity. Join us on Wednesday, December 4, at 12 noon EST for an online prayer gathering for hope and restoration over Western NC and other parts of the country recovering from Hurricane Helene. For details go to ScriptureAwakening.com/prayer/
Doug Stringer, founder and president of “Somebody Cares” talks about the powerful impact love has to build hope in people’s lives, even for those going through difficult times. People facing crises are often most open to the help God and His people can bring. Doug encourages each of us to reach out with God's love to inspire hope in the world.
Has your world been turned upside down? Does it seem that you or someone you care about is living in a war zone? Tim Geoffrion, who helps people keep hope in war-torn sections of the world brings insights to help us reclaim and share hope in difficult times.
Blaise Pascal, the seventeenth century philosopher, mathematician, and physicist, gave us more than the Pascal triangle and new understandings about hydraulics. He left us a wager: “If one bets that God does exist, and He does, you win ‘everything’, to lose — you lose nothing. Should one bet that God does not exist — and win, you win nothing, but to lose? You lose ‘everything.'” Michael Rota, philosophy teacher at the University of St. Thomas, aims to help us make a wise wager.
The runaway New York Times bestseller! Can a simple concept shift your entire world? Bob certainty thinks so. When it comes to loving your neighbors, rather than focusing on having the "right answers" or checking the "right boxes," what if you decide to simply DO love? To shamelessly show love and grace to those around you? In Love Does, Bob shows you how to live a fully engaged life; how to stop putting things off until “next time” and instead find your place of imagination, whimsy, and wonder today; and that God usually chooses ordinary people to get things done, life gets interesting. Light and fun, unique and profound, the lessons drawn from Bob's life and attitude in this collection of stories just might inspire you to be secretly incredible, too.
You believe the Bible contains eternal truth, but do you know how to mine that truth and for golden nuggets of insight that can enrich your life? Dr. Mark Yarbrough will help you strike spiritual gold. Mark is the vice president for academic affairs, academic dean, and a professor of Bible exposition at Dallas Theological Seminary. Mark is also an author, songwriter, and frequent conference speaker. Link
So much change and challenge on the world scene today causes the average person to spin in circles, wondering what’s next. On this 4th of July weekend, Americans should stop and look to God with thanks as they look back on more than two centuries of history. By remembering America’s legacy, we are better positioned to live it today. David Barton, Founder and President of WallBuilders, challenges us to reflect on and embrace with boldness the Biblical convictions that guided our nation’s founders.
Once the steel capital of the world, Pittsburgh has become known as a place where God is at work. By examining the stories of God’s transformative power from this single locale, we are reminded to look around and take note of God’s work in our lives and communities. An awareness of God’s presence and purpose helps us to be faithful. But even when we fail, God is faithful still, and His help is only a prayer away.
The gripping story of a leader in the dreaded White Knights of the Ku Klux Klan whose transformation in Christ altered his agenda. Once entrenched in racism and hatred, Tarrants has become a leader for reconciliation and love. Tom has aligned his life with the priorities most on the heart of God, and he now challenges us to embrace a vision for unity and respect that can guide our interactions and reshape the country.
The world around us seems to be coming apart at the seams through fractured hopes and polarizing agendas in political, religious, and social realms. Rather than working together as a people, we often work against one another for our specialized causes. What steps can you and I take to make the world a better place? Jake Meador, author of an influential online magazine offers practical insights and suggestions.
Ministries and organizations cannot rise higher than their leaders. Thus, the high calling on those who lead. But did you consider that anyone who influences another person is exhibiting leadership? Both the Church and our cultural institutions are in desperate need of strong leaders at all levels. Richard Blackaby, president of Blackaby Ministries, offers insights to help each of us realize our leadership potential and practical steps by which we can encourage others to do the same.
Why is a basic understanding of philosophy important for your life today? Where did this “study of wisdom” come from and how did it change through the generations? How does philosophy connect with theology, the study of God? How did the early Christians engage with the world around them through the use of philosophy? What philosophies should you embrace? Which should you avoid? What makes some philosophers seem so disconnected from real life? How can sound philosophy improve your life? Tune in to tune up your mind with God’s wisdom.
Learn what it was like to live in ancient Rome, in the days of Jesus, Paul, and the early Christians. Did you know that: Abortion and infanticide were a regular part of life? Nearly everyone in Rome was expected to go to the public baths? Slaves would be difficult to identify by outward appearance? Most people were not Roman citizens and could not register their marriages? Romans had patrons, typically older and richer citizens, assigned to help them in time of need? Tune in for important insights from James Papandrea, PhD, an expert on ancient Roman society.
Learn about the spread of Christianity through history and how that history directly impacts our day. Eugene Bach brings this history to life through his own life journey and travels. Deepening your understanding of what God has done and is doing on a practical level will inspire you to take your part more fully in the great task of the Great Commission.
What do you believe to be the ideal form of government? Or is there really an ideal? Might the quality of those who govern be more important than the ideology that shapes the state? Further, might our political ideologies, if held too rigidly, become idolatry? In this interview you will explore these and other important questions through the eyes of David Koyzis, a seasoned professor of political science.
Many of us wonder if we’re really walking in the will of God for our lives. Two Christian leaders, Brian Phipps and Rob Wegner, combine their shared ministry learnings to create a simple grid for pressing more deeply into God’s purpose for your life. You can better follow God by making sure you’re plugged into God’s GPS. Tune in to glean insights about your gifts, passions and story, and how they can light up the path on which God wants you to walk.
How was contemplation practiced by early Christians? How should the effort to meditate and understand God’s ways be practiced still today? Should classic spiritual disciplines only inform those who embrace Catholicism, or does the Protestant tradition also offer a rich history of contemplative prayer and thought? Join us as Kyle Strobel, associate professor of Spiritual Theology at Biola University, shares his insights, drawing from Scripture and leaders in church history whose writings are alive still today. You can learn to strengthen your walk with God in an age when everyone seems to be running themselves ragged.
You may know that the primary Hebrew word for love is hesed. But did you realize there are more than a hundred expressions of that one word in our English Bibles? The meaning of hesed is so rich and deep and vast as to be is inexpressible. At the same time, studying this word in its context and application can change your outlook, even your life. Join us as musician and Bible teacher Michael Card describes what this word means to him!
Life is a paradox. From the Biblical vision of God becoming a human, to the practical application of God’s truth in a broken world, inexplicable contradictions and mysterious connections leave us confused. We seek clarity by simplifying truth, categorizing and containing it, creating an either-or world of our own making. And then reality merges black and white perceptions, calling us once again to look at all sides of an issue until we capture its core truth. In this interview, author Jen Pollock Michel helps us to see the world from a realistic both-and perspective.
We have all heard of Christ’s Great Commission to go and make disciples. How many of us are really doing it? In this interview, two young and innovative Christian strategists challenge our thinking and push us out of our comfort zones to get busy doing what we should have been about all along: making disciples.
Most people are not aware of the five key sacrifices in the Old Testament. Far fewer understand their implications for the cross of Christ. Author and ministry leader Doug Stringer takes us a step further and describes how these historic sacrifices can radically impact our lives today. Tune in to ignite your faith with truths that inspire faithfulness.
Can government programs eradicate poverty in America? From Star Parker’s perspective, the welfare state only makes poverty worse. Having lived on welfare and having experienced its dampening impact on her spirit and community, Star carries a passion for its eradication from the ground up. She is the Founder and President of Center for Urban Renewal and Education (CURE), a Washington DC based public policy institute that promotes market-based solutions to fight poverty. Her perspectives may help to awaken America, one person at a time.
What is faith? How reasonable is Christianity? Are there realities that science cannot explain? On what things do science and the Bible agree? Do miracles occur today? If so, can science prove or disprove them? These and many other questions are addressed by plasma physicist and professor of nuclear science, Ian Hutchinson of Massachusetts Institute of Technology.
Was Jesus just a spiritual leader, like Buddha, Krishna, Confucius, and Muhammad? Or is He something more — something else entirely? Kenneth Samples helps us answer this question by pondering the Biblical and historical portrait of Christ and comparing it to the historical and documentary evidence supporting other religious leaders. Through this interview you will learn a lot about the difference between the major world religions and what causes Jesus and His claims to be a world apart from the rest.
C.S. Lewis was the most famous atheist of the twentieth century, only later to become the most famous Christian author of the twentieth century. The influences of reason and experience that initially locked Lewis into his disbelief later drew him into the Christian faith. Understanding those influences may persuade the listener to believe in God, and the one who already believes to share such insights with those who do not.
Many Christians have been brought up under the assumption that mainstream science is incompatible with genuine Christian faith — so when they see compelling evidence for biological evolution, for example, they feel forced to choose between science and their faith. The devastating effects of this dilemma are plain to see, as emerging adults either leave the faith or shut themselves off to the findings of the scientific community. But it’s a false dilemma. Greg Cootsona explains how science and faith interact and where they intersect. Tune in as we grapple with the historical Adam and Eve, the future of technology and other pertinent topics.
The prevailing assumption among church leaders is that the Church is in decline and the younger generation is becoming disconnected. Researcher Rick Richardson shares the results of recent studies that reveal how surprisingly open the unchurched are to faith conversations and to the Church. Suggestions for ways to reach those who don’t currently attend church can inspire listeners to think more positively about opportunities and means that might bring people back into the fold.
On Easter Sunday, many attend worship in search of an experience with the risen Christ. If He is risen, why does this Lord not seem more alive in our Sunday morning services? Worship leader Manuel Luz suggests we need to look beyond modern technology and stunning performances to find the answer. We must look in the Scriptures and within our own hearts. Tune in for fresh insights that will inspire further worship in your life.
America is experiencing an epidemic of anxiety and depression brought on by societal stress. Everyone must deal with stress, but how many people do so successfully? Professor of philosophy J.P. Moreland shares publicly about his deep and debilitating experiences with anxiety and panic attacks, and how through many years of reading, research, and counseling he got back on solid ground. His insights about the nature of the heart, mind, and soul and their connection with spiritual formation are important for our daily lives.
It is sometimes said that religion and politics do not mix. Yet properly understood, one cannot perform ministry in a church or organization without engaging in politics — of the kingdom sort. Simply stated, politics in ministry is unavoidable for it is the machinery of ministry when people are working together for common goals and shared good. Insights from this interview can help you to navigate the political side of ministry with wisdom and skill.
Should Christians utilize psychologists when they struggle with mental health, or is the advice of fellow Christians sufficient? Some Christians advocate avoiding psychology altogether. Others encourage learning from this field of study and filtering it through the filter of the Christian worldview. Join us as Ken Boa talks about his doctoral research on the history of theology and psychology and where the two disciplines interact, intersect, and contradict.
The Old Testament is grounded in the Hebraic “Law,” or Torah. Confusion arises among Biblical scholars and Bible readers regarding how much of the Old Testament Law is to be applied literally to our day and society. Is the Jewish Law largely a time-bound set of rules that does not have relevance for modern readers? Or is it a prescription for living that is meant to be followed? John Walton seeks middle ground. They view the Law as a channel of God’s timeless wisdom for each new generation.
What spiritual practices can help you and your small group or church connect more freely and fully with God? Diana Shiflett, who for years has been leading groups deeper into spiritual practices, offers suggestions. Examining the background of spiritual practices ranging from communal silence and Scripture meditation to active prayer and corporate discernment, she demonstrates how such practices can help us to hear the voice of Jesus.
What is the “Kingdom of God?” And why does it matter anyway? Jesus obviously emphasized it, but what about the rest of the Scripture? How is the concept of God’s kingdom relevant to the average person, living under a democratic form of government some two thousand years after Jesus lived? Join us as Nicholas Perrin, Professor of Biblical Studies at Wheaton College, shares how critical this concept is to the entire Bible and to the entirety of our lives.
This interview flows from last week’s program about “Overcoming Sexual Addiction,” but focuses on how the wife of the addict can find help and healing. More than 70 percent of the inquiries received by Blazing Grace come from women married to porn-addicted men. These women should not be overlooked. They are part of the key to their husband’s recovery, and they need to know how to find help and healing for their lives as well.
The rate of sexual addiction among Christians in America is startling. People who struggle with this issue typically don’t know where to get help. The very place that should offer such help, the Church, is often silent on the issue, or worse. Honest conversation opens a pathway to freedom. Mike Genung, who overcame such addiction himself, shares insights that will help those who are addicted as well as those seeking to help others.
Why is the witness of the Church not having greater impact on our culture? How can we break through a post-modern mindset with the Bible’s message of grace and truth? Philosopher and teacher Paul Gould suggests we have lost the sense of enchantment and wonder that once filled the minds of early Christians. Using the story of Paul’s visit to Mars Hill, Gould challenges us to awaken our conscience, imagination, and voice in a manner that can engage the culture and transform lives.
What is the Trinity? Why is it important? Kelly Kapic, professor of theological studies at Covenant College in Lookout Mountain, GA, believes a basic understanding of the Triune God can unlock key Biblical understanding to shape our lives and the world around us. Each person of the Trinity — Father, Son, and Holy Spirit — is examined afresh for insights to inspire faith and action.
Why do people not honor Scripture today as they did in previous generations? What has changed? Why do many consider the Bible merely the words of men and not the Word of God? Ken Boa describes the dramatic shift that has occurred in our culture and how that has changed the way we view the Bible. The implications are dramatic and spiritually devastating. Boa offers suggestions for helping people to live faithfully before God in our day.
Some words today need definition to be understood. What for example, does it mean to be a "welcoming" church? And what should it look like for a church to welcome everyone in an age of rapid change and confusion about sexual mores? Travis Collins, senior pastor at First Baptist Church in Huntsville, Alabama, brings years of ministry experience to the fore as he attempts to tackle this difficult topic, bringing truth and grace together as friends.
Christmas is often considered to be a pagan holiday with Christian wrappings. When we unwrap the traditions and carols of Christmas, however, we find deep meaning for our lives that we can treasure and share with loved ones in this season of celebration. Prolific author Ace Collins has researched and written in depth about these topics and his insights can bring the light of Christmas into your home and heart.
Years ago, Philip Yancey teamed up with renowned leprosy surgeon Dr. Paul Brand to produce the Gold Medallion winning books Fearfully and Wonderfully Made and In His Image. Through the lens of our anatomy, this dynamic duo showed the world analogies from the human body to help us understand the Church, society, our faith, and its many applications to our daily lives. In this interview, Yancey shares insights from both titles and his new book, Fearfully and Wonderfully.
Where does the Holy Spirit fit into the worship of Christians today? Can one experience the best of the Charismatic movement while embracing traditional liturgies? These and other provocative questions about the Spirit in worship will be addressed by Andrew Wilson, PhD., teaching pastor of the multisite King’s Church in London.
People often think that marriage is at its best in the first few years. However, when we follow God’s principles for marriage, it can become like aged wine: better with each passing year. If the first half was good, the second half can be great! Author of the bestselling 5 Love Languages series, Gary brings insights from his years of counseling, researching, writing and speaking to bring hope and insights for a better marriage.
The choice to live an ordinary life is no longer an option! Greatness — lasting greatness — is a desire built into every human heart. For the believer in Christ, it is not only possible, but expected. How will your life matter? God wants your life to count for eternity. He wants you to join the team of rescuers He is sending into a desperate world. Join us to learn how. Link
The Church in the West is at a critical moment. While the gospel is exploding throughout the global south, Western civilization faces militant assaults from aggressive secularism and radical Islam. Where is the world heading? What influence can and should the average Christian have on its direction? Join us as author and social critic, Os Guinness, shares insights related to his latest book, Impossible People, in which he calls us to resist the negative cultural forces of our day with fortitude and winsomeness, and to regain hope in the purposes of God.
The original two-volume set titled “Evidence that Demand a Verdict” was named one the twentieth century’s top 40 books and one of the thirteen most influential books of the last 50 years on Christian thought by World Magazine. Josh and his son Sean have come out with a new version that has profound new insights to help you know why Christianity is trustworthy, with evidence to back it up. Tune in to strengthen your faith, and to glean new insights about the verification of Christianity and of the Bible.
The original two-volume set titled “Evidence that Demand a Verdict” was named one the twentieth century’s top 40 books and one of the thirteen most influential books of the last 50 years on Christian thought by World Magazine. Josh and his son Sean have come out with a new version that has profound new insights to help you know why Christianity is trustworthy, with evidence to back it up. Tune in to strengthen your faith, and to glean new insights about the verification of Christianity and of the Bible.
One of the most confusing questions facing Christians today is, why does God allow so much suffering in the world? This question is also a barrier in the minds of many atheists toward belief in God. Brian Han Gregg, professor of Biblical studies at the University of Sioux Falls, SD, researched this dilemma and found that the answers are not so simple. There are easily a dozen reasons given to us the Scripture for the trials and challenges we all face in life. Understanding these reasons can help us to face life and to trust God more.
Of all the problems the Old Testament poses for our modern age, the question of the holy warfare is the one we want to avoid in mixed company. But do the so-called holy war texts of the Old Testament actually portray a divinely inspired genocide? Did Israel really slaughter Canaanites at God’s command? Were the Old Testament believers really enforcing divine retribution on an unholy people? Old Testament scholar John Walton believes we have long misunderstood these holy wars, and he seeks to shed new light based on the Hebrew text and context.
Have you seen the true face of Islam? Is it a religion of terror or of peace? How should we respond to Muslim extremism today? Where does it really come from? Dr. David Cashin, who has spent 40 years ministering to Muslims, has done significant research and shares profound insights that, if heeded, will make our world a better place. Dr. Cashin is professor of intercultural studies at Columbia Biblical Seminary and School of Ministry. He has written and taught courses and seminars in Islamic history, theology and Muslim-Christian relations. For nine years Dr. Cashin served in Bangladesh as missionary, church planter, educator and development worker with SIM International.
Raised in a turbulent upbringing devoid of meaning and direction, Author Crystal Krachunis shares her heart wrenching testimony of God bringing her from death to life. As you hear her story, you will feel the tension and experience the joy as you learn what the plan for your life is. “Run Your Race” is filled with stories of life that will touch your heart and motivate you to run the race that’s been set before you. Crystal’s struggles may become your inspiration as you walk through finding the true answer to being able to overcome every personal obstacle that you face in your daily life.
What really happened when Jerusalem fell in 70 AD — and why? Are there lessons we can learn from that horrific time in the history of Christianity to apply to our day? Ben Witherington, Professor of New Testament for Doctoral Studies at Asbury Theological Seminary, believes there are. Drawing from a fictional narrative, Witherington relates hard and cold facts that should cause anyone who assumes God’s way is always an easy way, to think again.
Is science the primary way we can discern reality around us? Some would say it is the only way. This strict adherence to science as the basis for perceiving reality is called scientism. It is actually a philosophy position and strict adherence to its tenets can undermine the very foundation on which science operates. Philosopher J.P. Moreland exposes the weaknesses of this materialistic worldview and explains how the Christian alternative is more logical, practical, and supportable.
Theologian Emil Brunner once famously stated that, “The church exists by mission, just as fire exists by burning.” If the work of missions is essential to the existence of the Church, why is it so difficult to accomplish? Sharon Hoover brings her years of experience in local church missions to provide insights that can help individual Christians and whole churches engage in missions in a most effective and unified manner.
What does it mean to live in a “post-truth” world? Increasingly, Western culture embraces confusion as a virtue and decries certainty as a sin. Those who are confused about sexuality and identity are viewed as heroes. Those who are confused about morality are progressive pioneers. Those who are confused about spirituality are praised as tolerant. Conversely, those who express certainty about any of these issues are seen as bigoted, oppressive, arrogant, or intolerant. Tune in to ponder how one can offer truth and clarity to a world that shuns both.
Natasha Sistrunk Robinson is an international speaker, leadership consultant, diversity and mentoring coach with nearly 20 years of leadership experience in the military, federal government, church, seminary, and nonprofit sectors. She is the author of the new release, A Sojourner’s Truth: Choosing Freedom and Courage in a Divided World, Mentor for Life, and the Hope for Us Bible study.
The Bible talks about the great cloud of witnesses that has gone before us. Through their examples we can be inspired to faith and faithfulness (Hebrews 12:1). Many such examples are listed in the “Hall of Faith” of Hebrews 11. Others can be highlighted in the long history of the Church. In this interview with Karen Marsh, we consider some of these saints (who were also sinners), and find inspiration and challenge from their lives, learning from both their successes and failures, their strengths and weaknesses. Karen is director of Theological Horizons, a ministry to university students.
We can read in the Scriptures about Jesus, and observe how He walked in the world. But what do people see when they observe our lives? We are called to walk like Jesus. Such a walk can only occur as we learn to yield our lives, from the inside out, to the leading of the Lord. Author and professor James Bryan Smith, who was mentored by Richard Foster and Dallas Willard, provides insights to help us along the way.
In this interview, we consider the idea that only in Christian nations were the circumstances right for science to progress to the point it has today. Based on the work of Stanley Jaki and Pierre Duhem, Transancos has researched this concept in depth. If indeed science was born of Christianity, the implications are significant in our day and age. People often think of science and Christianity as two separate entities (or magisterium) that do not and cannot overlap. What if in fact they are inseparable expressions of truth, with theology being the king of the sciences?
Do faith and science intersect? If so, how and where and why? Does the Big Bang Theory somehow prove God? How are quantum mechanics and free will related, if at all? Did we evolve from atoms? What does Intelligent Design show us? What are its limits? These and other questions are explored with Stacy A. Trasancos, writer, scientist, and editor, who also teaches chemistry and physics classes and is department chair at Kolbe Academy, and serves as an adjunct professor at Holy Apostles College and Seminary and Seton Hall University.
Few people realize how much their brains control their lives, and how important it is to control their brains. The chunk of gray matter inside our skulls has more power and potential than the world’s fastest computers, and yet we rarely harness that power. This is especially true when it comes to dealing with fear, to overcoming with love, and to knowing God. Timothy R. Jennings, M.D., has insights that should not be missed. He is a board-certified Christian psychiatrist, master psychopharmacologist, lecturer, international speaker, and author.
Religious liberty is one of the most contentious political issues of our time. How should people of faith engage with the public square in a pluralistic era? This issue is not new; it reaches back to the founding era of American history. Historian Brandon O’Brien draws from the life of Isaac Backus to provide insights for our day. Join us!
Curiosity drives young children to ask questions through which they develop their understanding, and Jesus tells us that we must become like children to enter the Kingdom of Heaven. Have you lost your curiosity? Author Casey Tygrett has ideas to help us become curious once again. He is a pastor and spiritual director, and loves to ask questions. He writes, “When we make curiosity a spiritual practice, we open up to new ways of knowing God and knowing ourselves as well.”
The United States of America seems more divided than ever. Pressures from disparate political agendas have cracked the foundation that has made this country great. Is there hope? David Barton, founder of WallBuilders, believes there is. Tune in to learn how the Church, the government, and the American people at large have reason to believe that God is at work, even now. But we must become united once again under the values that birthed our independence and set us up as a light on a hill. David is the author of numerous best-selling books, with the subjects being drawn largely from his massive library of tens of thousands of original writings from the Founding Era. Barton’s exhaustive research has rendered him an expert in historical and constitutional issues and he serves as a consultant to state and federal legislators, has participated in several cases at the Supreme Court, and was involved in the development of the History/Social Studies standards for states such as Texas and California.
There are many interpretive approaches to the Biblical creation account. Dr. John Walton has devised a fresh look at Genesis through the lens of the ancient Hebrew people. He emphasizes how the creation story was originally written to the ancients, even as it was also written for us and all who have read the Bible through the ages. Dr. Walton, Professor of Old Testament at Wheaton College, has insights that may help you to find the creation story come to life!
We all suffer. But how many of us carry a hope in our hearts that can light our paths? What understanding or changes in our lives can help to ignite such a hope in the midst of the challenges and trials we face almost daily? Kelly Kapic, professor of theological studies at Covenant College shares insights based on his book Embodied Hope. Listen, learn, and live with the hope that is rightfully yours as God’s child.
Anyone who influences others takes on a leadership role. Every leader wants to do well, but sometimes the challenges and discouragements in life become too much to handle. Overwhelmed, we settle for less than God’s best. Through time-tested principles, Doug Stringer can help you to: measure successful leadership God’s way; overcome the oppositions godly leaders face; and display leadership traits that bring positive impact to your family, workplace, and church.
Why are so many people, especially the younger generations, leaving the church today? What can the average Christian do to reverse the trend? These are some of the topics we will explore with church planter and ministry innovator, Peyton Jones. Tune in to glean fresh insights and to consider new ways God might use you to impact lives. Peyton served as the evangelist at David Martin Lloyd-Jones’s church, Aberavon, and has planted churches in some unusual situations.
Why are so many people, especially the younger generations, leaving the church today? What can the average Christian do to reverse the trend? These are some of the topics we will explore with church planter and ministry innovator, Peyton Jones. Tune in to glean fresh insights and to consider new ways God might use you to impact lives. Peyton served as the evangelist at David Martin Lloyd-Jones’s church, Aberavon, and has planted churches in some unusual situations.
Some words contain meaning too great to be expressed by words. If there is any one word that might face this dilemma, it is the word “hesed.” This Hebrew word for “love”, found 250 times in the Old Testament, contains key insights about God and our relationship with Him. Michael Card, celebrated singer-songwriter, award-winning author, Bible teacher, and former radio host teaches us how to understand and incorporate God’s hesed into our hearts and lives.
A primary reason that people don’t believe in God today is all of the suffering in the world. How can a good and all-powerful God allow so much hardship and darkness to invade our lives? This is what has classically been labeled, “the problem of evil.” Mark Clark, once an atheist who found reason to believe, talks about this problem and offers some cogent solutions. He is even willing to dip his intellectual toes into the conundrum of hell itself: how can a loving God put anyone into a place of eternal suffering? Join us! Link
No one said pursuing justice would be easy. The road can be so challenging and the destination so distant that you may be discouraged by a lack of progress, compassion or commitment in your quest for justice. How do you stay committed to the journey when God’s kingdom can seem so slow in coming? Kent Annan understands the struggle of working for justice over the long haul. He shares his journey in this interview, which is captured more fully in his book, Slow Kingdom Coming. His words may encourage you to live by the words found in Micah 6:8, a call to show justice.
As we celebrate Mother’s Day, we celebrate moms. But do we really understand all that they go through? Do we show them the appreciation they deserve? Author and speaker, Cindi Wood, shares how her life came to pieces as a mom due to stress. She also brings insights, based on her own recovery and life learnings, about how those facing such stress not only survive, but thrive. Tune in to gain insights on how we can support the moms in our lives.
Building from last week’s interview, Greg brings us deeper into the content and understanding found in his book More: How to Move from Activity for God to Intimacy with God. He discusses doable shifts in our thought and language that can lead to true intimacy with God. He also shares how he and his wife were transformed through key experiences in life, one of which was our Bible-reading program, Bible in 90 Days. Tune in to find more intimacy in your walk with God.
Do you long for more of God in your life and in the Church? Greg Hawkins was a management consultant with McKinsey & Company, and volunteered to consult for Willow Creek Community Church, when such a longing took hold of his heart. His journey from that point on involved a half million people through surveys and studies and learning about how we can experience more of God. Greg served as executive pastor of Willow Creek Community Church, alongside Bill Hybels, for over twenty years. He currently serves with Max Lucado and Randy Frazee on the leadership team at Oak Hills Church in San Antonio, TX.
How do you fix a broken story? In this fallen world, life is not how we thought it would be. Jobs vanish, relationships crumble, and health fails. How do we find the hope to persevere? We can make sense of our broken stories by setting them in the context of a larger and greater story. Kenneth Boa shows how God can transform our lives with an eternal perspective when we live with the end in mind. In light of eternity, our struggles are temporary and our plot twists are not fatal. We are hard-wired by God with eternity in our hearts, and that longing gives us purpose, blesses others and helps us make a permanent mark on the world.
Are angels and demons for real? If so, how do they impact our lives? More to the point, can believers in Christ be harassed or even possessed by powers of darkness? Dr. Neil Anderson, known around the world for his knowledge and experience around this vital topic, will address these issues head on. Whether you fully agree with his conclusions or not, you won’t want to miss this insightful program.
Are angels and demons for real? If so, how do they impact our lives? More to the point, can believers in Christ be harassed or even possessed by powers of darkness? Dr. Neil Anderson, known around the world for his knowledge and experience around this vital topic, will address these issues head on. Whether you fully agree with his conclusions or not, you won’t want to miss this insightful program.
Millennials (born 1980–2000) constitute a group of over 80 million individuals who are technologically astute, ethnically diverse, and culturally and vibrantly engaged. Yet they face high unemployment and massive debt, and they comprise the largest number of religiously unaffiliated individuals in American history. This interview will shed new light on what Christian parents must do to reach their young adult children. It also offers a strong voice of hope for everyone who has a heart for the Millennial generation.
In this interview, Dr. Roberts continues to describe the effects of revival and the potential for it to occur again today. Alongside stories of revival, he shares his personal convictions about why revival is desperately needed today and what we must do to become part of God’s global vision for the awakening of the Church.
This second interview gives personal perspectives on how the Asbury Outpouring impacted lives, including some student testimonies.
Dr. William Campbell shares his perspectives from his visit to the Asbury awakening, based on his personal experience and filtered through his study of awakenings in history. Special Guest host, Crystal Wheeler.
What is revival or spiritual awakening? When did it last occur? What are the hindrances to revival today? How much of revival is based on human effort and how much depends on the sovereign work of God? These and other stirring questions are answered by Dr. Roberts, a well-known historian on revival.
Do you believe in miracles? If so, were they only apparent in the days of Christ and his first disciples, or do they still occur today? Lee Strobel, in his soon-to-be released book, The Case for Miracles, argues for the latter. In this interview he explains why, and how miracles can provide strong reason to believe in the God of the Bible.
Do you believe the Bible is more than just another book? Tim Chester, pastor at Grace Church Boroughbridge, in North Yorkshire, England, believes it is the primary means by which God speaks to us. In this interview you will be inspired to meet with God through His Word, with greater expectation, and learn why the Bible is more than just a book.
Our beliefs are challenged from many directions. Every day it seems more difficult to explain to our friends, families, and neighbors what we believe and why. When our ideas and arguments fail to persuade them, what then? Is there another approach we can take? Veteran apologist J.P. Moreland suggests the best way to win over others is with a good story. Stories have the ability to get behind our preconceptions and defenses. They appeal to the whole person rather than just to the mind. Tune in to tune up your witness for Christ to a generation in need.
What is the relationship between Biblical concepts like desire, lust, and temptation and modern constructs like sexual attraction and orientation? How might new forms of kinship, such as intentional community or celibate partnership, make the blessings of family life more accessible to gay people in traditional faith communities? These and other questions are addressed by Nate Collins, who speaks from his own experience as a gay man in a mixed orientation marriage. Nate Collins has served as an instructor of New Testament Interpretation at The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary and is currently a partner associate at The Sight Ministry, a Christian organization based in Nashville, Tennessee. He has been married to his wife, Sara, for thirteen years, and they have three children. Link
How do we hear the voice of God? How do we keep in step with the Spirit? How do we keep away from temptation and evil, and walk more closely with God? These and many related questions are addressed in this interview. Tim Geoffrion is the cofounder and president of Faith, Hope, and Love Global Ministries, which teaches and equips pastors, theological students, and other Christian leaders.
This second interview with Dr. Chris Hall focuses on his book, Living Wisely with the Church Fathers. Topics discussed, wrapped around possible New Year’s resolutions, range from how martyrdom is relevant to our lives today, how we should view wealth and poverty in an era of affluence, and how early church leaders dealt with issues of warfare and Christian service in the military. Dr. Hall is the president of the Renovare Institute of Christian Spiritual Formation.
The golden traditions of Christmas — trees, gifts, wreaths, stockings, carols, mistletoe, and more — infuse our celebration of the season with meaning and glowing memories. And, in ways you may not realize, they point us to the birth of Christ. Join us and be touched with spiritual insights, true-life tales, and captivating legends to intrigue you and your family and bring new luster and depth to your celebration of Jesus’ birth.
Who were the church fathers? What did they believe? How do their perspectives, from between 1,500 and 2,000 years ago, impact our lives today? Christopher Hall, PhD, did his study around these issues and has written several insightful books. In this interview, we provide background understanding that will help you to appreciate great leaders in history whose insights can help you to live your life to its fullness.
How do you answer the skeptic who raises problems about God? Mark Clark had a lot of those questions himself and in this interview, he shares answers he has learned. Mark grew up in an atheistic home, and after his father’s death, began a skeptical search for truth through an exploration of science, philosophy, and history, asking the big questions of life, and eventually finding answers in Christianity. In this interview, he discusses some of the top questions people raise against God. About Mark
The world has viewed the U.S. election process with concern, confusion, and even disdain. Still, America enjoys freedoms and prosperity that most nations envy. She has been blessed by God. In this program, Beyond Words Radio host Bill Campbell gives ten reasons Americans should give thanks to God.
Paul Saber was preparing to become a lawyer when his brother Mark died in a car accident. It was then that Paul realized he had been focused more on himself than on the Lord. He took over his brother’s McDonald’s franchise, and over time grew and developed restaurant franchises around the country. His goal was to do everything with excellence to God’s glory. The story of his life and the philosophy that drives him has challenged other Christian business people to also bring the light into their workplace. Paul is President and CEO of the Manna Development Group, and serves on various boards, including the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association.
Christ often told his followers, “Fear Not.” Most of us need to hear those words again. Kelly Balarie once became overcome by fear. Eating disorders, depression, health concerns, company failures, family tragedies, and job losses are part of her life dossier. Through it all, she found courage in the Lord and now seeks to help others overcome their fears. Kelly is a Christian blogger and author.
Through the years, our understanding of Jesus has been shaped by different cultural influences, and many Christians have forgotten that Jesus was a Jewish man living in a Jewish land, observing Jewish customs, and investing his life into Jewish men and women. By uncovering the teaching of the first and second century rabbis and Christian theologians, and highlighting little-known Jewish idioms and traditions, Gallaty takes Christians on a Biblical journey to rediscover a forgotten Jesus from a Biblical perspective. As you see this perspective, you can deepen your relationship with God.
P. Douglas Small is President and Founder of Doulos Enterprises and Alive Ministries, an organization he has led for more than 25 years. In this interview, we will learn from a seasoned veteran of prayer movements what God is doing in the world and why prayer makes such a difference. Doug Small works with the National Prayer Committee and the Mission America Coalition to establish city prayer leadership teams. He serves his own denomination, the Church of God, as International Coordinator for Prayer Ministries. In this interview you will learn why he believes that a growing prayer movement can spawn a spiritual awakening around the land.
Everyone would like to find healing for their physical ailments. But the Bible calls us first to seek wholeness. What does wholeness look like, and how do we find it? Once we are whole in God’s sight, will physical healing necessarily follow? Jenny Simmons is a dynamic storyteller and lover of people who uniquely sees God’s redemptive hand at work in the world around her. She is a sought-after musician, author, speaker and Bible teacher that has garnered the devotion of blog readers for her whimsical and hopeful writing style.
How can you share your faith more effectively in a rapidly changing world? Stuart McAllister offers timely suggestions. Born in Scotland, Stuart worked with Operation Mobilization for 20 years in Vienna, Austria, and his service took him to Yugoslavia, where he was imprisoned for forty days for distributing Christian literature. Upon his release, he continued to preach in communist countries, resulting in more imprisonments. Stuart has acted as general secretary of the European Evangelical Alliance (1992-1998) and he joined Ravi Zacharias International Ministries in 1998 as the International Director. Currently Stuart is Director of Ministry at Thinking Out Loud.
It is not uncommon for people with advanced scientific training to come to the conclusion that the story of creation as found in Genesis is mere legend, and that Adam and Eve could not have been real people. Not so with Dr. Fazale Rana, Ph.D. in Chemistry, and Dr Hugh Ross, Ph.D. in Astronomy. These two creationists have established a scientific model that supports the existence of Adam and Eve. Fazale (Fuz) Rana, the son of a Muslim scientist, came to believe through is own research that life must have been created. He then read the Bible and entrusted His life to the creator. Before joining Reasons To Believe, Fuz worked for seven years as a Senior Scientist in product development for Procter & Gamble.
Did you realize that the nature of planet earth is in itself powerful evidence for the existence of God? Join us as Dr. Hugh Ross, founder and president of Reasons to Believe, explains how this is so, and how scientists have turned to God in faith because of evidence found around the planet on which we walk every day. Ross has a Ph.D. in astrophysics from the University of Toronto and an undergraduate degree in physics from the University of British Columbia.
What is the most effective way for Christians to explain their Christianity to the secular world? The standard approach has been to quote Scripture and to argue truth propositions. A more effective approach may be summarized by one word: persuasion. The power of persuasion was wrapped into the message of Christ and his disciples, and it punctuated the arguments of great apologists through the ages. Os Guinness, one such apologist, brings fresh insight to help you become a persuasive voice for Christian truth today. Os is a senior fellow at the Oxford Centre for Christian Apologetics in Oxford, England.
Do you know the “10 biggest myths about Christianity”? This, the subtitle of Alex McFarland’s newest book, will help you to understand the Christian faith better, and to explain it to others. Alex is an apologist with a deep interest in Christian worldview and culture. He is co-host of American Family Radio Talk Network’s “Exploring the Word” talk show, and co-host of the “Viral Truth” radio and TV program. He is also the founder of the national apologetics conference “Truth for a New Generation.” | Link
There is a spiritual power that is laying siege over the land, a power of darkness that opposes Christ and His followers. Much like the Jezebel of the Old Testament, this spirit threatens to silence spokespersons for God and to cause spiritual compromise in the people of God. Dr. Michael Brown tells how Christians can bring in the light for their own paths and hope to our country despite such spiritual opposition.
The Real Heaven
Chip Ingram | 3.7.2016
Heaven
Chip Ingram has been thinking much about heaven and has just released the book, “The Real Heaven.” Join us to test your knowledge with his insights — and to be inspired with God’s promises about the life beyond. As a pastor, author, coach and teacher for more than twenty-five years, Chip has helped believers around the world move from spiritual spectatorship to living out God’s truth in their lives and relationships in transformational ways.
In 2005, a team of paleontologists led by Mary Schweitzer discovered 70-million- year-old, fossilized-dinosaur eggs that contained soft tissue. Since that time other such findings have been found, including remnants of dinosaur blood. What do such artifacts tell us about the age of the earth? Might these discoveries be a first step toward “Jurassic Park”-type experimentation in our day? These are some of the questions we will bring to research biochemist Dr. Fazale Rana. Dr. Rana is the vice president of research and apologetics at Reasons to Believe, a science-faith think tank in Covina, California. Rana earned his Ph.D. in Chemistry at Ohio University. He is the author of The Cell’s Design, Creating Life in the Lab, and co-author of Origins of Life: Biblical and Evolutionary Models Face Off with Hugh Ross.
What do you believe to be the ideal form of government? Or is there really an ideal? Might the quality of those who govern be more important than the ideology that shapes the state? Further, might our political ideologies, if held too rigidly, become idolatry? In this interview you will explore these and other important questions through the eyes of David Koyzis, a seasoned professor of political science.
God is everywhere and always with us. So why don’t we experience His presence more? Life is full of distractions, and our 24/7 news cycles and social media drown out the voice of God. It’s hard to discern God’s presence amid the hubbub. But experiencing God is not just for the super-spiritual or ultra-mature. Every Christian can learn to cultivate a greater awareness of God in the everyday. Author, a speaker, and the president of Reflections Ministries, Ken Boa, offers contemporary guidelines to practicing the presence of God.
God is everywhere and always with us. So why don’t we experience His presence more? Life is full of distractions, and our 24/7 news cycles and social media drown out the voice of God. It’s hard to discern God’s presence amid the hubbub. But experiencing God is not just for the super-spiritual or ultra-mature. Every Christian can learn to cultivate a greater awareness of God in the everyday. Ken Boa contemporary guidelines to practicing the presence of God. He is an author, a speaker, and the president of Reflections Ministries.
This final study in Revelation highlights key themes and a closing point of application all wrapped around the word "quickly." Once we grasp the usage and implications of quickly, we will understand the central idea behind the entire prophecy. This simple idea, in fact, upholds the main point of the entire Bible.
Each of us have lived in dwellings of some kind. None of us, however, have experienced a perfect home. The home God is preparing for us will exude perfection in a manner that we cannot fully grasp while in our mortal state--it will be a new type of new. Revelation 21 describes this future reality with words and images that will encourage our faith to build indomitable hope within us.
Careful reflection on the meaning of "The Great White Throne" opens before us the most significant issues of our lives: God's judgment and our eternal destiny. We will ponder the various stages of God's judgment to better understand our accountability before God, what we might expect on the final day, and how to live faithfully for God through the trying experiences of our lives.
The Millennium has become one of the most pivotal issues for interpreting the book of Revelation. If, however, the thousand-year reign of Christ is so important, why is it not even mentioned until near to the end of the book? And why is the word "Millennium" not found anywhere else in the Bible? In Revelation 20, we will discover the importance of the Millennium and will uncover important insights that we can all embrace, regardless of our interpretive methods for understanding end-time events.
Revelation 19 opens with a climatic celebration that fulfills the rich and wondrous promises throughout Scripture of God’s eternal love: the wedding supper of the Lamb. Ushered in by uproarious praise, this final and complete union between Christ and his Bride, the Church, should give every believer a fresh confidence that God loves them and will reward faithfulness in ways we cannot now comprehend or even imagine.
Revelation 17 & 18 focus on the utter destruction of Babylon through graphic and emotive poetry. What is Babylon and why must it be destroyed? More to the point, why are we urged to "come out" from her, and what does that mean? These and other issues relevant to our lives will be explored through Biblical history and personal application.
As modern Christians, we embrace Jesus as the Lamb, but have a difficult time understanding Him as a Lion. When confronted with the Biblical theme of God’s wrath in Revelation 15 & 16, we may find ourselves rushing past the descriptions of His anger and justice that we might get to the celebration at the end of the book. To accept God’s love, however, without embracing the necessity of His justice is to denigrate both. Understood correctly, God’s wrath will motivate us to love and trust God more deeply.
How easily we humans become entrenched in our patterns of thinking. The media rides on the rails of polarization, enforcing our tendencies to react rather than reason, making it increasingly difficult for the average person to look squarely at both sides of an issue. Revelation 14’s description of the 144,000 and of the winepress of God challenges us to see God and the world in a more holistic manner; our either/or mentality is challenged by a both/and God.
Movies and books about the apocalypse highlight “the mark of the beast.” But what is this mark really? Revelation 12 & 13 provide, through pictorial representations, an understanding about “the mark” that is often overlooked. Once we see this deeper meaning, our focus turns to being sealed with “the mark of the Lamb” rather than with “the mark of the beast.”
Revelation 10 & 11 contain four mysteries, that like hidden pictures, are easily missed by the average reader. We will reveal the often-overlooked pictures in this section to highlight four points of application for every believer. Together, these four application points can inspire us to move beyond debate and division that we might unite with fresh resolve, and strengthen our faith.
What could be more unsettling than a Biblical description of the Great Tribulation, a time of world distress of unparalleled proportions? Revelation 8 & 9 and their seven trumpets depict horrific terrors released on earth from the gates of hell. Buried within this passage are profound promises that those who trust in God will be protected.
Revelation 6 and 7 describe six of the seven seals that are opened by God to launch end-time events. In this video, we note the parallels between the seven seals and the Olivet Discourse of Matthew 24. Both passages speak of the birth pains required for this world to give birth to the next. By reflecting on God’s purpose for the coming birth pains, we find reason to trust His sovereign plan.
The world produces several million books each year. But none has ever come close to the importance of the book described in Revelation 5. Produced in scroll format, this tome unlocks the master plan of redemption. By studying this Revelation 5 scroll, we learn how to prepare for our journey from the throne room of God into the difficulties that will face planet earth at the end of the ages.
One of the keys to understanding the book of Revelation is to read it from the right vantage point, which is what Revelation 4 is all about. When we read the book from the perspective of our temporal world, it seems confusing and convoluted. When, however, we view the events described in Revelation from the vantagepoint of the throne of God, they make more sense. Join us to gain a heavenly perspective of God’s plan for planet earth.
One of the strikingly accurate descriptions of the real problems and solutions in the Church that must be understood if we hope to live for God’s glory today is found in Revelation 3. This fourth message in the series, “Understanding Revelation,” brings fresh insights about the Seven Churches in Revelation with a special focus on the church at Laodicea, including specific applications for our lives.
Have you ever thought about why God commands us, above all, to love Him? If so, how seriously do you take this command? In this third part of the series, “Understanding Revelation, we will allow these two questions to prod our thinking that the Spirit of God might search our hearts and help us to reclaim our first love from the opening words in Revelation 2.
Once we understand who Christ is, we are able to engage in what Christ does. This second lesson in the Understanding Revelation series moves us from our Lord’s attributes (last week) into his actions; from his person to His purpose. In Revelation 1:9-20, we are confronted with a unique vision of Christ’s roles as prophet, priest and king, each fulfilled by Him in fulness. These three functions, as well documented by Christian leaders of the past, empower believers today to follow Christ victoriously.
Unveiling Christ is the first lesson in a series titled “Understanding Revelation.” This opening study, from Revelation 1:1-8, shows us how the book of Revelation unveils the person and purpose of Christ in all of His glory, and lays the framework for a greater appreciation of the entire book.
This introduction to the coming 18-week series, “Understanding Revelation,” is designed to give you a blueprint of what is ahead. It is the appetizer before the meal, the teaser designed to help you set apart 30 minutes each week to listen, ponder, and embrace critical teachings from the closing book of the Bible that you might live faithfully in times of trail, right until the end. A discussion guide will be provided with the first of the series next week, along with directions to download the optional video format, all free of charge.