5 Minutes With Pastor Lutzer on Oneplace.com: Recent Episodes
Dr. Erwin W. Lutzer
Pastor Lutzer, from The Moody Church, presents a unique weekly teaching series on the Bible and the Christian life. With over 40 years of ministry, Pastor Lutzer offers seasoned and sound biblical truths that not only instruct but transform as we apply God’s Word together.
If God is so loving, why doesn't He intervene in human suffering? Yet God loves us in ways we do not understand. Pastor Lutzer confronts our expectations of love from Romans 8, giving hope in our suffering. As children of God, we are loved eternally, even as Jesus is loved. This episode was originally published April 22, 2019 as “The Attributes of God | Week 16: Love.”To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/1484/29
What does it mean that God loves the "world"? The love is God is a difficult teaching, especially when we consider His hatred for sin and evil. Pastor Lutzer explores the deeper questions related to John 3:16. Each of us is invited to love God in return and be loved eternally. This episode was originally published April 15, 2019 as “The Attributes of God | Week 15: Love.”To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/1484/29
If we are saved, there is nothing we can do to convince God to love us more or less. The redeemed are loved with the same love as Jesus. Pastor Lutzer ponders the implications for believers because of God's unconditional love. Is such a love fair? This episode was originally published April 8, 2019 as “The Attributes of God | Week 14: Love.”To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/1484/29
Society wants to believe any kind of "love" is God. But the true nature of God's love is actually difficult when we try to reconcile it with what's happening in the world. Pastor Lutzer explores the origin of the love of God to define it biblically. Can we really understand the complex love of God? This episode was originally published April 1, 2019 as “The Attributes of God | Week 13: Love.”To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/1484/29
Many people come to God thinking they deserve something from Him. But all our efforts and achievements do not make us more deserving. Pastor Lutzer reflects on how we can have the unique privilege of accessing God’s throne from the book of Hebrews. Our confidence in approaching God must rest in His character. This episode was originally published March 25, 2019 as “The Attributes of God | Week 12: Merciful.” To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/1484/29
Most Christians believe God provided salvation at the cross but our contribution is to believe. In fact, Jesus was crucified within the providence and the predetermined plan of God. Pastor Lutzer shares insights into how God’s mercy is displayed in our salvation. What does it take for people to be redeemed? This episode was originally published March 18, 2019 as “The Attributes of God | Week 10: Merciful.” To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/1484/29
Many wonder how God's mercy can be compatible with His strong penalties for sin. In the Old Testament and the New, God is never changing in His character—always merciful and longsuffering. Pastor Lutzer explores the hope of God's mercy from Leviticus to Lamentations. Where is God’s mercy in the middle of judgment, despair, or grief? This episode was originally published March 11, 2019 as “The Attributes of God | Week 9: Merciful.” To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/1484/29
None of us will enter heaven unless we’re as perfect as God. The moment we realize we have nothing to offer God is the moment we receive God’s mercy and grace. Pastor Lutzer observes the basis for God’s mercy and the posture of any sinner who receives mercy. What’s the difference between mercy and grace? This episode was originally published February 25, 2019 as “The Attributes of God | Week 9: Merciful.” To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/1484/29
We often depend on our own wisdom, or even the world’s, in making everyday decisions. God’s purposes flow from His wisdom, so we should seek His wisdom. Pastor Lutzer reflects on God’s multi-faceted wisdom to create His church and how we can depend on God’s wisdom in our everyday decisions. Do we consult God’s wisdom? This episode was originally published February 18, 2019 as “The Attributes of God | Week 7: WiseTo support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/1484/29
Though some wear a cross as a pendant around their necks, others see it as a foolish, primitive symbol. How can God's plan for the cross defy the world's wisdom? Pastor Lutzer encourages us by the multifaceted wisdom of God seen in the death of Jesus on the cross. We can learn to love the cross. This episode was originally published February 11, 2019 as “The Attributes of God | Week 6: Wise.”To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/1484/29
We need true wisdom, even in the best of circumstances, to avoid foolish decisions. But can the wisdom of God the Creator turn evil or senseless acts for His good purposes? Pastor Lutzer distinguishes God's infinite wisdom, knowledge, and understanding. We can entrust ourselves into the arms of God. This episode was originally published February 4, 2019 as “The Attributes of God | Week 5: Wise.”To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/1484/29
There is no one like God, completely and morally perfect. God will do whatever it takes to ensure his children are progressing towards holiness. Pastor Lutzer examines 1 Peter 1:15-16, uncovering how we can imitate our heavenly Father. How does God intend to lead us to holiness? This episode was originally published January 28, 2019 as "The Attributes of God | Week 4: Holy."To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/1484/29
In a culture consumed with finding our authentic self, what if we can't face the true depths of our sin? Face-to-face with God, we are undone. Pastor Lutzer shows two reasons God's holiness shows us our sin. In God’s presence, the real us is unmasked. This episode was originally published January 21, 2019 as "The Attributes of God | Week 3: Holy."To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/1484/29
Many of us are stuck in a rut by our sinful behavior. But we can say “no” to sin because of the resources we have in Christ. Pastor Lutzer discusses how we can stand firm in the work Jesus accomplished on our behalf. If we have no obligation to follow the sinful desires of the flesh, what keeps drawing us back to the demands of our old life?
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Any sin we commit usually comes in clusters, with one sin enabled by other kinds of sin. After we’ve fallen, can we get out of the pit of persistent sin? Pastor Lutzer strengthens our resolve against temptation by digging down to find the root cause. In the middle of our mess, let's lift our eyes up in worship.
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Though some believe humanity is capable of morality and self-fulfillment without God, we all still have habitual sins. The Christian life is about the transformation of our character and our habits. Pastor Lutzer defines four aspects of what confession means biblically. What if we are truly changed in God's presence?
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We all want to see character growth and personal change. But when sin enters the picture, we resent God’s ways and plan, rebelling against him. Pastor Lutzer observes that many issues we face today go back to the Garden of Eden, when the goodness of God was questioned. What does it take for our behavior to change?
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We all have conflicting desires about our struggles with temptation. The enemy of our souls wants us to lose the battle against the flesh, giving in to our passions. Pastor Lutzer lays the first brick in a wall against temptation, guiding us to God’s provision for our character development. What is it that we must believe to experience transformation?
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If a follower of Christ backslides, does that mean they no longer belong to God? Like rebellious sheep, we can wander away from the fold. Pastor Lutzer provides three compelling reasons why we can make it home to the Good Shepherd. Belonging to the Lord is the greatest privilege imaginable so let’s listen for His voice.
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Can we know for sure that we are one of Christ’s sheep? While the thief comes to steal, kill, and destroy, the Good Shepherd lays down His life for His own. Pastor Lutzer describes three of Jesus’ purposes as the door to the sheep fold. Imagine what a difference it would make if we lived securely as the object of His love.
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In all the risks and fears we face, we are not alone. When Psalm 23 walks us through the valley of the shadow of death, we are invited to call out directly to the Lord. Pastor Lutzer identifies the Good Shepherd’s resources to guide and comfort the likes of us. Whatever we’re going through, He will bring us home.
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Even God’s people are prone to wander away from Him. How can we come back to the Lord after we’ve gone off the path, doctrinally or even morally? Pastor Lutzer reflects on song lyrics for two kinds of people God can restore. Whatever habits, hurts, or hang-ups you have, let the Good Shepherd restore you to Himself.
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When we lie down in bed, we are often bombarded with our thoughts: world issues, personal accusations, and more. Peace comes for the believer as we meditate on Psalm 23. Pastor Lutzer discusses two questions: Who is the Shepherd and what does He do for us? He’s the One who sees the whole pasture, looking out for us.
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God’s judgment is thorough, fair, and gracious. For Christians, we will stand before our Lord Jesus at the Bema Seat to receive what is due us, not according to our eternal destiny but our faithfulness. Pastor Lutzer explains what each one of us can expect at the Judgment Seat of Christ. Will all Christians hear, “Well done, good and faithful servant”? Originally Published: July 29, 2019
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The Bible’s teaching about hell is difficult to accept—in fact, it’s terrifying. In the final judgment, God is going to hold each one of us responsible. Pastor Lutzer considers why there’s an eternal hell for eternal beings and where we can flee for rescue. Imagine being judged for our sins, of all kinds, before the glorious throne of an infinite God. Originally Published: July 22, 2019
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God gives everyone justice—including Christians. God’s mercy and justice were completely satisfied at the cross, but many people struggle to accept it in their confession of sin. Pastor Lutzer considers the fundamental basis of God’s forgiveness. Would God ever demand a believer to pay the penalty for their sin?
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If all God’s ways are just, what do we make of children who die prematurely? Many wonder how God will rightly judge babies and young children. Pastor Lutzer ponders essential Scriptures on children’s conception, personal accountability, and destiny. As we bring these honest questions to God, we can leave it in His hands.
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Is God fair? In a time when many imagine a more tolerant deity, many wonder how God can rightly judge those who've never heard of Christ. Pastor Lutzer discusses God’s love for justice, found in His revelation throughout creation and within our consciences. God’s justice effects our daily lives and our ultimate destinies.To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/1484/29
Death appeared to have the last word. But when it looked like He was powerless on the cross, Jesus was still in control, willingly giving himself into the Father’s hands. Pastor Lutzer points to the hand of God in Jesus’ example of death and work of redemption. If we are in God’s hands, we never face death the same way again.To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/1484/29
Death appeared to have the last word. But when it looked like He was powerless on the cross, Jesus was still in control, willingly giving himself into the Father’s hands. Pastor Lutzer points to the hand of God in Jesus’ example of death and work of redemption. If we are in God’s hands, we never face death the same way again.To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/1484/29
Pastor Erwin Lutzer says, “All of us are born with an expiration date.” When Jesus breathed his last words, He knew he had completed all the work the Father had given Him to do. Pastor Lutzer proclaims what the finished work of Christ did on our behalf. When we reach our final days, will we have finished what God called us to do?To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/1484/29
All the ways we attempt to quench our thirst for happiness and satisfaction leave us thirsty in the end. At Calvary, the Creator of the oceans and rivers felt thirst. Pastor Lutzer points to Jesus’ humanity and submission to the will of the Father as the weight of sin rested on Him. How long will we thirst before we are truly satisfied?To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/1484/29
Many of us know the pain of abandonment and rejection. Yet Jesus Himself faced the silence of God in a way we cannot fully understand. Pastor Lutzer contemplates the amazing love of God at the most excruciating moment in all of time. How could Jesus’ death in our place accomplish God’s plan of reconciliation?To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/1484/29
All the members of the Trinity were involved in the death of Christ on the cross. When Jesus cried out, “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?,” it revealed a dramatic mystery. Pastor Lutzer reflects on the wonder of the darkness and the question itself. What happened when the Father turned His back on the Son?To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/1484/29
Last words are important, especially from loved ones. When Jesus looked upon His mother, Mary, in compassion He gave instructions about her future. Pastor Lutzer pictures that poignant moment between the Son of God and the mother of Jesus. What if our proximity to the cross clarified our God-given assignment?To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/1484/29
When we face death, and we all will, we want to be assured that we’ve placed our confidence in something durable. Jesus was crucified between two thieves, one who cursed Him and one who cried out for help. Pastor Lutzer reflects on the nature of Jesus’ promises to this man in the last hours of his life. Did the thief doubt that Jesus’ promise would be made good?To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/1484/29
Jesus’ executioners didn’t know the enormity of their crime against Him. But Jesus offered up a prayer of forgiveness for them to the Father. Pastor Lutzer discusses the extent to which Jesus’ prayer was answered. Since Jesus didn’t revile in return, how should we forgive those who commit outrageous sins against us?To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/1484/29
Some people believe there are many ways to God. The cross stands alone because of the One who died on it. Pastor Lutzer points to three new realities because of Jesus’ death on the cross: our standing before God, our personal value, and our worship. Throughout all of eternity, we will be reminded of the cross.To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/1484/29
In today’s culture, we are often tempted to choose between our personal pleasure and holiness. Has God changed His holy nature to become more approachable? Pastor Lutzer reflects on holiness throughout Scripture. Imagine the difference Christians would make in our world if we had a fresh vision of God.To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/1484/29
America is on a disastrous search for a more inclusive deity. The downward slide of culture into immorality begins when we turn our back against God. Pastor Lutzer shares one of the most important messages ever preached on a most difficult doctrine. If we want a truly balanced view of God, how are we accounting for the wrath of God?To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/1484/29
Many today avoid the question of whether truth is universal. We live in an age where everyone has a view of “truthiness”—we all believe in our own truth. Pastor Lutzer reflects on his interactions with many world religions, listing three characteristics of exclusive truth. On what basis do Christians know and find truth?To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/1484/29
Many evolutionists avoid the possibility of God’s existence. Though Charles Darwin did not necessarily deny God’s existence, his theory of evolution has affected many peoples’ view of God. Pastor Lutzer suggests two negative implications if we deny the Creator. If life came from a single organism, what reason do we have for morality?To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/1484/29
Is God more gracious in the New Testament than the Old? Some would say God has changed since we live in a new era, no longer under the law. Pastor Lutzer distinguishes three changes from the Hebrew Testament to the New Testament. Even today, we must turn to Jesus—the One who saves us from the wrath to come.To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/1484/29
Some might perceive God’s wrath on entire people groups, or specific sin, as an overreach of His justice. How does God’s anger at sin pair with His mercy? Pastor Lutzer expounds on many examples in the Old Testament of God’s consistent character and promises. Because God hates sin, we must take Him seriously.To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/1484/29
The God of the Old Testament seems too harsh for our sensibilities today. Critiques against God’s intolerable actions come from both atheists and self-identified evangelicals. Pastor Lutzer examines three terrible events in the Hebrew Scriptures which reveal God’s true character. Is the God of the Old and New Testaments fair and just?To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/1484/29
In a world that’s lost its way, we long to be rooted. While many religions point out their shared ground, the Scriptures reveal the everlasting God, who existed from all eternity. Pastor Lutzer emphasizes the unchanging nature of God, in whom our faith is firmly planted. If God doesn’t change, is He still relevant for today?To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/1484/29
We live in an idolatrous culture, fashioning gods within our own minds. What do the idols we create reveal about the state of our hearts? Pastor Lutzer identifies two deceptive idols which allow us to live the way we want, without restrictions. Anything that takes the place of God is an idol, however prevalent in the culture.To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/1484/29
No one knows what God looks like, but many people prefer to follow a god they can accept. What happens when we reimagine God to be safer or more manageable? Pastor Lutzer warns against treating God trivially. If we worship a god who never disagrees with us, we are turning away from the only worthy One.To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/1484/29
The ideas of philosopher Friedrich Nietzsche are pervasive throughout our culture. While critics of Christianity say, “God is dead,” history tells the tale of a diminishing view of God. Pastor Lutzer draws our eyes upward to God’s incomparable power. As the West turns its back on God, where does this leave North American culture?To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/1484/29
God is over the nations of the world, but people still rebel against Him, especially His revelation in Scripture. Today’s culture would like God to be more inclusive and progressive. Pastor Lutzer expresses how our view of God is what’s most important about us. What happens when God Himself is eclipsed in our culture?To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/1484/29
The division in our world, or even family, can be overwhelming. But we cannot lose our focus on the Lord. Pastor Lutzer consecrates the start of each year with a word that brings focus to what really matters. As you open your life before God, seeking His wisdom and guidance, what’s your word for this year?To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/1484/29
There is no neutrality with Jesus. We mustn’t wait until it’s too late to make the choice we all face—whatever our religion or background. Pastor Lutzer highlights what distinguishes Jesus, the baby born in a lowly manger, from all other world religions. Who will be among those who ultimately bow down before Him?To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/1484/29
How do we respond when our rights are repressed, or we’re mistreated? Jesus’ own birth in a humble manger offers a resounding example of giving up one’s rights for others. Pastor Lutzer notices Jesus’ unique posture towards His divine attributes. This innocent, vulnerable baby was on an unstoppable mission—for us.To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/1484/29
We all wonder what it will be like to die. The martyr, Stephen, embodied the Christian hope as he was welcomed by Jesus into heaven. Pastor Lutzer ponders God’s will in death, as we commit our souls to the Lord. Although we can’t know how our death will take place, can we know with certainty that we are in God’s hands?To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/1484/29
Death is not the way it was supposed to be. Yet at death’s door, the first Christian martyr, Stephen, gave us a glimpse into the heavenly realm. Pastor Lutzer contemplates seeing God’s unfathomable glory, both in this life and the next. Could it be that death, and even the sorrow it brings, helps us see what life’s all about?To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/1484/29
Everyone will die but no one knows when or how their time will come. Is there more to death than meets the eye? Pastor Lutzer indicates three truths from the death of the first Christian martyr, Stephen. Whether grieving a sudden loss or considering our own death, Christians possess an enduring assurance.To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/1484/29
Christians have always been an island of righteousness in a sea of paganism. Amid today’s cultural pressure points, we must rethink our view of suffering for the sake of Christ. Pastor Lutzer offers three incentives for Christians to suffer well. What if Christians don’t have a sympathetic government or the freedom to worship?To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/1484/29
The COVID-19 pandemic has changed globalism as we know it. Christians face issues related to national borders, citizenship, cryptocurrency, contact tracing, and more. Pastor Lutzer perceives six marks of increasing globalism which correspond to the end times. No matter our future, Christians have a blessed hope.To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/1484/29
Children are a parent’s most precious possession. As our culture collapses in moral destruction, how will we pass the baton to the next generation? Pastor Lutzer examines the relationship between the education system and parental responsibility. God is going to hold us responsible for how we raise our children.To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/1484/29
Self-perception alone is not a reliable guide for who we are. How can Christians balance civic involvement as well as extending love to those who identify as transgender? Pastor Lutzer distinguishes listening well from confusing reality. If Christians do not speak about these issues, all that is left is the secular morality of the state.To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/1484/29
Our world is filled with conflict and biased voices. We’re inundated with information through the 24-hour news cycle and our podcasts. Pastor Lutzer conveys the effect today’s speech codes are having on public discourse, particularly in universities. With all the ways words are used and misused, how do we peel back the labels?To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/1484/29
Our nation is not only divided but also often vilified for acquiring land immorally from native peoples. What can we learn from our history of war and atrocities without falling into the pitfalls of collective guilt? Pastor Lutzer shares from his heart, offering a bold prayer for our nation. Imagine the difference Christians can make as active citizens, living for our eternal home.To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/1484/29
These days, truth is often defined by what’s within us instead of what’s objectively outside of us. Relative truth results in critical theories which interpret academics and documents, even the Bible, from a lens of oppression and power. Pastor Lutzer addresses the need for an ultimate standard for objective truth. Can we know the meaning of truth in a day of misinformation and propaganda?To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/1484/29