The Living Youth Podcast: Recent Episodes
Wallace Smith & John Robinson
The Living Youth Podcast helps teens and young adults think biblically about culture and current events. It’s hosted by Wallace Smith and John Robinson.
All available evidence says that many under 30 are suffering a life-damaging crisis of meaning and purpose. What factors and forces are behind this trend, and how can biblical thinking make a difference? Beginning in this episode and concluding in the next, we'll take a look at this crisis and consider both its causes and its solutions.
If it hasn't happened to you, it will! What do you say when someone asks what denomination you are? How do you keep it simple and answer the question while also being clear about what matters? Today, we enjoy the company of guest Mr. Everett McNair, who covered the topic extremely well in a recent sermonette. We hope you'll join us!
What does the Bible say about what took place before man began writing anything down—the history of all of existence? Quite a lot, actually! Join us today, along with guest Phil Sena, as we take a look at prehistory according to the Bible. And the free resource mentioned today can be found here: https://www.tomorrowsworld.org/booklets/evolution-and-creation-what-both-sides-miss
Fiction can be fun to read or watch, but you have to keep your biblical brain engaged—not just in what you choose to consume but as you consume it. Today we talk about that and dive into the recent movie Supergirl to discuss how it might illustrate what we're talking about.
Pew Research surveyed Americans concerning their moral stances, and while the nation's moral slide continues, there are some interesting, quirky details in the results. Join us as we take a look at the findings with our biblical thinking hats on.
What's the point of Bible prophecy? It can seem strange, intimidating, or even unnecessary. But prophecy is a vital part of the Bible—and of the faith. And on this week's episode, we talk about why. (Also, for everyone on their way to the LYP camp in Texas, we are praying you have a wonderful time!)
A psychotherapist recently warned about how therapy seems to have shifted away from encouraging people to grow and overcome, emphasizing instead validation, externalizing problems, and pathologizing many ordinary struggles, and the same trend can be seen in the culture at large, outside of the therapy room. As usual, the Bible gives us vital principles we need to keep in mind to think clearly in a society going awry.
The idea of a vague "heaven" waiting at the end of a life in which God places few real obligations on you is demotivating when compared to the reality. On today's episode, we chat about the difference.
Sci-Fi "buddy movie" with Ryan Gosling and an alien friend, what's not to love? "Project Hail Mary" was very popular, but what thoughts or meditations does it spark if we're willing to think biblically? Today, we explore just that question.
A recent visit to El Salvador (thank you to all who were there!) and the changes President Nayib Bukele has made there has us musing about the Millennial reign of Jesus Christ and what is possible—and impossible—in this world without Him. Join the conversation!
A poll recently showed that many young adults wished they lived in the past—not the distant past, but often just the 1980s or 1990s. What is driving those feelings? And how do we respond biblically when we feel the pull ourselves? Let's talk about it.
“The Holy Spirit is the difference maker.” So said special guest Mr. Phil Sena on this episode of the podcast! With Pentecost right around the corner, join us as we discuss the differences God's Spirit makes in your life.
Not much time today! But all the more since we will both miss next week, we thought we'd sit down with you and give you a super-quick update on the Council of Elders meeting that just took place (with a tip of the hat to very old Episode 18!). Please pray for all the men and their wives who will be traveling home!
On May 4, 2026, the White House published a "National Sabbath" proclamation from U.S. President Donald Trump. Was this an egregious violation of the separation of church and state? A wholehearted embrace of the biblical Sabbath? Or something else? It caught the attention of a lot of Sabbath-keepers (like us), so let's take a closer look.
It struck us recently that we are living in momentous times—in terms of technology, current events, and prophetic fulfillment. So today, we touch on just a few of the many reasons why it is quite a time to be alive!
Faith is often misunderstood and, to be sure, is a concept rich with meaning. It helps to break it down into simpler ideas that, while having their own profound depths, are perhaps easier to grasp—and to understand how to grow in. Join us today as we discuss a simple take on faith and what it means to have it (or not).
Every book, movie, or miniseries we consume presents an opportunity to practice biblical thinking. So do our conversations later with others about it. So, we practice that today, ourselves, by looking at some of Jane Austen's works—favorites of some of our listeners—and discuss biblical principles they might prompt us to consider.
At some point in the lives of young adults, dates begin to narrow from showing someone a nice time or enjoying a social activity with a friend to "OK, which of these folks are husband or wife material?" (Or, equally important, "Am I husband or wife material?") On today's episode, we take a listener question and apply some biblical thinking to the question of "red flags" and "green flags" concerning the sort of people we should be looking for—and striving to be—as the possibilities of marriage open up.
We know it's a weird title, but bear with us for a bit... Lift the hood (or bonnet for some of our non-U.S. friends) on A.I. and you see some strange things. But some of those strange things can teach us a lot about our own battle with human nature and about what God is trying to achieve in our lives. Join us today as we look at just one fascinating (if a little terrifying) example.
In God's Festivals, the spring Holy Days are a time of self-examination. While we might hear the admonition to examine ourselves fairly frequently, how do you go about doing that? Are there any "boots on the ground," practical approaches? Yes, there are. Today, we share seven approaches you can use, not just during this Festival season, but any time.
Passover is a little more than a week away! As the first of God's annual festivals and the one picturing Jesus Christ's sacrifice for us, it has much to teach us. Join us today as we discuss five lessons we learn from this momentous day.
Depending on the news outlet you listen to, the U.S.-Israel war against Iran is either extremely successful or doomed to failure. But while pundits and newscasters throw out analysis and predictions, we need to ask ourselves: How do we think biblically about the situation and see God's perspective? Join us as we talk about that! (Bonus points to listeners who catch our suggestion that Europe would be wise to learn from Batman in this situation.)
In this episode, we mention Mr. Mario Hernandez' excellent January-February 2024 Tomorrow's World article, "The True Cause of Trouble in the Middle East!" highlighting the Persia/Edom/Amalek dynamic that so many just don't understand. If you want to immediately understand more than the talking heads on the news, click through and read it. Here's the URL: https://www.tomorrowsworld.org/magazines/2024/january-february/the-true-cause-of-trouble-in-the-middle-east
Are they just letters to seven first-century congregations, containing general advice that applies to all of us, or are they all of that and more? In fact, the letters to the seven churches of Revelation 2 & 3 are indeed more: They represent prophesied, successive eras of the Church of God over two millennia, from the first century to end-times. On today's podcast, we'll look at some of the evidence.
Tattoos and body piercings seem to be on their way to becoming the norm in society. How do we think biblically about such things? What are the right questions to ask ourselves?
Sitting here in a car with Messrs. DeSimone and West, coming back from the Religious Broadcasters Convention, it hit us that some of the things we heard and experienced this week prompted some very particular thoughts concerning the teens and young adults in the Church (and those who love them). So, if you'll put up with a little recorded-on-the-phone-and-in-the-car audio, it's our pleasure to share those thoughts with you!
The Living Church of God's Men's Training Camp weekends are phenomenal opportunities for men to come together and grow as Christians. Seen properly, they benefit not just the men who attend, but all of us. On today's podcast, Mr. Jonathan McNair, the Director of Living Education, stops by to discuss the goals and purposes of these programs and to give us a sense of what they are like.
Received a question from a young listener about what it means to be Philadelphian or Laodicean and how that relates to us individually as a part of the Church of God. So, we crack open your Bibles with us and let's look at the answer!
As the world descends into angry, hateful collections of people, it will be easier than we might think to join in. But blessed are the peacemakers! We are to represent a coming kingdom of peacemakers, which means we need to learn how to make peace in the small, personal worlds we've each been given. Today, we discuss being a peacemaker and offer three pieces of biblical advice for becoming one.
There is an ongoing effort—from big corporations and governments to social movements and influencers—to draft your mind to help with their causes. Many of us sign right up without realizing it. Maybe you have, too. But God desires you to be part of a different cause. Stop signing up for theirs and stay focused on His. On today's podcast, we talk about principles to help keep us focused.
Today, January 16, 2026, marks 40 years since the death of Mr. Herbert W. Armstrong. On this episode of the podcast, we look with gratitude at only a small handful of the precious truths he was used by God to restore to the Body of Christ.
With Mr. Mark Sandor still in the studio, we lean on him for some historical insight into what took place between the Old and New Testaments, which adds a lot of helpful context for what we read concerning the first-century beginnings of the Church. Enjoy!
Today, Mr. Phil Sena joins us again to discuss steps teens and young adults can take to embrace the fact that the Church of God is not just their parents' church, but theirs as well. Join us!
Mr. Mark Sandor is in town for the big family weekend, so we decided to take advantage of his presence and address some questions sent in by our wonderful listeners. On this episode, we have questions about who can keep the Passover, when to counsel for baptism, avoiding worldly attitudes about dating, and being open with God in prayer. We hope you'll join us!
If we're willing to step out in faith and observe the Bible's holy days—the feasts of God listed in its pages and kept by the first-century Church—instead of the counterfeit days proffered to us by counterfeit Christianity, we find there are many blessings that become ours. In this episode we discuss five blessings we hope you won't take for granted. Join us!
It might seem paradoxical, but it's a fact: Christians don't celebrate Christmas. And they don't because Jesus would not want them to. If following Christ means anything to you at all, then listen in this week to learn what everyone needs to understand this time of year.
Many know they should be studying their Bible, but it can feel intimidating. But don't let doubt (or the devil) stop you! You can do it! Join us today as we give you six approaches to getting over the hump and getting started in your Bible study.
Today, Mr. Phil Sena stops by, and we talk about the vital importance of taking personal responsibility—especially in a world that is passionately teaching us to invest more in blaming others or characterizing ourselves as victims. Join us as we open our Bibles and see what God has to say on the topic.
It's easy to think that we can be one way when we're alone and another in public, or to buy into the idea that one's private, personal choices are not in any way anyone else's business, because one has nothing to do with the other. But, in reality, the inside always impacts the outside, and individual choices do have societal ramifications. Let's apply some biblical thinking to the question.
With Thanksgiving coming up here in the U.S.—and thankfulness important any time—we thought it a good time to meditate on the very real dangers of ingratitude. Join us as we examine six biblical examples and the lessons we can learn from them.
A fascinating study on how "brain rot" content devastates the capabilities of A.I. models points us to frightening conclusions about its effects on us and our children—causing potentially permanent damage. Join us on the program today as we talk about what scientists are learning and what God teaches, and let's think biblically about brain rot—while we can still think!
Sometimes the most obvious conclusions are the right ones! Halloween seems obviously heathen-ish, doesn't it? Still, some claim it is actually Christian in origin or otherwise a good thing and that those who claim it is evil in nature are naïve simpletons, unable to appreciate subtlety. Don't be fooled! What does God think about Halloween? When you think biblically, the right answer is, thankfully, very clear and, yes, abundantly obvious. Join us as we talk about it!
We each had an amazing Feast of Tabernacles this year, but the Feast isn't really about what you experience, but what you learn and take away. Today, we each talk about lessons we learned this year that we want to keep in mind as we move forward.
There are so many beautiful passages in God's word describing the coming reign of Jesus Christ and His saints. Today, we review some of our favorites while looking forward to the Feast of Tabernacles, only a few days away! Have a wonderful Feast, everyone!
With the Day of Atonement only a few days away, we have the coming banishment of Satan from the world for a thousand years on our minds today. Join us today as we chat about a few of the devil's favorite snares and traps. Forewarned is forearmed!
With the Feast of Trumpets just around the corner, we have the end-times on our minds. Today, we thought we'd take a different angle and discuss various ways you should NOT prepare for the end of the age—then, wrap things up with a very important way you should.
The public murder of Charlie Kirk in Utah has grabbed the attention of the world. Sadly, it is only the latest example of a growing tendency toward political violence in the United States. What is going on? And how can we avoid getting caught up in worldly, carnal takes and think about these things biblically? Join us as we talk about it.
Today, Mr. Adam West joins us in the studio (a.k.a. Mr. Robinson's office). He was relocated here a few months ago to assist with the work at HQ, and you have already seen him in a few sermons on the Living Church of God YouTube channel. He kindly agreed to sit down with us a bit so you could get to know him a little better. So, sit down with us!
We are asked often why we believe the United States, the United Kingdom, and many other nations are tribes of ancient Israel and why many prophecies about Israel apply to them. And there are very good biblical reasons. Today, we preview an article coming out in the September-October Tomorrow's World magazine and take a look at some of those reasons.
That might seem like terrible advice, but sometimes, it is exactly the advice you need—even when it comes to prayer, Bible study, and other disciplines of life in Christ. Join us today as we explain.
Messrs. Gerald Weston and Jonathan McNair join us to respond to a listener's question about the history of the Church's youth camps, and we take the opportunity to discuss the benefits of Living Education as a new year kicks off!
Peer pressure can be a challenge at any age, but especially so when we're young. Today, we take a look at four different things you can do to push back against peer pressure and do the right thing.
Some listeners had some interesting questions about Jesus Christ and His sacrifice. Today, we answer them!
Jesus has probably been lied about more than any other historical figure. Today, we take a look at just five of those lies, both large and small, and contrast them with the Bible truth.
Today, we take a brief look at a beautiful truth that King David felt was simply too wonderful for him—beyond his reach to fully grasp and appreciate. If we reflect on it, we can begin to see where he was coming from and benefit from the perspective it provides.
The word "antichrist" has come to be genericized to mean "super-evil dude." Even when treating the topic seriously, many are confused about what "antichrist" even means. Yet in the years ahead, recognizing the very real, prophesied individual will become very important! The topic doesn't have to be intimidating. Join us as we talk about seven specific characteristics the Bible says you can look for in identifying the final antichrist.
Well, it's Fourth of July weekend here in the United States, when America celebrates its independence. With that in mind, it seemed fitting to address a question that comes up from time to time: Is patriotism biblical? Are loving one's country and being a Christian compatible? Join us as we talk about it!
We stumbled on two great quotes about marriage that really seemed to get things right and thought they'd be worth sharing. Join us as we apply some biblical thinking to that most foundational of human institutions.
Many are talking about religious revival, and a lot of people are mentioning Jesus. But just who are they talking about? Don't be deceived! Join us this week as we talk about it.
As Israel attacks Iran and the news analysts go into overdrive, the Bible provides key principles that give insight about the current moment and what is prophesied to lie ahead. Don't cram today's news into the Bible—instead, let the Bible reveal the meaning behind today's news. Join us on the podcast as we talk about today's attack by Israel on Iran's leadership and nuclear capacities.
God's word encourages us to watch world events, yet it's easy to do so in an unhealthy way or in a way that fails to make the prophetic connections. Today, we talk about how to keep your head on straight and think biblically while keeping an eye on world affairs.
As helpful as digital Bibles can be, there are real blessings and benefits to spending time with physical, tangible, good ol' paper Bibles. Here's why you should put down the Bible app, close the laptop, and "go analog" more often with your Bible reading and study.
Is humanity at peak self-centeredness? Possibly! But the antidote is to recognize the vital truth that you don't belong to you. Let's talk about it.
The claims were bold: Extinct species—resurrected! Thanks to genetic engineering, huge, white, fluffy dire wolves are again among us. Or are they? In the podcast this week, we look at the claims, look at the facts, and look at the Bible for guidance in how to think of it all. Join us!
For this week's podcast we had the privilege of sitting down with Evangelist Dr. Douglas Winnail to talk about his growing up, how he became involved in education and health, and what drew him to the truth. Sit down with us and get to know Dr. Winnail!
The headlines recently trumpeted possible signs of alien life on Planet K2-18b. How would we know? What did we find? And how do we think biblically about such claims? We'll answer those questions on today's podcast. Join us!
The death of Pope Francis brings attention to divisions in the Roman Catholic Church—divisions which students of Bible prophecy would do well to watch. Join us today as we talk about why.
This week, we revisit a classic episode, asking the question, Why is there a second holy day at the end of the Days of Unleavened Bread? We'll jump back in anew at the very end for a closing thought, but we know many of you are new listeners to the podcast, and we hope you enjoy this episode from much earlier in the podcast's history! And we hope, as well, that you have an edifying and uplifting wrap-up to the Days of Unleavened Bread this weekend.
The Spring Holy Days represent an opportunity for self-examination, and in this week's podcast, we look at three different ways sin is defined in Scripture, each expanding on the others. We hope you find it helpful and that your Passover and Days of Unleavened Bread are rich and meaningful.
As the Passover season approaches, in today's episode we reflect on one woman's example that has been told and retold for 2,000 years, just as Jesus prophesied it would be. Her sacrifice of an alabaster flask of oil holds many lessons for us.
A good friend and real-life rocket scientist dropped by our studio, and we interviewed him about his experience with NASA, "flat earth" ideas, the intersection of science and faith, being Christian in modern academic environments, and more. What a treat! Our thanks to him for taking the time. Listen and learn!
The world has completely ruined dating to the point that even the meaning of the word "date" has been lost. This week, we discuss some principles behind dating to help make it the wonderful part of life it really can be when we are willing to think biblically.
Mr. Phil Sena showed up this week with his own idea for the podcast—completely taking it over and turning the tables by interviewing us. So, sit back and learn a little bit about what it's like working on the Church's publications in the effort to preach the Gospel to the world.
Bible prophecies that the Church of God has spoken about for generations, even in the face of mockery, seem to be coming alive right before our eyes these days. And they are good examples of how prophecy doesn't need to be complicated. Having a basic understanding of the arc of prophecy can help you put the news into a biblical context and provide insights available no other way.
It's not just giving a sermon once a week! Today we welcome our own pastor to the studio, Mr. John Strain, and ask him to help all of us understand some of what it's like being a pastor in the field.
God wants us to obey His commands even when it is difficult to do so. And, in a broken world, even the Fifth Commandment—to honor our father and mother—can feel like a real challenge. Today, we discuss some of those challenges and how to approach them.
If life seems good, we might be tempted to think we'd like Christ's return to come later instead of ASAP, maybe after we've "lived" a little more. But with a little perspective, it becomes clear: We have every reason to pray with sincere conviction, "Your kingdom come!" Join us as we talk about it.
It's easy to think of Jesus Christ's commission to do the Work of God and reach the world with the truth as something other people do. But it isn't! It's something you and I—and everyone in God's Church—play a role in. So today we discuss seven very real ways you can help with God's Work, ways you can begin doing today!
If you did not believe that the Bible was the inspired word of God, would you still have cause to believe in Jesus' resurrection? It was a real question for the Gentiles to whom Paul preached, who were unfamiliar with the Bible, and it's a real question for many today. But if we are open to the evidence, it points to one conclusion above all others. Join us on the podcast today as we look at that evidence and ask the question, Did Jesus rise?
As mainstream, mainline "Christianity" becomes popular again, it is important to be fortified with the truth—including the fact that the heresies that came to dominate nominal Christianity began long ago in the days of the Apostles themselves. Listen in as we look at what the Bible has to say about it.
In the earliest and most formative years of our lives, our parents are our closest neighbors. Yet, if we're not careful, the time will slip away and we will find we missed out on opportunities to really know them. Invest in that relationship early: Make an effort to get to know your parents.
In this episode, we pull the curtains back on the Tomorrow's World Whiteboard videos! So many of you have said you enjoy them (thank you!), so today we take a look with Mr. Mike DeSimone, the voice and creative director of the programs, at what goes into the making of them and what biblical thinking lies behind this interesting approach to spreading God's truth.
Today, we chat with Mr. Mike DeSimone and tap into his practical and biblical wisdom on the matter of finding, landing, and excelling at a job.
This time of year, we often get queried by friends and families alike about Christmas. How do you answer such questions? Let's talk about it!
Serving others—in our family, in our congregation, and beyond—is at the very center of God's purpose for our lives. Today we talk about the vital need we all have to grow a heart oriented toward service, willing to answer God's call with a "Here am I, send me!"
Artificial Intelligence is growing in its abilities and impact. What are a few areas where it might have prophetic impact? Today, we discuss three.
It's popular. It's trending. It promises a good message about the importance of character over social status, not judging based on appearances, and being concerned about the oppressed. But looking more broadly, the musical Wicked is part of a larger trend that illustrates how a warning found in Isaiah 5 applies very powerfully to our time today.
Today, in town for Thanksgiving, Friend of the Podcast Phil Sena joins us to discuss why taking the time to give thanks is important.
We took advantage of the recent Council of Elders meetings to grab Mr. Peter Nathan to join us in the podcast studio for an update on the brethren and the Work in Africa. Join us and listen in!
Passions are still pretty high in many places about the recent U.S. Presidential election and the aftermath. And when passions are high, thinking biblically is the best way to keep your head on straight. So, as promised last time, this week we talk about it. Let us know what you think in the comments!
We're back! In this last episode of this season, we briefly reflect on some experiences this past Feast of Tabernacles and encourage you to do the same. Hope you had a great one!
This week, a listener request... As the two of us gear up to travel out of the country to serve at Feast of Tabernacles observances, we have Christ's millennial reign on the brain! Today, we discuss five things that we are looking forward to about that reign. We hope this will inspire your own discussions as you head to your own Feast sites around the world! (For our first discussion, check out Episode 71.)
While the seven trumpets of the Day of the Lord are still ahead of us, can we hear them now? Do our lives reflect our belief that they really will sound? In this week's episode, we discuss how the knowledge of what lies ahead should affect our lives today.
Regrettably, our office (with our equipment) is closed today due to Tropical Storm Helene, so we do not have a podcast this week. Still, we pray that you have an edifying Sabbath this weekend and a meaningful start to the Fall Festivals with the Feast of Trumpets next week.
There's a growing number of celebrities converting to professing Christianity, Catholicism in particular. It might be someone we couldn't care less about, or it might be someone we've long looked up to. What should we keep in mind when a popular public figure "converts"?
Today, we fulfill a desire we've long had for the podcast and sit down with Evangelist Mr. Mario Hernandez to get to know the story of his youth, how he came into the truth and the Church, and his advice for teens and young adults. Join us!
The old saying "You are what you eat" applies to more than physical food. Your entertainment feeds your mind and heart and has a powerful and unavoidable impact on who you will become. So, choose well!
It's easy to get offended—frankly, it's become the default status of our culture. However, the ability to avoid being offended is a vital skill for developing real, Christ-honoring relationships of substance, and the Bible has guidance, perspective, and advice for young people seeking to develop that skill. It takes effort and practice, but it's worth it!
With astonishing recent advances in science and technology, playing God is becoming dangerously easy. But, in a way, doesn't God want us to do that? Let's talk about it!
Prophecy is weird! But it really is important, and God uses it for good reason. Join us today as we talk about why God uses prophecy, some reasons why He doesn’t, why you don’t need to be intimidated by it, and how to start understanding it yourself.
Today, we revisit an older podcast episode most of you haven't heard—the fourth one we ever did! We hope you'll forgive the old sound quality a bit (we were growing!) and welcome Mr. Mark Sandor as our guest, as he talks with us about thinking clearly and biblically about history.
Well, the opening celebrations of the 2024 Summer Olympics in France were a display of many things not worth celebrating. It bothered some, while others were bothered for very different reasons. Let's put on our biblical thinking caps and talk about it!
Some Bible passages stand out to us and help us keep a larger picture in mind. When you find those, hold on to them! Today on the podcast, we discuss a few of ours.
The near-miss assassination attempt on Mr. Donald Trump could have been a national tragedy. In moments like this, it is vital to think biblically and not just emotionally. Today, we meditate together on some important principles that should come to mind in a moment like this one.
Today, we sit down with our guest, Mr. Phil Sena, and share some memories about Mr. Richard Ames, a faithful servant of God, and reflect on his life and legacy.
Why don't we get involved in politics? As the world around us falls apart, it can be increasingly tempting to follow the crowds into the voting booth. But it isn't God's way, and with thanks to a listener who asked us about this question, today we discuss why. Please join us!
In this episode, we discuss the timeless wisdom and plain old good advice that Leviticus 19:32 offers when it tells us to rise before the grayheaded. Obeying the command to honor our elderly brings a lot of benefits, not just to them but to us. Listen in and learn why!
You might wonder if it's your imagination, but it's not: Disney, broadly considered the premier producer of children's entertainment and media, is actively pressing queer theory and gender ideology on their viewers. Today, we talk about Disney's not-that-secret agenda and share some biblical thoughts about the implications for our times and the choices we should make about the media we consume.
With Pentecost right around the corner, today we zoom in on 2 Timothy 1:7 to see what it says about God's Spirit and the courage, power, love, and sound-mindedness it enables in our lives. Whether you are already baptized or baptism is yet in your future, understanding what it means to have God's Spirit is vital, and we hope this episode helps to get you started in the right direction.
A question asked by Mr. Robinson's daughter years ago turned into a sermonette, then a Bible study, then a pre-teen camp Christian Living class, and now a Tomorrow's World article that you will see in the July-August 2024 issue in a few weeks! Today we chat with him about that question: Why aren't we normal? We hope you'll join us.
When 28-year-old Kansas City Chiefs kicker Harrison Butker recently gave a commencement address to Benedictine College graduates, he kicked off a firestorm of controversy. But biblically discerning listeners will note a mix of great values and great inaccuracies in his speech—and, believe it or not, potentially prophetic relevance. Join us as we break it down!
Welcome to our 100th episode! We have a treat this week for the occasion. The world around us might look grim, and with an eye on Bible prophecy, we know what to expect. But should we look at the gathering storm and let it get us down, or do we accept the challenge and prepare to rise above the clouds? Special guest Mr. Gerald Weston stops by and offers us some grounded, hopeful advice!
As protests related to the war in Gaza continue on many college campuses, it's important that we think clearly about them. What's going on with these protests? What are they achieving, if anything? And what do we do, as followers of Jesus Christ, when confronted with heartbreaking images in our news feeds? Join us today as we ask and answer important questions about the protests.
This week we talk with Mr. Phil Sena, friend of the podcast, and address a listener's question about keeping the Sabbath. We hope you enjoy it and that your next Sabbath is all the more delightful for what you hear!
Society does not sufficiently appreciate wives and mothers, constantly pressing women to seek satisfaction in other roles. In this week's episode, we respond to a young listener's request and discuss how women reflect their Creator in those roles He designed for them to fulfill.
What is the difference between Passover and the Night to Be Much Observed? Good question! In this episode, we take a look and recommend a great article by the late John Ogwyn on the topic for your Spring Holy Day preparations.
The total solar eclipse last week was quite a sight to behold! This week, we discuss the eclipse and some of the biblically oriented thoughts that might come to us in moments like these, when the heavens declare God's glory a little more loudly than usual. Join us!
Today, we invite Mr. Rod McNair to join us in answering a listener's question: What does it mean to love and respect other people? Do love and respect depend on other people's actions? Or are they unconditional? Join us!
Today, we take a page from one of our Season 1 episodes and take turns talking about things we know now that we wish we'd known when we were teens and young adults. Listen and learn!
Science fiction is still popular, as recent box-office results illustrate. But indulging in fiction of any sort requires us to keep our biblical worldview in place and our biblically thinking brains engaged, with sci-fi, as a genre, presenting some special challenges in this regard. Today, we talk about that and hope you'll join us!
This week we tackle a collection of short questions from listeners: Why are Sabbath services structured the way they are? How do we relate to people outside the Church? And how do we discern God's will? We hope to do more Q&A Potpourri episodes in the future, so let us know what you think!
The Alabama Supreme Court decision in February 2024, declaring embryos created for purposes of in-vitro fertilization (IVF) to be children has generated shockwaves in the political realm and is exposing just how much what is right or wrong is grounded in little more than emotion and what our hearts tell us. But how will we think about such things if we are biblically minded? Listen and find out.
It's the beginning of a new month—a great time to begin reading a chapter of Proverbs every day! Today we discuss four proverbs that have had an impact on both of us, in the hopes we can inspire you to give it a shot.
An atheist confesses that her conviction God does not exist is grounded in her blind faith decision when she was six years old. But what she has to say should prompt us to explore the relationship between faith and evidence—something she gets wrong, as do so many others. Let's explore the topic together.
A biblical view of marriage recently appeared in the Wall Street Journal* recently, and it's worth spending time with. This week, we examine the soulmate myth and explain the better alternative for thinking about marriage.
- We accidentally call it the New York Times in the podcast. So sorry! We'll try to mention a correction in the next episode!
Your friends will have a powerful impact and influence on you. In this week's episode, we look at some biblical passages that can help us understand how to choose our friends wisely.
This week, we look at how to think biblically about conspiracy theories. In these days of information overload, ideas are thrown at us from all angles—and whether they are true or false, the principles we apply when confronted by them are always the same.
On today's podcast, we get to know Mr. Stuart Wachowicz, Regional Director of the Living Church of God in Canada, while he is visiting in Charlotte this week. We grill him a bit on the state of education today and explore steps young people can take to secure their own success amid declining educational standards.
It's been a sobering week of the sort that Ecclesiastes 7 highlights as an opportunity to reflect and learn. So today, we ponder the Apostle Paul's statement in 1 Thessalonians 4:13 that Christians do not grieve in the way others do. We hope you find it helpful. On the Living Youth website, you will find related sermons.
With special guest Mr. Mark Sandor, we look at a poll that claims the British Empire was the worst empire in history. Weighing facts with a clear head is an important part of thinking critically—and biblically! Listen in and learn with us.
We welcome Mr. Phil Sena to the podcast once again, this time to talk about three ways to honor your parents. We also discuss what honoring your parents means as you mature and begin building a family of your own. We hope you enjoy it!
When it comes to sports, the lessons a young Christian can learn are great! Yet, so are the opportunities to lose perspective. Today, we welcome Mr. Barry Walker from Canada as he helps us to think in a godly way about sports.
It’s a privilege this week to have Mr. Gerald Weston on the podcast to talk about having the right perspective on the future and why teens and young adults can rest their hopes in what God has in store for them.
Well, one of us saw a movie recently! With both America and Japan taking cinema's most famous "big lizard" out for a spin, we talk about the differences in their approaches and try to model biblically shaped thinking and perspective when processing the offerings of pop culture.
Social archetypes are shoved onto young women from all sides—moving from "fashionable" to "cringy" so fast they might make your head spin. Today, we take a look at the Girlboss idea, the Soft Girl era that wants to replace it, and the Trad Wife phenomenon, and then consider what God says a young woman should actually aim for. It might surprise you!
Today we discuss some of the temptations and misunderstandings that you might come across as you listen to the news about the Israel-Gaza conflict. A lot of people want young minds on their side—keep yours on God’s.
When you hear "pre-engagement counseling," you might ask yourself: Why would I want to counsel with a minister before I get engaged? Yet, if you're thinking biblically, it makes perfect sense. Join us as we talk about it on this week's episode.
The Council of Elders meetings just ended yesterday, and so many of you liked our podcast about what those are like we thought we’d do another one! We hope you enjoy it.
Our tongue-in-cheek title refers to an attention-getting conversation featured by the Daily Wire between conservative commentator Ben Shapiro and Roman Catholic Bishop Robert Barron. Shapiro's question and Barron's answer both reveal tempting misunderstandings you can't afford to make. Let's crack open our Bibles and take a look!
What a privilege to have Mr. Phil Sena visit this week! At our request, he sits down with us, talks about his history growing up in the Church, and gives some helpful advice about processing dramatic happenings in the news (like we see around us right now).
As we all gear up to head out to our Feast of Tabernacles sites, we wanted to take some time and ponder some things we look forward to changing about the world in the Millennium under the reign of Jesus Christ. Listen in, then start your own conversation. And have a happy Feast!
Before he leaves for the Feast of Tabernacles, we had Mr. Jonathan McNair in the studio to talk about the new year of Living Education, as well as LE resources that are available to all of our members everywhere!
Before we all sing that first hymn on opening night of this year's Feast of Tabernacles, it's helpful to know that a lot of work has gone on behind the scenes to make that night—and the eight days that follow—possible for all of us. Join us today as we chat with Mr. Rod McNair, Assistant Director of Church Administration, and get the scoop on what it takes to make our Feast observances happen—and hopefully get inspired to pitch in yourself!
A pleasantly laid-back podcast this week, as we pause to reflect on favorite memories of Feast of Tabernacles past and encourage you to plan on making wonderful memories yourself this coming Feast.
Instead of a regular podcast this week (though we plan to be back next week!), we are taking a brief break and posting, instead, another "Five Questions" interview with someone here at Headquarters—this time with Mr. Jonathan McNair. There may be a bit of fun and goofiness (the Beast of Revelation makes an odd appearance several times), but the insight he provided into Living Education—both the online classes available to everyone and the on-location Charlotte program—was fantastic. I thought I already knew everything, and I still learned a lot.
So, we hope you enjoy it! And the podcast should be back next week, God willing—we're already working on it and looking forward to sharing it with you.
A common refrain from some who once knew better is that the "door" to preach the Gospel of the Kingdom of God is now closed until Jesus Christ's return and that we should focus on "preparing the bride." But is this true? It's not. In fact, seeking to reach the world with God's truth is essential to the health of the Body of Christ—including its growth as Christ's bride. On today's program, we talk about why. Because that door is very much still open!
In this week's episode, we conclude our discussion of God's design of men and masculinity, compared to the fake masculinity on offer from too many hucksters out there.
The assault on masculinity and the so-called "patriarchy" in the public arena has left a void, and looking for guidance, many young men are turning to online "heroes" who offer a fake, caricature of masculinity that is contrary to God's original design for how men are supposed to be men. Today‚ we look at the difference and talk about what it means to embrace the kind of masculinity God intended.
LYP Teen Camp 2023 is over! Today, we sit down with the camp director and our presiding evangelist, Mr. Gerald Weston, to talk about how camp went and to ask him to explain some of the principles and values that drive our approach to serving our teenagers each summer at the camps. If you've ever wanted to know why we do what we do when we do camp, this is your episode!
Psalms have some pretty violent imagery in them! If they are models for us, in many ways, about how to really pour your heart out to God in prayer, then what are we to do with these "angry psalms"? Mr. Robinson is here to help us out!
The question doesn't just perplex those new to the idea—sometimes we worry about the topic ourselves. Just what is the "unpardonable sin"? Have I committed it? How would I know? On today's episode of the Living Youth Podcast, we answer these questions.
Influencers on social media are called that for a reason—they are extremely effective at influencing those who watch them. Their lives, attitudes, and apparent success can be extremely appealing, such that those who watch or listen come to want what the person or couple online seems to have. You might think you're too savvy to be influenced, but don't be too sure. Not only would 1 Corinthians 10:12 like to have a word, but the money talks too: Influencing is a multi-billion dollar industry because it works. Join us as we talk about the lure that such influencers dangle in front of us while we discuss how to stay grounded in reality and godly values.
Today, we answer the question of whether God is a socialist or a capitalist, and, spoiler alert, He's neither. His approach to economics—the approach Jesus Christ will bring to this earth in the years just ahead of us—is miles above every "ism" of mankind. And He wants you to be a messenger for His way, not a drone drafted into the ideological war going on between today's megaphone-enhanced advocates and activists. Listen in as we explore some of the principles and examples of God's approach to economics as revealed in His word.
There is a war going on for your mind, seeking to conscript you into various ideological crusades and conflicts. These days—at least in the U.S.—one of the most passionate is taking place between defenders of capitalism and advocates of socialism. It might seem rather abstract, but yesterday's boring academic debates are turning into today's street fights and riots. And drafting young minds is the key, both sides seem to think, to winning the battle for their side.
So, if they are fighting for your mind, you should be ready to defend it. And we do that by (cue theme behind this podcast's entire existence) thinking biblically. Because what Jesus Christ and His Father think in such things is, fundamentally, all that really matters.
This topic ended up being a big one, so this episode is part one of two. With a homework assignment at the end! Who doesn't like homework?!? (Optional, of course! No, there will be no quiz...) We hope you'll join us as we tackle the topic and set the stage for part two.
There is a war going on for your mind, seeking to conscript you into various ideological crusades and conflicts. These days—at least in the U.S.—one of the most passionate is taking place between defenders of capitalism and advocates of socialism. It might seem rather abstract, but yesterday's boring academic debates are turning into today's street fights and riots. And drafting young minds is the key, both sides seem to think, to winning the battle for their side.
So, if they are fighting for your mind, you should be ready to defend it. And we do that by (cue theme behind this podcast's entire existence) thinking biblically. Because what Jesus Christ and His Father think in such things is, fundamentally, all that really matters.
This topic ended up being a big one, so this episode is part one of two. With a homework assignment at the end! Who doesn't like homework?!? (Optional, of course! No, there will be no quiz...) We hope you'll join us as we tackle the topic and set the stage for part two.
Love is a very good thing. After all, the Apostle John said "God is love" for a reason. but both the world and individuals in the world weaponize "love" in a number of ways that, frankly, have nothing to do with real love, at all. Join us this week as we explain how.
We often talk in sermons and articles about parenting, but what about being more parentable? What can you do that will allow God to more fully lead and develop you through the parents He has given you? Join us as we take a look together!
A week ago, there was a lot of buzz about a simulation in which an A.I. drone was said to have chosen to attack its own side to prevent its human controller from holding it back as it sought to destroy enemy targets. Then, word came that it was all supposedly a "thought experiment." Meanwhile, experts sign a letter claiming that A.I. could cause human extinction. Will A.I. destroy the world? (Spoiler alert... Short answer: "No." Long answer: "OK, maybe a little—and, in the meantime, what career are you interested in, again?") Join us this week as we think biblically about these things!
Today, we ask a question that's important for each of us to answer: Why the Living Church of God? Contrary to the sentiment of many in this world, Jesus is not an "attend the church of your choice" sort of Messiah. He wants us to attend the church of His choice. There are real, biblical guidelines for discovering where Christ is working and where you should go, and we discuss them in this episode of the Living Youth Podcast.
God says not to bear false witness. But what's so bad about lying? What about "little white lies"? It's worth thinking about. Truth and reality go hand in hand...
This has probably been one of our most requested topics: friendship. Today, we'll look at five passages in the Bible that teach us something about friendship. They are certainly not the only passages, and some might be surprising! But if this episode is helpful, we'll plan on doing more on this topic in the future.
This week, we asked Mr. Jonathan McNair to stop by and tell us all about the upcoming L4T event. Join us and listen in!
This week we have the privilege of sitting down with two good friends visiting from the Church's Canadian HQ, Mr. Michael Heykoop and Mr. Javid Khan, to talk about Canada's very vital part in God's Work around the world and to learn a little more about their mysterious and exotic nation. Enjoy!
Romans 1:18–32 does a pretty thorough job explaining why our world is terrible—and the thinking you need to avoid to prevent falling into the same trap. And it's a trap being laid for the young, specifically, more than anyone else. Don't fall for it!
A lazy podcast at the end of a very busy week, but still hopefully a helpful one! A listener asked us to explain our work backgrounds and what brought us to where we are today, so we jump in and answer. And, still, there are opportunities to model biblical thinking. We hope you get something out of it, and for those in the middle of the Days of Unleavened Bread, we pray that the Festival is a profitable one for you!
We've all done it. Adam and Eve did it! But it's not helpful. Blaming others. It blinds us and twists our thinking. But there is real power in "owning up" to our mistakes, errors, and sins. As the Spring Holy Days approach and we are all examining ourselves, let's consider the effect of blaming others for our choices and aim at doing better.
The deleavening that you do leading up to the Days of Unleavened Bread can bring some sweet, sweet meditations. There are a lot of lessons packed into that crumb-sweeping! Today, we flash back to some lessons we've learned, and we hope they inspire you to do some meditating yourself this season.
Today we answer a question from a listener: With the world getting worse as Jesus Christ's return approaches nearer, how should a young person think about his or her future?
Sometimes you just want the Bible to spell out all the "dos and don'ts" of things in all their details, but it doesn't. Is that a bug or a feature? Join us today as we chat about why God might choose to handle some things this way.
Well, just as the March 2023 issue of Tomorrow's World is hitting subscribers' mailboxes, we've just finished creating the April-May 2023 issue. And with it still fresh in our minds, we thought we'd give you a preview. Asking whether we're sleepwalking into WWIII, pondering the possibility of an A.I. information apocalypse, warning against the dangers of perfectionism, explaining why world leaders can't fix anything, and more—we think this issue has a lot that deserves your attention!
Artificial intelligence is quickly moving from behind the curtain to the very front of the stage, as increasingly intelligent chatbots, image generators, and more are entering mainstream use by "regular" folks. Join us for a bot-free chat as we ponder a bit together about what these new tools mean.
The Grammys and the Super Bowl halftime show are times when our culture spends a lot of money to put its values on display. And, on the whole, they were celebrations of perversity. Let's talk about why.
How do you deal with having a crush? It's a popular question you've sent to us, and we tackle it on this week's podcast.
This week, we talk about cussing and cursing and how it really does make a difference. What does using foul language really say about us, and what does God think about it? Tune in today, as we talk about the importance of keeping it clean.
Inspired by a keynote sermon Mr. Gerald Weston gave five years ago, today we tackle the tempting but misleadingly dangerous habit of asking, "Is it OK?" If we're going to think biblically like Jesus did, we have to learn to ask better questions.
We forgot a very important tip in our last podcast on Bible study—so important it was worth doing another one! Listen in, and take advantage of the most obvious Bible study tools you probably aren't thinking about.
Today's podcast was recorded last week while Mr. Phil Sena was still visiting with us, and it focuses on a couple of questions from you. Seems like you want some tips on prayer and meditation—so here you go!
You want to study your Bible, but it seems intimidating sometimes. Is there a simple way to get started? Our guest today, Mr. Phil Sena, pastor of Living Church of God congregations in Ohio, offers helpful advice to get you past your excuses and into your Bible!
It's been a busy week, so we're sharing this old, early podcast, today, never before aired outside of our YouTube channel! It's the eighth episode of the first season—before we upgraded our mics, in fact, so please forgive the sound quality. This one addresses questions we've received about tattoos. We hope you enjoy it!
In a world that is increasingly political, being representatives of a different kingdom presents its challenges. Join us today as we jump into our (non)relationship to politics and related topics.
It's that time of year again. As Christians who don't keep Christmas, the season presents its special challenges! In this episode, we discuss some of those challenges, prompted by a request from one of our listeners.
A listener-recommended topic today: Gossip! Tempting to do, but so damaging to yourself and others. Today, we dive into gossip and talebearing and give some simple advice both to those who've been the victim of gossip and to those who feel its temptations.
This week, we are thankful—if a little rambly. In this episode, we talk about some of the things for which we are very thankful, and we hope it spurs you to meditate on things you are thankful for, both the obvious things and the not-so-obvious.
The news a couple of weeks ago about the terrible "crowd crush" tragedy in Seoul, South Korea was heartrending. Several listeners asked us to comment on it, and it is the topic of this week's podcast.
Fresh from his star turn in this year's "Behind the Work" video about the preaching of the Gospel in Africa and our growing band of brothers and sisters there, Mr. Peter Nathan joins us in the podcast studio—a.k.a. Mr. Robinson's office. We hope you enjoy this interview, in which we get a bit of his personal background and how he became involved in the Work in Africa!
We're back after the Feast of Tabernacles and Last Great Day! We thought we'd be easy on ourselves and devote this episode to chatting about experiences and lessons from our Feast. We hope you enjoy the conversation!
Today we address a question from one of our young adult listeners. As the world turns increasingly twisted, there are growing pressures on Christians in the workforce to compromise their values. This listener asks us what choices a young person can make to help prepare for that and, perhaps, to reduce the risk. We take on the question, along with our special guest, Mr. Jonathan McNair, Director of Living Education for the Living Church of God.
The Feast of Trumpets, picturing the events preceding the return of Jesus Christ, is only days away. The days pictured by this festival are extreme, and it's worth taking the time to think about why they need to be that way. So, let's talk about it.
The death of Queen Elizabeth II should prompt us to consider some very important things regardless of our nationality—including biblical connections that few understand. Her death symbolizes the end of an era in many ways and reminds us of just how different our current era truly is. We hope you enjoy the discussion.
Today on the podcast, we revisit the topic we recorded last time but didn't publish, so we wanted to tilt at it again: Why the Work of preaching the Gospel of God's Kingdom to the world matters. It is essential to living as a Christian, but it's easy to be distracted from that fundamental truth, especially in our youth. Yet embracing that truth and growing to understand how the Work should matter to you, personally, can be transformative and can help enable God to produce in you the eternal fruit He is looking to produce. So, enjoy this podcast! We get a little passionate in places, but, you know, if you can't be passionate about the Work of Jesus Christ in the world, what else can you be passionate about?
Mr. Mark Sandor continues as guest co-host and takes us on a cost-benefit analysis of sin. It's a lot more interesting than it sounds! Honest! And, in the end, it provides quite a meditation on faith, to boot. Join us!
In this week's podcast, with guest co-host Mr. Mark Sandor, we reflect on our unchurched youth and consider what we know now that we wish we'd known then. We hope you find it profitable!
On today's podcast, we discuss the pressures on boys and girls and on young men and young women to ignore the differences in the two sexes God created and to adopt a confusing, self-destructive worldview. Huge forces in society are seeking to rob from you the joys of embracing the gender God designed you to be. Don't let them do it!
As tired as they may have been having only recently returned, Mr. Gerald Weston and Mr. Jonathan McNair graciously sat down with us for an opportunity to process the 2022 Teen Camp and to talk about what they seek to accomplish with the program. We appreciated their insights and hope that you do, too!
God makes a very strong statement about divorce in Malachi 2:16—He hates it. And when God says something that strongly, it should get our attention. In this episode, we talk about some of the reasons God might feel that way—after all, learning to think like He does is what it's all about.
Who should we date? Who shouldn't we date? The Bible's guidelines aren't arbitrary. They are there to help us flourish in all the ways God wants us to flourish. In this episode, we ask and answer the question, why shouldn't we date "good people" in the world?
After a Twitter scuffle on the topic of whether or not Numbers 5 means the Bible is pro-abortion, we thought it would make for a great topic to discuss. Arguments that twist scriptures in the service of social agendas come up all the time, and, frankly, Numbers 5 is a good example of a passage that can make folks who read it think, "What in the world?" But if we approach the Bible in the manner God wants us to, the picture becomes clear.
Believe it or not, this pair of verses is sometimes brought up as an example of a Bible contradiction. Of course, it is not that at all. Rather, if you allow them to do so, they have some real wisdom to impart, especially in this day and age of social media when the "Leave a comment" button seems oh so tempting...
This topic was recommended by a young adult here in Charlotte, and we appreciate it! Our focus is on learning to think biblically, and even the Depp-Heard trial provides an opportunity to do that. We hope it's helpful.
We hear occasionally about Council of Elders meetings in the Living Church of God, and since one of us is on that Council, we thought it might be an interesting opportunity to sit down and chat about what the COE is really like. So we did. Hopefully this will inform your prayers a bit when word of a Council meeting is announced. (And your prayers are greatly appreciated!)
This was a fun Q&A episode featuring a question asked long ago at a teen camp Bible study and sadly ignored by one of us—giving us the opportunity repent! If scientists could create a cud-chewing pig, would it be clean to eat? It's a more interesting question than you might think!
Steve's got a point. Tony's got a point. Both good guys have a point. If you realize that then the conclusion is clear: The world needs Jesus. Give us a listen to find out why.
On this second podcast recorded during Mark Sandor's visit, we spend time reflecting on the U.S. Constitution, our relationship to it as Christians in America, whether "getting back to the Constitution" is really sufficient to save the country, and viewing the freedoms we have through the lens of our responsibilities before God. We hope you enjoy it!