A Little Better: Recent Episodes
Northridge Church
We want to see more and better followers of Jesus in Rochester, NY, and around the world. So listen along as some of our team take a little deeper dive to help us know Jesus better to do better and ultimately be a little better. Have any thoughts, comments… or criticisms? Email us at podcast@northridgerochester.com
Today on A Little Better, host Brad, is joined by Drew, Lead Pastor, and Matt, Ministries Lead, to discuss the following questions:
What are the devil’s favorite strategies?
Why are we so easily fooled by the devil?
If I’m a Christian, why do I still struggle
Additional Resources Mentioned:
Submit your questions:
https://northridgerochester.typeform.com/to/o1jphLSp
Today on A Little Better, host Calum is joined by Drew, Lead Pastor, and Luan, Brighton Campus Director, to discuss the following questions:
How do you know if you’re overly complacent or caught up with Satan?
What role does discernment play?
Is the devil responsible for our sinning
Additional Resources Mentioned:
Anxious Generation by Jonathan Haidt https://a.co/d/4TZwpAc
Submit your questions: https://northridgerochester.typeform.com/to/o1jphLSp
Today on A Little Better, host Brad is joined by Nate Miller, Webster Campus Pastor, and Jason, Webster Campus Director to answer the following questions:
Can my best friend be a non-believer?
Why don’t we find life-changing community in community groups?
How do I find that person or team member who can help me grow spiritually?
How can we help each other?
Additional Resources Mentioned:
Podcast Episode: Overcoming Shame - The Ancient Enemy of Community
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/rule-of-life/id1646299048?i=1000709108070&r=3038
John Wesley’s Four Questions for Real Growth:
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How is it with your soul?
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What are your struggles and successes?
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What are you hearing from the spirit and scriptures?
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What is your sin and your secrets?
2 Reasons Why Community Groups Don't Work
https://www.northridgerochester.com/groupsblog/2019/10/3/2-reasons-why-community-groups-dont-work
Today on A Little Better, Calum, our Webster Worship Director, is joined by his wife, Carlie, and Jason, our Webster Campus Director. We address our desire to avoid relationships and how screens are separating us.
How do screens negatively affect our relationships?
I love Jesus, but I don’t always want to talk to others.
How to manage relationships as an introvert
Why do we avoid relationships?
Additional Resources Mentioned:
Podcast Survey:
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeU04wybk_7k0U5MvzINPDZzwUOdUUDzpkLSn-ZZ4XJvKnE7g/viewform
Today on A Little Better, Calum, our Webster Worship Director, is joined by Drew, our Lead Pastor, and Matt, our Ministries Lead, as we get practical on handling relational conflict.
What are the helpful steps to address relational conflict?
When and how do you include others in a conflict?
How do you handle the conversation when it doesn’t go well?
Additional Resources Mentioned:
Podcast Survey: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeU04wybk_7k0U5MvzINPDZzwUOdUUDzpkLSn-ZZ4XJvKnE7g/viewform
Crucial Accountability By Joseph Grenny, Al Switzler, Kerry Patterson, and Ron McMillan
https://a.co/d/e8rVE1Z
The Body Keeps the Score by Bessel van der Kolk M.D. (Secular research on how trauma impacts the brain, mind, and body)
https://www.amazon.com/Body-Keeps-Score-Healing-Trauma/dp/0143127748
Today on A Little Better, Brad and Drew are joined by Calum, our Webster Worship Director, to answer the following questions.
When approaching conflict, why do we start with ourselves?
What work do we need to do before engaging with others?
How does the Gospel change how we view conflict?
Additional Resources Mentioned:
Relational Spirituality by Todd W. Hall
https://www.amazon.com/Relational-Spirituality-Psychological-Theological-Transformation-Psychological/dp/1514011212
The Body Keeps the Score by Bessel van der Kolk M.D. (Secular research on how trauma impacts the brain, mind, and body)
https://www.amazon.com/Body-Keeps-Score-Healing-Trauma/dp/0143127748
Today on A Little Better, host Calum, our Webster Worship Director and Drew, our Lead Pastor, are joined by Michelle Gerringer, our Groups and Outreach Executive Director:
What does it mean to be present?
How do we listen to God, others, and ourselves?
Are there people we shouldn’t listen to?
Additional Resources Mentioned:
Relationships: A Mess Worth Making by Paul David Tripp and Timothy S. Lane
https://www.amazon.com/Relationships-Making-Tim-S-Lane/dp/0977080765
Faithful Presence: Seven Disciplines That Shape the Church for Mission by David E. Fitch
https://a.co/d/iVpFSTj
The Anxious Generation: How the Great Rewiring of Childhood Is Causing an Epidemic of Mental Illness by Jonathan Haidt
https://a.co/d/e92yLCK
Today on A Little Better, host Brad is joined by Drew, our Lead Pastor, and Noah Bixby, our Brighton Campus Pastor, to answer the following questions:
If Jesus loved perfectly and still experienced rejection, betrayal, and disappointment—what does that mean for us?
What motivation keeps us loving when we’re getting nothing in return?
How do we avoid turning love into a strategy for control?
Additional Resources Mentioned:
Relationships: A Mess Worth Making by Paul David Tripp and Timothy S. Lane
https://www.amazon.com/Relationships-Making-Tim-S-Lane/dp/0977080765
Today on A Little Better, host Brad is joined by Drew, our Lead Pastor, and Matt Sones, our Ministries Lead, to answer the following questions:
Why isn’t believing in the resurrection enough?
How can I be healed and restored?
How does God use my failures?
Today on A Little Better, host Brad is joined by Drew, our Lead Pastor, and Matt Sones, our Ministries Lead, to answer the following questions:
Why doesn’t Jesus make himself easy to see?
How can the whole Bible be about Jesus?
For those running from God, what hope is there?
Today on A Little Better, host Brad is joined by our Webster Campus Director, Jason DeGraaff, and our Kids Ministry Executive Director, Kristin Shughart to answer the following questions:
Why do people leave Jesus?
How can I keep my kids from falling away?
What if my sin is too great?
Additional Resources Mentioned:
Resilient: Child Discipleship and the Fearless Future of the Church
https://www.amazon.com/Resilient-Discipleship-Fearless-Future-Church/dp/1946680664
Deconstructing Faith - Undeceptions with John Dickson
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/deconstructing-faith/id1478239058?i=1000629835417
Today on A Little Better, host Brad is joined by our Webster Campus Pastor, Nate Miller, and our Outreach Director, Michelle Gerringer to answer the following questions:
Doesn’t claiming Jesus loves me sound arrogant?
How can I grow my relationship with Jesus?
How can I convince others that Jesus loves them?
Today on A Little Better, hosts Drew and Calum are joined by our Ministries Lead, Matt Sones to answer the following questions:
How can I overcome my doubts—and what if I never do?
When can doubt be a good thing?
How can I respond well to someone else’s doubts?
Today on A Little Better, hosts Drew and Brad are joined by Jason DeGraaff from Spiritual Development to answer the following questions:
If Jesus rose from the dead, why am I still suffering?
What was life like for women in Jesus’ time, and how does that strengthen the case for the resurrection?
Is demon possession real, and should we be concerned about it today?
Additional Resources Mentioned:
The Screwtape Letters by C. S. Lewis
https://www.amazon.com/Screwtape-Letters-C-S-Lewis/dp/B0DL692RW7
Today on A Little Better, Noah, Luan, and Kathleen from the Brighton Campus come to discuss how many pairs of shoes it takes to be content and what contentment actually means.
Why do people struggle to be content, even when they have more than enough?
How can wealth actually be a spiritual disadvantage?
How can we teach our children to value contentment over consumerism?
Additional Resources Mentioned:
www.northridgerochester.com/fpu
Today on A Little Better, hosts Drew and Brad are joined by Calum, Executive Communications Director, to discuss the benefits of and obstacles to generosity.
How can I be generous if I don’t have any money?
Is tithing valid today?
What “blessing” is actually promised when we give?
Additional Resources Mentioned:
www.northridgerochester.com/fpu
Today on A Little Better, hosts Drew and Brad are joined by Nate Wegman, Stewardship Team Member, Financial Planner, and Financial Peace University instructor, to discuss why managing money is so hard and what really works.
Why are people so stressed about money?
What traps do people fall into most often with money?
Is any debt good debt?
Where should I start when I feel overwhelmed?
Additional Resources Mentioned:
www.northridgerochester.com/fpu
Today on A Little Better, host Drew Karschner is joined by Matt Sones, Ministries Lead and Calum Shaw, Executive Communications Director, to discuss why money matters.
Do we have a money problem?
Why do we struggle to say no?
How can fear turn into faith?
Additional Resources Mentioned:
www.northridgerochester.com/fpu
Today on A Little Better, hosts Drew and Brad are joined by Laura, our Adult Discipleship Coordinator, to answer the following questions:
How many people were baptized at Open Baptism?
What stories did we hear?
Why do we do Open Baptism?
What goes on behind the scenes for Open Baptism?
Today on A Little Better, host Brad is joined by Drew, our Lead Pastor, and Calum, our Webster Worship Director, to chat about the following questions:
Why do we chase acceptance? What is the alternative?
What does it look like to belong?
Is the church worth belonging to?
Does belonging mean we have to agree on everything?
Additional Resources Mentioned:
Relationships: A Mess Worth Making by Paul David Tripp and Timothy S. Lane
https://www.amazon.com/Relationships-Making-Tim-S-Lane/dp/0977080765
The Critical Journey, Stages in the Life of Faith (Second Edition) by Janet O. Hagberg
https://www.amazon.com/Critical-Journey-Stages-Faith-Second/dp/1879215497
Relational Spirituality: A Psychological-Theological Paradigm for Transformation by Todd W. Hall, M. Elizabeth Lewis Hall
https://www.amazon.com/Relational-Spirituality-Psychological-Theological-Transformation-Psychological/dp/0830851186
Today on A Little Better, Nate Miller, Webster Campus Pastor, Calum, Webster Campus Worship Director, and Jason, Groups Director, chat about the following questions:
What difference does it make when you have a purpose?
Can you be made in God’s image but not be His “masterpiece”?
Does your purpose change, or is it fixed?
Today on A Little Better, Brad, Our Online Campus Pastor, Calum, our Webster Worship Director, and Luan, our Brighton Pastoral Resident, chat about the following questions:
How does brokenness benefit us?
Why are beauty and hope so hard to find?
How does God communicate with us in both beauty and brokenness?
Additional Resources Mentioned:
Surprised by Joy: The Shape of My Early Life by C. S. Lewis
https://www.amazon.com/Surprised-Joy-Shape-Early-Life/dp/0062565435
Where the Light Fell: A Memoir by Philip Yancey
https://www.amazon.com/Where-Light-Fell-Philip-Yancey/dp/0593238524
Today on A Little Better, host Brad is joined by Drew, our Lead Pastor, and Jason, our Community Groups Director, to chat about the following questions:
Why should we trust the Bible?
What are the false foundations of our value
What should we base our value on?
Additional Resources Mentioned:
John Piper, “Why We Believe the Bible”
https://www.biblicaltraining.org/learn/foundations/ld215-why-we-believe-the-bible
Today on A Little Better, Calum, our Webster Campus Worship Director, chats with Drew, Lead Pastor, and Matt, Ministries Lead, about the vision and direction of our church:
What would Rochester look like after being saturated with the Gospel?
What is our responsibility to the church’s mission and vision?
Additional Resources Mentioned:
The Art of Neighboring: Building Genuine Relationships Right Outside Your Door by Jay Pathak, Dave Runyon, Randy Frazee
https://www.amazon.com/Art-Neighboring-Building-Genuine-Relationships/dp/080101459X/
Today on A Little Better, hosts Drew and Brad are joined by Calum, our Webster Worship Director and Communications Executive Director, to answer the following questions:
How do the ways Christians act help or hinder the gospel?
Why do we make the gospel about us and our desires?
How can we change that and become truly kind?
Additional Resources Mentioned:
Invitation to a Journey: A Road Map for Spiritual Formation by M. Robert Mulholland Jr.
https://www.amazon.com/Invitation-Journey-Spiritual-Formation-Transforming/dp/0830846174/
American Gospel by Jon Guerra
https://open.spotify.com/track/70ZJchbrhFgSO4q8JVSHwr
Today on A Little Better, hosts Drew and Brad are joined by Calum, our Webster Worship Director and Communications Executive Director, to answer the following questions:
What are the popular (and dangerous) misconceptions about belief?
What does healthy belief look like?
How can I strengthen my belief?
Additional Resources Mentioned:
Northridge Advent Bible Reading Plan
https://www.northridgerochester.com/advent
The following books were mentioned in the podcast. They are not written from a Christian perspective, and we do not endorse everything asserted. But they do give a context for what we discussed:
Grit: The Power of Passion and Perseverance by Angela Duckworth
https://www.amazon.com/Grit-Passion-Perseverance-Angela-Duckworth/dp/1501111116
Mindset by Carol Dweck
https://www.amazon.com/Mindset-Psychology-Carol-S-Dweck/dp/0345472322
The Power of Myth by Joseph Campbell
https://www.amazon.com/Power-Myth-Joseph-Campbell-1988-05-01/dp/B01LP4GN28
Today on A Little Better, hosts Drew and Brad are joined by Brit Catlin, our Communications and Website Director, to answer the following questions:
What about Pricilla’s life do you most admire?
How can we use our homes today for the gospel?
What is the connection between deep theology and ministry?
Additional Resources Mentioned:
Priscilla, Where Are You? A Call to Joyful Theology by Natalie Brand
https://www.amazon.com/Priscilla-Where-Call-Joyful-Theology/dp/1739706277
Today on A Little Better, hosts Noah and Brad are joined by Noah’s mentor, Tim Schmidt, to answer the following questions:
It’s one thing to preach about faith in Bible times. But what leaps of faith have Tim and Noah seen God honor today?
How did the Brighton Campus come to be
How can I grow my faith when it's hard to believe God will answer my prayers?
Today on A Little Better, hosts Drew and Brad are joined by pastoral resident, Lucas Kramer, to answer the following questions:
What is the cure for anxiety in such chaotic times?
How can we be confident without being proud?
How does the Kingdom of God relate to the earthly world we live in?
Additional Resources Mentioned:
Kingdoms in Conflict by Charles Colson
https://www.amazon.com/Kingdoms-Conflict-Charles-Colson/dp/0310397715
While many voices are polarizing, pushing you to pick sides and even demonizing your fellow neighbor, we hope this is a space where you can find the peace, hope, and love of Jesus so that we can be the Holy people He has called us to be.
While many voices are polarizing, pushing you to pick sides and even demonizing your fellow neighbor, we hope this is a space where you can find the peace, hope, and love of Jesus so that we can be the Holy people He has called us to be.
Today on A Little Better, hosts Drew and Brad are joined by Candice, our Brighton Director of Kids Ministry to answer the following questions:
How could God use someone like me?
How can I find my place to serve in God’s plan?
Does the story of Jael celebrate murder?
While many voices are polarizing, pushing you to pick sides and even demonizing your fellow neighbor, we hope this is a space where you can find the peace, hope, and love of Jesus so that we can be the Holy people He has called us to be.
Today on A Little Better, Drew and Brad from our pastoral team and our pastoral resident, Lucas, answer the following questions:
If loving God is good, is it wrong to fear Him?
What tough choices does fearing God force us to make?
While many voices are polarizing, pushing you to pick sides and even demonizing your fellow neighbor, we hope this is a space where you can find the peace, hope, and love of Jesus so that we can be the Holy people He has called us to be.
Today on A Little Better, hosts Drew and Brad are joined by Jason DeGraaff from Spiritual Development to answer the following questions:
Why do we need to confess to others when we have already confessed to God?
What should happen after the confession?
What are some best practices for groups to do life together while overcoming guilt and shame?
Additional Resources Mentioned:
Life Together by Dietrich Bonhoeffer (specifically, Chapter 1: Confession)
https://www.amazon.com/Life-Together-Exploration-Christian-Community/dp/0060608528
The Four Loves by C. S. Lewis (specifically, Chapter 4: Friendship)
https://www.amazon.com/Four-Loves-C-S-Lewis/dp/0062565397
While many voices are polarizing, pushing you to pick sides and even demonizing your fellow neighbor, we hope this is a space where you can find the peace, hope, and love of Jesus so that we can be the Holy people He has called us to be.
Today on A Little Better, host Drew is joined by Calum, our Webster Worship Director, and Dr. Mark Oldham from the University of Rochester to answer the following questions:
Can prayer fix your depression?
What causes prolonged depression?
How can we help a loved one suffering from depression?
Additional Resources Mentioned:
William Lane Craig - Reasonable Faith: Christian Truth and Apologetics
https://a.co/d/7Qh8qvC
Viktor E. Frankl - Man’s Search For Meaning
https://a.co/d/2kjgytq
National Suicide and Crisis Lifeline is: 988
Monroe County Mental Health Crisis Call Line is: 585-275-8686
Today on A Little Better, host Brad is joined by Nate, our Webster Campus Pastor, and Matt, our Ministries Lead, to answer the following questions:
How can we break the silence about lust?
How can we help others?
How should we respond when others confess?
How do our hearts truly change?
Are we ever done with the battle of lust?
Additional Resources Mentioned:
A Still and Quiet Mind: Twelve Strategies for Changing Unwanted Thoughts by Esther Smith
https://www.amazon.com/Still-Quiet-Mind-Strategies-Changing/dp/1629959219
Winning the War in Your Mind by Craig Groeschel
https://www.amazon.com/Winning-Your-Mind-Groeschel-Craig/dp/0310635705
Every Man's Battle, Revised and Updated 20th Anniversary Edition: Winning the War on Sexual Temptation One Victory at a Time by Stephen Arterburn, Fred Stoeker
https://www.amazon.com/Every-Battle-Revised-Updated-Anniversary/dp/0525653511/
Happily Even After: A Redemption Story Podcast with Bob and Dannah Gresh
https://dannahgresh.com/podcasts/happily-even-after-a-redemption-story-podcast/
The Light Phone: “Technology intentionally designed to be used as little as possible”
https://www.thelightphone.com/
Today on A Little Better, hosts Drew and Brad are joined by Matt Sones, our Ministries Lead, to answer the following questions:
What harmful assumptions do we make when others disappoint us?
How can we break that cycle?
How do we know if an offense should be overlooked or not?
Additional Resources Mentioned:
A Still and Quiet Mind: Twelve Strategies for Changing Unwanted Thoughts by Esther Smith
https://www.amazon.com/Still-Quiet-Mind-Strategies-Changing/dp/1629959219
Winning the War in Your Mind by Craig Groeschel
https://www.amazon.com/Winning-Your-Mind-Groeschel-Craig/dp/0310635705
Today on A Little Better, hosts Brad and Drew are joined by Jess Kalvaitis, a Northridge Member, to answer the following questions:
How does a biblical worldview make a practical difference in our lives?
How do counterfeit worldviews slip in, and what damage do they do?|
What habits or practices can strengthen our identity in Christ?
Additional Resources Mentioned:
A Still and Quiet Mind: Twelve Strategies for Changing Unwanted Thoughts by Esther Smith
https://www.amazon.com/Still-Quiet-Mind-Strategies-Changing/dp/1629959219
Winning the War in Your Mind by Craig Groeschel
https://www.amazon.com/Winning-Your-Mind-Groeschel-Craig/dp/0310635705
Today on A Little Better, Brad and Drew from our pastoral team are joined by Jess Kalvaitis, to answer the following questions:
How can we be hopeful about change without getting overwhelmed and discouraged?
What are some practical habits that change our thoughts from unhealthy patterns to healthy ones?
How can journaling help?
Additional Resources Mentioned:
A Still and Quiet Mind: Twelve Strategies for Changing Unwanted Thoughts by Esther Smith
https://www.amazon.com/Still-Quiet-Mind-Strategies-Changing/dp/1629959219
Winning the War in Your Mind by Craig Groeschel
https://www.amazon.com/Winning-Your-Mind-Groeschel-Craig/dp/0310635705
Steal Like an Artist: 10 Things Nobody Told You About Being Creative by Austin Kleon
https://www.amazon.com/Steal-Like-Artist-Things-Creative/dp/0761169253
Hard Cover 5 Year Journal
https://www.amazon.com/dp/1939472199
Today on A Little Better, Drew is joined by Bailey and Maddie from our Student Ministry team to answer the following questions:
What is the most overlooked thing we gain from the Gospel?
What does it look like to continue to grow with Jesus?
What does walking with Jesus cost you?
Additional Resources Mentioned:
The Forgotten Jesus: How Western Christians Should Follow an Eastern Rabbi by Robbie Gallaty: https://a.co/d/3nLAVXl
Practicing the Way: Be with Jesus. Become like him. Do as he did.: https://a.co/d/dmifl9y
A Gospel Primer for Christians: Learning to See the Glories of God's Love by Milton Vincent: https://a.co/d/aqzkeos
ESV Scripture Journal: Matthew:
https://a.co/d/bqTTzNL
Today on A Little Better, host Brad is joined by Jason, our Director of Spiritual Development and Josh Horn from 441 Ministries to answer the following questions:
What practical advice do you have for helping the poor?
How should we think about poverty?
What is Jesus’ teaching on hell?
Can we love the poor and still go to hell?
Additional Resources Mentioned:
Helping Without Hurting in Church Benevolence: A Practical Guide to Walking with Low-Income People Paperback by Steve Corbett, Brian Fikkert
https://www.amazon.com/Helping-Without-Hurting-Church-Benevolence/dp/0802413390
Chalmers Center
“We help God’s people rethink poverty and respond with practical biblical principles so that all are restored to flourishing.”
https://chalmers.org/
Today on A Little Better, our Ministries Lead, Matt Sones, interviews Calum, our Webster Worship Director and Communications Executive Director, and Brit, our Rochester Worship Director and Environments Director to discuss the following:
Is there more to the story of the rich young ruler?
How has gaining by losing played out in your life?
The concept of asking Jesus: “What do I still lack?”
Today on A Little Better, Hosts Drew and Brad are joined by pastoral resident, Luan Souza to answer the following questions about the parable of the prodigal son:
How do we become the “older brother” (proud and distant from God) without knowing it?
How can we prevent becoming the “older brother”?
How should we pray for and relate to the prodigals we love?
Additional Resources Mentioned:
The Prodigal God: Recovering the Heart of the Christian Faith by Timothy Keller
https://www.amazon.com/Prodigal-God-Recovering-Heart-Christian/dp/1594484023
A Tale of Two Brothers (Northridge Series on The Prodigal Son)
Sep 13, 2020 - Which Brother Are You? - https://youtu.be/kbC3UJuFJJM
Sep 20, 2020 - Self-Salvation - https://youtu.be/pnDBP-kOB98
Sep 27, 2020 - The Father's Example - https://youtu.be/c9Hj45LWHqs
Today on A Little Better, Michelle Gerringer, our Outreach Director, along with Brad, Online Campus Pastor, and Noah, Brighton Campus Pastor, reflect on a recent trip to Malawi and answer the following questions:
Why is Northridge in Malawi?
What is the Global Lift Collective?
What impact does the collaboration of the Global Lift Collective have on churches in Malawi, local churches, and the agencies trying to serve them?
What can we learn from churches in Malawi?
Today on A Little Better, hosts Drew & Brad are joined by Michelle Gerringer, our Outreach Director, to answer the following questions:
How do you know when you have truly forgiven someone?
How long should it take to forgive someone
Where have we seen powerful stories of forgiveness?
Additional Resources Mentioned:
Forgive: Why Should I and How Can I? By Timothy Keller
https://www.amazon.com/Forgive-Why-Should-How-Can/dp/0525560769
Today on A Little Better, Noah Bixby, Josh Myles and Kiley Cook from the Brighton Campus answer the following questions:
How does life rich in the Lord compare to life rich in the world?
What are practical ways to seek the kingdom of Heaven?
How can we respond to what breaks our heart?
Additional Resources Mentioned:
Practicing the Way - by John Mark Comer
https://www.amazon.com/Practicing-Way-Jesus-Become-like/dp/0593193822
Today on A Little Better, host Brad is joined by Nate Miller, Webster Campus Pastor, and Steve Rowinski, Webster Pastoral Intern, to answer the following questions:
Is this story even a parable?
What does being a good neighbor look like?
Does the story of The Good Samaritan suggest we earn our way to heaven?
Where is the Gospel in this story?
Today on A Little Better, hosts Brad and Drew are joined by Matt, our Ministries Lead, to answer the following questions:
What does being a disciple look like today?
What spiritual practices of Jesus should we imitate?
What if it feels like I’m earning God’s approval?
What resources are helpful?
Additional Resources Mentioned:
Practicing the Way by John Mark Comer
https://www.amazon.com/Practicing-Way-Jesus-Become-like/dp/0593193822
Celebration of Discipline: The Path to Spiritual Growth by Richard Foster
https://www.amazon.com/Celebration-Discipline-Special-Anniversary-Spiritual/dp/0062803883
Renovation of the Heart: Putting on the Character of Christ by Dallas Willard
https://www.amazon.com/Renovation-Heart-Putting-Character-Anniversary/dp/1641584424
Today on A Little Better, host Brad is joined Jeremy, our Webster Youth Ministry Director, and Wes, our Webster Production Coordinator, to answer the following questions:
What does “PK” mean? Whoops! We forgot to explain in the podcast. “PK” means pastor’s kid.
What does the obedience Jesus asks for look like?
How can we be obedient without trying to earn God’s approval?
What should our motivation for obedience be?
Additional Resources Mentioned:
How Can I Grow in Obeying God? (Sermon excerpt from John Piper)
https://www.desiringgod.org/interviews/how-can-i-grow-in-obeying-god
Today on A Little Better, host Brad is joined by Drew and Ashley Karschner to answer the following questions that you asked but our panel did not have time to address:
How do you parent or discipline other people's children?
How do you communicate our desperate need for Jesus and God’s comfort when your kids haven’t experienced anything “hard?”
How do I enforce boundaries with my teenager?
How do I remain consistent with different-age children?
How do I coordinate with my spouse to be on the same page?
How do you get older children to come to church?
Today on A Little Better, host Drew is joined by Northridge Members Daniel and Tiffanie Ball, who have been involved in foster care, to answer the following questions regarding foster parenting:
What is involved in the process of foster parenting?
What are the challenges and blessings of foster parenting?
I’m curious about foster parenting. What do I need to know?
Additional Resources Mentioned:
Fostering Prayer: A 40 Day Guide for Foster Parents by Jessica Mathisen
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08LTCHHMP
Fostering Love: One Foster Parent's Journey by John Degarmo
https://www.amazon.com/dp/1512714402
Today on A Little Better, hosts Drew and Brad are joined by Kids Ministry Executive Director, Kristin Shughart, to answer the following questions:
How does Northridge partner with, equip, and encourage parents?
What are the best ways to invest in our relationships with our children?
What if I “missed” my opportunity to raise my children right?
Additional Resources Mentioned:
The Biggest Story Bible Storybook by Kevin DeYoung and Don Clark.
https://www.amazon.com/Biggest-Story-Bible-Storybook/dp/1433557371/
Today on A Little Better, Drew and Ashley Karschner chat with Noah, our Brighton Campus Pastor, and answer the following questions:
What was a lesson you learned in the season of infertility?
How do I train my kids to surrender to God?
If I have a child who has walked away from Christ, where should I go from here?
Today on A Little Better, Noah and Paige from the Brighton Campus, and Maddie, the Rochester Kids Director, answer the following questions:
What characteristics of God did you see in Ruth Chapter Four?
What are some helpful tips for reading the Old Testament when you don’t blatantly see God working?
How does the Gospel connect to the book of Ruth?
What does God’s providence look like in your life?
Today on A Little Better host Drew is joined by Shawn Bantle and Michelle, our Outreach Director, to answer the following questions:
What's the significance of the harvest?
How do we wait on God when it seems like doing what's right is bringing us down?
What change is going on inside Naomi?
Today on A Little Better host Drew is joined by Calum, our Webster Worship Director, and Laura, Drew’s Mom, to answer the following questions:
What if doing the right thing doesn’t feel like it gets me in the right place?
What does it mean to honor your family?
Why does your reputation matter?
Additional Resources Mentioned:
Ruth - Fields of Grace Bible Study: https://thedailygraceco.com/products/fields-of-grace-a-study-on-ruth-1?_pos=1&_psq=ruth&_ss=e&_v=1.0
Today on A Little Better, hosts Drew and Brad are joined by our Rochester Worship Director, Brittany, to answer the following questions:
Is it ok to vent our frustrations with God? When is it too much?
What do those who are hurting need?
What if we are hurting ourselves? Can we still help?
Today on A Little Better, Calum, the Webster Campus Worship Director, Brad, the Online Campus Pastor, and Noah, the Brighton Campus Pastor, answer the following questions:
Why doesn’t God just tell us what He wants?
How can God’s sovereignty be compatible with my individual decisions?
How can I confidently make decisions that God is happy with?
Additional Resources Mentioned:Just Do Something: A Liberating Approach to Finding God's Will by Kevin DeYoung
https://www.amazon.com/Just-Do-Something-Liberating-Approach/dp/0802411592
Decision Making and the Will of God: A Biblical Alternative to the Traditional View by Gary Friesen and J. Robin Maxson
https://www.amazon.com/Decision-Making-Will-God-Alternative/dp/1590522052
Today on A Little Better, host Brad is joined by Jason, our Community Groups & Shepherding Director, and Matt, our Ministries Lead as they answer the following questions:
Is God being fair when He chooses some to be saved and not others?
How can I know if God chose me to be saved?
How should this teaching encourage me?
Additional Resources Mentioned:
Predestination: An Introduction by Andrew David Naselli
https://www.amazon.com/Predestination-Introduction-Studies-Systematic-Theology/dp/1433573148
Today on A Little Better, host Brad is joined by Josh Horn and Keith Horn, who both have a Ph.D in the science field, as they answer the following questions:
What is the proper role of science, and what is the proper role of faith?
Can science and faith work together?
What mistakes should I avoid when engaging with science?
What are some best practices for both Christians and skeptics to approach this issue?
*Keith Horn has a Ph.D. in organic chemistry from the University of Illinois, years of postdoctoral work and leadership in industry research, and has been an associate dean of math and science at Houghton College.
Josh Horn has a Ph.D. in Biophysics, is the former Director of Outreach at Northridge Church, and the current Director of 441 Ministries in the Beechwood community.*
Additional Resources Mentioned:Keith alluded to some mistakes to avoid and practices to follow. We mentioned some of them in the podcast but did not have time to address them all. Here is Keith’s more complete counsel:
10 (mistaken) assumptions people make about science:
All scientists are atheists
What the media says is science is science
What scientists say is science is science
Opinions and hypotheses are science
It was published, therefore it must be true
Scientific consensus means the hypothesis and facts are true (may only be the best view now, many established views have changed over time)
Science can know everything
All new research is wrong (this skeptical view denies the order God expects us to find)
Science is free of all bias, opinions, influence, agendas and distortion
Science is only bias, opinions, influence, agendas, distortion and conspiracy
Bonus: Believing in “scientism” instead of science
Guidelines for handling questions about science and the Bible:
Remember how God has worked in your life
Know that you will never know everything, nor will your atheist/agnostic friends/colleagues
Don’t bind the Bible tightly to what science says today. Science may update scientific theories.
Remember science has been wrong and harmful at times (e.g. thalidomide was once given to pregnant women and caused birth defects and death) and has been right and extremely helpful at times (e.g. some diseases, like polio, have been cured).
Keep Searching
Ask the Holy Spirit for guidance
Find out what the Bible says
Study how the Bible says it (e.g. is this text literal or figurative?)
Read biblical scholars and scientists who are Christians
Today on A Little Better, our host Drew is joined by Jason, the Community Groups & Shepherding Director, and Calum, the Webster Worship Director, to answer the following questions:
Is it possible to do the right thing, even though I am a sinner?
What does the voice of God sound like?
Is my growth all up to me or all up to God?
Today on A Little Better Drew and Brad are joined by our Jason, the Community Groups & Shepherding Director, to answer the following questions:
Why does God allow suffering?
How can I get through my suffering?
What hope is there in my suffering?
Today on A Little Better Drew and Brad are joined by our Outreach Director, Michelle, to answer the following questions:
Why is asking God to search us so scary?
Why should we ask God to test us?
Why is it so hard to give God control?
Today on A Little Better Calum, Jeremy, and Nate from our Webster Campus Staff answer the following questions:
What prayer habits have church staff found helpful?
What are some practical ways to fight distraction?
What are some realistic expectations for creating habits in prayer?
**Additional Resources Mentioned:
The Ruthless Elimination of Hurry by John Mark Comer**https://www.amazon.com/Ruthless-Elimination-Hurry-Emotionally-Spiritually/dp/0525653090
Celtic Prayers From Iona by J. Philip Newellhttps://www.amazon.com/Celtic-Prayers-Iona-Heart-Spirituality/dp/0809104881
The Inner Room AppApp Store:
https://apps.apple.com/us/app/inner-room/id1437144946
Google Play:
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.innerroomapp
The Pause Apphttps://www.pauseapp.com/
Today on A Little Better hosts Brad is joined by our Youth Ministry Executive, Bailey, and our Rochester Youth Ministry Co-Director, Maddie Boccacci to answer the following questions:
What if I run out of things to pray for?
How can I use scripture to pray better?
What tools or resources have we found helpful?
Additional Resources Mentioned:The Psalms, ESV
https://www.amazon.com/Psalms-ESV-TruTone-Brown/dp/1433544210
God’s Promises for Every Day by Jack Countryman
https://www.amazon.com/Gods-Promises-Every-Jack-Countryman/dp/0849962684
The Songs of Jesus by Timothy Keller
https://www.amazon.com/Songs-Jesus-Daily-Devotions-Psalms/dp/0525955143
Face to Face by Kenneth Boa
https://www.amazon.com/Face-Praying-Scriptures-Intimate-Worship/dp/0310925509
Praying Like Monks, Living Like Fools by Taylor Staton
https://www.amazon.com/Praying-Like-Monks-Living-Fools/dp/1399808044
A Praying Life: Connecting with God in a Distracting World by Paul E. Miller
https://www.amazon.com/Praying-Life-Connecting-Distracting-World/dp/1631466836
A Call to Spiritual Reformation by D. A. Carson
https://www.amazon.com/Praying-Paul-Call-Spiritual-Reformation/dp/080109710X
YouVersion Prayer
https://blog.youversion.com/2020/03/youversion-bible-app-now-in-the-bible-app-prayer-feature-full-announcement/
Inner Room App
https://innerroom.app/
Today on A Little Better hosts Drew and Brad are joined by our Ministries Lead, Matt Sones, to answer the following questions:
Are there right ways and wrong ways to use the Lord’s Prayer?
What does Jesus mean by babbling?
How has this series been impacting our church?
Additional Resources Mentioned:Face to Face by Kenneth Boa
https://www.amazon.com/Face-Praying-Scriptures-Intimate-Worship/dp/0310925509
Today, on a bonus episode of A Little Better Michelle Gerringer (Outreach Director) and Deb Reed (HR Staff Development) discuss our partnership with Agape International Missions (AIM) to fight sex-trafficking in Cambodia We will answer:
How big is the problem of sex trafficking in Cambodia (and other parts of the world)?
What is the story of Agape International Missions (AIM)?
Who did you meet and what stories did you hear
How can we pray for and support AIM?
Additional Resources Mentioned:
Tending Clouds (Story of Reaksmey, a sex trafficking survivor)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XmogUZETYCk
Agape International Missions
https://aimfree.org/
Northridge Beyond
https://www.northridgerochester.com/beyond
First They Killed My Father
https://www.netflix.com/title/80067522
Today on A Little Better Drew and Brad from our pastoral team and our Outreach Director, Michelle Gerringer, answer the following questions:
How does prayer grow our relationship with God?
Is it really possible to pray for an hour?
How can I change up the way I pray?
Additional Resources Mentioned:
Face to Face by Kenneth Boa
https://www.amazon.com/Face-Praying-Scriptures-Intimate-Worship/dp/0310925509
Praying Like Monks, Living Like Fools by Taylor Staton
https://www.amazon.com/Praying-Like-Monks-Living-Fools/dp/1399808044
A Call to Spiritual Reformation by D. A. Carson
https://www.amazon.com/Praying-Paul-Call-Spiritual-Reformation/dp/080109710X
Inner Room App
https://innerroom.app/
Today on A Little Better Drew and Brad from our pastoral team and Jason DeGraaff from Spiritual Development answer the following questions:
Why don’t my prayers work?
What about my doubts?
Is prayer about results or relationship?
How is prayer a two way street?
Additional Resources
Matthew 11:28-29; Isaiah 55:7-8
Gentle and Lowly: The Heart of Christ for Sinners and Sufferers by Dane Ortlund
https://www.amazon.com/Gentle-Lowly-Christ-Sinners-Sufferers/dp/1433566133
Today on A Little Better Drew and Brad from our pastoral team and Laura Cologgi from Spiritual Development answer the following questions:
How many people were baptized at Open Baptism?
What stories did we hear?
Why do we do Open Baptism?
What goes on behind the scenes for Open Baptism?
Today on A Little Better Noah Bixby, our Brighton Campus Pastor, and Kiley Cook and Josh Myles from our Brighton staff answer the following questions:
How can we reach a level of overflow in our spiritual life?
What are practical ways we can connect with the Holy Spirit?
When your tanks are empty, who did you lean on to achieve overflow?
Today on A Little Better Nate Miller, our Webster Campus Pastor, and Calum Shaw, our Webster Worship Director, answer the following questions:
What do you think we struggle with most? Why?
What’s been your experience trying to love your neighbors?
Additional Resources Mentioned:The Art of Neighboring: Building Genuine Relationships Right Outside Your Door
https://a.co/d/4AnBtWh
Today on A Little Better Drew, Jason, and Brad from our pastoral team answer the following questions:
Why does the church so often fail to love each other?
Who is hardest to love and how do we overcome that?
How can Community Groups and Equip resources help us love others better?
Today on A Little Better, Drew, Noah, and Brad from our pastoral team answer the following questions:
How do we balance meeting people’s immediate needs and their ultimate need?
How can we have compassion for those far from Christ rather than become embittered by our culture and society?
Today on A Little Better, Drew and Brad from our pastoral team answer the following questions:
How can we keep our love for the gospel fresh?
What should confession look like?
Why do we need it? How should we do it?
Additional Resources Mentioned:
1 Samuel 12:24; Matthew 13:52
Life Together by Dietrich Bonhoeffer
https://www.amazon.com/Life-Together-Exploration-Christian-Community/dp/0060608528
Our podcast is taking a short holiday break. Thank you for watching and listening in 2023. We’ll be back Tuesday, January 9, for week 1 of our new series, The Ripple Effect. This series is about our prayers and plans to saturate the Rochester area with the Gospel.
Today on A Little Better Nate, our Webster Campus Pastor, and Michelle Gerringer, our Outreach Director, answer the following questions:
Are we looking for God’s counsel or affirmation?
How does drawing near to the Wonderful Counselor Himself bring us peace?
Today on A Little Better Drew and Brad from our pastoral team and our Outreach Director, MIchelle Gerringer, answer the following questions:
Are we too chummy with God?
How do we respond to loved ones who don’t believe God cares about them?
Today on A Little Better Drew and Brad from our pastoral team answer the following questions:
Do we really need a savior? What is sin?
What did people expect of Jesus in His time? What do people expect of Jesus today?
What if I don’t have hope anymore?
Today on A Little Better Nate Miller and Brad from our pastoral team answer the following questions:
Why is death hard to think about?
What does it mean to learn how to die?
Additional Resources Mentioned
Let the Kicking Mule Kick by Keith Horn
https://www.amazon.com/Let-Kicking-Mule-Kick-Personal/dp/1667889079
Today on A Little Better Drew and Brad from our pastoral team answer the following questions:
What can I say to those who think they are too far gone to be accepted by God?
Who are the hardest people to reach?
What does spiritual blindness look like today?
Why don’t we share the gospel more?
Today on A Little Better Drew, Brad, and Jason from our pastoral team answer the following questions:
Is it harder to be a Christian in Stephen’s time or today?
Where can I find answers to hard questions?
How can I learn to defend my faith?
Additional Resources Mentioned:https://www.northridgerochester.com/equip-resources
https://www.rightnowmedia.org
Today on A Little Better Drew and Brad from our pastoral team and our Outreach Director, Michelle Gerringer, answer the following questions:
How should we handle needs inside the church?
Should we come to church with a priority of getting or giving something? What does that look like?
Why would God deal so harshly (by killing two people) with a sin that is so common (lying)?
Today on A Little Better Jason and Brad from our pastoral team answer the following questions:
How should Christians handle Halloween?
What really makes the Church the Church?
What should churches look like?
Additional Resources Mentioned
Unmasking Halloween: Navigating Secular Holidays as a Christian Parent
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/dad-tired/id1090567756?i=1000631440738
Today on A Little Better, Nate and Brad from our pastoral team and Michelle, our Outreach Director, answer the following questions:
Are miraculous gifts still at work today?
How have we seen the Holy Spirit at work in our lives and in the lives of others?
Additional Resources Mentioned:
On the podcast, we had trouble remembering the reference for 1 Corinthians 13:9-10 “For we know in part and we prophesy in part, but when completeness comes, what is in part disappears.” (NIV)
Other translations use the word “perfection” instead of “completeness.”
What Paul meant when he referred to the coming of perfection is the subject of considerable debate. One suggestion is that perfection described the completion of the New Testament. But verse 12 makes that interpretation unlikely. A few have suggested that this state of perfection will not be reached until the new heavens and new earth are established. Another point of view understands perfection to describe the state of the church when God’s program for it is consummated at the coming of Christ. There is much to commend this view, including the natural accord it enjoys with the illustration of growth and maturity which Paul used in the following verses.
David K. Lowery, “1 Corinthians,” in The Bible Knowledge Commentary: An Exposition of the Scriptures, ed. J. F. Walvoord and R. B. Zuck, vol. 2 (Wheaton, IL: Victor Books, 1985), 536.
Today on A Little Better Drew and Brad from our pastoral team answer the following questions:
From a practical perspective, what does being guided by the Holy Spirit look like?
How can I be sure I have the Holy Spirit?
How should the Holy Spirit change the way we do ministry?
Additional Resources Mentioned:
Forgotten God: Reversing Our Tragic Neglect of the Holy Spirit by Francis Chan
https://www.amazon.com/Forgotten-God-Reversing-Tragic-Neglect/dp/1434767957
Today on A Little Better Drew and Brad from our pastoral staff and Michelle, the Outreach Director, answer the following questions:
Why is it so hard to be a witness?
What should the Church be about?
How is the Church misunderstood?
Today on A Little Better Drew and Noah from our pastoral team and Josh from the Brighton team answer the following questions:
Are there healthy boundaries to forgiveness?
Why don’t we forgive?
What is the biggest thing you have been forgiven for?
What’s coming up next?
Today on A Little Better Drew, Brad, and Noah from our pastoral team answer the following questions:
How have we learned from and grown in our practice of having difficult conversations?
How does peace with God help us have peace with others?
What if I have a difficult conversation and it goes really bad?
How does the podcast celebrate turning 100 (episodes)?
Additional Resources MentionedRelationships: A Mess Worth Making by Timothy S. Lane and Paul David Tripp
https://www.amazon.com/Relationships-Making-Tim-S-Lane/dp/0977080765
Forgive: Why Should I and How Can I? by Tim Keller
https://www.amazon.com/s?k=tim+keller+forgive&crid=28PTO1QG0H5NK
Today on A Little Better Drew and Brad from our pastoral team answer the following questions:
Why does God use conflict to teach us?
What does He teach us?
How can we see conflict in a positive light?
Additional Resources MentionedRelationships: A Mess Worth Making by Timothy S. Lane and Paul David Tripp
https://www.amazon.com/Relationships-Making-Tim-S-Lane/dp/0977080765
Sacred Marriage: What If God Designed Marriage to Make Us Holy More Than to Make Us Happy? by Gary Thomas
https://www.amazon.com/Sacred-Marriage-What-Designed-Happy/dp/0310337372
Today on A Little Better Drew, Jason, and Brad from our pastoral team answer the following questions:
What is the purpose of groups?
What if my group is not “working?”
What does it mean for a group (and group members) to have a missional mindset?
How does Drew prepare his messages?
Additional Resources MentionedThe Loneliness Epidemic: Why So Many of Us Feel Alone--and How Leaders Can Respond
https://www.amazon.com/Loneliness-Epidemic-Alone-Leaders-Respond/dp/1587434776
Today on A Little Better Jason, Drew, and Brad from our pastoral team answer the following questions:
What is the full story behind the people in Colossians?
What stories does the sermon skip?
Can God use me in spite of my past?
Today on A Little Better Noah, our Brighton Campus Pastor, and Michelle, Director of Outreach, discuss the following questions:
Is sharing our faith optional?
How does God come alongside us when we share our faith?
Today on A Little Better Jason and Drew from our pastoral team and Michelle, Director of Outreach, discuss the following questions:
How do we become a person of peace?
What does a life saturated by the gospel look like?
How does singing affect our hearts?
Today on A Little Better Drew and Brad from our pastoral team answer the following questions:
What is God responsible for and what am I responsible for when it comes to personal change
What is the best first step for change?
How can I tackle habitual sin?
How have these messages impacted Drew personally?
Today on A Little Better Jeremy and Brad from our pastoral team answer the following questions:
Who is Jeremy Laskowski?
What is the problem with the rules that Paul points out?
What does the freedom Paul talks about look like?
If rules are not the answer, are there best practices that help us grow our relationship with Christ?
Today on A Little Better Brad and Drew from our pastoral team answer the following questions:
What was the Colossian error or heresy that Paul was responding to in his letter?
Are any of those threats still current today?
What are the new alternatives to the Gospel we need to guard against?
What is a Gospel response to today’s popular understanding of identity?
Today on A Little Better Noah and Brad from our pastoral team answer the following questions:
How can I stop trying to do things FOR God and really seek being with Him?
How can I know that I am rooted in Christ?
How should I respond to those who are deconstructing their faith?
What else does Noah know about trees and roots? And what lessons does that hold for faith?
Today on A Little Better Dave and Brad from our pastoral team answer the following questions:
When people fail us badly, how should we respond?
How can we run the race of life in a sustainable way?
If life is a race, and I have failed badly, how can I ever finish it well?
Today on A Little Better Nate and Brad from our pastoral team answer the following questions:
What is it like to teach a series as a team?
What background is helpful to understand the book of Colossians?
What’s wrong with our prayers? How can we fix them?
How do we know if we are just letting a little bit of Jesus in our lives or really making Him Lord?
Additional Resources Mentioned:
Praying with Paul: A Call to Spiritual Reformation by D. A. Carson
https://www.amazon.com/Praying-Paul-Call-Spiritual-Reformation/dp/080109710X
Today on A Little Better Drew and Brad from our pastoral team and Michelle, our Outreach Development Director, answer the following questions:
What is consumerism and why is it dangerous?
How can I wean myself off of seeking satisfaction through getting more?
Which responses to the poor are helpful and which are unhelpful?
What can the poor teach us?
Additional Resources Mentioned:
Rich Christians in an Age of Hunger: Moving from Affluence to Generosity by Ronald J. Sider
https://www.amazon.com/Rich-Christians-Age-Hunger-Generosity-ebook/dp/B00PWOH5TS
Becoming Whole: Why the Opposite of Poverty Isn't the American Dream by Brian Fikkert, Kelly M. Kapic
https://www.amazon.com/Becoming-Whole-Opposite-Poverty-American/dp/0802401589
Live Justly by Jason Fileta
https://www.amazon.com/Live-Justly-Jason-Fileta/dp/0692239057
Today on A Little Better Nate and Brad from our pastoral team and Michelle, our Outreach Director, answer the following questions:
What does a godly response to busyness look like?
What role does the Sabbath play in understanding busyness?
What practices help break the cycle of busyness?
Additional Resources Mentioned:
Something Needs to Change: An Urgent Call to Make Your Life Count by David Platt
https://www.amazon.com/Something-Needs-Change-Urgent-Count/dp/0735291438
Don’t Waste Your Life by John Piper
https://www.amazon.com/Dont-Waste-Your-Life-Redesign/dp/1433555506
Three Mile an Hour God by Koyama Kosuke
https://www.amazon.com/Three-Mile-Hour-Kosuke-Koyama/dp/0334061474
Today on A Little Better, Drew and Brad from our pastoral team answer the following questions:
How do we know when we are using God rather than loving Him?
How can we fix that?
How can I know what choices God wants me to make in my everyday life?
How does Drew decide who preaches what sermons?
Additional Resource Mentioned:
An Ancient Sign
(Sermon preached September 15, 2019, on finding the will of God)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hxKtzStHzqs
Today on A Little Better, Brad, our Online Campus Pastor, and Conell, our Youth Pastor, answer the following questions:
Why is gossip so hard to shake?
What are some practical ways to spot, stop, and respond to gossip?
How did Jesus respond to gossip?
What do we appreciate most about Tim Keller?
Additional Resources Mentioned
The Gospel Coalition - Tributes to Tim Keller
https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/article/tgc-co-founder-tim-keller-dies/
Prayer: Experiencing Awe and Intimacy with God
https://www.amazon.com/Prayer-Experiencing-Awe-Intimacy-God-ebook/dp/B00INIXGIO
New York Times Obituary
https://www.nytimes.com/2023/05/19/nyregion/the-rev-tim-keller-dead.html
Today on A Little Better Drew and Brad from our pastoral team Michelle, our Outreach Development Director,answer the following questions:
How can we tell the difference between healthy and harmful comparison?
Do Christians in other cultures struggle as much as Americans with comparison?
What is Northridge up to in Malawi?
Additional Resources Mentioned
The Practice of the Presence of God In Modern English by Brother Lawrence
https://www.amazon.com/Practice-Presence-God-Modern-English-ebook/dp/B00FZ40L9G
Today on A Little Better Drew and Brad from our pastoral team answer the following questions:
How do I know if my comfort is a gift from God that I am enjoying or an idol?
What questions should I be asking of myself or others to make wise choices?
If I’m not choosing to avoid comfort, what AM I choosing?
Today on A Little Better Drew and Brad from our pastoral team answer the following questions:
What was it like filming in Israel?
How do we know if our view of Jesus is accurate?
How do we know we are following the real Jesus and not just the Jesus we want to have?
How can I discover the mission I’m called to?
Where in the world might Northridge go next?
Additional Resources
Biblical Critical Theory by Christopher Watkins
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0310128722
Today on A Little Better Jason and Brad from our pastoral team answer the following questions:
What is the meaning of the temple in the Bible and why should we care?
Is God actually present in my life?
What does Jesus want me to do about sin in my life
How can we help each other get serious about cleaning the messes in our lives?
Today on A Little Better Nate and Brad from our pastoral team answer the following questions:
How does the Northridge staff work together to bring a sermon together?
What is the deeper theology behind what was discussed in in the sermon?
How can I more richly treasure the truth that Jesus knows us and came to deliver us?
What role can community groups play in that?
Today on A Little Better Drew and Brad from our pastoral team answer the following questions:
How long does it take to create a series on location in Israel?
What production challenges did you face?
Why is it so hard to reach people like Nicodemus today (and who are they)?
When is being religious a bad thing?
What barriers do we face in sharing God’s invitation? How can we overcome them?
Today on A Little Better Drew and Brad from our pastoral team answer the following questions:
What was the result of the Mountain Mover capital campaign?
What went on behind the scenes in Israel?
When and how was Mary Magdalene’s hometown discovered?
How can I apply the resurrection to my life right now?
What is the simplest explanation of the Gospel?
Additional Resources Mentioned
The Magdala Story
https://www.magdala.org/about-magdala-2/
Today on A Little Better Drew and Brad from our pastoral team answer the following questions:
What was it like behind the scenes while shooting in Israel?
How is Jesus’ surrender the same and different from our surrender?
How can community groups help each other to surrender?
What’s ahead for this series and for Easter?
Today on A Little Better Drew and Brad from our pastoral team answer the following questions:
What was the significance of this series in the life of our church?
When can we find out how much was pledged?
How does God use money to make us grow spiritually?
Today on A Little Better Drew asks our new Brighton Campus pastor, Noah Bixby, and his wife, Paige Bixby the following questions:
What did the Brighton journey look like for you two? What tensions did you feel?
How did God confirm Brighton for you?
Tell us about the Deaf community at Northridge and how you have seen God work?
How did you see God work in Northridge Young Adults?
What would you say to someone hesitating to give?
Today on A Little Better Drew and Brad from our pastoral team answer the following questions:
Is all worry sinful?
Doesn’t taking bigger risks increase my anxiety?
How can I grow my faith?
How do I know what sacrifices God wants me to make?
How can couples seek unity while deciding what to sacrifice to make?
Additional Resource MentionedThe Blessed Life: Unlocking the Rewards of Generous Living - Robert Morris
https://www.amazon.com/Blessed-Life-Unlocking-Rewards-Generous/dp/076421876X
Today on A Little Better Adam, Drew, and Brad from our pastoral team discuss joy in our suffering and answer the following questions:
What if I am tempted to compare my suffering with others?
How should I respond to a friend who is overwhelmed in suffering?
How is Northridge Church structured to respond to people who are suffering?
What do counseling volunteers do? How can I join the team?
Additional Resources MentionedSuffering: Gospel Hope When Life Doesn't Make Sense by Paul David Tripp
https://amazon.com/Suffering-Gospel-Hope-Doesnt-Sense/dp/1433556774
Walking with God through Pain and Suffering by Timothy Keller
https://www.amazon.com/Walking-God-through-Pain-Suffering/dp/1594634408
The Reason for God: Belief in an Age of Skepticism by Timothy Keller
https://www.amazon.com/Reason-God-Belief-Age-Skepticism/dp/1594483493
Buckles Family Story
https://youtu.be/l2KEdVKObQQ
Buckles Timeline
https://youtu.be/AV70i9I9m3Q
Held: 31 Biblical Reflections on God's Comfort and Care in the Sorrow of Miscarriage by Abbey Wedgeworth
https://www.amazon.com/dp/1784984779
Hope in the Dark: Believing God Is Good When Life Is Not by Craig Groeschel
https://www.amazon.com/Hope-Dark-Believing-Good-When/dp/0310343119
Today on A Little Better Nate, Drew, and Brad from our pastoral team discuss the following questions around walking with a friend through suffering:
What if I’m tempted to talk rather than listen?
What if our friends are suffering because they are sinning?
When is it OK to walk away? Do I need to go the entire journey?
Additional Resources MentionedSide by Side: Walking with Others in Wisdom and Love - Edward T. Welch
https://www.amazon.com/Side-Walking-Others-Wisdom-Love/dp/1433547112?pldnSite=1
Today on A Little Better Daniel, Nate, and Brad from our pastoral team answer the following questions:
Is there a difference between good complaining and bad complaining?
Is it possible to lament while keeping the joy James commands us to have?
Hebrews says Jesus learns? Doesn’t that imply He changes?
Daniel, what is next for you?
Additional Resources MentionedDark Clouds, Deep Mercy: Discovering the Grace of Lament by Mark Vroegop
https://amazon.com/Dark-Clouds-Deep-Mercy-Discovering/dp/1433561484
The Prayers of Jesus: Listening to and Learning from Our Savior by Mark Jones
https://www.amazon.com/Prayers-Jesus-Listening-Learning-Savior/dp/1433562812
Suffering: Gospel Hope When Life Doesn't Make Sense by Paul David Tripp
https://amazon.com/Suffering-Gospel-Hope-Doesnt-Sense/dp/1433556774
Today on A Little Better Brad, Nate, and Daniel from our teaching team discuss the following questions regarding suffering:
What is a trial?
What is joy?
How do we have faith in the middle of our pain?
What should I say to a friend?
**Additional Resources Mentioned
Paul David Tripp – Suffering: Gospel Hope When Life Doesn't Make Sense**
https://www.amazon.com/Suffering-Gospel-Hope-Doesnt-Sense/dp/1433556774/ref=sr_1_1?keywords=suffering+paul+david+tripp&qid=1675353038&sprefix=suffering+pau%2Caps%2C219&sr=8-1
Tim Keller – Walking with God through Pain and Suffering
https://www.amazon.com/Walking-God-through-Pain-Suffering/dp/1594634408/ref=sr_1_1?keywords=tim+keller+suffering+and+pain&qid=1675353015&sprefix=tim+keller+suff%2Caps%2C92&sr=8-1
Mark Vroegop – Dark Clouds, Deep Mercy Discovering the Grace of Lament
https://www.amazon.com/Dark-Clouds-Deep-Mercy-Discovering/dp/1433561484/ref=sr_1_1?keywords=dark+clouds+deep+mercy&qid=1675354183&sprefix=dark+clou%2Caps%2C113&sr=8-1
Today on A Little Better pastors Brad and Daniel, along with Michelle from our outreach team discuss the following questions:
-
What do you do personally and practically to listen to the right voice?
-
What advice do you have for someone who says they’re completely adrift in today’s culture - where should I start? How should I start?
-
Cal Thomas said every morning he read the Bible and the New York Times so he knew what each side was up to. In what ways do we need to listen to the world to be wise about our current culture and mission field?
-
How do we get practical about listening to the right voices and avoiding the wrong ones? (Is it too overwhelming? Is it even feasible?)
-
How can we use technology profitably?
Today on A Little Better is a conversation between Drew and Daniel with special guest Beth Claes. Beth is a Biblical Counselor and licensed psychologist.
Watch the course “What Does The Bible Say About Gender Identity?” taught by Beth and referenced in the episode by visiting the links below:
Part 1 - https://youtu.be/hg5YcCSK_L0
Part 2 - https://youtu.be/cpPCucW1Fnw
Part 3 - https://youtu.be/IYGQyHoM6iQ
Part 4 - https://youtu.be/M0r6EdOq8X8
Today on A Little Better the Lead Pastor, Drew, interviews two special guests: Kathy Mauer and Matt Sones from CompassCare. CompassCare is an organization that believes all people are made in the image of God and are equally valuable and therefore, is dedicated to erasing the need for abortion by transforming a woman’s fear into confidence.
Today on A Little Better Brad, Drew, and Daniel from our pastoral team discuss the following questions:
Why have we decided to discuss the topic of identity for this series?
What resource would you recommend to those who don’t agree with God as Creator?
Why is it important that we are created differently than all other creations?
Which of the aspects of God’s image that we’ve been created to reflect stands out to you most?
We are created for eternity.
We reflect who God is.
We have a longing for God.
We are created with a conscience.
[book] Frank Turk - I don’t have faith to be an atheisthttps://www.amazon.com/Enough-Faith-Atheist-Foreword-Limbaugh-ebook/dp/B0029RJ7D8/ref=sr_1_1?keywords=i+don%27t+have+enough+faith+to+be+an+atheist&qid=1673358202&sprefix=i+don%27t+have+%2Caps%2C92&sr=8-1
“You have never talked to a mere mortal. Nations, cultures, arts, civilization—these are mortal, and their life is to ours as the life of a gnat. But it is immortals whom we joke with, work with, marry, snub, and exploit—immortal horrors or everlasting splendors.” – CS Lewis - No Ordinary People
Today on A Little Better Brad, Drew, and Daniel from our pastoral team answer the following questions:
How many Herods are there?
When did the Magi show up? What re the options?
In what ways do we seek to Control our lives? What are the two types of control?
Today on A Little Better Brad, Drew, and Daniel from our pastoral team answer the following questions:
What is the context of Luke 2?
What are the possibilities of Jesus’ birth location?
How can we slow down during this season?
Resources Mentioned
The Christ of Christmas - https://www.amazon.com/Christ-Christmas-James-Montgomery-Boice/dp/1596381590/ref=sr_1_1?crid=6M8ZRECU6P8P&keywords=james+montgomery+boice+christmas&qid=1670607793&sprefix=james+montgomery+boice+christmas%2Caps%2C107&sr=8-1
Jesus through Middle Eastern Eyes - https://content.wtsbooks.com/shopify/pdf_links/9780830825684.pdf
Today on A Little Better Brad and Jason from our pastoral team answer the following questions:
What is the best Bible (for me)?
Does the Bible really have answers for today’s problems?
How should I start reading my Bible?
What do I do when the Bible is no longer interesting or helpful?
Additional Resources MentionedEquip Winter Book Clubs
https://www.northridgeequip.com/winter-book-club
Why Should I Trust the Bible? - Timothy Paul Jones
https://www.amazon.com/Why-Should-Trust-Bible-Big/dp/1527104745
How To Eat Your Bible - Nate Pickowicz
https://www.amazon.com/How-Eat-Your-Bible-Approach/dp/0802420397
7 Minutes With God
https://navresources.ca/page.php?page=7minutes
Today on A Little Better Jason and Daniel from our pastoral team answer the following questions:
How do you read the Bible if you’ve never have before?
When did the Bible start to make sense to you?
What is the story of the Old Testament vs the New Testament?
Why read the whole Bible?
Which testament should you start with first? Should new believers read the Old Testament first or second?
What are other ways to see Jesus in the Bible?
Can we over read Jesus into the text?
If there is one thing you want people to remember from Sunday, what would it be?
**Additional Resources
Dominion and Dynasty -** https://www.amazon.com/Dominion-Dynasty-Theology-Studies-Biblical/dp/0830826157/ref=sr_1_1?keywords=dominion+and+dynasty&qid=1668701416&sprefix=dominion+to+dy%2Caps%2C100&sr=8-1
Today on A Little Better Brad, Drew, and Daniel from our pastoral team discuss the power of the Bible and ways to find the motivation to read it. Listen to hear them answer the following questions:
Why are we so driven to read books other than the Bible?
How can we build our motivation to read the Bible?
What can reading the Bible do in our lives?
**Resources Mentioned
Ray Llubeck - Reading the Bible for a Change**
https://www.amazon.com/Read-Bible-Change-Understanding-Responding/dp/1608991539/ref=sr_1_1?crid=2J5X23W62JITQ&keywords=ray+lubeck+read+the+bible+for+a+change&qid=1668098573&sprefix=ray+lubexck%2Caps%2C108&sr=8-1
Kurt Thompson - Anatomy of the Soulhttps://www.amazon.com/Anatomy-Soul-Connections-Neuroscience-Relationships/dp/141433415X/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1668098610&sr=8-1
Today on A Little Better Brad, Drew, and Daniel from our pastoral team discuss why we can trust The Bible and answer the following questions:
Why do people not trust the Bible?
What keeps people from reading the Bible?
Today on A Little Better Drew, Brad, and Daniel from our pastoral team answer the following questions:
What was your favorite moment of Open Baptism?
Who should be baptized?
What is baptism?
What are the next steps for all?
What’s coming up at Northridge?
Today on A Little Better Brad, Drew, and Daniel from our pastoral team discuss contentment and answer the following questions:
What is the relationship between contentment and generosity?
Is this just a secret way for the Church to ask for money, time, and talents?
Contentment leads to being generous - How can we learn to be content?
What are ways to grow in being generous?
Areas for being Generous: Time, Talents, and Treasure. What is one way to consider each of these?
Resource Mentioned:
Book: Gay Girl Good God by Jackie Hill Perry
Today on A Little Better Drew, our Lead Pastor hosts Michelle and Josh from our Beyond team as they answer the following questions:
What role do you play at Northridge?
What does our church look for in the organizations we partner with?
What should people know about Beyond?
How have you seen God work in going beyond our walls?
Where is Beyond going?
How can I get more involved?
What challenge would you give to those who are not yet involved?
Today on A Little Better Brad and Daniel from our pastoral discuss the following questions:
What is the biggest thrill seeking thing you have ever done?
What is the wrong view(s) of faith?
What are things that build our faith?
What are things that have the potential to damage our faith?
If you have damaged faith what do you do next?
Today on A Little Better Brad and Daniel from our pastoral discuss the following questions:
Are you preaching a works based on righteousness?
For the person who doesn’t actually like reading God’s Word, how do we grow in our love for God’s Word?
How do I live a more intentional Bible study?
How do I put my personal Bible Study into action in my life?
**Additional Resources
Praying Life** - Paul Miller
https://www.amazon.com/Praying-Life-Connecting-Distracting-World/dp/1631466836/ref=sr_1_1?crid=25YRO2YFCR1WE&keywords=Dave+miller+the+praying+life&qid=1664472316&sprefix=dave+miller+the+praying+life%2Caps%2C790&sr=8-1
Five Views on Sanctificationhttps://www.amazon.com/Five-Views-Sanctification-Melvin-Dieter/dp/0310212693/ref=sr_1_1?keywords=5+views+of+sanctification&qid=1664472347&qu=eyJxc2MiOiIxLjI4IiwicXNhIjoiMS4xOSIsInFzcCI6IjAuNzMifQ%3D%3D&sprefix=5+views+on+san%2Caps%2C121&sr=8-1 Before You Open Your Biblehttps://www.amazon.com/Before-You-Open-Your-Bible/dp/1912373718/ref=sr_1_1?keywords=before+you+open+your+bible+matt+smethurst&qid=1664472385&qu=eyJxc2MiOiIwLjQwIiwicXNhIjoiMC40MCIsInFzcCI6IjAuNDAifQ%3D%3D&sprefix=before+you+open+%2Caps%2C122&sr=8-1 How to Read a Bookhttps://www.amazon.com/How-Read-Book-Classic-Intelligent/dp/0671212095/ref=sr_1_1?keywords=how+to+read+a+book&qid=1664472413&qu=eyJxc2MiOiIxLjc1IiwicXNhIjoiMS4zMSIsInFzcCI6IjEuMjMifQ%3D%3D&sprefix=how+to+read+a+%2Caps%2C123&sr=8-1
Today on A Little Better Drew, Brad, and Daniel from our pastoral team dialogue about unity and answer the following questions:
What is Paul talking about in 1 Corinthians 1:12?
Can you have unity while still disagreeing with someone?
What are some good desires we have that we approach the wrong way?
In what ways has God begun to bring unity without uniformity?
How are we praying that God continues to bring diversity to our church?
What should we do if we are seeking unity but the person we are talking with isn’t?
Additional Resources Mentioned:
Until Unity Bible Reading Plan - https://www.bible.com/is/reading-plans/24765-until-unity
Today on A Little Better Drew, Jason, and Brad from our pastoral team expand on what it looks like to be a church that is a family. Tune in to hear answers to the following questions:
Is spending a lot of time with “sinners'“ a good idea?
How can we welcome anyone into our church without compromising the truth?
What is the difference between the church you might have experienced and what the church should be…a family?
Additional Resources Mentioned:
Creating Community: Andy Stanley & Bill Willits
The Gospel Comes With A Housekey: Rosaria Butterfield
Today on A Little Better Dave, Brad, and Conell from our pastoral team discuss what it looks like to build your house on the solid foundation of Jesus Christ. They reflect on the storms of life that may present trouble and how God is the steady rock amidst every season. Dave also dialogues more about his accident and Steve Powell’s ALS that he brought up in his sermon on Sunday. Tune in to hear the difference between building your life with Jesus at the center rather than society’s concepts and your own desires.
Today on a little better Pastors Daniel and Drew, along with our special guest from our oversight team John, talk about false gospels. What are the lies we believe and the truths we can pull from these gospels in the correct context? Check out the episode to hear answers to the following questions:
What did you leave on the table? (What did you leave out of your sermon?)
What is attractive, a little bit of truth, and false about each of the following false gospels?
**No Judgement God
Try Hard; Do Better
Prosperity Gospel: Health, Wealth, and my own happiness
Political or Social Gospels
Additional Resources Mentioned:**http://www.americangospelfilm.com
Today on a little better Nate, Brad, and Conell from our pastoral team dialogue about the importance of a praying life and its impact on our relationship with God. Here are some of the specific questions that were discussed about prayer:
What are the main reasons why people are scared of going to God in prayer?
We are goal-oriented. God is process oriented. What does this mean for our culture and our prayer life?
No answers create doubt. If someone has experienced hearing one or several no’s from God, how would you instruct, encourage, or equip them to keep pursuing God?
Additional Resources MentionedSoul Revolution - John Burke
With Christ in the School of Prayer - Andrew Murray
Today on a little better Drew, Brad, and Daniel from our pastoral team expand on Godly judgment and what they should look like for a Christian aiming to please God. Here are some of the specific questions that were discussed about judgment:
Should Christians Judge?
What is the relationship between sharing our faith and judging others?
What comes to mind when you think of the word judging?
What is a word of wisdom in sharing our faith?
Can we share our faith without judging?
How should we invite others to judge us?
How should we receive judgement from someone else?
The Bible makes it very clear that our hearts follow what we treasure most. Where we spend our money tells us what we care about most. In this week’s episode of A Little Better, Drew, Brad, & Daniel from our pastoral team discuss what it looks like to build your kingdom in a way that honors God’s kingdom. Here are some of the specific questions that will be discussed about money and worry.
Jesus says our eyes and wallets are connected to our hearts. What do you think about that?
Jesus says that he will provide for us… “Then how do we look to God when we think we are the one who provides for ourselves and our family?”
How do you use your money wisely?
How do we choose a standard of living that honors God?
Additional Resources Mentioned:Every Dollar - https://www.ramseysolutions.com/ramseyplus/everydollar?snid=products.pay-off-debt-and-build-wealth.ramsey+.everydollar-budget-app
FPU - https://www.ramseysolutions.com
Mint - https://www.mintmobile.com
Cash App - https://cash.app
Staples - http://staples.com
Today on A Little Better Brad, Daniel, and Jason talk through the following questions:
Personality tests…Are they helpful?
Should Christians take personality tests?
Is Jesus saying that religion is supposed to be kept a secret?
What is biblical fasting?
How can we practice it?
Additional Resources Mentioned:John Mark Comer - Sermon on Fasting:
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/john-mark-comer-teachings/id1592847144?i=1000558357484
John Piper - Hunger for God:https://www.amazon.com/Hunger-God-Redesign-Desiring-through/dp/1433537265/ref=sr_1_1?crid=EZAWICPTZLTB&keywords=hunger+for+god&qid=1658865618&sprefix=hunger+for+god%2Caps%2C120&sr=8-1
Isaiah 58:
https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=is+58&version=NIV
Today on A Little Better Brad, Nate, and Daniel answer the following:
What is your favorite summer movie?
Is it OK to make a vow at your wedding?
Can a Christian serve in the military?
What does fixing our eyes on Jesus look like in real life?
Additional Resources Mentioned
Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/good-faith-debates-1-how-should-christians-think-about/id270128470?i=1000565589364
Today on A Little Better Daniel, Adam, and Jen talk through the process of singleness to building into your marriage and every stop in between.
Additional Resources Mentioned
Mentioned by Adam - https://www.amazon.com/Pre-Engagement-Questions-Yourselves-Resources-Changing/dp/0875526799/ref=sr_1_1?keywords=pre%20engagement%205%20questions%20to%20ask%20yourself&qid=1657812270&sprefix=pre%20engagement%20
Today on A Little Better Brad, Daniel, and Conell answer the following questions:
What is the silliest thing that makes you angry?
Define Anger biblically.
What are good things to become angry over?
What do we do next when we realize we are angry?
Additional Resources Mentioned:
Good and Angry - https://www.amazon.com/Good-Angry-Irritation-Complaining-Bitterness/dp/B092Q41P7H/ref=sr_1_1?keywords=good%20and%20angry&qid=1657207688&sprefix=good%20and%20an%2Caps%2C94&sr=8-1
Today on A Little Better Daniel, Brad, and Maddie talk through the following questions:
What did Jesus do with the law?
In what way did Jesus “fulfill” the law? (Matthew 5:17)
Is Jesus against Paul and James in terms of his teachings on the law?
What exactly are we called to in light of Jesus?
Additional Resources Mentioned:Gentle and Lowly - https://www.amazon.com/Gentle-Lowly-Christ-Sinners-Sufferers/dp/1433566133/ref=sr_1_1?keywords=gentle+and+lowly&qid=1656601251&sprefix=gentle+and+l%2Caps%2C108&sr=8-1
If One Uses it Lawfully - https://www.amazon.com/If-One-Uses-Lawfully-Christian-ebook/dp/B07DK9R2T3/ref=sr_1_1?keywords=if+one+uses+it+lawfully&qid=1656601279&sprefix=if+one+uses%2Caps%2C81&sr=8-1
Biblical Theology According to the Apostles - https://www.amazon.com/Biblical-Theology-According-Apostles-Christians/dp/0830820205/ref=sr_1_1?keywords=biblical+theology+according+to+the+apostles&qid=1656601899&sprefix=Biblical+theology+acc%2Caps%2C155&sr=8-1
Today on A Little Better Daniel, Brad, and Maddie answer the following questions tied to our new series Summer on the Mount:
Will liars be allowed in Heaven?
Is there a sin that keeps me out of Heaven?
What if I don’t repent of some of my sins?
What does it mean to start a relationship with Jesus?
How do I continue in that relationship with Jesus to grow?
Today on A Little Better Drew, Daniel, and Brad answer the following questions:
Why is the US mentioned in Revelation?
Why does Jesus wait so long to defeat the Antichrist?
What is the last trumpet in 1 Corinthians 15:51-52?
What surprised you the most about Revelation?
What do you want to spend more time studying?
Additional Resources Mentioned
Heaven Series - https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLiSE8-x-p7S2hGjiCyyl2uZuZw7_rL-Bp
Heaven Questions on A Little Better are shows 008-011
Today on A Little Better Drew, Daniel, and Nate talk through the following questions that have been sent in:
Why do animals receive the wrath of God?
What are the views on the millennium?
Is the antichrist alive right now?
Is the rapture biblical?
Additional Resource Mentioned:https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.google.com/url?q%3Dhttps://www.thegospelcoalition.org/essay/views-of-the-millennium/%26amp;sa%3DD%26amp;source%3Deditors%26amp;ust%3D1655245918246745%26amp;usg%3DAOvVaw0dJOITw7VagRhw8rb-0ONF&sa=D&source=docs&ust=1655245918260298&usg=AOvVaw22rtynNlMIiKnyHh4s9khF
https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.google.com/url?q%3Dhttps://app.rightnowmedia.org/en/player/video/338353?session%253D338363%2526position%253D856%26amp;sa%3DD%26amp;source%3Deditors%26amp;ust%3D1655245918247236%26amp;usg%3DAOvVaw3B0s9UvJM02M_tzQRchIdE&sa=D&source=docs&ust=1655245918260495&usg=AOvVaw1qQTJZK8cHXyQdmxDHY6Su
Today on A Little Better Drew and Brad answer the following questions that have been sent in on the book of Revelation:
Does the bible teach that someone goes to heaven right away once someone dies?
Are followers of Jesus present during the wrath of God being poured out?
When does the rapture happen?
When does/will Revelation 12-14 take place?
Are we pre, mid, or post-trib?
Additional Resource Mentioned:https://zondervanacademic.com/blog/how-read-revelation
Today on A Little Better Daniel, Drew, and Val answer the following questions that have been sent in on the book of Revelation:
Is God the same in the Old Testament to the New Testament?
Why are there 7 spirits of God in Revelation?
How does the Telescopic and consecutive views of God’s wrath differ?
Who gets the Mark of the Beast? How do people get the mark of the Beast?
What about the new implantable payment chips? Is that the mark of the Beast?
Today on A Little Better Brad and Daniel answer the following questions that have been sent in on the book of Revelation:
Why talk about Domitian over Nero?
Explain the sword coming out of Jesus’ mouth in Rev. 1:16.
What does Revelation 2:5 mean?
Does John take any literature from Zechariah?
Who are the 144,000 in Revelation 7?
Additional Resource Mentioned: No Neutral Words - Samuel L. Bierig
https://www.amazon.com/No-Neutral-Words-Investment-Stewardship-ebook/dp/B09ND1BZSP/ref=tmm_kin_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1653351999&sr=8-1
Today on A Little Better Brad and Drew answer the following questions:
Will the events in revelation literally happen?
Are the rapture and antichrist real?
Is the Left Behind series helpful?
Do churches today have angelic representation?
Who are the four beings in Revelation?
What should we think about people who think they can predict the rapture?
What do angels look like?
Additional Resources Mentioned:
Verses that are related to the concept of:
The Rapture: Daniel 7:13, Matthew 24:30-31, 1 Thessalonians 4:16-17
The Antichrist: Daniel 7:24-27, Daniel 8:23-25, Matthew 24:24, Luke 21:8, 2 Thessalonians 2:3-12, 1 John 2:18-22, 2 John 7, Revelation 13:1-14
Concerning the Left Behind series:
https://www.tabletmag.com/sections/news/articles/reconsidering-the-apocalyptic-left-behind-series
Today on A Little Better, Brad, Val, and Daniel answer the following questions…
Should we read Revelation figurative or literal?
Why are there so many numbers in Revelation?
Is the book of Revelation true and should it be in our Bible?
Why John?
How can we say that Jesus has won but there is still more for him to win?
Resource Mentioned:
Article: https://www.michaeljkruger.com/the-book-of-revelation-how-difficult-was-its-journey-into-the-canon/
Book: https://www.amazon.com/Canon-Revisited-Establishing-Authority-Testament/dp/1433505002/ref=sr_1_6?crid=21EG3WG3CBZWK&keywords=michael+j+kruger&qid=1651160231&sprefix=micheal+j+ku%2Caps%2C5284&sr=8-6
Today on A Little Better Drew, Brad, and Daniel answer the following questions…
How should we approach revelation?
What is a revelation?
What is the genre of the book of Revelation?
Does the book of Revelation apply to me today?
Resource Mentioned:
https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5718e8b7f85082df1d53dd09/t/6261832a97022774910ad75c/1650557744221/RevelationPDF_final.pdf
Today on A Little Better Drew, Brad, and Daniel answer the following questions…
What is your faith resting on?
What should our faith be resting on?
How to doubt well?
Is there a time to move on from doubting?
Where are we headed next?
Resource Mentioned:
https://youtu.be/Z8lkuuhVkOI
Today on a little better Drew, Brad, and Daniel answer the following questions…
What is so special about the temple in the Old
Testament?
What is with the curtain in the Old Testament?
How thick was the curtain?
Where did Jesus go when he breathed his last breath?
What are the responses to the cross?
Today on a little better Drew, Brad, and Daniel answer the following questions…
How did Old Testament believers “get saved”?
What are the things the atonement of Jesus did?
What does atonement mean?
How can we live intentionally in the dash?
Is death a good thing?
Questions Answered Today
-
What is happening on the cross?
-
Why do we need the Old Testament?
-
What did Jesus empty himself of? (Phil. 2:7)
-
What human trait from Jesus do you personally connect with?
Do You Believe - Paul Trip
https://www.amazon.com/Do-You-Believe-Historic-Doctrines/dp/1433567717/ref=sxts_b2b_sx_reorder_v3_customer?cv_ct_cx=do+you+believe+paul+tripp&keywords=do+you+believe+paul+tripp&pd_rd_i=1433567717&pd_rd_r=b0f1b79e-b550-43be-b520-c5d0cd4b10fe&pd_rd_w=kuR1L&pd_rd_wg=zueNC&pf_rd_p=f173f6ce-985e-493d-b730-0ddc8feb22e1&pf_rd_r=M41YBV6Q16QBVYTG9ST9&qid=1646144533&sprefix=do+you+%2Caps%2C186&sr=1-1-722db4e4-77fc-4fb6-8cee-654ad16ce1d5
American Gospel Movie
http://www.americangospelfilm.com/watch-christ-crucified-ag2.html
Daniel Tiger Song
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6asYplp9wUs
Equip Resources
Ruthless Elimiation by John Mark Comer
https://www.amazon.com/Ruthless-Elimination-Hurry-Emotionally-Spiritually/dp/0525653090/ref=sr_1_1?keywords=the+ruthless+elimination+of+hurry&qid=1644254937&sprefix=the+ruth%2Caps%2C93&sr=8-1
Sabbath by Abraham Joshua Heschel
https://www.amazon.com/Sabbath-Classics-Abraham-Joshua-Heschel/dp/0374529752/ref=sr_1_1?keywords=the+sabbath+abraham+joshua+heschel&qid=1644254963&sprefix=the+sabbath%2Caps%2C83&sr=8-1
The Deeply Formed Life by Rich Villodas
https://www.amazon.com/Deeply-Formed-Life-Transformative-Values/dp/0525654402/ref=sr_1_1?keywords=the+deeply+formed+life+by+rich+villodas&qid=1644254985&sprefix=the+deeply+%2Caps%2C90&sr=8-1
Bible Project App - Sabbath Resources
https://bibleproject.com/blog/keeping-the-sabbath-is-it-still-relevant-to-christians-today/
Before You Open Your Bible
https://www.amazon.com/Before-You-Open-Your-Bible/dp/1912373718/ref=sr_1_1?keywords=before+you+open+your+bible+matt+smethurst&qid=1642693183&sprefix=before+you+open+%2Caps%2C79&sr=8-1
How to Read Your Bible for All It’s Worth
https://www.amazon.com/How-Read-Bible-All-Worth/dp/0310517826/ref=sr_1_4?keywords=reading+your+bible+for+all+it%27s+worth&qid=1642704312&sprefix=reading+your+bible+for+%2Caps%2C115&sr=8-4
Winning The War In Your Mind
https://www.amazon.com/Winning-War-Your-Mind-Thinking/dp/0310362725
Live No Lies
https://www.amazon.com/Live-No-Lies-Recognize-Sabotage/dp/0525653120/ref=sxts_b2b_sx_reorder_v3_business?cv_ct_cx=live+no+lies+john+mark+comer&keywords=live+no+lies+john+mark+comer&pd_rd_i=0525653120&pd_rd_r=116895e4-d009-412b-9311-f5069b47d190&pd_rd_w=JbK1F&pd_rd_wg=EndpY&pf_rd_p=957bd7e3-74ac-4a2b-82e1-84ce13da595b&pf_rd_r=425ZFKAEMXTK4HGWN8F8&qid=1643048867&sprefix=live+no+lies%2Caps%2C85&sr=1-1-722db4e4-77fc-4fb6-8cee-654ad16ce1d5
Reading the Bible for a Change
https://www.amazon.com/Read-Bible-Change-Understanding-Responding/dp/1608991539/ref=sr_1_2?keywords=reading+the+bible+for+a+change&qid=1643048889&sprefix=reading+the+Bible+for+a+%2Caps%2C91&sr=8-2
Inductive Bible Study
https://www.amazon.com/Inductive-Bible-Study-Observation-Interpretation/dp/1433684144/ref=sr_1_9?qid=1643048951&refinements=p_27%3AAndreas+J.+Kostenberger&s=books&sr=1-9&text=Andreas+J.+Kostenberger
The Bible Project App
https://announce.bibleproject.com/?_ga=2.257748555.1722765771.1643126054-874742450.1643126054
Family Worship Time
https://www.amazon.com/Family-Worship-Bible-History-Your/dp/1433567229/ref=sr_1_2?keywords=family+worship+donald+whitney&qid=1643126084&sprefix=family+worship+%2Caps%2C82&sr=8-2
Life Application Bible
https://www.amazon.com/s?k=life+application+study+bible&sprefix=life+app%2Caps%2C79&ref=nb_sb_ss_ab-sx-reranking-v3-desktop_1_8
For the Love of God
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0028BEE3I/ref=dbs_a_def_rwt_hsch_vapi_tkin_p1_i2
5 Questions to Ask While Reading the Bible
https://www.ligonier.org/learn/articles/5-questions-ask-when-reading-bible
Luke/Acts 52-Day Bible Reading Plan
https://www.bible.com/reading-plans/4821-the-bible-project-luke-acts
Resources Mentioned
Do You Believe? by Paul Trip
https://www.amazon.com/Do-You-Believe-Historic-Doctrines/dp/1433567717/ref=sr_1_1_sspa?crid=UTWUUUU05YYM&keywords=do%20you%20believe%20paul%20tripp&psc=1&qid=1642522393&spLa=ZW5jcnlwdGVkUXVhbGlmaWVyPUFDTUFBWEIwMjExNTYmZW5jcnlwdGVkSWQ9QTA5Nzc1NzAyUlI5QzlLUlM2OEZNJmVuY3J5cHRlZEFkSWQ9QTA5ODkxODIxMVNHRDcwODAwMTJIJndpZGdldE5hbWU9c3BfYXRmJmFjdGlvbj1jbGlja1JlZGlyZWN0JmRvTm90TG9nQ2xpY2s9dHJ1ZQ%3D%3D&sprefix=do%20you%20believe%2Caps%2C142&sr=8-1-spons
Delighting in the Trinity by Micheal Reeves
https://www.amazon.com/Delighting-Trinity-Introduction-Christian-Faith/dp/0830839836/ref=sr_1_1?keywords=delighting%20in%20the%20trinity&qid=1642522493&s=books&sprefix=delighting%20%2Cstripbooks%2C104&sr=1-1
Life Together by Dietrich Bonhoeffer
https://www.amazon.com/Life-Together-Exploration-Christian-Community/dp/0060608528/ref=sr_1_1?keywords=life%20together%20by%20dietrich%20bonhoeffer&qid=1642522518&s=books&sprefix=life%20toget%2Cstripbooks%2C78&sr=1-1
