Are You Listening?: Recent Episodes
James H. Tippins
Living in the Moment: "Are we truly living, or just thinking about life? Join me as I delve into the journey of staying present and finding joy in everyday moments.
Self-improvement. A testament often heralded but fraught with peril. Indeed, we should strive to work on ourselves, but the reflection of my soul once revealed a man I neither desired to be nor to present to the world.Improving the frail, fearful, and broken shell I once was, projecting a façade of confidence unconsciously, was not the answer. No, that man needed to die. And die, he did.In some cases, the situation is so dire that replacement, not repair, is the only viable option. Yet, this does not negate the principle that everything is redeemable; everyone is capable of change.It doesn't require mastery to effect this transformation. It requires discovery.The more VALUE you bring into the world, the less freedom you have to sabotage your life because your purpose becomes a lifeline for others. Picture this: a single drop of water falling into a still pond, creating ripples that extend far beyond its point of impact. Similarly, our actions and purpose send waves that touch lives we might never meet. This truth underscores a profound reality: as our influence grows, so does our responsibility. Our actions no longer affect just ourselves; they ripple out, impacting the lives of those who depend on our purpose, our vision, and our very being.Meeting people is where life happens, I believe, in its purest form. At this point, I realize that just as I have been inspired and in awe of others, they, too, have been inspired and in awe of me. This mutual inspiration is the essence of human connection. We are only special in our unique ability and interest in the lives of those around us… which makes us part of something greater: purpose, legacy, movement. I am often inspired.Yet, this dependency from others can morph into unhealthy codependency if not navigated with wisdom and discernment. Consider the overbearing parent who, in their desire to protect, stifles the growth and independence of their child. It is here that we must lead from the ROOT of autonomy. Autonomy does not imply isolation but rather a well-defined sense of self that establishes clear boundaries with everyone around us. Imagine a garden: each plant thrives best when given its own space to grow, with clear boundaries to prevent entanglement and allow each one to flourish. These boundaries are not barriers but bridges to healthier, more authentic relationships. They delineate where we end and others begin, fostering an environment where mutual respect and individual growth coexist.This is where strong interdependence and accountability are forged. It is within this space of healthy boundaries and self-awareness that intimate life thrives. Think of a dance: two partners moving in harmony, each aware of their own steps yet perfectly in sync with the other. This thriving intimacy is not confined to romantic relationships but extends to all forms of human connection. It is the bedrock upon which trust is built and upon which transformation occurs.For the believer, this autonomy is the ROOT of our purpose, the POWER of our being, the CONTROL of our intention, and the PLAYFULNESS found in the joy of being who we are without fear, shame, or regret. Our faith informs and enriches this autonomy, grounding it in a higher purpose and a deeper sense of belonging. Imagine a tree rooted deeply in rich soil: its stability and growth come from its roots, but it reaches out, providing shade, fruit, and shelter to the world around it.This is the abundant life shared with others. It is a life marked by the freedom to be authentically ourselves while embracing the responsibility that comes with our influence. It is a life where joy is not a fleeting emotion but a deep-seated state of being, born out of the assurance of our place in the world and our impact on it. Picture a lighthouse standing firm on the shore: it is grounded and unwavering, providing guidance and safety to all who navigate the turbulent waters.
Conversations That Transform – Part 2: Finding Joy, Clarity, and Purpose in Every WordVideo Link: In this continuation of "Are You Listening?", Dr. James Tippins explores the remaining principles of how our conversations, inspired by the Word of God, can lead to transformation. Dive into the discussion as we uncover how our words can illuminate, guide, and bring peace. Learn how to nurture growth through intentional dialogue and imagine a life where every conversation is an opportunity for change. Join us for Part 2 of this enlightening series.Podcast Notes (Part 2: Points 11-20):Metaphor of Light:Words as light that dispel darkness in others' lives.Proof Texts: Matthew 5:14-15; Ephesians 5:8Purpose in Every Word:Every word should build up and give grace.Proof Texts: Ephesians 4:29; Proverbs 18:4Overcoming Negativity:Using words to counteract negative narratives and spread positivity.Proof Texts: Philippians 4:8; Romans 12:2Example of Jesus:Jesus' transformative conversations as a model for us.Proof Texts: John 4:13-14; John 8:12Inviting Others In:Creating a tapestry of understanding and support through shared conversations.Proof Texts: Romans 15:7; 1 Thessalonians 5:14The Role of Listening:Effective conversations start with truly hearing others.Proof Texts: James 1:19; Proverbs 18:13Cultural Engagement:Thoughtful engagement with culture reflecting Christ’s love.Proof Texts: 1 Corinthians 9:22; Colossians 4:5-6Creative Purpose in Life:Sharing ideas and dreams to inspire and motivate each other.Proof Texts: 1 Peter 4:10; Ephesians 2:10Nurturing Growth:Nurturing relationships through consistent, loving conversations.Proof Texts: Galatians 6:2; Hebrews 3:13Imagine Your Life:Envisioning a life where every conversation transforms and brings joy, clarity, and purpose.Proof Texts: Ephesians 4:15; Proverbs 12:25
Video Blurb: In this episode of "Are You Listening?", Dr. James Tippins delves into the transformative power of conversations grounded in the Word of God. Join us as we explore the first ten principles of how hearing and speaking the truth of Christ can bring joy, clarity, and purpose into our lives and the lives of those around us. Discover how our words can be vessels of grace, build community, and foster healing. Don't miss this insightful discussion that will inspire you to use your conversations for positive change.Podcast Notes (Part 1: Points 1-10):The Power of the Word:The transformative nature of God's Word, likened to a seed that changes everything around it.Proof Texts: Isaiah 55:11; Hebrews 4:12Transformation through Hearing:Faith comes from hearing the Word of Christ, renewing our hearts and minds.Proof Texts: Romans 10:17; James 1:22Speaking Life:Our words, empowered by Christ, have the power to build up and encourage.Proof Texts: Proverbs 18:21; Ephesians 4:29Conversations that Matter:Speaking with intention and love opens doors to transformation.Proof Texts: Colossians 4:6; Proverbs 15:4The Ripple Effect:Words create ripples of influence far beyond the initial conversation.Proof Texts: Galatians 6:9; Matthew 5:16Empowerment through Truth:Grounded in Christ's truth, our words offer strength and guidance.Proof Texts: John 8:32; 2 Timothy 1:7Building Community:Early Church's devotion to fellowship and teaching as a model for us.Proof Texts: Acts 2:42; Hebrews 10:24-25Healing through Words:Gracious words bring healing and sweetness to the soul.Proof Texts: Proverbs 16:24; Proverbs 12:18Creating Space for New Conversations:Intentional spaces for discussions on Church, Christian living, and culture.Proof Texts: Colossians 3:16; 1 Thessalonians 5:11Living Out Our Faith:Conversations as opportunities to live out and share our faith.Proof Texts: James 2:17; 1 Peter 3:15
GraceTruth Church focuses on authenticity and intimacy, encouraging individuals to be themselves without fear of judgment. Emphasizing the importance of knowing our purpose in Christ, the church fosters a supportive community.
In the last decade, and more so in the last three years, I've embarked on a path of deep exploration and bold exposition in areas often left uncharted or merely skimmed over by the broader Christian community. I make no apologies for this pursuit. It's a deliberate, intentional dive into the complexities and nuances of living a life rooted in Christ—a path not chosen lightly, but with a fervent desire to understand, to grow, and to challenge not only myself but also those who walk this journey with me.This exploration is not a rebellion against the foundations of our faith but a quest to deepen our roots in the rich soil of Christ's teachings. As I delve into themes of authenticity in faith, the interplay between our spiritual beliefs and societal engagement, and the freedom found in Christ's sovereignty, my aim is to bring these conversations to the forefront of our collective consciousness. It's through engaging with these challenging topics that we, as a faith community, can grow to be more mindful, more authentic, and more impactful in our walk with Christ.Together, let us question, seek, and explore the vast dimensions of what it means to be in Christ. Let this not be a journey marked by fear of stepping into the unknown, but rather by the courage to face it head-on, guided by the truth of the Gospel. As we engage in this way, let us inspire one another toward a deeper, more vibrant understanding and practice of our faith.Exploring the Concept of Authenticity in FaithBeing true to oneself stands as a cornerstone of worship and service, echoing the scriptural call for a heart that is sincere and undivided before God. This authenticity is not merely a personal ideal but a biblical imperative that underpins genuine joy and fulfillment in life. In the pursuit of living authentically, individuals are encouraged to shed pretenses and embrace their true selves in the presence of God, fostering a deeper connection with the divine. Romans 12:9 underscores this by urging, "Let love be genuine. Abhor what is evil; hold fast to what is good," highlighting the importance of sincerity and truth in one’s faith journey.Non-Theological EngagementThe dialogue extends beyond the traditional confines of theology, scripture, or Christ, venturing into realms that, while seemingly secular, deeply resonate with a Christian worldview. This approach underscores the interconnectedness of faith with all life aspects, affirming the relevance of Christian principles in addressing a broad spectrum of topics from daily challenges to global issues. Acts 17:28 illustrates this interconnectedness: "In him we live and move and have our being," reminding us that God’s presence and influence permeate every aspect of our existence.The Church and Cultural EngagementA critical examination of the church's role vis-à-vis the wider world reveals a pressing need for leaders and congregations alike to step beyond the familiar territory of "Christian life." This venture involves not just a passive observation but an active, informed engagement with cultural and societal dynamics. Such a stance demands a robust critique of the church's current engagement strategies, urging a shift towards a more Jesus-centric understanding and interaction with the world. Romans 12:2 challenges the church to this transformative engagement: "Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect."Freedom and Sovereignty in ChristThe recognition of divine sovereignty serves as a liberating force, granting believers the freedom to explore and express their faith across various domains of life. This freedom, rooted in an understanding of God's ultimate authority and purpose, encourages a bold and fearless engagement with the world, unshackled by the constraints of fear or conformity.
“When we perceive a man, we perceive him as a whole. His physical body, his intellect, his personality – it’s all tied into who he is as a person. So, while his body may be aging, he’s growing more independent, successful, and mature. Therefore, he's still attractive – perhaps even more so. It doesn’t matter that he’s got some wrinkles, because his body is healthily aligned with his being.”Grace, the woman who wrote this about men observes the antithesis in the world concerning women. I'm not here to debate it, it is true. Period. I'll talk in future publishing about this.While some people would argue that women are not seen differently, it doesn't negate that it is true for many and a lack of privilege presented a different worldview. To argue against another person's experience is foolish. We don't get to speak for all who share commonality with us.I look to start a conversation that would begin "When we perceive a [wo]man, we perceive him her as a whole."While there are many men who would readily vow to perceive women as her whole, we must not be naive and pretend that our culture does not, as a collective, see women in this way. The loud, bold, open, and exposed reality of how some men view women is violent and subtle. The violent side of things, the hate, the ridicule, the objectification, the lack of empathy, the blind-sided workload, and the emotional and physical abuse are easy to spot. The subtle side is often more demeaning and unconsciously active. This is true, even for our sisters in this world. Subtle defines what is often unnoticeable. And what is unnoticeable can often be deadly. The death of agency, death of liberty, death of identity, and death of self-worth are just a few outcomes of unseen misogyny and sexism. I hope to explain the identity-crippling, painful, and isolating abuses and the emotional terror they cause in future writings. Seeing something and how it affects others can't be unseen. Once you see certain things, especially systemic and cultural hatred of half the population, you can't put that back in the bottle and be considered human. We don't know who can and cannot see women in a true sense as human beings, persons, and equals. For the men who do, it is obvious that we do not control the dominant voice and it appears to me, that we aren't even on the airwaves.For over twenty years I have been preparing to speak to this issue. I'm not speaking for women or even to women. No, mainly I am speaking about how many view women and how men who see and know the truth should be partners in this journey to right centuries of wrongs.It is wrong.That is not up for discussion.Grace asks her readers to "Think of the most beautiful woman you know.""I doubt you’re thinking about her boobs or butt. You’re probably thinking about her vibe, her energy, how she makes you feel when you’re around her, how she is healthily aligned with her being. She doesn’t try hard because she doesn’t have to. She is firm, grounded, strong. She is emotional, sensitive, compassionate. She is everything that makes a woman and more. She is not the sum of her parts. She is not a trend. She is a gestalt."Society, culture, and everything that makes these things tick is responsible. So, because we comprise society, we are responsible for changing it.My next book publishing will be the title of this essay, and if permitted, will reveal my life-long passion for this issue, my journey to seeing things as they are, and that the spiritual side of life and love demands such attention, reform, and relegation of both the bold and silent bias against our sisters.In this speaking, our sisters do not need men to defend them, fight for them, or stand in their place. This is part of the problem. They have the agency and ability to do so. They need partnership as human beings to overcome a long-standing hatred that is so common it's nearly invisible. But they can see.
Stains keep me up at night.It's true. I have a tendency to obsess over stains on rugs, clothes, bedding, or anywhere else. There's a wine stain on our butcherblock countertop that only I can see. I've spent the last nine years trying to discover new ways of eradicating it. One day, I'll strip, sand, and refinish the whole lot; that will do it.Most of the time, a stain is something to remove or clean. But in a positive sense, we can call a stain a mark. Everyone thinks about making a "mark" on the world. And some of us leave negative marks or stains. So, let's just say that a mark is positive and a stain is negative depending on the outcome and most of all, the perspective. The mind inside of me is always thinking. And today, I realized I'm not much for personal legacy but I am always, even from childhood, considering my impact on the world around me. I reevaluated some goals recently that some of you may have seen on YouTube. Check it out if want a peek inside my insanity. Today I have put some action to these goals with other thoughts.THREE M's of leaving a MARKMOVEMEETMOTIVATEThese three things are not an all-inclusive set of actions that will give me what I want, but they are MY WAY of organizing my life. And for those who know me, you understand this came to me in a nanosecond. I am a living, breathing alliteration factory.MOVEThis means that I want to enter this phase of my life actively. So, I am going to rekindle my passions for martial arts, biking, strength training, shooting sports, calisthenics, and swimming. I find that when I engage my body my mind seems to be alive and focused. That is why I nearly always take calls and walk. I've recently added a "pedal" under my desk. Not only is moving good for the body and mind, but it is also good for establishing good connections for creativity, spiritual growth, and prayer. There is something to be said about doing that keeps our mind free to truly be in the moment. A short read of the New Testament letters reveals this practice often.MEETI've never been a stranger to strangers. I love meeting new people and lately have been more isolated than not. So, part of the life I desire to live requires being actively involved, to a degree, with others. This part requires me to prioritize and put FIRST things FIRST.So, in the relationship portion of "meet" I put my marriage as the top priority over every other relationship. This is key. If my marriage falls cold, everything follows.Second, my children. All five of them and soon-to-be two grandkids, and the two sons-in-law are a major priority. And while they are not the top, they are as important and often require more time than my wife and I have for each other. But that's OK. We enjoy the adult side of parenting together.Then comes my relatives, spiritual family, my community, those who depend on me in advocacy, and anyone else that comes along as my neighbor. I have an obligation to them, but never at the cost of the first two. I will write more about these relationships in time.MOTIVATEI have little time for leisure. I've tried it. It doesn't suit me at all. I honestly do not care for doing "nothing" and find it causes me stress. Yes, I take time out and I love being alone to write, think, and enjoy some of my more creative interests. But I need to be actively working toward a goal most of the time. So, motivation includes me, and those around me, toward a goal or desire. I find that most people are stagnant because they are not encouraged, guided, shepherded, and loved. It's amazing to me that so many religious people are bitter, lonely, and hard to be around when they claim to have ultimate 'joy'. I think it's more important to encourage and motivate other people in life beyond all other interactions or investments available. Time together is always time for encouragement. Don't hear what I am not saying.
After three years I am restarting this conversation. I hope to get all of you back in the saddle of having a good convo. Take care to watch for my newsletters starting in the next few months. Every Friday-- about some neat and new ideas on living life well for the Glory of Christ.
https://youtu.be/90zp9afAsn4
I think we need to talk.
Here are some thoughts relating to the future.
I am sure many will have questions, but most of all, I hope everyone has ears to hear and to listen.
Love is a term that many people use without meaning or purpose and sometimes it is assigned the wrong definition. God is love and His love toward His elect is a decisive action unto their eternal life, redemption, forgiveness, etc. I want to encourage you to think on this Love of God this year... this day... right now.
There is never a day when I don't have some sense of a spiritual struggle. Even in the best of days, the enemy is at work, my flesh enjoys the ride, and the Spirit within is at war. Thankfully, I don't have to come to rest in my struggle in order to be assured and secure in Christ; he's done that work in my place. But there are many things that I have noticed cause a worse struggle within, namely, some of the things I put into my mind at times...
There is no room for a "close" gospel, and according to Paul in Galatians, any iteration of the gospel that is not pure on both sides is a false gospel. Therefore, those who hold as their hope these nuanced gospels are to be understood as having not been converted as they do not have the truth.
The bible and the brethren are essential "legs" of the Christian's life. Without ONE of these, there is no real or tangible way that any believer will be healthy and growing. Think about this for a minute, and remember, these thoughts are for your perusal, for your thinking... are you listening?
Evangelism is the PURPOSE of most religious groups in the world. The Christian faith surely should be actively involved in reaching God's lost sheep with the gospel of grace. But the methods employed most of the time are not necessarily good or effective. What does Scripture say? This brief thought is just to jar our minds and get us thinking as we look to the future of this topic. We can either trust God's word or we can't. That is the simple truth of evangelism.
Reading books is something I LOVE. And for the longest time, I hated reading anything but Scripture... or comic books as a kid. (And the season read through of encyclopedia sets). OK, I have always loved to read, but only what I loved to read. To the point. I get questions related to what books Christians should be reading nearly every week. So, my thoughts, in brief, is that we should be reading the Bible more than anything else. If I spend an hour reading other material (even about Scripture), I should be reading the bible three times longer.
Four years ago this week my eldest daughter, for an academic project, needed to interview someone relating to their profession. She chose to ask me a series of questions relating to my life as a pastor. Having been reminded of this today I read back through my answers and the answer to this question is necessary for many who are in the ministry of shepherding these days. I have already made the distinction of a pastor/shepherd and just a teacher/preacher. The first does the second but not all who do the latter are called to the first. This answer was given to a 16-year-old girl who has always been fascinated by the work of the Lord in our lives, and moreover, His providence in the times of great hardship.
How has being a pastor affected your life? Well, it has made my life hard. Ministry for the average “church” is just a list of things done and programs practiced, but for me it has been different. Having pastored churches of over 2000 members as well as churches of 40 members, God has allowed me to see one continual stream through it all: suffering. In suffering God is made brighter because I have not been able to qualify any success in ministry by my wisdom or hands. So, at many times pastoring is a lonely place, even though we are surrounding continually by people, the burden is difficult to express and in some ways, unnecessary. Many pastors will lie and say, “It’s a big ball of fun..” But it isn’t, it is gloriously satisfying but gravely burdensome. So, to simply put it, pastoring has allowed me to see that my life is not mine, but it is God’s and He has given it away to others for His name’s sake. This gives me great satisfaction.
This, among other things, is a great reminder and glimpse at the nature of the cross work of Christ, the continued work of laboring as Paul and the Apostles did for the sheep of Christ. We will suffer and we will suffer well. [18] And when they came to him, he said to them: “You yourselves know how I lived among you the whole time from the first day that I set foot in Asia, [19] serving the Lord with all humility and with tears and with trials that happened to me through the plots of the Jews; [20] how I did not shrink from declaring to you anything that was profitable, and teaching you in public and from house to house, [21] testifying both to Jews and to Greeks of repentance toward God and of faith in our Lord Jesus Christ. [22] And now, behold, I am going to Jerusalem, constrained by the Spirit, not knowing what will happen to me there, [23] except that the Holy Spirit testifies to me in every city that imprisonment and afflictions await me. [24] But I do not account my life of any value nor as precious to myself, if only I may finish my course and the ministry that I received from the Lord Jesus, to testify to the gospel of the grace of God. (Acts 20:18–24)
I've got the Joy Joy Joy... well, somewhere! Joy is often difficult to find in the midst of trials. Christ is our joy, He doesn't just "bring" our joy and even when we can't find it, see it or feel it, it is there because the Promises of Christ of Christ is there. Go listen to our weekly hour-long podcast "Theology Answers" that can be found over at "TheologyAnswers.com" and is a part of the Christian Podcast Community
"The Joy of the Lord is our Strength."
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You are Justified in Christ. Justification comes with two distinct partitions: That the sinner is forgiven (pardoned) and that he is given a new credit to his account: righteousness! This righteousness is NEVER his to claim but always the glory of Christ's perfection! Go listen to our weekly hour-long podcast "Theology Answers" that can be found over at "TheologyAnswers.com" and is a part of the Christian Podcast Community
"Just get it right why don't you..."
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You are Justified in Christ... What sins are we forgiven of? Who can charge the elect before God? NO ONE! Christ is the center of our hope and the finisher of our salvation! Go listen to our weekly hour-long podcast "Theology Answers" that can be found over at "TheologyAnswers.com" and is a part of the Christian Podcast Community
"Just get it right why don't you..."
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You are Justified in Christ... We are continuing in the theme of justification for several weeks interspersed along with other topics. Today we look at Romans 5:1-2 that reveals that our justification gives us access to and peace with God. Go listen to our weekly hour-long podcast "Theology Answers" that can be found over at "TheologyAnswers.com" and is a part of the Christian Podcast Community
"Just get it right why don't you..."
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You are Justified in Christ... This week we are going to look at some theological terms that are often confused or conflated. Justification primarily will be our focus.! Go listen to our weekly hour-long podcast "Theology Answers" that can be found over at "TheologyAnswers.com" and is a part of the Christian Podcast Community
"Just get it right why don't you..."
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You are Justified in Christ... This week we are going to look at some theological terms that are often confused or conflated. Justification primarily will be our focus.! Go listen to our weekly hour-long podcast "Theology Answers" that can be found over at "TheologyAnswers.com" and is a part of the Christian Podcast Community
"Just get it right why don't you..."
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Praying as the Lord Commands! The gospel of Grace is our hope! Our Father gladly hears our prayers, we just have to understand and apply the Word of God to our Prayer life! Go listen to our weekly hour-long podcast "Theology Answers" that can be found over at "TheologyAnswers.com" and is a part of the Christian Podcast Community
"Prayer isn't just blessings at meals... redundant words..."
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What I want is what I want... And it will cost us our prayer life. People who pray selfishly tend to have one thing in common: they are not in the fellowship of the church and they are not in the word of God; except selfishly... (another podcast another day...) Go listen to our weekly hour-long podcast "Theology Answers" that can be found over at "TheologyAnswers.com" and is a part of the Christian Podcast Community
"Prayer isn't just blessings at meals... redundant words..."
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God won't answer me anyway... It's easy to do, but in this type of attitude, the Scriptures suggest that we should not expect anything from the Lord. So, let's pay attention to this type of unbelief. Go listen to our weekly hour-long podcast "Theology Answers" that can be found over at "TheologyAnswers.com" and is a part of the Christian Podcast Community
"Prayer isn't just blessings at meals... redundant words..."
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Love Your Brother? It's easy to get flustered, become hateful, and breed bitterness. There are many areas of relationships that can hinder our prayers. Do you have them? Go listen to our weekly hour-long podcast "Theology Answers" that can be found over at "TheologyAnswers.com" and is a part of the Christian Podcast Community
"Prayer isn't just blessings at meals... redundant words..."
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Prayer is vital And it can be hindered. We are going to discuss that issue this week and reveal what scripture shows us on how to have a healthy and non-hindered prayer life. Go listen to our weekly hour-long podcast "Theology Answers" that can be found over at "TheologyAnswers.com" and is a part of the Christian Podcast Community
"Prayer isn't just blessings at meals... redundant words..."
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Please pray for me!!! That request is often replied with, 'What's happening? Tell me what's going on! Now, good intentions could be at the root of this response, but if we are not careful, we can give way to gossip, hurt and hindrance to our prayers. Go listen to our weekly hour-long podcast "Theology Answers" that can be found over at "TheologyAnswers.com" and is a part of the Christian Podcast Community
"Ask for prayer, just don't hinder the one praying."
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Christ WILL SAVE HIS SHEEP! While it isn't popular, it is the truth. Jesus will save His sheep and NONE of them will be lost. So, when we share the faith we trust in the work of Christ alone and we can rest in the assurance that the Gospel given through the Word is life for all it is intended. We can sleep well at night knowing that when someone rejects the gospel that they are rejecting Christ and that only God can cause a hostile mind to believe! We are not "on the hook" for failing to convince others to believe. Go listen to our weekly hour-long podcast "Theology Answers" that can be found over at "TheologyAnswers.com" and is a part of the Christian Podcast Community
"Just as we did not create life, we cannot cause it."
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God declares and God prepares! We don't have to feel the pressure of GETTING the answers to every unbeliever in order for them to be saved. God saves divinely through the hearing of the Word (Rom 10:17), and by the Spirit who is the Word of Life (John 6). We proclaim and God does the saving supernaturally. Tomorrow we'll show this same truth relating to Jesus, God the Son! Go listen to our weekly hour-long podcast "Theology Answers" that can be found over at "TheologyAnswers.com" and is a part of the Christian Podcast Community
"Grace Grace Grace.... Grace."
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My Buddy is not Evangelism! As we've seen already, the Scripture is the source of Life through Jesus Christ, so, in order to share this powerful truth with others some have been taught they need to "work" into a friendship Spiritual things. If your everyday life is not expounding the truth of Christ there is something very wrong; you are either out of fellowship with the local assembly, your pastor doesn't teach you rightly, or you could be unregenerate! Go listen to our weekly hour-long podcast "Theology Answers" that can be found over at "TheologyAnswers.com" and is a part of the Christian Podcast Community
"You got a friend in me.... NOT if I am not teaching TRUTH."
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You have the words of Eternal Life! The truth of the gospel and its POWER is found in the Scripture. It will feel as though the remainder of this week is redundant, but it is intentional in order to drive home the reality that the word is life and from the Word, we are taught! Go listen to our weekly hour-long podcast "Theology Answers" that can be found over at "TheologyAnswers.com" and is a part of the Christian Podcast Community
"Half truth is no Truth, like being half dead."
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Learn the Word of God! If you need food and I don't have any food there is nothing I can do to help you eat. The same is true if we desire for God to use our mouths to bring His sheep to faith. If we are not learning the Scripture, we are not being prepared to have proper evangelism in our lives. Outlines, acrostics, pneumonic devices, "roads", examples, apologetics, evidence etc. cannot bring ONE person to faith. Only Scripture can give you the tools to give others the truth! Go listen to our weekly hour-long podcast "Theology Answers" that can be found over at "TheologyAnswers.com" and is a part of the Christian Podcast Community
"Half truth is no Truth, like being half dead."
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All Talents are for the Church! Mutual benefit, encouragement, upbuilding etc. is the purpose of all the gifts that the Lord has given us. We are not our own, but we have been bought with a price. In our current culture, the trends toward evangelism have spiraled out of biblical norms. We have independent teachers and self-gloried preachers who feel they are called to "do what the church is not" and thus they feel justified in their disobedience. One sure measure of a healthy congregation is that the elders who teach are equipping, by the Word of God, the saints under their care in order to do the work of the ministry. Including evangelism. Are you READY? Go listen to our weekly hour-long podcast "Theology Answers" that can be found over at "TheologyAnswers.com" and is a part of the Christian Podcast Community
"And I'm proud to be an......"
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Because It Matters! Sometimes in our conversations with people about truth, they will come to the point of saying, "Does doctrine really matter? Is theology necessary? Can't we just have Jesus? While this sounds nice, it is foolish. First, because it ignores the meaning of those terms: doctrine means teaching and theology is the learning of God. Both are given in every breath of scripture! Go listen to our weekly hour-long podcast "Theology Answers" that can be found over at "TheologyAnswers.com" and is a part of the Christian Podcast Community
"Half truth is no Truth, like being half dead."
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You Devil You! Look at this tree in my eye! Your dusty specs are truly a problem. Dealing with sin is hard enough in our own lives, but what to do when we have to address it in each other? Why is it so hard? What does the bible say? I'm not talking about someone sinning against another, but when we sin wilful or habitual sin in the lives of our siblings in Christ. How do we approach that? Go listen to our weekly hour-long podcast "Theology Answers" that can be found over at "TheologyAnswers.com" and is a part of the Christian Podcast Community
"You could be ugly."
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Jesus Loves Me, This I Know! FOR THE BIBLE Tells me so. How is that? God shows his love for us in this, that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us. We've butchered the true meaning of the Love of God. The Bible teaches us exactly how God loves and we would do well to correct any other notion. Go listen to our weekly hour-long podcast "Theology Answers" that can be found over at "TheologyAnswers.com" and is a part of the Christian Podcast Community
"Your baby could be ugly."
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Put that snake down! It will bite you if you aren't careful. Of course, we would not desire our children or loved ones to play with venomous snakes. How much more so should we consider warning them of false teachers that we find on their coffee tables or televisions? Let's consider a few thoughts related to how to confront others biblically when dealing with this type of confrontation. Go listen to our weekly hour-long podcast "Theology Answers" that can be found over at "TheologyAnswers.com" and is a part of the Christian Podcast Community
"Devil Worshipping Heritic!"
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You're Off the hook! Sometimes we fear forgiving others because we don't want to be hurt anymore. But, we don't have to fear and we can forgive because Christ has provided our forgiveness, our redemption. Rest well and as always, we're here to discuss with you the truth of the Gospel. Go listen to our weekly hour-long podcast "Theology Answers" that can be found over at "TheologyAnswers.com" and is a part of the Christian Podcast Community
"Fear Not for I Have Redeemed You!"
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Brother do I hate people! WE don't have to fear conflict. It is an opportunity for reconciliation and most of all, a reminder of our need for redemption. It also clearly gives us a picture of the beauty of Christ's work in our forgiveness. Rest well and as always, we're here to discuss with you the truth of the Gospel. Go listen to our weekly hour-long podcast "Theology Answers" that can be found over at "TheologyAnswers.com" and is a part of the Christian Podcast Community
"Fear Not for I Have Redeemed You!"
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Do Not Fear! Easier said than done. Today we consider the reality of fear and worry, its source and most of all, its cure. This podcast won't carry you to the heights of fearlessness, but it will remind you of the source of our hope. Rest well and as always, we're here to discuss with you the truth of the Gospel. Go listen to our weekly hour-long podcast "Theology Answers" that can be found over at "TheologyAnswers.com" and is a part of the Christian Podcast Community
"Fear Not for I Have Redeemed You!"
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Prayer is Tough! And it's one of those battles we fight every single day. The truth is that we can pray because we are AT ONE with God because of Jesus Christ. Gladly, even when we find ourselves unable to pray we can trust that God the Spirit will pray for us, prompt us to pray and endeavor the journey for us. Rest well and as always, we're here to discuss with you the truth of the Gospel. Go listen to our weekly hour-long podcast "Theology Answers" that can be found over at "TheologyAnswers.com" and is a part of the Christian Podcast Community
"Solus Cristos!"
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Jesus Loves Me This I Know! Because the bible does tell us so! The truth is that God, being immutable and eternal, has loved you eternally. That is if you are a believing one. His love for your purchased you through the death of His Son Jesus the Christ and there is no fear of wrath because He has rescued you by His everlasting love. Rest well and as always, we're here to discuss with you the truth of the Gospel. Go listen to our weekly hour-long podcast "Theology Answers" that can be found over at "TheologyAnswers.com" and is a part of the Christian Podcast Community
"Solus Cristos!"
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Behold the Lamb! The only son of God is the lamb through which God is satisfied in His justice! We must not convolute the gospel of grace with philosophy and traditions but need to submit to the clear teaching of Scripture. This short podcast will remind us of the reality of God's provision in Jesus His Son! Rest well and as always, we're here to discuss with you the truth of the Gospel. Go listen to our weekly hour-long podcast "Theology Answers" that can be found over at "TheologyAnswers.com" and is a part of the Christian Podcast Community
"Solus Cristos!"
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Trusting in the Provision of the Lord! God told Abraham to sacrifice his only son on the altar. God provided the grace for Abraham's obedience. God granted the faith so Abraham would trust God. God provided the escape and most of all, God provided the true lamb, Jesus Christ, His One and Only Son! Rest well and as always, we're here to discuss with you the truth of the Gospel. Go listen to our weekly hour-long podcast "Theology Answers" that can be found over at "TheologyAnswers.com" and is a part of the Christian Podcast Community
"Solus Cristos?"
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And then some! We should strive to be precise, clear and accurate in our words. Without which we can cause all sorts of frustration and division. Just this week I've made accurate statements in that they were all very true, but in their precision, they were lacking. So, many people assumed many things, and in the end, even some people got nasty. Rest well and as always, we're here to discuss with you the truth of the Gospel. Go listen to our weekly hour-long podcast "Theology Answers" that can be found over at "TheologyAnswers.com" and is a part of the Christian Podcast Community
"Are you listening... to how you are talking?"
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Sprecfien ist silbern, Schweigen ist golden! Speach is silver, silence is golden! In our world it doesn't pay to be quiet, after all, we must get noticed and feel important. Silence has good and bad uses, but for the most part, it is best to listen... Rest well and as always, we're here to discuss with you the truth of the Gospel. Go listen to our weekly hour-long podcast "Theology Answers" that can be found over at "TheologyAnswers.com" and is a part of the Christian Podcast Community
"Are you listening... to how you are talking?"
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The weapons of words.. Keep it real - not!
Speak too much or often. Speak too freely and openly. Speak about polarizing topics. Speak with complaining. Speak with dogma and assertion. We should speak for the purpose of building up, teaching, gently, kindly, and wisely.
Rest well and as always, we're here to discuss with you the truth of the Gospel. Go listen to our weekly hour-long podcast "Theology Answers" that can be found over at "TheologyAnswers.com" and is a part of the Christian Podcast Community
"Are you listening... to how you are talking?"
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Sticks and Stones and Words Can Harm You! Today we just posit a little on some of the things we find in scripture about our words. Tomorrow we will look at four or five ways how our words can be divisive and how we can combat it by the word of God. Rest well and as always, we're here to discuss with you the truth of the Gospel. Go listen to our weekly hour-long podcast "Theology Answers" that can be found over at "TheologyAnswers.com" and is a part of the Christian Podcast Community
"Are you listening... to how you are talking?"
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Don't you talk about my mamma! We hear and see words all the time. There is little time to escape the ever-expanding world of language. Are we as Christians taking heed of what we say and communicate? We should. Rest well and as always, we're here to discuss with you the truth of the Gospel. Go listen to our weekly hour-long podcast "Theology Answers" that can be found over at "TheologyAnswers.com" and is a part of the Christian Podcast Community
"Are you listening... to how you are talking?"
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Rotten Fruit, Rotten Faith! What is the fruit of my faith? (Grasping "good works" as dynamic and insufficient) This question is hard to analyze without a ton of presuppositions. For the sake of simplicity, I have already addressed evidence of faith as "FAITH ALONE", I am going to talk about some of the things we will see in our lives as Christians. True believers are have been born of God. Rest well and as always, we're here to discuss with you the truth of the Gospel. Go listen to our weekly hour-long podcast "Theology Answers" that can be found over at "TheologyAnswers.com" and is a part of the Christian Podcast Community
"You are safe in Christ. Be sure of Him, not you."
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Boy, you better be holy!!!! What is holiness? (defined by the Lord, not us.) For most people, it is an adherence to the Decalogue (ten commandments). For others, it is a list of regulations and rules set forth by historic cultural standards. Even more, it is an idea of sinless perfection. But what does Scripture say? Next AYL's:
What is the fruit of my faith? (Grasping "good works" as dynamic and insufficient)
These daily podcasts will most likely be a little longer than normal. Rest well and as always, we're here to discuss with you the truth of the Gospel. Go listen to our weekly hour-long podcast "Theology Answers" that can be found over at "TheologyAnswers.com" and is a part of the Christian Podcast Community
"You are safe in Christ. Be sure of Him, not you."
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Sufficient and Certain, Not Possible and Available! What did the cross accomplish for the believer? (Grasping the atonement) Expiation and Propitiation are accomplished at the cross. We don't bargain with the work of Jesus as hopeful but as trustworthy! Certain! Amen. Next Two AYL's:
What is holiness? (defined by the Lord, not us.) What is the fruit of my faith? (Grasping "good works" as dynamic and insufficient)
These daily podcasts will most likely be a little longer than normal. Rest well and as always, we're here to discuss with you the truth of the Gospel. Go listen to our weekly hour-long podcast "Theology Answers" that can be found over at "TheologyAnswers.com" and is a part of the Christian Podcast Community
"You are safe in Christ. Be sure of Him, not you."
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We operate strictly on listener support. We also produce several other podcasts, videos for education and worldwide teaching courses published for free for the training of pastors. Your financial support is greatly appreciated.
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We need the facts, We have to solve this case! What evidence should accompany true faith? If we had to measure an evidence so we could be sure that we are saved what would it look like? Is it works? AM I supposed to measure myself in the mirror against Jesus? Maybe a neighbor? True saving faith is the primary evidence of regeneration/salvation. The rest is for the Lord to work out in His timing.(Understanding salvation as regeneration, not life change) What did the cross accomplish for the believer? (Grasping the atonement) What is holiness? (defined by the Lord, not us.) What is the fruit of my faith? (Grasping "good works" as dynamic and insufficient) These daily podcasts will most likely be a little longer than normal. Rest well and as always, we're here to discuss with you the truth of the Gospel. Go listen to our weekly hour-long podcast "Theology Answers" that can be found over at "TheologyAnswers.com" and is a part of the Christian Podcast Community
"You are safe in Christ. Be sure of Him, not you."
Consider Supporting our Ministry
We operate strictly on listener support. We also produce several other podcasts, videos for education and worldwide teaching courses published for free for the training of pastors. Your financial support is greatly appreciated.
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Things you need to know about your Faith! No question in the life of a believer has been more worrisome than, "How do I know I'm truly saved?" Since the 1500's this question has been answered by people who are unable to rightly reveal their answer with Scripture. We live in a day and age where educated men are fundamentally flawed with their assumptive and myopic stance on looking to something other than Christ Alone for security. This week series we will discuss this and related topics by answering the following questions:
What's wrong with my faith? How can I know that I know that I know I have eternal life? What evidence should accompany true faith? (Understanding salvation as regeneration, not life change) What did the cross accomplish for the believer? (Grasping the atonement) What is holiness? (defined by the Lord, not us.) What is the fruit of my faith? (Grasping "good works" as dynamic and insufficient)
These daily podcasts will most likely be a little longer than normal. Rest well and as always, we're here to discuss with you the truth of the Gospel. Go listen to our weekly hour-long podcast "Theology Answers" that can be found over at "TheologyAnswers.com" and is a part of the Christian Podcast Community
"You are safe in Christ. Be sure of Him, not you."
Consider Supporting our Ministry
We operate strictly on listener support. We also produce several other podcasts, videos for education and worldwide teaching courses published for free for the training of pastors. Your financial support is greatly appreciated.
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There are many false teachers that don't know it! In our world few individuals know how to speak accurately, read comprehensively or communicate effectively. We live in a time where it is easier to laugh, poke, scoff and make fun of someone and their ideas rather than be confronted by the fact that we just don't know how to listen. Reading and applying the Scriptures is no different. From 140 characters to emoticons, the Bible has long been misapplied because it is literature and must be read as such. Ignorance is not bliss when it comes to Biblical truth because truth in ignorance is purveyed as error and error can be lethal. Go listen to our weekly hour-long podcast "Theology Answers" that can be found over at "TheologyAnswers.com" and is a part of the Christian Podcast Community
"he think's I'm a deacon... ahhhh, I don't know how to read!"
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Rest in your evangelism, in the sovereignty of God! Nothing we do or don't do (if we share the gospel) can deter another person from believing. God is sovereign in salvation and He will bring faith as He wishes. So, we need to share the gospel with boldness and confidence and leave the saving to God. We appreciate your listening and look forward to seeing this podcast get off the ground with great force. By the Lord's grace, we'll continue to provide more and more teaching on this and other pastoral subjects. Also, get ready to start listening to our weekly hour-long podcast "Theology Answers" that can be found over at "TheologyAnswers.com" and is a part of the Christian Podcast Community.
"Men are not God."
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We don't need no stinking members! People often think about church this way in that they don't see the need to "JOIN" a local church. Well, the Scripture reveals some commands that don't make sense otherwise. We appreciate your listening and look forward to seeing this podcast get off the ground with great force. By the Lord's grace, we'll continue to provide more and more teaching on this and other pastoral subjects. Also, get ready to start listening to our weekly hour-long podcast "Theology Answers" that can be found over at "TheologyAnswers.com" and is a part of the Christian Podcast Community.
"You're either in or you're out."
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We operate strictly on listener support. We also produce several other podcasts, videos for education and worldwide teaching courses published for free for the training of pastors. Your financial support is greatly appreciated.
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Many should not be teachers! Teachers are everywhere, but should they be? Scripture says in James 3:1 that many should not be teachers because those who teach are held to a stricter judgment. The main reason is that it is easy to sin with our mouths and how much worse is sin in teaching wrongly? We appreciate your listening and look forward to seeing this podcast get off the ground with great force. By the Lord's grace, we'll continue to provide more and more teaching on this and other pastoral subjects. Also, get ready to start listening to our weekly hour-long podcast "Theology Answers" that can be found over at "TheologyAnswers.com" and is a part of the Christian Podcast Community.
"There is no plan B - No backup option when it comes to faith."
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Mustard seeds and mustard stains! One doesn't wash out and the other is big enough for eternal life. Saving faith in Jesus Christ stands alone and has no other life-line. To truly believe in Jesus for salvation means that one doesn't hold fast to anything else. We appreciate your listening and look forward to seeing this podcast get off the ground with great force. By the Lord's grace, we'll continue to provide more and more teaching on this and other pastoral subjects. Also, get ready to start listening to our weekly hour-long podcast "Theology Answers" that can be found over at "TheologyAnswers.com" and is a part of the Christian Podcast Community.
"There is no plan B - No backup option when it comes to faith."
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We operate strictly on listener support. We also produce several other podcasts, videos for education and worldwide teaching courses published for free for the training of pastors. Your financial support is greatly appreciated.
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I don't know how to read! But we can get the bible into the ears of our family. We can trust in the Lord for His power through the hearing of His word. More than theological studies, the Bible needs to be read. Don't let schedule and business push spiritual growth to the side. We appreciate your listening and look forward to seeing this podcast get off the ground with great force. By the Lord's grace, we'll continue to provide more and more teaching on this and other pastoral subjects. Also, get ready to start listening to our weekly hour-long podcast "Theology Answers" that can be found over at "TheologyAnswers.com" and is a part of the Christian Podcast Community.
"Ears to hear... come from hearing."
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Looking for books and coloring pages isn't necessary. We don't have to fear 'how' we are to teach our family the truths of God's word. If we read and teach the Scripture, God will be the true instructor. His word is truth and God the Spirit will guide the words to the minds of our children. Join us for our other podcasts and vidcast below. And please consider being a monthly patron, we pray you're blessed by these podcasts and teachings.
"God teaches. Enough said."
Listen every day,
ARE YOU LISTENING Our daily 2 to 4-minute podcast on applied theology. Wake up with us every day. STRAIGHT OUTTA CONTEXT Our weekly, Wednesday podcast on how to understand and interpret the bible. 10-20 minutes each week. THEOLOGY ANSWERS Our weekly, One Hour podcast dealing with theological issues with hosts Edward Dalcour and James Tippins. THEOLOGY OnCall Our weekly Sunday evening Question and Answer Facebook LIVE vidcast. 8PM EST
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We operate strictly on listener support. We also produce several other podcasts, videos for education and worldwide teaching courses published for free for the training of pastors. Your financial support is greatly appreciated.
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Spiritual Headship is About Being the first to reveal and do spiritual things. The first to forgive and the first to show repentance. Many times being a parent and leading spiritually can be taxing and down right scary. Most parents feel as if they fail and if truth be known we do. The good news is that we are secure in that as spiritual leaders for our children, we can rest assured that God will produce His intended outcome in His perfect timing! Join us for our other podcasts and vidcast below. And please consider being a monthly patron, even it's only a few dollars a month.
"I'm the boss around here" - says the one who isn't the boss."
Listen every day,
ARE YOU LISTENING Our daily 2 to 4-minute podcast on applied theology. Wake up with us every day. STRAIGHT OUTTA CONTEXT Our weekly, Wednesday podcast on how to understand and interpret the bible. 10-20 minutes each week. THEOLOGY ANSWERS Our weekly, One Hour podcast dealing with theological issues with hosts Edward Dalcour and James Tippins. THEOLOGY OnCall Our weekly Sunday evening Question and Answer Facebook LIVE vidcast. 8PM EST
Consider Supporting our Ministry
We operate strictly on listener support. We also produce several other podcasts, videos for education and worldwide teaching courses published for free for the training of pastors. Your financial support is greatly appreciated.
Thank You!
RUN for your LIVES! Family spiritual growth and Bible study doesn't have to feel this way. It's a matter of focus and intention above all things! We appreciate your listening and look forward to seeing this podcast get off the ground with great force. By the Lord's grace, we'll continue to provide more and more teaching on this and other pastoral subjects. Also, get ready to start listening to our weekly hour-long podcast "Theology Answers" that can be found over at "TheologyAnswers.com" and is a part of the Christian Podcast Community.
"Train up a child and he may bite you..."
Listen every day,
ARE YOU LISTENING Our daily 2 to 4-minute podcast on applied theology. Wake up with us every day. STRAIGHT OUTTA CONTEXT Our weekly, Wednesday podcast on how to understand and interpret the bible. 10-20 minutes each week. THEOLOGY ANSWERS Our weekly, One Hour podcast dealing with theological issues with hosts Edward Dalcour and James Tippins. THEOLOGY OnCall Our weekly Sunday evening Question and Answer Facebook LIVE vidcast. 8PM EST
Consider Supporting our Ministry
We operate strictly on listener support. We also produce several other podcasts, videos for education and worldwide teaching courses published for free for the training of pastors. Your financial support is greatly appreciated.
Thank You!
Bitter Men Make Bad Cooks... Well, I don't know about that, but I do know they are horrible friends and even worse co-workers. Christians in the workplace should strive to get along and be an encouragement, not a burden to those around them.. We appreciate your listening and look forward to seeing this podcast get off the ground with great force. By the Lord's grace, we'll continue to provide more and more teaching on this and other pastoral subjects. Also, get ready to start listening to our weekly hour-long podcast "Theology Answers" that can be found over at "TheologyAnswers.com" and is a part of the Christian Podcast Community.
"What's that smell? Oh, it's me."
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A man deserves his wage... In recent times its been stated that wage and earnings are at disproportion among people, business owners, and investors. While Capitalism is a good thing, greed isn't, especially when the owner, manager, or boss is a Christian. This podcast will discuss a few thoughts related to the Christian and how he should pay people in his/her employ. We appreciate your listening and look forward to seeing this podcast get off the ground with great force. By the Lord's grace, we'll continue to provide more and more teaching on this and other pastoral subjects. Also, get ready to start listening to our weekly hour-long podcast "Theology Answers" that can be found over at "TheologyAnswers.com" and is a part of the Christian Podcast Community.
"Money, Money, Money... give me more! - Satan's friends"
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Business is Business! We as Christians are called to a better standard than the world. And by the Lord's grace, we can be different. Many people like to separate their "faith" from the "profits" and in this week's podcasts we're going to look at how that is not OK and those who do should be brought under discipline. We appreciate your listening and look forward to seeing this podcast get off the ground with great force. By the Lord's grace, we'll continue to provide more and more teaching on this and other pastoral subjects. Also, get ready to start listening to our weekly hour-long podcast "Theology Answers" that can be found over at "TheologyAnswers.com" and is a part of the Christian Podcast Community.
"I'm the boss..."
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Pastor Hold on. I'm talking to pastors mainly in this episode but the discussion works for all believers. Here are some things I learned that pushed me into deeper darkness in my heart and mind. I pray you can identify with them and be reminded of the truth of God's power and grace. We appreciate your listening and look forward to seeing this podcast get off the ground with great force. By the Lord's grace, we'll continue to provide more and more teaching on this and other pastoral subjects. Also, get ready to start listening to our weekly hour-long podcast "Theology Answers" that can be found over at "TheologyAnswers.com" and is a part of the Christian Podcast Community.
"Jesus. He's enough."
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Oh my, where is this going? Like I say in the introduction of each podcast, I really don't know what I'm going to talk about each day... these short conversations this week have become longer and longer due to the fact that so many of you have reached out and are opening up about your own struggles. Believer after believer, pastor after pastor... there is not ever going to be a day when we don't struggle and sometimes it is for us to struggle wih our minds. We appreciate your listening and look forward to seeing this podcast get off the ground with great force. By the Lord's grace, we'll continue to provide more and more teaching on this and other pastoral subjects. Also, get ready to start listening to our weekly hour-long podcast "Theology Answers" that can be found over at "TheologyAnswers.com" and is a part of the Christian Podcast Community.
"Nothing to say."
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Sinner, Sinner, Chicken Dinner! This is how I felt in my depression like everyone thought of me as a huge "spiritual" failure. I learned that I was and in the end, that is why I needed the good news of Jesus Christ. Depression can be brought on by many things, for the Christian, and especially for the Pastor, ministry and life can take you down rides you never intended to join. We appreciate your listening and look forward to seeing this podcast get off the ground with great force. By the Lord's grace, we'll continue to provide more and more teaching on this and other pastoral subjects. Also, get ready to start listening to our weekly hour-long podcast "Theology Answers" that can be found over at "TheologyAnswers.com" and is a part of the Christian Podcast Community.
"Stop the world, I just want to get off."
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You're Not Out of Your Mind Christian! We've all been blue. But there is a deeper and sinister element to depression, especially as a Christian. I suffered from severe depression for many years, even to the point of giving up on life. This week we will talk about that journey a bit and give a few thoughts on what depression is and how a believer is to understand its causes and cures. We appreciate your listening and look forward to seeing this podcast get off the ground with great force. By the Lord's grace, we'll continue to provide more and more teaching on this and other pastoral subjects. Also, get ready to start listening to our weekly hour-long podcast "Theology Answers" that can be found over at "TheologyAnswers.com" and is a part of the Christian Podcast Community.
"Just walk it off and be happy - No one has ever done this."
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The Truth Shall Set You Free... This is one of those well-used statements! Everyone wants to understand truth and sadly in our day many have found the well they drink from wanting when it comes to things that are true. Too often we listen to pundits and podium pounders instead of looking into the word of God. It is only in the Bible where we find truth and the measure of grace to see error when it comes our way. Let's make that our focus and plan. We appreciate your listening and look forward to seeing this podcast get off the ground with great force. By the Lord's grace, we'll continue to provide more and more teaching on this and other pastoral subjects. Also, get ready to start listening to our weekly hour-long podcast "Theology Answers" that can be found over at "TheologyAnswers.com" and is a part of the Christian Podcast Community.
"When there is no joy, there is no peace. There is no place but Christ to find either..."
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I've got the Joy, Joy, Joy, Joy.... no I don't... let's be honest, when we are simply tired we can find it difficult to find out joy. Why? Because in our flesh we fail to remember that our Joy is Jesus Christ and HE is found only the pages of the bible! Get in the word and Christ will be your joy! We appreciate your listening and look forward to seeing this podcast get off the ground with great force. By the Lord's grace, we'll continue to provide more and more teaching on this and other pastoral subjects. Also, get ready to start listening to our weekly hour-long podcast "Theology Answers" that can be found over at "TheologyAnswers.com" and is a part of the Christian Podcast Community.
"When there is no joy, there is no peace. There is no place but Christ to find either..."
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Scripture is ALL Truth! But it doesn't contain the truth of all things. That is a common misconception when people hear, "The Bible speaks to the truth of all things." One can't learn algebra or zoology from the Bible but one can only learn the actual purpose of life in doing all these things from Scripture. Scripture reveals God and in doing so, reveals His high and holy essence and commands that rule every human being that will ever exist. The Bible is the pure truth that matters, all else doesn't! We appreciate your listening and look forward to seeing this podcast get off the ground with great force. By the Lord's grace, we'll continue to provide more and more teaching on this and other pastoral subjects. Also, get ready to start listening to our weekly hour-long podcast "Theology Answers" that can be found over at "TheologyAnswers.com" and is a part of the Christian Podcast Community.
"Those that fail to by faith believe in the authority of Scripture may not have the Spirit of God within..."
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The B-I-B-L-E, yes that's the book for me! Scripture is often relegated as a nice little guide for the Christian through which he browses at times. In fact, the Scriptures say that they are indeed the POWER of God. So, we should spend time therein, trusting in the power of God and His promises. We appreciate your listening and look forward to seeing this podcast get off the ground with great force. By the Lord's grace, we'll continue to provide more and more teaching on this and other pastoral subjects. Also, get ready to start listening to our weekly hour-long podcast "Theology Answers" that can be found over at "TheologyAnswers.com" and is a part of the Christian Podcast Community.
"Christians who do not have the bible as their meat and breath are starving and barely able to breathe."
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We Learn What We See! When social media theology trolls continue in the manner of cruelty they really are proving themselves evil in the eyes of others. They are also teaching young men aspiring to be "like them" (God have mercy) to act in a wicked manner. The truth is truth and the correction of error needs to be biblical and for the millionth time, let's do it right! Also, get ready to start listening to our weekly hour-long podcast "Theology Answers" that can be found over at "TheologyAnswers.com" and is a part of the Christian Podcast Community.
"We are nice to people who are mean because we don't want them to feel bad."
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ALL CAPS IS YELLING! We've been looking at some issues with many Facebook so-called ministry practices this week. Today we will consider what it means to be bold but not a bully. We must boldly proclaim truth and correct error, but we are still COMMANDED to do it with the utmost respect. We appreciate your listening and look forward to seeing this podcast get off the ground with great force. By the Lord's grace, we'll continue to provide more and more teaching on this and other pastoral subjects. Also, get ready to start listening to our weekly hour-long podcast "Theology Answers" that can be found over at "TheologyAnswers.com" and is a part of the Christian Podcast Community.
"BOLD TYPE is offensive in communication, but BOLD God-given courage is necessary in gospel proclamation."
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More Money... Money Money... Few things are more frustrating than when someone knocks on your door and wants you to donate to some cause that you've never heard of. The same is true with online solicitation. I'm not talking about general "fundraising" that is public or asking people that you know, like, and who are benefiting from your ministry to help support the cost of it all. I'm talking about those who find you, befriend you, and then hit you up for money as if they've known you for years. Even worse is that they make you guilty of being unloving if you can't help them. With that being said since you came to my house... if you like what you hear, consider supporting our teaching ministry. See below... :)
"Another day another dollar, if I get another friends request I think I'm gonna hollar."
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There is a grave disconnect... From the teaching of Scripture on how a teacher of the Word of God is supposed to act, think, speak and respond to error and what we see in today's culture on Facebook and other social media platforms. Disrespect is never OK, it is always sinful. And I can prove contextually that God has never called anyone to the ministry of "calling out error" but rather has called SOME to the ministry of dividing rightly the truth. 1 Peter 3:13–17 [13] Now who is there to harm you if you are zealous for what is good? [14] But even if you should suffer for righteousness' sake, you will be blessed. Have no fear of them, nor be troubled, [15] but in your hearts honor Christ the Lord as holy, always being prepared to make a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you; yet do it with gentleness and respect, [16] having a good conscience, so that, when you are slandered, those who revile your good behavior in Christ may be put to shame. [17] For it is better to suffer for doing good, if that should be God's will, than for doing evil. .
"Honor your father and mother, even if they're lost as a ball in high weeds."
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The Sifter of Heretics! Is not your title, nor your job. Regular interaction on FB and social media platforms have become a demonic breeding ground for mean-spirited and arrogant controversy under the guise of "truth" proclamation and "correction." Teachers have a clear message and mission found in Scripture and they would do well to heed it and quit being so rude. Do you want to teach? Then you must teach as God has commanded. You are not Jesus and you are neither Peter nor Paul. You are to be nothing. No name, no fame, and for the sake of our God in Heaven, you are not needed in this fight. You must be patient and KIND to all people. You must have the heart of a teacher and be willing to learn. You don’t know anything much less anything. God can take the dumbest man in the sack and give him insight into the divine through Scripture by the Spirit. Get to work proclaiming, and be honest. Lying is the biggest problem of it all. You talk, interact, and most of the time it is from a satanic assumption that is from your flesh. As for me, I pray you hear. I want to teach the Scripture to you and learn from you. But these things have really iced the cake of division. No thank you, I don’t care for a slice.
"You mama is so heretical the devil ran to tell Jesus. We don't want this type of cake folks.. oh and it's a lie."
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The Pope, Nuff Said! We cannot promise what Scripture does not teach. We cannot deny what Scripture clearly reveals. Culture has always dictated belief systems and in this present age, just as in the age of Paul, people in their natural flesh will not endure sound teaching. So, they gather up teachers that will say what they want to hear. The Pope by all necessary explanation is anathema due to the fact that he grants promises through weak and situationally insufficient logic in order to appease the crowd. Sadly, I don’t think this is intentional but is motivated about of love and compassion for hurting humans. However, this compassion is resistant to the didactic of Holy Writ, through which we have the fullness of the holiness of God revealed, first through His creation, then His law, the finally and fully through His Son. God is not pleased with the works of man. He cannot be because all men have fallen from the glory of God and are guilty before Him. Romans 1 teaches that the wrath of God WILL BE poured out on all ungodliness and unrighteousness of man. Man in his natural state of depravity, even when he labors to seek after God and to know him, is still guilty. No man is justified by the works of the law… However, one must be a believer by exercising faith in the finished work of Jesus Christ. God does not look at the good deeds of man and justify them, He looks only that the holiness of His Son Jesus and through Jesus is a man justified, redeemed, and propitiated (God’s justice satisfied), thus Jesus Christ alone by grace through faith saves, not our good deeds. Someone who rejects the gospel of grace is condemned already according to Jesus because He is not believing in the Only Son (John 3:16-18) and thus the condemnation REMAINS on Him. Salvation is by the Lord, God saves, God decides who goes to Heaven for sure, but this election is not up for human subjectivity, no, it is objectively God’s design and decree. So, to promise anyone that God will work outside of His revealed word is foolish, and quite honestly, downright cruel. Yes, it may give a temporary peace but in reality, it hardens the heart of the listener from the truth as it drags them further and further away from the center of life; Jesus Christ Alone. So, we know that one who refuses to believe is not going to enter into the rest of the Lord’s salvation because that is ONLY found in the Finished work of Jesus Christ who pays for our sins. Jesus Christ Alone. That’s the only message that is true, anything else is a devil’s lie. Rest well beloved. We appreciate your listening and look forward to seeing this podcast get off the ground with great force. By the Lord's grace, we'll continue to provide more and more teaching on this and other pastoral subjects. Also, get ready to start listening to our weekly hour-long podcast "Theology Answers" that can be found over at "TheologyAnswers.com" and is a part of the Christian Podcast Community.
"God doesn't save people apart from what He has revealed in His Word. Period."
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What are we to do with our sin? In our congregational teaching mid-week, we are going through the book of Romans in a "reading" style of exposition. That is we are dealing with arguments, theological teachings, and expressions in chunks rather than intense verse-by-verse. This excerpt is from the full sermon and is toward the latter part of the message where I express a few examples of why we continue to struggle with sin and how life and our dead flesh just seems to rise up and make war. I end with the idea that Paul teaches that Christ has suffered for our sins, so we are alive in Him just as we have died in Him. We appreciate your listening and look forward to seeing this podcast get off the ground with great force. By the Lord's grace, we'll continue to provide more and more teaching on this and other pastoral subjects. Also, get ready to start listening to our weekly hour-long podcast "Theology Answers" that can be found over at "TheologyAnswers.com" and is a part of the Christian Podcast Community.
"The Sermon Can Be Heard at GraceTruth.org"
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Reading Scripture is the victory... There is sometimes more superstition related to spiritual warfare than there is the truth. Whether the battle is guilt, shame, doubt, sickness, family, sin, temptation, or everything in between, the Bible is the only weapon we have and thankfully, it is the only weapon we need. We appreciate your listening and look forward to seeing this podcast get off the ground with great force. By the Lord's grace, we'll continue to provide more and more teaching on this and other pastoral subjects. Also, get ready to start listening to our weekly hour-long podcast "Theology Answers" that can be found over at "TheologyAnswers.com" and is a part of the Christian Podcast Community.
"We don't need to learn how to tie satan up or kick him out of the window. We have the sword of God!"
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Being A Dummy is good! In a world where intelligence and brilliance of the mind are worshipped, the church has become no different. She feels as if the only people who have anything worth hearing are the academics, the popular, the so-called wise of the age. Scripture reveals a different thought in relation to this and shows that God is credited for the wisdom of His church and thus gets all the glory. We appreciate your listening and look forward to seeing this podcast get off the ground with great force. By the Lord's grace, we'll continue to provide more and more teaching on this and other pastoral subjects. Also, get ready to start listening to our weekly hour-long podcast "Theology Answers" that can be found over at "TheologyAnswers.com".
"Dummies are everywhere, and you might just be one."
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The Greatest Theologian Does Not Live! In the search for the perfect doctrinal platform, confession, comprehension, pastor, theologian, apologist or professor one will always find nothing. Not any place or person will reveal a grand and divine interpretation of the holy writ. While the apostles were empowered with perfect inerrancy there is no person alive or dead today that we can point to outside of Scripture that is right in all things. We must get the gospel right! We appreciate your listening and look forward to seeing this podcast get off the ground with great force. By the Lord's grace, we'll continue to provide more and more teaching on this and other pastoral subjects. Also, get ready to start listening to our weekly hour-long podcast "Theology Answers" that can be found over at "TheologyAnswers.com" and is a part of the Christian Podcast Community.
"See Christ through the Word by the Power of the Spirit."
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Slice and Dice. False unity is the fruit of poor foundations. Ambiguous unity is the worse type of unity. Not knowing why 'we're' together is easily revealed when Scripture is the force behind the slicing. Hebrews 4:12 says it all! We appreciate your listening and look forward to seeing this podcast get off the ground with great force. By the Lord's grace, we'll continue to provide more and more teaching on this and other pastoral subjects. Also, get ready to start listening to our weekly hour-long podcast "Theology Answers" that can be found over at "TheologyAnswers.com" and is a part of the Christian Podcast Community.
"Slicing out the ambiguity of theological understanding is what the Scripture does."
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Behavior Modification is Not Needed! We all wish people would act better in society. And if we are honest, we all have a standard by which we live and could easily impose that standard on others. God has written the standard in His law, so why don't we just start there? Well, because we can't have people live a certain way over them actually being ALIVE! The gospel is the most vital message, not behavior. The law and the government can deal with these things, and for the saints, church discipline. We appreciate your listening and look forward to seeing this podcast get off the ground with great force. By the Lord's grace, we'll continue to provide more and more teaching on this and other pastoral subjects. Also, get ready to start listening to our weekly hour-long podcast "Theology Answers" that can be found over at "TheologyAnswers.com" and is a part of the Christian Podcast Community.
"Some people seem as if they would rather see people "act" like Christians than actually be Christians."
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Calling a Baby Ugly is Dangerous. This brief podcast discusses the idea that we all have theological and religious "babies" that we love too much and often get angry when someone calls them ugly. We appreciate your listening and look forward to seeing this podcast get off the ground with great force. By the Lord's grace, we'll continue to provide more and more teaching on this and other pastoral subjects. Also, get ready to start listening to our weekly hour-long podcast "Theology Answers" that can be found over at "TheologyAnswers.com" and is a part of the Christian Podcast Community.
"You ain't got no ugly baby... but you may have an ugly idol."
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People Get Angry When Asked... about their testimony or the gospel. Now you may say that is normal but I'm talking about professing Christians. They get all upset and begin to belittle, moan, yell, and sometimes get physical. I'll never understand it. Let's look quickly at the response that is given us on this issue from Scripture. We appreciate your listening and look forward to seeing this podcast get off the ground with great force. By the Lord's grace, we'll continue to provide more and more teaching on this and other pastoral subjects. Also, get ready to start listening to our weekly hour-long podcast "Theology Answers" that can be found over at "TheologyAnswers.com" and is a part of the Christian Podcast Community.
"Gentleness and respect are far from most people when confronted with their faith. Let's pay attention to this."
Make sure that what they teach is contextual... Be A Berean. This podcast supposes that people just agree with what suits their intellectual pallet and that they should begin to study and test everything they hear. Acts 17:10–12 [10] The brothers immediately sent Paul and Silas away by night to Berea, and when they arrived they went into the Jewish synagogue. [11] Now these Jews were more noble than those in Thessalonica; they received the word with all eagerness, examining the Scriptures daily to see if these things were so. [12] Many of them therefore believed, with not a few Greek women of high standing as well as men.
"It's time that people learn to listen to the teaching they hear by learning and testing everything by the standard of Scripture, not traditions of man.."
Pastor James H. Tippins
When we preach the full counsel, we don't skip parts. There is a short supply of expositors in our day. Much more is the scarcity of those who will not ignore difficult doctrines (teachings) in Scripture. One point that proves this is how so many pastors will preach 'from' the Bible or "use" the Bible for a sermon they prepared and after years of teaching have never taught, dealt with or even approached the teaching of election. They are fearful, they are not wanting division. But in the end, it is election that causes the rift because it is the gospel of God.
"But to all who did receive him, who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God, who were born, not of blood nor the will of the flesh nor of the will of man, but of God.."
John 1:12-13
Most preaching isn't teaching...! There is no office of "preacher" in the New Testament. No such role exists. While "preaching" does happen, the Pastor is one who oversees and rightly teaches the church. He guards them and guides them through the right contextual exposition of Scripture. So often though we confuse preaching with teaching. We'll visit a few thoughts on this in upcoming episodes. We appreciate your listening and look forward to seeing this podcast get off the ground with great force. By the Lord's grace, we'll continue to provide more and more teaching on this and other pastoral subjects. Also, get ready to start listening to our weekly hour-long podcast "Theology Answers" that can be found over at "TheologyAnswers.com" and is a part of the Christian Podcast Community.
"Most people who preach aren't teaching truth at all but just babbling loud-mouths in front of a crowd."
This podcast briefly considers the current trend of so many pastors who are always want to be known, famous or have an online following at the cost of their current shepherding. Pastors need to be faithful and put away things that remove their heart's focus from the local church.
"No matter who's looking at us, God is always watching. Be therefore faithful to the call."
What is God Teaching Me? I get this question often as so many times people think that the experiences they live through continue until they "learn" the lesson God is trying to teach them. Scripture alone is the source of learning from God and there are no other means through which God will teach. Now, we are reminded and experience the truths of God's word and promises throughout our lives as we are reminded and apply the truths therein. Rest in the perfect will of God and no longer be tossed to and fro by superstition or doubt.
"WE have all spiritual blessings in Christ. There is nothing being withheld in wisdom or blessing from our Father."
Gossip Kills the Church: Pastoral Accusations Accusations against the pastor that are not biblical, done in a biblical way or are unfounded wreaks havoc on the local body causing distrust and suspicion. The person that does these things according to scripture should be immediately dismissed from the fellowship and brought under discipline if they do not arrest the behavior and make confession of their sin to the church immediately.
"Gossip is murder and it comes in many forms. Accusing the pastor outside the bounds of Scripture can devour intimacy in the church."
Gossip Kills the Church: Comparisons Self Righteous Comparison This type of Christian easily finds fault with others. They misunderstand that love covers a multitude of sin and they feel slighted if they find sin in the lives of others. By harping on such things, they become snared as stated above, and it becomes one of their greatest hangups. In reality, they forget the forest of logs in their own eyes and succumb to being spiritual police rather that spiritual siblings in need of Grace. This type of person doesn’t always gossip, but if they are left in this state, they will tell someone why they feel burdened: this is gossip. They forget that they don’t have the role or authority to deal with the sin in other’s lives because they have plenty of their own.
"Gossip is murder and it comes in many forms. Self-Righteous comparisons hold people to standards that we do not meet or hold to ourselves."
Gossip Kills the Church: Secret Attacks Secret Attacks These could look much like the above practices but with the intention of making problems or sin known to others. Secret attacks against another sibling in Christ is actually an attack on Jesus directly. It is birthed from a desire to make sure everyone “knows” about the sinner among us, or worse, that there is someone that is not living as they “say” they are living. It only takes a few days for this type of thing to get out of control and cause serious damage to the unity of the church. Not only is it demonic, it is intended to do damage. This is often seen in the local church when someone doesn’t feel right about something and begins to keep tabs, make judgments, and then spread such things. For example, they see a sister always coming in late to service, leaving quickly afterward and not engaging. They will begin to watch this person intently, each week, and make notes of her actions. Then they will assume that the sister is in sin because she is not setting the example of timeliness and in their judgment have decided that such should be dealt with, after all, this person teaches a bible study on Thursdays. So they begin to call, talk, pray for and make it known that this teacher should be called out for her lack of holiness. What the person doesn’t know, is that the devil has snared them. How? First, the devil has made them notice this, not God the Spirit. Second, their judgment is evidence of their heart: they have a problem, not a solution. Third, they intention is not even for the joy of their sister, but for her pain and correction. Fourth, they fail to know that their judgment is bearing false witness because they don’t even know the truth of this person’s medical condition, schedule, or the fact that she prays with the leaders before and after church. And quite frankly, it is none of their business. Busybodies are also murderers in the church. That’s another post.
"Gossip is murder and it comes in many forms. Secret attacks are viscious and always end in the death of intimacy."
Gossip Kills the Church: Murmurs Quiet Murmurs These are the small and subtle thoughts that plague the mind and end up on the tongue, text, private meeting, phone call etc. Even when prayer is the central motivation, the details and names of people are off the table. Yes, prayer meetings are often the largest gossip sessions in the church. There are the discussions about someone else without them being present. When the subject of any sin, rebuke or testimony is not the first to be informed, the one speaking on the matter is doing the work of Satan. Talking ‘around’ the subject of a conversation, concern or critique is one of the largest attacks that the enemy uses to destroy the intimacy of the church. If the local body would adhere to the word of God, they would find that anyone who participates in such practices in either the capacity of the voice or the ear, should be brought publicly to the church immediately. Public warning of division, which includes quiet murmurs, is found in many New Testament epistles. The general prescription is that if they do it after the second warning, they should be excommunicated from the church. Bear in mind that often times, this type of gossip is first done in ignorance with good intentions, but it needs to be corrected so that the church is protected from the deceit of the enemy.
"Gossip is murder and it comes in many forms. Quiet Murmurs are difficult to spot at first."
Gossip Kills the Church: Muderous Gossip is very tragic. It happens sometimes without awareness but it is always rooted in a sinister heart and used in sinister ways to divide and destroy relationships in the body of Christ. Understanding the ways in which gossip invades our lives is the first step in recognizing it. The Scripture provides the remedy and forgiveness is always available as is reconciliation between the brethren.
"Gossip is murder and it comes in many forms. Quiet Murmurs are difficult to spot at first."
The Duty of A Pastor to be FAITHFUL This podcast briefly discusses that the Pastor should be faithful to his calling by the grace of God and not be entangled in the things of this world but trust and point to the ONE who is faithful, Jesus Christ. Fulfilling faithfully his call to Christ. Without the grace of God, no one would be able to ever be faithful to their calling. And without the grace of God, we would all abandon our faith. God’s grace is the power of the pastor’s success and true success is NOT measured in salvation, baptism, numbers, finances or the like. Any professional could produce the right numbers through the easily manipulated minds of men. And it is surely God that produces the fruit of the labors of any ministry that He alone gets the glory. God called Noah and Isaiah to a fruitless ministry of no conversion and total rejection. What makes us think we’ll see anything different? The pastor should be faithful to these things above all other duties and if he is gifted in areas outside of these, then, by all means, he should exercise these gifts, however, any man that calls himself pastor, cannot be such without these traits given to him by the Holy Spirit of God.
"What a pastor is supposed to be doing can be found clearly in the Word of God."
The Duty of A Pastor to Follow before for the Flock This podcast briefly discusses that the Pastor should be an example before for the church in his own spiritual disciplines and growth. Following Christ before the flock. The duties of a pastor will cause him to display his faith and carry his church where God has brought him. He should display the fruits of the spirit of God in all that he does by God’s grace alone, knowing that he is nothing but a slave to righteousness and not a divine leader who rules but a servant who dies. A wise friend once told me that when a man has to say he’s the leader, it is then he has lost the privilege to lead. He continued with a man that goes forth with no one following him is just a “man taking a walk.” Wise. This fourth duty of a pastor is one where all of us fail in our actions, but by the Lord’s grace, we will not fail in our faith, for HE is the author and perfector of it! 1 Peter 5:1-3 (ESV) 1 So I exhort the elders among you, as a fellow elder and a witness of the sufferings of Christ, as well as a partaker in the glory that is going to be revealed: 2 shepherd the flock of God that is among you, exercising oversight, not under compulsion, but willingly, as God would have you; not for shameful gain, but eagerly; 3 not domineering over those in your charge, but being examples to the flock.
"What a pastor is supposed to be doing can be found clearly in the Word of God."
The Duty of A Pastor to Fight for the Flock This podcast briefly discusses that the Pastor should be involved in fighting for the church through the teaching of Scriptures and in his personal disciplines. Ephesians 6:12 (ESV) 12 For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places. The pastor fights for the flock in his STUDIES, his PRAYERS, his TEACHING and his DISCIPLESHIP. These duties of a pastor are all necessary avenues for battle and they must be done for the sake of the church, those who are entrusted into his oversight. Fellowship with the brethren is essential in order to know their hearts and lives. As the flock grows, the pastor must accept the call of other men to the ranks of a shepherd to assist in this battle. A pastor who is faithful to these things will be equipped to handle the calling for which God has called him.
"What a pastor is supposed to be doing can be found clearly in the Word of God."
The Duty of A Pastor to Fend for the Flock This podcast briefly discusses that the Pastor should be involved in fending for the church through the teaching of Scriptures. Titus 1:9 (ESV) 9 He must hold firm to the trustworthy word as taught, so that he may be able to give instruction in sound doctrine and also to rebuke those who contradict it. Acts 20:28-31 (ESV) 28 Pay careful attention to yourselves and to all the flock, in which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers, to care for the church of God, which he obtained with his own blood. 29 I know that after my departure fierce wolves will come in among you, not sparing the flock; 30 and from among your own selves will arise men speaking twisted things, to draw away the disciples after them. 31 Therefore be alert, remembering that for three years I did not cease night or day to admonish everyone with tears.
"What a pastor is supposed to be doing can be found clearly in the Word of God."
The Duty of A Pastor to Feed the Flock This podcast briefly discusses that the Pastor should be involved in feeding the church through the teaching of Scriptures. Feeding the flock. This sounds very trivial, but the primary role of a pastor is to feed the people who God has put under his care. This feeding is accomplished through the right teaching of the word of God. This teaching is good for the church and for their joy, edification, doctrine, exhortation, admonishment, and maturity. Everything that the church is to do comes primarily through the teaching of the scriptures from the pastors. A church that is not fed the truth is malnourished and finds other meals to eat. This is one of the most vital duties of a pastor and from this, all the others follow. 1 Timothy 3:2 (ESV) 2 Therefore an overseer must be above reproach, the husband of one wife, sober-minded, self-controlled, respectable, hospitable, able to teach… 2 Timothy 4:2 (ESV) 2 preach the word; be ready in season and out of season; reprove, rebuke, and exhort, with complete patience and teaching.
"What a pastor is supposed to be doing can be found clearly in the Word of God."
The social sphere is all stirred with the news of Stephen Hawking’s recent death. Those in the science, physics, and atheistic communities are showering his life as a major accomplishment of research and logic while others, some in these same communities, seem to be harping on the ‘click-bait’ worthy idea that now the grand atheist is no longer an atheist. Before you surmise that I am just gaining my own ‘hooks’ in the sea of non-thinking mobile fodder, I wrote this article the day after his death and waited a week for its publishing. Also, my point today is to point to this ridiculous assertion that Hawking is no longer an atheist. He most certainly is. I also argue that he is no different than many professing Christians, cultists, Muslim and for sure, he’s no different than most red-blooded, right-wing, so-called conservative evangelicals who have mounted this news as an attempt to be a voice when they don’t have one. If anyone is to ever read this, it’s not because of self-promotion but by the Lord’s grace that we should all hear and heed the reality of our culture.
Professing Christians who do not believe in the gospel of Grace and worse, hate it when they see it are nothing more than professing Christian Atheists because they do not believe in the God of the Bible and they will not believe in the truth of His gospel.
BEWARE. Hear and be saved. By the mercy of God.
This podcast gives a quick and thought-provoking suggestion that the gospel in most minds is tainted and false and that the true basis of the gospel is the work of God in redeeming His people perfectly through Jesus Christ. Gospel truth is that God has redeemed His people particularly through the cross work of Jesus Christ. Jesus will lose nothing that is given to Him! That is the gospel truth! That is the glorious and amazing reality of salvation; that it is the mighty work of God for His people! John 6:35–40
[35] Jesus said to them, “I am the bread of life; whoever comes to me shall not hunger, and whoever believes in me shall never thirst. [36] But I said to you that you have seen me and yet do not believe. [37] All that the Father gives me will come to me, and whoever comes to me I will never cast out. [38] For I have come down from heaven, not to do my own will but the will of him who sent me. [39] And this is the will of him who sent me, that I should lose nothing of all that he has given me, but raise it up on the last day. [40] For this is the will of my Father, that everyone who looks on the Son and believes in him should have eternal life, and I will raise him up on the last day.” (ESV)
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This podcast is for the purpose of having short and regular thought-provoking engagement about the Christian faith, life and doctrine from a pastoral and applied theological perspective. Are You Listening is a ministry of GraceTruth Church and Pastor James Tippins and all thoughts and ideas are expressly his and do not necessarily attribute to the congregation as a whole. The full confession of the congregation can be found at GraceTruth.org
The effects of constant turmoil can be burnout. I've experienced plenty in my life and in reality, I have "quit" the ministry many many times. The truth is though, I have never told anyone! This podcast purposes to talk a little about the issue of ministry fatigue, its causes, its purposes and most of all, its remedy.
Scripture teaches all that we need to know about God the Holy Spirit but so many times professing believers have determined a different view of Him and also a different view of the Scriptures thereby denying the power and person of The Holy Spirit as God.
Our suffering as Christians is clearly a gift from God, a blessing and a way through which the Lord reveals His might to us. Consider this, rejoice in the pain and see the hand of the Lord.
Having five children is beyond an adventure! The moment I thought I had one figured out, I was floored by something new. When it comes to teaching a child about the faith we have to rely on the truth of Scripture which teaches us that God the Spirit teaches, draws, seals, etc. and that no amount of proving theology with children will make great differences. Recently I've noticed that many children are taught generally about "God". For this, I am very thankful but in reality, without the explicit teaching of Jesus Christ, there is no real learning of God. Scripture teaches that no one has ever seen God, but the One and only God who sits at His sides makes Him known. John's gospel continues to illustrate that Jesus Christ the Son is the fullness of the Glory of God visible. Paul would teach the same to the Colossians when He says that in Jesus the fullness of deity dwells. It may seem like I'm splitting hairs however, Scripture's teaching on this matter is clarifying. When someone learns of God and not of Jesus the Son they are learning in part about the Most High. This partial understanding is delivered through the lens of the Prophets and writers of the Old Testament to whom God spoke and gave His oracles. Learning these things are able to make one wise and to provide salvation. (2 Tim 3) The matter is particularly important because, without Jesus, there is no knowledge of God intimately. While nature can show many things and according to Scripture, it can show the handy work of God, it cannot reveal God in a revelatory manner conducive to redemption. Only Jesus, the God-man, the Son of God and God the Son can make Him known. So, when we teach children about God, even from the pages of the Old Testament stories, we need be very certain that we talk about the God who makes God known, that is Jesus the Christ.
Discipline is one of those terms that for most people creates a negative feeling. After all, isn't discipline punishment? This podcast will discuss a brief look at the necessity for church discipline as a corrective promise, not a punitive coercion. Church discipline is how the Church handles problems, disputes, error, false teaching, and sinful behavior. Most of all, church discipline's primary purpose is to prove those who are in the faith and those who are not, no matter their profession, church discipline will establish a judicial expression of God's sovereign election.
Discipline is commanded by the Lord Discipline is corrective by the word Discipline is private and public Discipline proves her are the church. Those that stay in fellowship vs. those that do not. Discipline is exercised only on the matters commanded by Scripture: Violations of Doctrine, Unbelief, Sin against another, judgment hearts, willful disunity, abandonment, pride, being unkind, harsh words, self-righteousness, bearing false witness, covetousness and any other sin listed and revealed by the Scripture that causes disunity and harm to the church. Discipline in the end for the church is purifying; for the lost, identifying.
This podcast serves several purposes. It will encourage in the faith (hopefully) and gives some thoughts about matters related to the bible. Most of all, it will keep pressing you to hear the scripture, and read it. Our larger podcasts are under production and we are happy to know you're joining in.
The teaching of Paul is constantly that the Lord's servant must be humble, quiet, not given to argument, debate, aggressiveness, etc. The acting on either side of the fence is deplorable to me: those who feel they must "look the part" and "say the part" of either the soft or hard versions of a pastoral culture. Scripture shows what a man is and a man is one who is able to gently and humbly speak the truth so that God is glorified in the message and the power behind the message, not us.
It appears that the death of Billy Graham has brought out a type of worldwide idolatry masked under the guise of appreciation. I won't speak to Graham but I have to speak to the matter most disturbing relating to the authority of what Scripture teaches. If one holds to the sufficiency and efficacy of Scripture as the arbiter of truth, the full revelation of God, and the place by which they find the gospel of grace, then I must object to this overwhelming bandwagon of foolishness concerning "other" means of salvation. Scripture teaches that God's word is profitable for teaching, that it is the message of the cross of Christ and His atonement (that is the gospel), that it is the Power of God unto salvation, and that those who do not hold to its authority and message are condemned already because they do not believe on the Son of God. Paul teaches in Romans that God uses the preaching of the gospel by the power of Spirit in order to bring regeneration and that no man can come to trust in the finished work of Jesus Christ without this working of the Spirit. The point being that if Scripture teaches this and so many who profess to be "in Christ" are refuting this in favor of a kinder, more gracious God who would not "condemn" a man because of his lack of hearing, then to what end are we able to believe in any portion of Scripture? We must hold the full Witness of God through the Scripture to which we would all do well to pay attention. Even the personal testimonies of the Apostles were not the authority of the revelation and message of Jesus Christ. Peter tells the church to listen to the Scriptures through which God will save them and secure them. Paul tells Timothy that the Word of God is able to make one wise and the means of salvation. What a glorious truth! Listen to the word of God, listen to the Scriptures and reject anyone who tells you that there is salvation found through any other medium!
A mission field is a place where the gospel is not preached and should be. The local church of American Christianity is one of the greatest mission fields in the world!
Sometimes I wonder why I ever ended up in the pastorate. From the early days of childhood into high school I desired to be a surgeon, then along came chemistry and I was satisfied in music. Along the way, I've become an expert in many subjects and hobbies from illusions/sleight of hand to martial arts. I've spent countless hours studying the human mind, quantum physics, defensive logistics, combat theory, chess, and tonal dissonance. Years have taught my body to dance, climb mountains, swim, trackstand on a switchback, and devour ten thousand calories in 24 hours. My mind has learned to foster thought, engage the critics, leave the fight, stay the course, feel the pressure and rest in grace. Skills have prepared me to fix dryers, motherboards, vehicles, bones, restore homes, landscape, hang drywall, frame houses, dig footers, and put in the pipes. I can even sew, hem pants, taper a shirt, prepare a marketing analysis, produce video, graphic design, program websites, and set the clock on the microwave. The point, I've done a lot of stuff in my short life and none of it has ever been half-hearted. I don't understand the purpose of being so-so at anything. Those things that my body did so well have fallen away to a thing called arthritis. What my brain used to manage abruptly wrecked through another harsh and painful experience known as depression. In all of it, I have never found an identity. None. A common thread has always been stitched into every part of my life. The Word of God, from the earliest of days, has been a source of joy and power for me. It's a grand example of the grace and mercy of the Lord to work in His children a love for Him through Scripture. For most of my life, I could engage in any forum, any hobby, any point in culture and do well. I've learned to shoot, sing, fight, play seven instruments and have done well at a few business ventures but in all of them, I have always found myself in the word, ministering to others, listening and teaching them the truth of Christ. As a matter of honesty, I never really wanted to be a pastor and was content with the idea of being used by the Lord in everything. But God in all His purpose will do with us as He chooses, not how we choose. In the Lord's "putting" me into the ministry as a vocation I brought a lot of my personality and 'skills' to the table. I was taught early on that my 'tool belt' was vital to the success of the ministry of the church. Looking to be the best and giving myself the OK to be "all in", I quickly began to surround myself with successful people who were accomplishing what I felt to be the right fruit. Historically I have served in many areas of church life having worked with youth, children, music, teaching, seminaries, evangelism, missions, and everything in between. I have witnessed 300 enter the baptismal waters in a year's time, seen thousands "come to faith" at "services", and been on staff with church plants and mega-churches, some of the prior becoming the latter. In the end, even "ministry" never became my identity. There is a lot of heartache and pain under my belt for which I am eternally grateful because without it, I would have never truly seen the substance of Christ's suffering and how we identify with Him. Having written several unpublished works on my journey, I've learned it doesn't really matter at the end of all the suffering if we don't finish well. I've also learned that pain is part of progress and thinking that utopic days are our goal is childish and foolish surrealism. There are a few pain points of ministry though that I've learned sting much harder than normal. In all the calamities of sorts, nothing has been more hurtful than when friends and loved ones reject the Lord Jesus and love the world more than ever.
When Family Members Claim Christ but Hate Truth When the Fan Base Becomes the Mob When the Brother is replaced with Beligerance
Suppose that a life without Christ was blissful with no pain.
Evangelism is one of those terms/practices that has become culturally determined. Just like everything else in Scripture, if not held to the authority of the text, it will become subject to human error and self-glory. I've been thinking about this and hope you're listening too....
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Just last week I was having a conversation with several people about the continued imbalance in the teaching of Billy Graham throughout his career as a circuit "evangelist". Having personally ready every book written by Graham (until 2014) and listened to many, many of his messages I can only say that there is a conflicted message that he has purveyed since 1957 through present day. The message of Graham has been that there is a decision every man must make, that he must choose Christ because God desires all men to be with Him and be saved. He has further relegated the gospel message as one of universal assurance to the point that both pluralists and Universalist groups have embraced Graham's teaching as their own. The message is akin to the message of Charles Finney, who I dogmatically regard as a "Devil-worshipping heretic", who preached that man could persuade others to believe through many forms and means. This "father" of modern-day evangelicalism is actually the root of deceit of many generations. I pray that the gospel will be given teeth in our generation by the mercy of God, but without it being taught and preached rightly, we will never see it happen. For God only saves through the straight and clear teaching of His pure word, the pure gospel, which is the power of God unto salvation. In our culture, every kind of so-called "gospel" is celebrated except the truth of Scripture because men love the darkness, just like Nicodemus in John 3, and they hate the light of the truth of Christ Jesus. This sermon snippet is a selection from John chapter one preached May 14, 2017. In it contains a clear biblical teaching of what God has done and in itself is the pure gospel of grace. Lord have mercy.
I have been asked many times over the last few weeks about what is required to "know" in order to be saved vs. what is considered "growth".
Scripture speaks of the power of Christ. The power of the cross, the authority of Jesus, the power of the gospel etc. all speaks to the power of Christ. While you may consider the power of Christ the manifestation of miracles, supernatural knowledge or signs, the reality is that the apostles make the claim that the power of Christ most glorious is the transformed heart of the believer toward truth and love for the brethren. Teaching through John's writings gives us a constant reminder of this fact. That there are many who "live" in a manner they feel is worthy of Jesus Christ in their own eyes, but when they refuse fellowship with others, they, in turn, are displaying "unregenerate" powerlessness. Paul speaks to the Corinthian church about the power of Christ. He says that he will know if Christ is in them if they heed the authority of his writing and instruction. Mainly, that they forsake themselves and "COMPLETE" all the restoration between them. This means that they will be intimate, together, free, and in fellowship.
2 Corinthians 13:11–14 Finally, brothers, rejoice. Aim for restoration, comfort one another, agree with one another, live in peace; and the God of love and peace will be with you. 12 Greet one another with a holy kiss. 13 All the saints greet you. 14 The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ and the love of God and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with you all. Several hours, if not days can be expended on this holistic reality. But for now, let's say this. One of the primary expressions of regeneration is that we are sealed by the same Spirit. God the Holy Spirit in us brings our unity and because of this, there is NOTHING that can separate us from the Lord and from each other. When factions come between the church and cause people to scatter, it is always wicked. Sometimes it is due to ignorance but most of the time these things happen because of an active and living flesh. IF we have the same Spirit within us there is nothing that would cause divorce amongst the brethren. In the end, this teaching is extrapolated continually throughout the New Testament through the instruction and commandments for every Christian to be subject to the Word, the Elders of the church, the Assembly (that is the church, only when it gathers) and exercising the gifts God has given them for the benefit of the assembly. We can feel justified in doing "home" studies and "online" sermons, but in reality, that type of existence as a believer is a continual rebellion against the teaching of God. So, in the sense of the text, true regeneration produces a complete unity that nothing will stop and to say otherwise is to refuse to love the brethren, thus, according to John, the Love of God is not in us. This means that what we say, "We love God" based on the fact that "He loved us first", is not understood and/or is contradicted in our lives. We may see that all the works of the law, all the dressing of worldly "righteousness" and all the prayers, pleadings, purity and the like are not the measure of the Power of Christ in us. But it is the evidence of TRUTH by the LOVE we have for each other. Love well beloved by the grace that is YOURS in Jesus Christ! Amen. While this is not exhaustive, it is truth. Are you listening?
The second commandment is something that many people have questions about often. I wrote an article last year in relation to the question, "Can a Christian Violate the Second Commandment with Pictures of Jesus?" Here is a podcast on that answer.
00Over the last year, I have been inundated with numerous calls per day from unknown numbers, local number, toll-free numbers and even numbers I know only to find a telemarketer on the other end trying to either sell me something or trick me into thinking I had to hear their pitch. The list of 'blocked' numbers has grown to over 150 and quite honestly, I have become quite frustrated with the constant intrusion. Due to the fact that I receive a ton of calls every day that are legitimate when you add the garbage calls, it makes a phone a hated tool and sometimes it causes me to miss good conversations. For 2018, it has been a different story. I have started answering every call that comes to my phone when appropriate without fail. And in an effort to do all things without complaining and have joy while doing everything for the glory of God, I have found that answering every call as an opportunity to share the gospel is the best way to handle what otherwise is a means to frustration and sin.
Everywhere we look we see the idea of studying the Bible. Well maybe not everywhere, but in every Circle of Christianity it seems that there's always someone talking about studying the Bible. As a matter of fact, most likely every religion in the world has some writing that requires being studied. From study comes knowledge, and from knowledge comes belief. While every truth claim cannot be true. For the Christian, we believe that the Bible is truth. Jesus says in John 17 when he prays that eternal life is knowing the one true God and knowing the son whom he has sent. So in this line of thinking, studying the Bible is actually the study of God which is actually the knowledge of God which is actually salvation. For many churchgoers, however, the study of God's word has been relegated to just mere pragmatism or topical investigation. Sadly, this type of study that we find very normative in our culture, is not sufficient for salvation. Neither is it sufficient for a right understanding of the gospel of grace. And because the right study of God's word is waning in our present economy of faith, many pastors and teachers have gone the way of teaching moralism and humanism and calling it Christianity. All of this type of teaching results in a different type of learning. So that the believer or the professing Christian if I can, have no idea what they're talking about because they are listening to the wrong information. Now we could go on and on and discuss types of interpretation and different ideas related to what the Scripture is actually teaching. But if we are honest, the simplest syntax of the holy writ is very easy to understand. So when I ask the question, "are you. listening?", I am asking if you are truly listening to the word of God. Let's all be very honest, every day we hear thousands and thousands of words. We see hundreds and hundreds of images that teach us something. We are inundated in our society by information overload. Some of which we go and seek and others that are just imposed upon us without our knowledge or permission. Because this is true, many people have developed a worldview that is so foreign in comparison to Scripture, that it's no wonder that so many congregations do not look like the people of God any longer. The remedy to this is not more teaching about how to be or how to look like God's people from a humanistic point of view but is direct and simple teaching straight from the Bible. If many pastors were to poll their congregations they would find very few congregants actually read their Bible every day. Now many people may do a small devotion or read a short paragraph related to some scriptural teaching. And these things are not bad in and of themselves, but they are not sufficient for the knowledge of truth. So often when I make a statement like this, people will say, "I'm not a theologian." To which I respond, well you should be. A Christian that is not learning is a Christian that is not growing. In the Christian that is not growing, is a Christian that is not living. There's much to be said about this particular dilemma and there is plenty inside the Bible that give us a clear picture that Scripture is necessary for the health and joy of every Christian and in turn every congregation. So as we consider this idea today let us take a moment and hear the word of the Lord written by the apostle Paul to Timothy.
2 Timothy 3:14–17
[14] But as for you, continue in what you have learned and have firmly believed, knowing from whom you learned it [15] and how from childhood you have been acquainted with the sacred writings, which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus. [16] All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, [17] that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work. (ESV) This text shows us that the Bible is enough for a successful Christian life...
In Titus 3 Paul is clear that before God saved us we were foolish, given to fleshly passions and were hating one another. That is great news! This is the GOSEPL of JESUS CHRIST! Because this is true, the scripture is very very very very clear.... did I say very? Yes, very clear that those who walk in the way Christ walked are in Christ, and if they do not, then they are not in Christ. So the purpose of my writing today is to answer one simple question: Why do so many pastors live in disharmony, hate, envy, gossip and murderous ways against each other and people among them? Scripture names the reasons, let's look at a few today:
Unbelief This means that the guy who walks around talking bad, gossiping, hating others, not loving the brethren and feeling envy against others is an unbeliever. He may have "professed" Christ, and he may have even been sincere, but this profession is just like the one that the devil will proclaim, worthless. It's just words, nothing more. He may even have great training and knowledge of scripture, but because of his life, and his lack of love, he is a worthless nothing of wicked proportions. Now before you call these statements as the like of their "kind", let me show you the same thing in the Word of God. They profess to know God, but they deny him by their works. They are detestable, disobedient, unfit for any good work. (Titus 1:16 ESV)
Remind them to be submissive to rulers and authorities, to be obedient, to be ready for every good work, to speak evil of no one, to avoid quarreling, to be gentle, and to show perfect courtesy toward all people. For we ourselves were once foolish, disobedient, led astray, slaves to various passions and pleasures, passing our days in malice and envy, hated by others and hating one another. But when the goodness and loving kindness of God our Savior appeared, he saved us, not because of works done by us in righteousness, but according to his own mercy, by the washing of regeneration and renewal of the Holy Spirit, whom he poured out on us richly through Jesus Christ our Savior, so that being justified by his grace we might become heirs according to the hope of eternal life. The saying is trustworthy, and I want you to insist on these things, so that those who have believed in God may be careful to devote themselves to good works. These things are excellent and profitable for people. But avoid foolish controversies, genealogies, dissensions, and quarrels about the law, for they are unprofitable and worthless. As for a person who stirs up division, after warning him once and then twice, have nothing more to do with him, knowing that such a person is warped and sinful; he is self-condemned. (Titus 3:1-11 ESV)
If we say we have fellowship with him while we walk in darkness, we lie and do not practice the truth. (1 John 1:6 ESV)
Whoever says “I know him” but does not keep his commandments is a liar, and the truth is not in him, but whoever keeps his word, in him truly the love of God is perfected. By this we may know that we are in him: whoever says he abides in him ought to walk in the same way in which he walked. (1 John 2:4-6 ESV)
Whoever says he is in the light and hates his brother is still in darkness. Whoever loves his brother abides in the light, and in him there is no cause for stumbling. But whoever hates his brother is in the darkness and walks in the darkness, and does not know where he is going, because the darkness has blinded his eyes. (1 John 2:9-11 ESV)
So, the man of "god" that hates his brother is a liar. He isn't a man of God, he is a man of the god of this world, the devil. Pride Well, I could just really stop with the first one, because being a slave to pride is a mark of an unbeliever, not a true child in a common faith. But in all reality, many pastors hate their brothers and it is seen in pride. A sense of feeling better than others because of many things, including a "bigger" congregation,
Today has been one of those days that has got me thinking as I ponder the reality of Christ and His glorious revelation of God the Father to and through us. I really don't think the average believer spends enough time thinking about the Eternal Son of the living God and I can honestly say that for a long time, I thought too much about thinking too much rather than just meditating on the Word. In my rapid and refreshing thoughts today I began to write down some things that I don't want to stop thinking about in my walk with Christ as a father, husband and pastor. Some of them I have listed here and now feel inspired to reflect on them individually over the months to come. For today, I have just listed a few. If you have some that God has revealed to you, please add them to the list as we journey through these things together for the glory of God.
Never forget that it is the WORD of God alone that builds the church, draws the people and saves them. Never forget that we should desire to see more people come to faith much more than we desire to see people come to church. Never forget that the foundational command of each Christian and each church is to make disciples, period. Never forget that Christians should be thinkers and wrestle with the scriptures daily and grow in their knowledge of God and His eternal grace. Never forget that multiplication of the Kingdom is not bigger congregations but more congregations in every town, city and community; church planting is the call of scripture for every church. Never forget that the community of believers are supposed to exercise discipline over counseling so that God's word and His worth are clearly displayed. Never forget that God is HOLY and Sovereign and has established Himself as the END of all things. Never forget that the chief end of mankind is to GLORIFY God and ENJOY Him forever. Never forget that the church is a present and visible body created to display the glory of God and HIS eternal power. Never forget that Christ is the head of the church. Never forget that Love is the evidence of the church. Never forget that Jesus is LORD and the consequences thereof. Never forget that DOCTRINE means teaching and ORTHODOXY means right thinking. Never forget that we are all called to study, worship and teach the gospel. ... more to come by all who share in the FAITH!
For His Glory by His Grace Pastor James