Taking Your Next Step - Collegians for Christ: Recent Episodes
Kyle Austin
A Bible study podcast focused on equipping and encouraging you take your next step in your faith and relationship with Jesus Christ. Brand new episodes each Tuesday and Thursday.
Asaph stood at the edge of giving up. He was jealous, hurt, and convinced the world was winning. Asaph’s faith began to stumble as he questioned God’s goodness, and for a moment he nearly walked away, unaware of who would follow in his steps.
Then Asaph had a life changing realization: his choices could cause children and seekers to stumble. That truth pulled him back into the sanctuary, where the church’s presence, conviction, and perspective healed his shame and clarified his view of God. In this episode we travel with Asaph through doubt, repentance, and back to church, the place where faith is restored and a clear confession rises: truly, God is good.
Asaph started strong, then life happened — a surprise stumble that turned praise into questions and devotion into doubt. Through Psalm 73, he transparently shares a near-fall in faith, the sharp sting of misunderstanding God’s ways, and the weight of complaining when life doesn’t make sense. In this episode, we examine the first step of a three-part recovery: learning to respect God’s chastening.
As we step into the shoes of Asaph as he stands on the brink—faith shaken, comparing his quiet struggle to the loud success of the ungodly. His perspective warps reality and almost drives him away from God.
Through honest questions, a moment of accusation, and the sting of temptation, this episode traces how unrealistic perspectives breed destructive conclusions—and how the gospel cuts through the deception.
We examine three guardrails that guide Asaph (and us) back to the life-changing truth: truly, God is good.
Asaph stands at the edge of doubt, watching the prosperous mock and wondering if God is truly just. In this episode we follow his inner dialogue—how envy and distorted comparisons nearly make him quit, and how Scripture begins to peel back the illusion. We walk through Psalm 73, showing how God’s Word exposes lies, restores perspective, and leads from accusation back to trust.
When life feels like a cliffside road, this episode walks you into a living room of voices—mentors, friends, and the church—who refused to let a young believer travel alone. Through honest stories and a fresh look at Proverbs 11:14, you’ll hear how timely advice changed one life, prevented costly mistakes, and became the guardrails that kept him moving forward.
Listen as we trace the arc from pride and isolation to humility and community, discovering how wisdom is born from knowledge, understanding, and the courage to ask for help. This is a short, powerful invitation to surround yourself with godly counselors who will speak truth—even when it’s hard—and keep you safe on the journey.
Through storytelling and Scripture (John 16 and Ephesians 5), this episode reframes the gift of the Spirit: not a distant miracle, but a daily power that shows up when we sing, give thanks, and submit to one another in reverent love. Listen as the host weaves personal insight and pastoral challenge, revealing how unity, mercy, and forgiveness unlock the Spirit’s influence in our relationships.
Be prepared to answer hard questions—Who are you not getting along with? Are you the problem?—and to receive practical, grace-filled steps to choose unity, set healthy boundaries, and live empowered. Take your next step now and let this episode move you from knowing about the Spirit to being filled by Him.
Through a candid, story-driven message, we move from the hard truth that our minds naturally drift negative (up to 70–85% of our thoughts) to a practical habit that changes everything: daily thanksgiving. Hear a real family practice—sharing one thing they’re thankful for each night—and a tense hospital episode with their child that reframed fear into recognition of God’s presence. These moments model how naming small mercies rewires us from self-centered complaint to God-centered worship.
Rooted in Scripture and wrapped in everyday life, the episode connects gratitude to peace (Philippians 4) and the fruit of the Spirit. If you want a clear, accessible path from negativity to joy, this episode gives you habits, stories, and a challenge to practice thankfulness today. Take your next step—let gratitude fill you with the Spirit.
Hey there friends, welcome to the Taking Your Next Step podcast from Collegians for Christ. Through each episode, we will journey together, focusing on knowing what you believe and why you believe it. If you are eager, like I am, to strengthen your faith, then take your next step now by joining us in today's episode.
In this episode the host pulls you into a vivid, personal story—from a past shaped by rap culture and risky choices to the moment of conviction when a lifetime of CDs was tossed in the trash—and uses that turning point to explore Ephesians 5. He unfolds the idea that God has a dream for your life and equips you through the Holy Spirit, showing how one baptism and many fillings work, and why singing psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs invites the Spirit to take control.
Short, practical, and stirring, this episode challenges you to examine your playlists, embrace worship that fills rather than empties, and let music reorient your mind, will, and heart toward Jesus. Take a listen, be encouraged, and take your next step.
Through a vivid contrast—Spirit-filled living versus the control of alcohol—we uncover what it means to be filled with the Spirit, why it’s a daily, practical command, and how surrendering control reshapes your thoughts, words, and actions.
Join us as we trace the biblical evidences and simple steps to choose the Spirit’s control, so you can step into the victorious, faith-filled life God has prepared for you.
Imagine life as a journey that begins as a curious child learning to walk and speaks—a path full of wonder, mistakes, and choices. In this episode the host becomes our guide through Scripture, using vivid images and personal invitation to show how knowledge, understanding, and wisdom mark the trail we walk.
We follow Solomon’s voice in Proverbs as he reveals the surprising foundation of all true learning: the fear of the Lord. Treasured like silver and hidden riches, wisdom is gained by disciplined pursuit—inclining the ear, seeking with urgency, and letting reverent awe of God reframe who we are and where we are going.
Listen as the episode draws the map from curiosity to conviction, from facts to applied faith, ending in a delight in the Lord that guards your steps. If this conversation lights a spark, share it with a friend, subscribe, and find more resources at cfccampusministry.com.
Step into a cave with Jaxson Austin, an intern from Collegians for Christ, as he retells a turning moment from Psalm 57. Hunted, exiled, and marked for death, David should be broken — yet he chooses a fixed heart. Through vivid storytelling, Jaxson paints the fear, the solitude, and the bold decision to praise in the darkest hour.
This episode follows a young teacher finding his voice: waking up when despair tempts him to hide, forcing praise where sorrow lives, and putting God back in His rightful place. It’s a short, stirring narrative that turns ancient history into a practical call to get up, sing, and trust — even when life feels like a cave.
In this episode we stand with the disciples as Jesus prepares to leave and promises a Helper who will do what He could not do while walking beside them: expose sin, reveal righteousness, and call the world to account. The story unfolds like a courtroom drama and a rescue mission rolled into one: the Holy Spirit points out the wrong road, shows the right road, and lays out the stakes.
We trace how judgment was met at the cross and how that single act separates two destinies: sin judged and removed for those who trust Christ, or sin awaiting the white-throne verdict for those who persist in unbelief. Along the way the narrative brings to life a doomed enemy, a just God, and the simple but world-changing choice every listener must face.
Finally, the episode becomes a personal call to action — recognize the Spirit, speak to Him, and learn to listen. Don’t bury this Helper in the background of your life; instead, invite His nudges, ask bold prayers, and let the Spirit empower you to witness, to live righteously, and to do greater works for God.
Through teaching and a moving campus story of a student’s conversion, we follow the Spirit as he exposes sin, points to the righteousness of Jesus, and leads people into a right way of life that bears joy, peace, and the fruit of God. Join us as we listen, learn, and take our next step into a life transformed by the Spirit.
We trace how the Spirit exposes the root of every brokenness—unbelief—and how that same voice lives within believers to expose sin, redirect our steps, and invite us into trusted action. You’ll hear why belief is more than knowing; it’s a risky, real trust that changes how we live and pray.
Whether you’re asking for faith, wrestling with doubt, or longing to hear God’s voice more clearly, this episode calls you to listen. Tune in, let the Holy Spirit guide your next step, and discover what it looks like to follow with confident, ventured trust.
Picture the night before the cross: Jesus, surrounded by those who gave up everything to follow Him, drops a startling truth—He must go so someone greater for their daily life can come. In John 16 we follow that moment as He unveils the Comforter: a Person who will live in them, guide them into truth, empower their prayers and worship, and be the seal of their salvation. This episode tells their story and ours, turning sorrow into advantage and the loss of a presence into the gain of a constant, guiding companion.
Join us as we unpack Scripture, witness the Holy Spirit’s practical work, and learn how to recognize, speak to, and rely on the Helper living within you. Listen, share, and take your next step at cfccampusministry.com.
In this episode we walk into the raw lives of scattered believers—strangers who’ve lost homes, loved ones, and safety—and invite you to witness how God turns the worst into the best. Using the vivid image of a shaken soda can, the host draws you into a story of inner stirring: when God’s mercy pours into broken people, it becomes a living hope that forces them to overflow. Peter’s letter becomes a lifeline, reminding listeners that resurrection is not a distant myth but a historical, life-giving event that guarantees a future good beyond suffering and death.
Short and stirring, this episode moves from honest grief to contagious hope—showing how appreciation for God’s mercy transforms thought patterns, sparks action, and propels us to share what we’ve received. Tune in to be challenged to stop hoarding blessing, become a vessel for God’s love, and let your life spill over into the lives of others.
Imagine a soda can—shake it up and something inside stirs until it can no longer be contained. In this episode we follow that fizzing metaphor into the pages of 1 Peter, as scattered believers cling to hope amid persecution and learn how God’s abundant mercy transforms worn-out cups into wells that pour life into a thirsty world.
Through vivid storytelling and Scripture, we trace mercy from Moses’ revelation to the cross where Jesus becomes mercy on display, and we discover what it looks like to receive mercy and then give it away. Tune in to be challenged, encouraged, and invited to live an overflowing life that reflects the mercy you’ve been shown.
Listen to a real campus moment where a single, courageous question—"If you died today, where would you go?"—turns small talk into a deep, life-changing conversation. Follow the step-by-step way to ask permission, use open-ended spiritual discovery questions, and guide someone from curiosity to clarity about Jesus.
Be encouraged and equipped to make room for the gospel: get up close, ask the question, and take your next step in sharing faith. Subscribe and share to keep learning how to hold loving, life-changing conversations.
Have you ever watched something fall apart and wondered whether it would ruin you? In this episode we follow King David from the rooftop that changed everything — a quiet moment that spiraled into adultery, deception, and a chain of heartbreaking consequences. This episode turns David’s story into a mirror for our own breaks — spring breaks, seasons of idleness, or moments of temptation — and shows how a break can either break you or become the start of a comeback.
Join us as we learn practical, faith-centered steps to keep our focus, rebuild what’s been damaged, and turn every break into an opportunity to press forward toward what matters most.
But this isn’t a lecture about guilt—it’s a story of hope. Paul’s warning becomes a lifeline: temptation can drive distance and destruction, yet God is faithful, never letting it exceed what you can bear and always providing a way out. Those but‑God moments change the arc of our struggle.
Listen for practical, down‑to‑earth steps—use Scripture, lean on the Holy Spirit, apply common sense, practice self‑control, and invite trusted community—and be challenged to take your next step toward freedom, character, and a truer life as a follower of Jesus.
Travel with us through three practical stops—thankfulness, right prayer, and right thinking—each shown with concrete scenes: a family sharing nightly gratitude, prayer as an honest, ongoing conversation, and truth as a detector that protects your heart. These snapshots create a narrative arc from anxiety to peace, from comparison to confidence, and from scattered thoughts to a mind renewed.
Short, punchy, and rooted in Scripture, this episode offers a hopeful roadmap: change your marination, change your life. Tune in to be encouraged, challenged, and equipped to take your next step in faith.
In this episode, a single spark in the Smokies becomes a vivid mirror for the soul: two matches, a raging wildfire, and the reminder that a small flame can change everything.
Drawing on Paul’s charge to Timothy, we follow a compelling narrative of recognition and renewal — learn how to acknowledge the spark God’s given you, fan it with His presence and Scripture, warm it through community, and fuel it with gifts and vision. With scripture, real-life imagery, and clear next steps, this episode invites you to take your next step and let your faith burn brighter for others.
In this episode we step into ancient Babylon and into the life of Daniel—a young man plucked from his home and enrolled in what feels like "Babylon State University." Through vivid scenes of name changes, tests of faith, and a daring 10-day trial, the story unfolds like a campus drama with eternal stakes.
As Daniel quietly makes a resolve in his heart not to be defiled, the narrative becomes a blueprint for anyone living in today’s "digital Babylon." You’ll hear the tension of temptation, the quiet power of pre-decided convictions, and the surprising ways God grants favor and opens doors when we stand firm. The episode moves from historical portrait to contemporary challenge, asking: who will you become in the face of culture’s pressure?
Lean in as this episode invites you to form convictions, saturate your life with Scripture, and choose a path that leads to thriving—not just surviving—amid the flood of modern influence.
Imagine a simple kitchen sponge — curled, hard, and useless until it meets water. In this episode we follow that sponge as a living image of your soul: when you soak in Scripture, you become pliable, useful, and overflowing with life. Through Deuteronomy and Jesus’ teaching, we trace the promise behind saturation — fear of the Lord, a lasting legacy, prolonged days, and a life that truly goes well. in this lesson you’ll hear a clear call to be intentional: soak, practice, and share God’s Word so it moves from your head to your hands and into the world.
Through vivid storytelling—Eve’s hesitation, Adam’s silence, and the serpent’s cunning—you’ll trace two deceptive tactics that still shape culture today: twisting God’s words and weaving small lies into the truth. The episode moves from the garden to modern sound bites, revealing how subtle distortions steer hearts away from the truth.
Tune in to learn how to recognize these deceptions, reclaim the reasons behind your beliefs, and take your next step as a follower of Jesus—armed with clarity, community, and courage.
Imagine following a friend into the unknown—every turn, every pace set by them—and realize that following Jesus asks the same unwavering trust. In this episode we wrestle with the temptation to treat Jesus like a label to wear and instead discover the transformative power of surrender: a story of love that compels us, frees us from self, and re-centers our life around the One who gave everything.
Drawing from Acts 4, the story becomes urgent and personal: Jesus Christ of Nazareth is presented as the chief cornerstone—crucified and raised—the single foundation that holds a life together. Salvation is framed as a free gift you must take, not earn, and a single call to Jesus can change everything.
With vivid imagery, personal stories, and practical building blocks—salvation and surrender, Scripture and prayer, fellowship and evangelism, wrapped in obedience—we trace a clear blueprint for a faith that won’t crumble. You’ll hear about the cost of neglect, the warning of great ruin, and the hope of renovation: it’s never too late to rebuild on the rock.
Through a narrative journey into Matthew 16, the we will see Jesus’ repeated, personal invitation to "Follow me," showing how following Christ is not just belief but a daily choice to deny yourself, carry your cross, and your life sacrificially for Him and for others.
Listen as the episode reveals the paradox of the Christian life — that losing your life for Jesus is the only path to truly finding it — and confronts the temptation to trade your eternal soul for temporary gain. You will be challenged to move from distant admiration to the close, intentional discipleship of Jesus Christ.
Step into a powerful retelling of Jesus' parable: a nobleman departs, leaving a certain number of pounds in the hands of his servants, and the true test begins. You’ll meet faithful stewards who trade boldly and reap unexpected rewards, and a cautious servant who buries his pound in fear. As the story unfolds, the episode reveals how stewardship—over time, ability, and truth—becomes the measure of our faith and the mirror of how we view God.
By the close, you’ll feel the urgency and hope of a simple command: occupy until He comes. This episode challenges you to stop hiding the gospel, to choose the best over the good enough, and to live as a faithful steward today.
In this episode we tell the story of leadership through vivid Biblical portraits:
Moses - the reluctant shepherd shaped by God’s presence.
Paul - the driven scholar-turned-missionary forged by training and trial.
Timothy - the young disciple molded by mentorship.
Every narrative peels back each account of inspiring greatness and reveals how influence, humility, and a teachable spirit transform ordinary people into leaders.
Listen in as we blend scripture, real-life application, and encouragement to show that leadership is both a calling you’re born to and a journey you’re made through — and how God can shape you far beyond your own abilities.
On this episode, we are reminded to adopt the mind of Christ which was His choice to empty himself and serve sacrificially. This episode reveals that true serving is not easy and true service costs something — sometimes everything — and how love, not convenience, must fuel the choice to serve. Listeners are invited to examine their identity, trade selfishness for a servant’s heart, and discover the unexpected joy and peace that come from giving rather than taking.
As we conclude our study on who God is and how He introduces Himself, we flip the question around to: Who are you? Using Paul’s simple, powerful introduction in Romans, we follow a journey from name and vocation to the heart—discovering what it means to be bought, called, and separated for Jesus.
This episode challenges you to put Jesus first in how you introduce yourself, to recognize the cost and the value of your identity, and to live unashamed as a servant.
What does it mean that God's name is Jealous and that He is Jealous? We discover that His jealousy is not in a petty way, but in a fierce, righteous love that guards His name and reputation. We see righteous jealously in vivid everyday images — a faithful husband protecting his wife and a mother protecting her child — to reframe jealousy as divine commitment, not envy.
Through story and Scripture we trace how misplaced idols, distorted images of God, and careless words can steal His identity and wound the world. The urgent call: know God so you can rightly represent Him, and learn why worship and truth about His name matter more than you think.
On this episode we want to examine a sharp question: does God punish children for the sins of their parents? Through practical truths and a vivid example in Numbers 14 of Moses’ urgent intercession, the story unfolds to reveal that God never condemns the innocent but consequences do ripple through generations.
Listen as mercy and justice collide: God’s long-suffering compassion pardons, yet His justice still demands accountability. This episode will help guide listeners to the cross as the place where chains are broken and a new family pattern can begin. Join us and discover how you can be the change your family needs.
On this episode, the tension builds as we see the weight of sin and the certainty of justice, but the narrative pivots on a breathtaking truth: mercy does not cancel justice — it meets it. Through vivid examples and faithful scripture, the episode traces how God’s overflowing love and unshakable truth converge in the cross, offering forgiveness to the repentant and warning to the unrepentant.
God invites us to understand better the God who forgives, the God who is just, and the God who longs for his people to turn and be restored.
In this episode, God begins to reveal just how He is or what He is like. He proclaims His name and His heart: merciful, gracious, and long‑suffering.
Listen as we unpack what it means to carry God’s name well, why the law can be an act of compassion, and how divine patience reshapes our idea of justice. This is a powerful account of shattered tablets, gracious restoration, and a faithful God who loves us into fresh starts—an invitation to reflect, repent, and be changed.
On this episode, we follow real people crushed by fear, guilt and sorrow. Specifically, we trace Elijah’s fall from triumph on the mountain to a desolate juniper tree where he begged God to take his life. We experience the raw emotions of panic from a single message, the slow slide into isolation, the numbing pull of comparison and defeat.
Then the account take a turn! Angels bring food, a still small voice breaks through the noise, and God invites Elijah back into purpose. This is more than ancient history—it’s a conversational, urgent call to hear God amid anxiety, to refuse secrecy, to step out of isolation and into community. Listen is to be reminded that you are not alone, you are never too far gone, and there is hope waiting in the next step toward God.
In this episode we follow the progression of Scripture as God starts with the title "God" and moves to a description of this title with "God Almighty." Next, He reveals what His name actually is, "I AM THAT I AM" which is translated as Jehovah or Yahweh. Uncovering God's name reveals the personal relationship He desires with us. He wants to know and to be known.
Our culture is filled with busyness and noise. On today's episode, we talk about how to step out of the relentless noise and into a scriptural truth about how a simple pause can change everything.
We will draw on Psalm 46, Elijah’s mountaintop encounter, and Jesus’ steady rhythm of retreat and return. We trace the journey from frantic busyness to restful presence, showing how solitude becomes the place where God is known experientially, where the still, small voice of God can be heard, and where your mission is renewed.
Tune in to learn how to silence the noise, practice the spiritual pause, and discover the life-changing power of being still and knowing God.
On today's episode, we lay out five practical, gospel-rooted steps to forgive: pray, forgive inwardly, don't avoid them, pursue reconciliation + restitution, and do everything in love.
If you’re tired of struggling to forgive or carrying the weight of unforgiveness listen in. This episode invites you to take the next step toward healing and to practice forgiveness that transforms relationships and restores hope.
In today's episode, we step into a story that refuses to leave you unchanged: a king, an impossible debt, and a servant who learns — the hard way — what it means to be forgiven. Against the backdrop of a world quick to cancel and slow to heal, this episode peels back the layers of anger, justice, and the radical mercy Jesus calls us to.
We trace how the cross meets justice, why true forgiveness costs us something, and how withholding mercy builds prisons of our own making.
Listen as scripture turns into a mirror and a map: a mirror to reveal where unforgiveness has taken root in your life, and a map forward toward restoration, freedom, and the costly grace that heals families, churches, and hearts.
In this episode, we walk into God's courtroom where He as Judge declares a messed up life ‘not guilty’—not because the person became perfect, but because Jesus paid the price. We can be forgiven and declared sinless because of the great Bible truth of forgiveness. It is why God’s forgiveness covers past, present, and future sins.
God's forgiveness moves us from the darkness of guilt to the sunshine of peace! Justification is a completed, legal transaction that gives us access to God and a new standing. We’re challenged not to abuse this gift, but to live in the freedom it creates, striving to be more like Jesus. This freedom of forgiveness allows us hold our heads up and live in victory.
In this episode we follow Asaph through a raw, honest moment of spiritual near-failure. He encountered jealousy, confusion, and the temptation to call it quits. As the Psalm unfolds, he compares himself to the prosperous wicked, spirals toward despair, and asks whether faith is even worth it.
But it all turns around when he returns to what he knows is certain, the church, the community of believers, and the immutable character of God. The episode traces his steps back from irrational comparison to spiritual clarity—showing how perspective, fellowship, and the memory of God’s goodness can steady a wavering heart.
In today's episode we talk about how to respond to God in prayer by examining the three prayers of Jesus in the Garden of Gethsemane. Jesus reveals that prayer becomes a journey to know God better and discern His will.
Satan attacks in many ways but one of his go to attacks is by planting lies in our minds. Satan has the power to steal your mind. He wants to influence your thoughts and thus your actions. He attacks by presenting us with an idea. An idea that is a lie disguised as the truth. He wants you to believe the lies so that your actions will follow. God gives us the tools to recognize and defend against these attacks. You can fight and resist his attacks. You can stop him from stealing your mind!
This episode explores how prayer leads us to know God more deeply, drawing on Paul’s prayer in Ephesians 3. It explains that prayer is instinctive, instructive, and a lifelong journey that strengthens the inner person, roots us in love, and opens us to encountering God’s fullness.
We look as some practical tools for prayer such as: plan regular prayer times, experiment with different forms (petition, confession, adoration, meditation), and grow in biblical knowledge so prayer becomes a true conversation with God rather than a checklist.
As we navigate forward on our podcast episodes, I want to central in on this theme of knowing God better. Paul emphasizes that knowing God is the greatest achievement in our Christian life. In this episode we explore Ephesians 1, where Paul prays for spiritual wisdom and revelation to know God better that we may understand our calling, recognize the spiritual riches we have in Christ, and rely on God's power.
We discuss practical steps to grow in knowing God: pursuing relationship with Him, studying His Word, learning through life and trials, and remaining teachable. Join us as we seek to know God personally, increasingly, and one day perfectly.
On today's episode we explore what it means to be a Christian on mission, using John 4 and Jesus’ encounter with the Samaritan woman as the central example. Jesus teaches us the importance of lifting up our eyes and looking for the opportunities that are all around us. He reveals that we are to overcoming cultural barriers to reach unexpected people like this Samaritan woman. To be a Christian on mission means we must see and seize the opportunities that God has placed all around us!
On today's episode, we look at how Jesus prepared his disciples for persecution by promising the Holy Spirit. He describes him as the Comforter, an indwelling presence for believers. This episode explores the Holy Spirit’s role in sealing salvation, guiding into all truth, empowering believers for victorious living, and partnering with us in evangelism.
In this episode we walk through John 15 to explore what it means to be a friend of Jesus, unpacking the themes of sacrifice, obedience, availability, and God’s relational design.
The episode highlights these key points: Jesus proved friendship by laying down his life, friendship requires mutual sacrifice and loyalty, obedience is the proof of friendship, and forgiveness and availability are central to Jesus’ way of relating to us.
In this episode we walk through John 15 and sort out the three different types of branches that Jesus talks about: the fruitful (pruned to produce more), the unfruitful (believers who stop bearing fruit and are set aside), and the withered (those who only look like branches but never truly trusted Him).
Take a moment to pause and check to see which branch your are. Trust Jesus if you never have, and if you’re a believer who’s grown cold, come back to abiding in Him so real life and purpose return.
In this episode we unpack Jesus’ call to “abide” — explaining how remaining in Christ is a loyal, productive, and joyful way of life. This passage reveals how abiding connects us to the Vine, leads to spiritual fruit, and requires pruning through trials and God’s word.
Listeners will get practical steps for living in daily fellowship with Jesus, experiencing answered prayer, growing in character, and finding lasting purpose and joy.
In this episode, we explore the profound connection between love and obedience as emphasized by Jesus. Discover why true followers are those who not only hear His words but also actively practice them. We dive into the essence of love compelling us into action and how obedience is the demonstration of genuine love for God. As we navigate through the teachings in John chapter 14, learn about the importance of embodying faith through actions, proving our love by living out His commandments.
Welcome to another episode featuring our guest speaker, Kosta Kappas. In this episode, he explores the profound concept of living for God 'always and in all ways.' He dives into the importance of glorifying God throughout the different facets of life, drawing inspiration from the example set by Jesus Christ.
The conversation invites listeners to reflect on their commitment to faith, encouraging them to embody a life of continual gratitude and service to God. By examining biblical teachings and personal examples, this episode challenges Christians to live out their faith authentically, both in private meditation and public actions, ensuring their lives are a testament to God's grace and love.
Join us in this episode as we dive into the power and significance of promises, drawing from teachings found in John chapter 14. Discover how these promises emphasize our role as believers, advocating for faithfulness and integrity in keeping our word. Learn how the promise of greater works and the assurance of answered prayers highlight the profound connection between divine promise and human action.
Understand the role of the Holy Spirit in empowering believers to perform these "greater works" while navigating trials and tribulations. This episode explains how embracing these promises strengthens your faith and deepens your relationship with God, reminding us of the reliable nature of God's promises.
Join us in this episode as we explore the profound messages where Jesus prepares His disciples for His nearing departure. Dive into the comforting promise of a place being prepared in Heaven, as Jesus reassures His followers, "Let not your heart be troubled." Understand the significance of Jesus as "the way, the truth, and the life," and why this is crucial for every believer.
Discover how Jesus, the master carpenter, is crafting a place for each of His followers, and how this reflects His sacrificial love and ultimate purpose for humanity. We’ll also discuss the anticipation of His return and how this belief should impact our daily lives and behaviors.
Embark on a journey to comprehend the essence of heaven, not merely as a place, but centered around the presence of Jesus. Reflecting on Revelation’s depiction of heaven, we’ll see why belief in His return transforms our outlook on life. Whether you’re searching for faith or strengthening your belief, this episode offers spiritual insights and encouragement.
Join us in this episode as we discover the different types of love highlighted in the scriptures, including Agape love, the highest form of love God expresses towards us and instructs us to share with others.
We are reminded of the new, yet timeless commandment Jesus gives—to love one another as He loves us, making love the distinguishing mark of true discipleship. Through examples from the Bible, learn about the power and significance of loving everyone, even our enemies. Listen to how Jesus redefined love by His sacrificial actions and challenged us to express this love through our actions and relationships.
In this episode, we dive into one of the most intimate moments between Jesus and His disciples, found in the book of John, chapters 13 through 17. Join us as we explore the powerful truths and teachings that Jesus shared with His followers on the night before His crucifixion.
Discover the profound lessons on humility and sacrificial service, as demonstrated by Jesus washing His disciples' feet, an act that challenges our understanding of leadership and love. Learn how these timeless teachings can be applied to our daily lives as we strive to emulate Jesus's example of serving others selflessly.
We also discuss the importance of spiritual cleansing and maintaining a close relationship with God through confession and forgiveness, emphasizing how these practices fortify our faith and fellowship with God. Tune in to gain insights on how serving others can unite us and bring more love into our world.
On today's episode, we are joined by our special guest, Kosta Kappas, who is an intern with Collegians for Christ. He will dive into James 1:14-17, revealing the nature of temptation and the reality of sin. Kosta parallels the tale of Lot's wife with modern-day struggles, illustrating how easy it is to be externally righteous while internally dancing with sin.
He breaks down the process of sin into three stages: the attraction to sin, the implications of sin, and ultimately, the victory over sin through Jesus Christ. He addresses the consequences sin brings and the power of redemption available to us all, urging us to turn to God for deliverance and strength.
In this episode, we explore the often misunderstood topic of doubt in the Christian faith. We dive into questions like: What is doubt? How should we handle it? Is it wrong for a Christian to experience it?
Through scriptural insights and real-life examples, we learn that doubt is not the same as unbelief but rather a stage that can lead to a stronger foundation of faith. Discover how acknowledging and addressing our doubts can transform them into opportunities for growth and deeper belief. Join us as we unpack the notion that doubt, when approached correctly, can indeed be a beautiful aspect of the Christian journey.
In this episode, we dive into another of life's most profound questions: how can evil and suffering exist with a loving God? We explore theological foundations and consider the role of free will in the coexistence of good and evil. Join us as we discuss the possibility of reconciling these truths and the potential for good to emerge from suffering. This episode provides insights into how believers and non-believers alike can address these challenging questions biblically, reasonably, and logically while emphasizing sensitivity to individual experiences.
In this episode, we dive into a profound question that has been asked for generations: why do bad things happen to good people? Taking a biblical perspective, the discussion centers around the story of Job, a man who faced unimaginable hardships despite him living a good life. By examining the first two chapters of the Book of Job, we discover a behind-the-scenes look at the spiritual battle between God and Satan, shedding light on the nature of suffering, divine sovereignty, and human perception of good and bad.
Join us in this episode with our special guest, Anthony Rocco, as he dives into the life of Judas Iscariot, exploring the dangers of living behind a mask of deception and the spiritual lessons it teaches. Anthony challenges listeners to shed their figurative masks and embrace authenticity in their faith journey. Whether passing by in daily interactions or engaging deeply in church, the message underscores the need for genuine connection and truthfulness before God.
Through the lens of Judas’s life, discover the contrast between earthly intentions and divine purpose, and how secrecy can be a foothold for the enemy. Anthony invites you to reflect on your own life, encouraging a transformative journey towards honesty and openness, where there's no need for performance or pretension.
Join us in today's episode as we explore the intriguing interplay between faith and works in the Christian doctrine of justification. We'll examine the teachings of Paul and James to discover whether they truly contradict or rather complement each other. Paul teaches that salvation is by faith alone, while James stresses the importance of works as evidence of genuine faith. Through examples from scripture and interpreting the key passages, we aim to clarify how both apostles' teachings align.
In this episode, we dive into the profound theme of justification, exploring its application in our lives and how it leads us to find peace with God. As the world grapples with unrest, the believer can have complete peace that comes from justification.
Understanding the dual aspects of our Christian life—standing and state—we navigate the concepts of justification and sanctification, discussing the peace that comes when we stop trying to earn favor with God. Our sins are forgiven, clearing our conscience and removing fear, enabling us to live a life of peace.
We also discuss the invaluable access to God we gain through justification. Accepted and adopted into God's family, we enjoy full access to the God, transforming our approach to prayer and personal growth. By embracing forgiveness and peace, we can strengthen our relationships with others and live victoriously as children of the King.
This episode dives into the powerful doctrine of justification, as explored in the book of Romans. We explore what it means to be justified by faith in Jesus Christ. Justification is not about earning righteousness but being declared righteous in God's eyes. This judicial concept emphasizes the removal of sin's guilt and the addition of Jesus's righteousness to believers. Join us as we explore this truth and its impact on living a victorious Christian life.
Welcome to this week's episode of our podcast, featuring a special guest, Anthony Rocco, who is a student at ECU and serves on the leadership team at CFC.
Anthony dives into the life and teachings of John the Apostle, exploring themes of obedience and love as essential paths to understanding and walking with God. He prompts us to reflect on the powerful transformation of John's character, from a fiery temperament to a life centered on love and service.
Through biblical narratives and personal anecdotes, this episode invites you to embrace obedience not as a checklist, but as a heart posture centered on trust and devotion. Anthony also explores the concept of worship as a lifestyle, encouraging us to express our faith through love and obedience daily.
In today's episode, we dive deeper into the parable of the two lost sons, moving beyond the traditional focus on the prodigal son to explore the lessons revealed by the reaction of the older brother. This episode challenges us to reflect on our own perceptions of righteousness and forgiveness.
Through the lens of this parable, we examine how the older brother's response reveals a truth about self-righteousness and the dangers of believing ourselves to be morally superior. As we unravel the older brother syndrome, we uncover how it mirrors our tendencies to serve God from a place of fear rather than love. The older brother teaches us that God's love is not earned by our actions, but is a gracious gift for every repentant heart.
Join us in this episode as we dive into the timeless parable of the Prodigal Son, exploring the intricate dynamics between the younger son, the older son, and their father. Discover how this story uniquely speaks to both those on a journey of self-discovery and those adhering to moral duty, highlighting two distinct paths to seeking acceptance and significance from God.
Explore the profound love and forgiveness shown by the Father, representing God's unfathomable grace toward humanity. Learn why the Father's response to his son's return is key to understanding unconditional acceptance and restoration.
On this week's episode, we welcome back Kosta Kappas, an intern with CFC, as our guest speaker. He dives into the journey of discovering Jesus, focusing on His roles as Christ and King. We explore the significance of Palm Sunday and Easter, not as separate events but as parts of a singular narrative pointing to Jesus's sacrifice and sovereignty. Kosta invites listeners to reflect on their perception of Jesus, encouraging us to consider His divine authority and the gift of salvation.
On this week's episode, we will explore the role that temptations play in our daily lives and how we can overcome them. Temptations are powerful tools used to lead us away from living a victorious life.
We will explore how temptations are not sin themselves but rather opportunities where our decisions matter the most. We discuss the distinction between the inclinations of temptation and the act of sinning, stressing the importance of responding to temptations in a way that leads to victory rather than defeat.
Join us as we discuss how Jesus' response to Satan's temptations provides a blueprint for our struggles. Through understanding and applying God's word, we can discern God's will over deceitful shortcuts and live triumphantly over sin.
Join us on today's episode as we explore the essential practice of balancing retreat and return in our lives, drawing inspiration from Jesus' practices as shown in the Gospels. Learn how creating a rhythm where we intentionally step back and find moments of solitude can enhance our spiritual growth and align us with God's purpose, even amidst life's chaos. Discover practical steps on establishing personal retreat, overcoming common obstacles like distractions and hurry, and nurturing your faith. Recharge spiritually and be more effective in your journey with Christ as you learn the practice of retreat and return.
In this episode, we have joined by our special guest, Denver Hader, who shares his insights on the significance of having strong convictions and maintaining consistent communion with God, inspired by the story of Daniel. Denver dives into the challenges Daniel faced, from being captured and forced into a new culture to standing firm in his faith despite external pressures. Discover how Daniel chose his convictions over conformity, upheld daily communion with God, and trusted in God's guidance even in the face of life-threatening trials. Join us as we uncover these timeless lessons and learn how to apply them to our own spiritual journeys.
On today's episode, we explore the profound impact of personal testimonies in sharing the gospel. We talk about the importance of your personal story and how it can effectively connect with others, encouraging them to explore their own faith journeys.
Discover practical strategies for transitioning everyday conversations into meaningful spiritual discussions, overcoming common fears, and understanding the three key parts of a compelling testimony. With real-life examples and guidance from biblical teachings, learn how to share your faith authentically and inspire others to consider their relationship with Jesus Christ.
On today's episode we have a special guest, Kosta Kappas, who is going to talk about trusting in the Lord's direction rather than the destination.
We will dive into the story of Abraham, emphasizing the power of faith and obedience when the future is uncertain. Through biblical insight and personal testimony, Kosta encourages us to have faith in the steps God calls us to take, much like Abraham did, trusting in the journey rather than fixating on a desired outcome. Discover how surrendering control and embracing faith can lead to divine opportunities and blessings beyond our expectations.
Prayer is a universal practice that transcends religious and cultural boundaries. As we consider prayer, it poses questions like whether there is a right way to pray, how to pray effectively, and where the power in prayer truly comes from.
Throughout this episode, we explore the challenges believers face in maintaining a consistent prayer life and how the power of nothing propels us to seek God with boldness and persistence. Gain insight into understanding God not as a reluctant friend but as a loving Father eager to hear from us.
Discover the transformative principles that emerge from having nothing, leading to bold and persistent prayers that strengthen your relationship with God. Learn how persistence in prayer can overcome apathy, change your heart, refine your prayers, and keep you dependent on God. If you struggle with maintaining a prayer routine, this episode offers encouragement to start where you are and make gradual steps towards a deeper and more effective prayer life.
What does Jesus see when He looks at our modern world and culture?
We will discuss some alarming statistics regarding the spiritual drift of young adults and highlight the sense of spiritual curiosity among unbelievers. In a world saturated with misinformation, the need for truth and guidance is more important than ever.
Jesus' compassion for the lost calls us to action, encouraging us to pray for laborers and to be the answer to that prayer. We will talk talk about practical ways to make a meaningful impact on the lives of those around you.
Join us as we learn from Paul's approach in Athens and discover how to effectively communicate with those curious about spirituality.
We discuss the significance of starting with creation, understanding our audience, and addressing the core issues that may hinder their openness to the Gospel. Explore how to use questions, appeal to the conscience, and share the message of Jesus Christ with clarity and compassion.
Listen in to find out how you can build bridges with unbelievers, overcome barriers, and help others see their need for a relationship with Jesus. Whether you face skeptics or seekers, this episode equips you to share the truth with confidence and grace.
In this episode, we explore the profound shift in our culture where curiosity about spiritual matters is more alive than ever. Discover how to navigate this change by intentionally engaging with others through the power of hospitality, conversation, and relationship-building.
Learn the role hospitality plays in making room for the gospel. Discover how to break through prejudices and see others as God's creation, extending love and grace through simple acts like sharing a meal or inviting someone for coffee.
We also dive into the example set by Jesus, who sat with sinners and publicans, and the apostle Paul, who commended the spiritually curious in Athens. Both teach us that effective discipleship cannot occur without building genuine relationships.
Join us as we seek to be more intentional in our daily lives, offering hospitality, forming connections, and guiding others on their spiritual journey. Together, let's make room for the gospel and foster environments where faith can flourish.
Today's episode dives into a compelling question: Do unbelievers want to hear about the gospel? Often, in our increasingly secular society, we assume a general disinterest in spiritual matters. However, recent studies reveal a different narrative — a significant number of non-Christians are actually open, curious, an exploring matters concerning spirituality.
Join us as we explore the surprising openness to spiritual conversations among skeptics and agnostics. We discuss research from the book "Faith for the Curious," which highlights the spiritual curiosity present in today's younger generation. Discover how you can engage with those around you who may be exploring faith, seeking truth, and needing someone to guide them on their spiritual journey.
This episode offers practical insights and six strategies for "making room for the gospel" in daily life. From being intentional and starting genuine conversations to listening and asking open-ended questions, we unpack the art of dialoguing about faith. Whether you're speaking with colleagues, neighbors, or classmates, learn how to break barriers and connect through meaningful spiritual dialogue.
Join us as we examine Paul's methods of ministering daily, focusing on how his interactions in Athens mirror the challenges we face today. We discuss the importance of recognizing and responding to the needs around us, moving beyond complacency, and allowing our faith to stir us into action. Discover how every day can become an opportunity for ministry, no matter where you find yourself, and learn how to integrate your faith into every aspect of life.
In this episode, discover why Jesus is not just a historical figure but the divine Lord worthy of worship and witness. Join us as we unpack the exaltation of Jesus by God, examining the reasons for His resurrection and the authority given to Him. Learn about the significance of Jesus' name and its implications for believers today.
This episode emphasizes the importance of worshiping Jesus passionately and witnessing His gospel to others. We are reminded that every interaction and opportunity is a chance to share the transformative power of Jesus.
Join us as we reflect on the attitudes and motives behind our acts of service, inspired by the humility and sacrifice exemplified by Jesus Christ. Discover how true service requires more than just actions; it begins with a heartfelt decision to put others first, embracing both sacrifice and suffering as we follow the example set by Jesus.
Whether you're serving from a place of love, joy, or obedience, this episode challenges us to evaluate how far we are willing to go in our service to others. Listen in to be encouraged and equipped to serve sacrificially, making the most of every opportunity God places in your path.
Discover how Jesus, as the willing servant, turns conventional thinking upside down by setting aside His divine rights to serve humanity.
This episode examines how Jesus exemplified true humility by assuming the form of a servant. Despite having the rights to glory and exaltation, He came to earth not to be served, but to serve. His life was a testament to selfless service, teaching, healing, and ultimately giving His life as a ransom for many. We are encouraged to follow His example, placing others before ourselves and serving without expectation.
Reflect on the profound identity we have in Christ, which empowers us to serve others. Learn how embracing our true identity in Jesus allows us to willingly put others first. Jesus' life provides the perfect blueprint for service, illustrating how we can give of our talents, time, and resources. Let us strive to serve others, embodying the heart of a servant as demonstrated by Jesus.
The main focus of our episode is on understanding the attitudes that believers should possess, as exemplified by Jesus. We explore the concept of "form" as used in the scripture, emphasizing that Jesus is in the form of God, not in shape or size, but in divine nature. This episode unpacks the significance of Jesus being fully God and fully man, eternally existent, and co-equal with God the Father.
We also discuss the three possibilities regarding Jesus' claims of divinity: liar, lunatic, or Lord. Through logical reasoning, we affirm that Jesus is indeed Lord, and we encourage you to reflect on your beliefs and strengthen your faith in His teachings. Join us as we take this spiritual journey to deepen our understanding and devotion to Jesus Christ.
In this episode, we dive into a crucial topic for today's world: finding contentment amidst our culture's constant push for more. As advertisements and media bombard us with desires, how can we cultivate true satisfaction? We'll explore biblical insights from First Timothy on godliness and contentment, understanding that wealth isn't the ultimate goal, but rather a mindful state of inner peace and sufficiency.
Join us as we discuss the pitfalls of pursuing riches and the peace that comes from trusting God and appreciating life's necessities. Learn how contentment is a choice and discover practical ways to set your heart towards heavenly treasures, not earthly gains.
In this episode, we explore the concept of "Next Level Christianity" and how you can deepen your relationship with Jesus Christ. Join us as we dive into Matthew 16 and learn about the steps to spiritual growth: denying oneself, taking up the cross, and following Jesus.
Discover how the excitement of progressing in a video game parallels our spiritual journey. Just like in games, maintaining the same level in one's faith can lead to boredom, but Jesus invites us to move forward by understanding salvation, surrendering our will, and embracing sacrifice.
Whether you're taking your first step in Christianity or aiming to elevate your faith further, this episode provides practical insights and encouragement to enhance your spiritual walk.
In this episode, we discuss the profound differences between grace and religion. Religion often implies an obligation to earn favor through compliance, while grace emphasizes that we are accepted by God through Jesus Christ, prompting joyful obedience out of love rather than fear.
We explore how legalism can distort our self-view and breed unhealthy comparisons, whereas grace offers a firm foundation for identity in Christ, reminding us that we are chosen, valued, and loved unconditionally.
Discover how grace transforms our interactions with others, fostering a genuine love instead of judgment, and emphasizing our equal standing before God. As we journey through these insights, consider your own motivations in faith, and embrace the freedom found in grace rather than a checklist of religious obligations.
Is Christianity a religion or something more? In today's discussion, we explore the significant differences between following Jesus and adhering to man-made religious rules. We uncover how legalism misguides believers by turning their faith into a religion filled with rules, rather than a relationship with Jesus. We will discover why relying on religious performances leads to identity issues, guilt, and unhealthy comparisons.
This episode warns of the dangers of allowing man-made traditions to rob us of the freedom found in Christ. Join us as we reveal how grace, not legalism, grants believers true peace and joy in their walk with Jesus.
On this episode, we dive into the profound question: Is there a difference between Jesus and religion? While many categorize Christianity alongside Islam, Hinduism, and Buddhism, we explore the unique claims of Jesus being the way of salvation and not just a religious leader.
Our discussion focuses on Colossians chapter 2, where Paul emphasizes the importance of being rooted, built up, and established in the faith. The episode highlights three metaphors—walking in Jesus, being rooted in Jesus, and being built up in Jesus—to provide a roadmap for a believer's journey and growth.
Join us as we discuss what it truly means to follow Jesus, not a set of rules or institutions, but becoming His apprentice and adopting His way of life. Discover how deep roots in Christ can make you firm and confident in your faith, as opposed to being swayed by cultural pressures and the traditions of men.
On this latest episode, we explore the critical distinction between being a genuine follower or a mere pretender. Jesus uses vivid illustrations to underscore the necessity of applying His teachings to our lives. He likens those who hear and act upon His words to a wise man who builds his house on a rock, withstanding life's inevitable storms. The foundation of our faith, much like a house, determines our resilience against trials and challenges. Jesus urges us to not only hear but to practice His teachings, ensuring our spiritual foundation remains strong.
Join us as we explore the heart of Jesus' message, examining how true followers reflect love and obedience in their lives. We discuss the dangers of being a pretender and the impact it can have on one's faith and testimony. Discover practical ways to deepen your spiritual foundation and ensure your life is anchored in Christ.
On this episode, we focus on Jesus' compelling message about the two paths we can take in life, one leading to eternal life and the other to destruction. We explore the concept of the "straight gate" and the "broad way," and the importance of making informed decisions about our spiritual journey. Jesus emphasizes the certainty of our salvation and warns us about false prophets disguised as bearers of truth. We discuss how to identify these deceivers by their fruits and the significance of knowing what you believe and why you believe it.
We address the challenging reality of well-intentioned individuals who may be unknowingly led astray and the importance of placing true faith in Jesus Christ.
In this episode, we dive into the often misquoted passage of Matthew 7, where Jesus advises against judgment. Join us as we unpack the true meaning behind these words and explore the distinction between judgment and discernment.
Discover how Jesus challenges us to look beyond the external and focus on the heart, urging us to avoid self-righteous condemnation. We discuss the importance of evaluating people and situations with wisdom and love, rather than using ourselves as the standard. Through careful examination, we learn how to apply discernment in our daily lives, ensuring that our judgments are righteous and rooted in love.
In this episode, we delve into the profound teachings of Jesus about where we lay our treasures and how it dictates the focus of our hearts.
We explore the contrasting nature of earthly and heavenly treasures, highlighting their temporary and eternal values respectively. Discover the enemies of earthly possessions and the eternal rewards of heavenly investments.
Jesus' guidance on loyalty, materialism, and contentment challenges us to reflect on our priorities and where our true treasure lies. Learn practical ways to store up treasures in heaven through stewardship, obedience, and faith.
Join us as we seek first the kingdom of God and understand the significance of focusing our hearts on eternal treasures.
On this episode. We explore the significance of fasting, its purpose, and the powerful impact it can have on our spiritual lives. Jesus assumed His followers would fast, not for public recognition, but to deepen their relationship with God. Fasting is a way of showing God that we desire Him above all else and are willing to lay down anything for Him.
We'll discuss practical steps on how to start fasting, the importance of knowing your body's limits, and examples of when fasting is most effective. Additionally, we dive into the powerful outcomes of fasting as demonstrated in Scripture, from personal spiritual growth to national revivals.
Join us as we uncover the transformative power of fasting and how it can take your spiritual life to the next level. Experiment with fasting and allow God to work in extraordinary ways in your life.
In this episode, Jesus provides a masterclass on how to pray effectively and meaningfully. We will discover the two essential truths about prayer: how not to pray like the hypocrites and how to engage in genuine, heartfelt communication with God. Jesus emphasizes the importance of avoiding empty repetitions and instead encourages us to approach prayer as an intimate conversation with our Creator.
Learn the significance of finding your "secret place" in prayer, a spiritual sanctuary where you can connect with God openly and sincerely. Jesus also provides a model prayer which in turn offers practical insights to enhance your prayer life and deepen your relationship with God.
In today's episode, we explore a critical question: "Is it for show or for love?"
Jesus emphasizes the importance of our motives especially when it comes to our alms, prayer, and fasting. He warns against doing good deeds for outward recognition and urges us to act out of genuine love and compassion.
Through this episode, we learn that our actions should reflect our faith and be done with the right intentions. We are challenged to examine our own hearts to ensure that our good works are done for the right reasons, not for the applause of men but for the glory of God. Whether it's helping the poor, supporting charity, or serving our community, our motives should be pure and rooted in love for God and others.
We're continuing on this theme of Jesus reversing our thinking, really taking the teachings of His time and turning them upside down. Jesus dives into the root matters of three distinct topics: adultery, oaths, and retaliation, challenging the altered religious teachings of His day.
On adultery, Jesus emphasizes the true intent of marriage as a lifelong commitment, highlighting that even lustful thoughts equate to adultery in the heart. He speaks on the destructive nature of lust and urges us to maintain purity in our thoughts and actions.
Regarding oaths, Jesus teaches the importance of being a person of your word. Instead of swearing by various things, He advocates for simple honesty — let your 'yes' be 'yes' and your 'no' be 'no.'
On retaliation, Jesus challenges the old notion of 'an eye for an eye,' urging us not to retaliate but to show love and forgiveness. He explains the importance of leaving judgment to a third party, such as our judicial system, and ultimately to God.
Join us as we explore how Jesus challenges the conventional thinking of the religious leaders of His time, emphasizing the importance of genuine morality over mere outward appearances.
We examine Jesus' powerful statements, "You have heard, but I say unto you," and how He redefines the understanding of anger and its roots. Discover the three levels of anger Jesus equates to murder and learn why harboring anger is as destructive as the act itself. Understand the significance of addressing the heart's issues rather than just the outward behaviors.
Additionally, we discuss the crucial steps towards reconciliation, as outlined by Jesus, and the importance of resolving conflicts with others even before engaging in worship. Learn practical steps to reconcile with those who have wronged you or whom you have wronged, including when and how to set boundaries if reconciliation is not immediately possible.
The episode clarifies common confusions about the applicability of Old Testament commandments to New Testament believers and addresses whether Christians are still bound by these laws today.
We break down the law into moral, civil, and religious components, examining how Jesus' teachings and actions provide a new framework for understanding and living by these principles. Discover why love is central to Jesus' message and how it encapsulates the essence of the law.
Join us for a thought-provoking episode that highlights the freedom and responsibility we have in Christ, and learn how to apply these timeless truths to your daily life.
In this episode, we explore how every believer is called to full-time ministry, regardless of their vocation. Whether you are a teacher, doctor, banker, or police officer, your workplace and community are your mission fields. Learn how to intentionally influence others through your actions, attitudes, and the truth of God's word.
We also discuss the importance of not hiding our light, but instead, letting it shine brightly for all to see. By living out our faith and being unashamed of our beliefs, we can draw others to Christ and offer hope in a world often filled with hopelessness.
Join us as we encourage each other to shine brightly, support one another, and understand the incredible impact we can have when we live as children of light.
We'll explore what it means to be "salt" in the world, emphasizing the importance of influencing others positively through our character, behavior, and beliefs. We discuss how influence operates invisibly yet powerfully, manifesting through its effects on people and society.
Join us as we unpack how a single individual can impact many, drawing examples from history, including figures like Hitler, Prophet Muhammad, and Jesus Christ. We emphasize Jesus' command to his disciples—and by extension, to us—to be the salt of the earth, preserving and flavoring the world with the truths of Christianity.
This episode challenges us to step out of our comfort zones, engage with the world around us, and fulfill our God-given purpose. We discuss the consequences of not living up to this calling and how it can render us "good for nothing" in the eyes of God.
We examine Jesus' profound analogy of hungering and thirsting after righteousness, emphasizing the importance of internal transformation over external appearances. This episode challenges us to evaluate what we truly seek and crave in our lives and how our internal desires shape our behaviors.
We will gain insights into living a righteous life amidst a world full of temptations and sin. We discuss practical steps such as removing apathy, being intentional in our pursuit, and adopting the lifestyle of Jesus. By understanding and embracing these concepts, we can align our hearts with God's will and experience the joy and fulfillment that comes from seeking righteousness.
We begin our journey by examining the first two Beatitudes: "Blessed are the poor in spirit" and "Blessed are they that mourn." Learn what it means to possess genuine humility and how to develop a heart that mourns for sin—both personal and in the world around us. Understand the double promise attached to these Beatitudes and how they offer divine joy and inner satisfaction despite life's circumstances.
As we navigate through the teachings, we confront the issue of apathy, a common struggle in today's culture. Discover practical ways to keep your heart sensitive to sin and to see beyond the sin to the sinner, just as Jesus did. You will be challenged to engage with the world in meaningful ways and sharing the transformative power of the Gospel.
In this episode, we dive into the concept of salvation by exploring its past, present, and future tenses: justification, sanctification, and glorification. We will emphasizes the importance of not limiting salvation to a past event or a future hope but understanding its impact on our daily lives.
Join with us on this episode to discover how to fully embrace and live out the new life that comes with salvation, leaving behind the old and stepping into the new!
Salvation is so much more than a one-time event. It's not just a past transaction but a life giving, daily experience for the Christian. Salvation is a new life! Too often, we limit God's purpose for salvation in our daily lives when we think of it as only a past transaction or a future event.
On this episode, we will talk about how salvation transforms our everyday lives, helping us live victoriously and purposefully.
Despite facing opposition and criticism, Nehemiah's actions demonstrate the importance of having backbone and standing firm in one's convictions.
As we examine Nehemiah's bold moves—such as confronting corrupt leaders, enforcing the Sabbath, and addressing intermarriage with foreign nations—we see a leader who is unafraid to draw lines in the sand and take decisive action. His example teaches us the necessity of confronting issues head-on and not letting fear or the desire to please others deter us from our principles.
Join us as we learn from Nehemiah's leadership, understanding the importance of standing strong, providing immediate remedies to problems, and ensuring accountability. This episode challenges us to be leaders who cannot be bought, bribed, or distracted, but who stand in our commitment to what is right.
In this episode, we learn how Nehemiah trained and guided his people, instilling faithfulness, the fear of God, teachability, and dependability in them. Furthermore, we unravel Nehemiah's ingenious approach in organizing worship, putting God and the Bible first, ensuring a clear understanding of God's word, and fostering an atmosphere of joy and celebration. This heart touching account of Nehemiah is bound to empower you in your faith journey, inspiring you to be not just a passive listener, but an active worshipper!
In this episode, we reflect on our own experiences of struggling to stay focused amidst a world of distractions. Whether it's our devices promising to make us more organized or the incessant demands of life, our attention is constantly pulled in many directions. We unpack how Nehemiah, a biblical leader, exemplified staying focused despite the presence of distractions.
Distractions, whether good or bad, have a knack of pushing us off track from our set goals. We scrutinize how Nehemiah resisted these distractions and stayed focused even in the face of criticism and intimidation from adversaries like Sanballat and Tobiah. Emulating Nehemiah, we emphasize the importance of discerning distractions, devoting time according to priorities and not letting our emotions control us while facing critics.
The key here is discernment, which comes from exposure to God's word and personal experience from different situations. Nehemiah’s unwavering focus despite distractions, criticism, or intimidation can serve as a testament to us as we pursue our respective goals.
In this episode, we trace Nehemiah's journey in rebuilding the walls of Jerusalem, we delve into the obstacles he faced, his reactions to opposition, and his effective leadership tactics. Despite facing severe criticism and attempt to hinder his plans, Nehemiah remains determined, focused and leads his people forward. We highlight that the true test of leadership often comes in the face of adversity and how leaders react to opposition could greatly influence the outcome of their work.
We further discuss the common forms of opposition leaders can face, both from within and without. We also acknowledge that dealing with criticism, obstacles, and opposition can be challenging, but it is crucial to remain focused, motivated, and encouraged.
At the end of the episode, we conclude with the importance of staying true to the callings and leadings of God, regardless of the opposition or criticism we face.
This episode dives into the life and leadership of Nehemiah as we study his role in the rebuilding of Jerusalem's walls. Nehemiah serves as an example of true leadership, embodying the idea that leadership is about influence, not position or followership. Recognize how a good leader values their team, and like Nehemiah, adopts a collaborative approach rather than trying to accomplish tasks single-handedly.
Our scripture study dives into Nehemiah’s attitudes towards leadership. He was not the loudest, nor did he try to dominate. Instead, he understood leadership as the ability to inspire, motivate, delegate, and influence with others. Learn how we can apply this wisdom in our lives and how we all have the potential to be leaders, adding value to others' lives.
We also discover Nehemiah's strategy in delegating work, emphasizing how each team member plays a vital role in accomplishing greater goals. True leadership ensures that everyone feels important, involved, and invested in the task. Just like Nehemiah placed everyone at a specific section of the wall to rebuild, conveying the message that everyone's contribution is valuable.
Further, we discuss handling criticism, an aspect that every good leader faces. Learn from the experience of Nehemiah and his ability to handle critics both from the outside and the hardest ones from the inside. Recognize the significance of the right response in the face of criticism and how it can define you as a leader.
In this episode, we analyze the characteristics of a good leader and how they can add value to people. Discover how Nehemiah's patience, active approach, precise asking, and planning aided in his remarkable endeavor in rebuilding the walls of Jerusalem.
This episode underscores how patience and action can go hand in hand. Nehemiah didn't act hastily. Instead, he waited for the perfect timing to catalyze his plans while continuing his nine to five job which showcased his patience and active approach. He waited for God to open up the perfect opportunity and, when God did, he seized it while not overreaching beyond what he prayed for.
Nehemiah not only pursued his vision, but he also was a meticulous planner. He correlated thoughts into action, setting a bar high on leadership skills. Listen to this episode to understand how acting on a whim or emotion isn't a mark of a good leader, but planning, strategizing and being ready when the opportunity knocks is.
Inspired by Nehemiah's life, this episode motivates you to be patient, active, and ready for opportunities while waiting on God to answer your prayers.
In this episode, we explore the importance of prayer in a believer's life, indicating our reliance on God and alignment with His will. Nehemiah’s reaction to needs, expressed through prayer, is indicative of his spiritual leadership. We discuss how remembering and asserting God's promises in our prayers underlines His faithfulness and reinforces our faith.
In the latter part of the episode, we discuss Nehemiah's acknowledgement of personal and national sins, drawing parallels with King David's sin with Bathsheba. We discuss the empowering potential of acknowledging our sins, which paves the way to overcoming guilt and sorrow. The episode calls for specific prayers, a deeper, sincere connection with God and the patience to wait for His divine timing.
Deepen your understanding of prayer, leadership, and faith as we unveil insightful lessons from Nehemiah's prayer journey, supplying you with the spiritual tools to become an effective leader and positively influence those around you.
Are leaders born or are they made? Perhaps, this episode will provide some clarity on this age-old question as we advocate that leadership is a skill that can be learned. We use the journey of Moses, a reluctant leader, as evidence that leadership can be cultivated. This episode draws on wisdom from the scriptures to prove that a leader need not be the loudest, the most popular, or even the wisest person in a group, echoing John Maxwell's definition that leadership is all about "influence".
In this podcast, we challenge the conventional notions of leadership by focusing on the unique position of Christians to be true leaders through their influence on others. Whether you envision yourself as a CEO or a manager in the future, you're already equipped with the potential to lead simply by being a follower of Jesus, the master of all leaders.
As we navigate the life of Nehemiah, a man who worked a day job but lived a life of deep devotion to his faith, we look at how God prepares ordinary people for extraordinary roles and places them in the right places at the right time. From becoming a man of God to a man of concern, Nehemiah’s journey encapsulates the true essence of what it means to be a godly leader. The episode illustrates how Nehemiah’s story of listening, showing compassion, and ultimately taking action is a testament to the qualities that define true leadership.
Our goal is to inspire you to step up, just as Nehemiah did, by embodying godly qualities and exhibiting genuine concern for others. From listening attentively to showing compassion and taking action, we explore how the ordinary can indeed rise to the extraordinary. So join us as we endeavor to turn followers of Jesus into the leaders of today.
Welcome to this enlightening episode of Taking Your Next Step, brought to you by Collegians for Christ. In this final exploration of the significant phrase 'But God', we understand the saying 'But God gives the increase', and explore its implications in our spiritual journey.
In the same way that gardening requires investment, effort, and patience, we unpack the importance of nurturing the seed of God's word in people's lives. Drawing from the book of 1 Corinthians, we discuss our distinct roles in spiritual gardening--everything from planting the seed, to patiently watering it until it bears fruit. Join us to appreciate the hard work, patience, and numerous encounters with the truth on your path to spiritual enlightenment.
In this episode, we also remind listeners not to perceive any one role as being superior to the others. Whether you are a nurturer or a harvester, we stress the significance of balance, unity, and mutual respect in playing our parts in God's divine plan. Highlighting the ultimate goal of salvation and genuine conversion to Christianity, we tackle the challenges that spiritual gardeners and harvesters may face, particularly when misunderstandings arise from differences in approach.
Culminating in the reality that only God can bring the increase and transform hearts, this episode stirs us to be humble facilitators in the process of spiritual growth. We also challenge listeners to identify an individual in their life whose spiritual standing they're unsure of, and to start a nurturing, open-ended conversation with them. We hope that our joint efforts as spiritual gardeners and harvesters will result in a more bountiful spiritual harvest, for His glory.
On this episode, listen in as we discuss the often-misunderstood topic of temptation and our endeavor to dispel the blame typically cast on God for our temptations. Learn about the role Satan plays in tempting us and how aligning our understanding of God's character can boost our resilience to temptation. Explore various instances of temptation in the Bible and gain an understanding of how to handle everyday temptations.
Begin your journey towards overcoming temptations by recognizing their source, depending on divine strength, and finding the right personal support system. Embark on a life free from the chains of guilt, shame, and destruction, and walk a path of victory and liberation.
This discussion explores the magnitude of God's divine love for us and the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ. Discover the stark contrast between human love and God's unconditional, sacrificial love.
We examine how the sacrificial work of Jesus Christ brought about justification, akin to an acquittal in court, making us sinless before God. Learn how the sacrifice of Jesus not only brings us closer to God but also instills Christian character within us. The steadfast assurance of eternal security paves the way for our reconciliation with God and helps us transition from being enemies of God to His beloved children.
In this episode, we delve into the profound effects that the phrase "But God" holds in Scripture. In our study, we outline and examine the striking contrast between man's disobedience and sin and God's boundless mercy and love.
We explore how each individual is born a sinner, separated from God, and yet, the invaluable mercy of God gives us the chance to attain salvation. We understand that through God's work, we are made spiritually alive once we call upon Christ. This spiritual reawakening instills life with purpose and fills it with meaning, and it is an avenue for fulfilling God's planned dream for our lives.
This episode sheds light on the role of the local New Testament church, its divine purpose, and the important role you can play as a member of a church.
This episode uncovers the truth about the local church as more than just a building or a social club but rather a fellowship established by Jesus Christ Himself. We explore the church's larger mission as God's instrument to seek and save the lost, mirroring Jesus's self-sacrifice, commitment, and purpose on earth.
This exploration extends to the understanding of 'The Great Commission', Jesus's last mandate to His church. We examine the five core parts of this divine assignment, revealing the broad picture of God's mission. Our message emphasizes that every believer should champion this purpose, sharing the Gospel to contribute to God's worldwide mission.
This episode challenges you to introspect and discover your place in God's mission, using your unique talents and divine gifts to fulfill God's purpose. We address the significance of seizing present opportunities instead of excessively focusing on the future.
In this insightful episode, we dive deep into what the essentials of the Christian faith are and introduce the profound concepts of "theological fences". We meticulously dissect the nuanced layers of Christian dogma, doctrine, and practice, guiding listeners to a clearer comprehension of their beliefs.
Journey with us as we explore the core 'inner fence' of Christianity, reflecting on seven essential truths including the Word of God, the Trinity, the virgin birth of Christ, salvation by faith alone, the returned of Jesus Christ, and the consciousness after death. Realizing the potential threats of false teachings, we emphasize not just on knowing what you believe, but also the necessity of understanding why you believe it.
Moving beyond the essential truths, the 'outer fences' discussion dives into the wealth of teachings contained in scripture and their influence on our practice of faith. We discuss key doctrines like baptism, creation, and salvation and their real-world implications. This discussion further highlights the importance of aligning belief with biblical teachings and recognizing the effects of these beliefs in your search of a church and your broader spiritual journey.
This episode seeks to serve as a valuable resource for listeners to constructively engage with the complexities of Christian dogma, doctrines, and tradition. Discover how your belief system can be a protective fence, enabling you to identify authentic Bible-based churches and safeguard against false teachings.
In this episode, we delve into a frequently asked question related to Christianity- the significance, purpose, and function of baptism. We explore the meaning of baptism, its relevance to the church, and how it's a public identification with the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus Christ.
This episode breaks down biblical instances and commandments concerning believer's baptism and the process of identification that follows it. We also discuss the common misconception of baptism as a pre-requisite for salvation and corroborate the concept of salvation by faith alone, using numerous verses from the Holy Scripture.
Clarifying the misconceptions, the episode discusses how baptism is an act of obedience after believing in Jesus Christ and not a requirement for salvation. We also address the question of 're-baptism' after understanding the Gospel and believing in Jesus Christ and provide a clear answer backed by relevant Biblical passages.
On this episode, we take a fresh look at what the church is truly about. We delve into several biblical teachings, focusing on the inherent objectives of the local church. We aim to answer common questions like 'Why should I go to Church?' and 'What is the church's purpose?'.
This episode uncovers the larger function of the church beyond being just a place of worship. We explore how the church provides an avenue for preaching, teaching, fellowship, prayer, and giving. Additionally, we reflect on teachings from Acts Chapter 2 and shed light on how early Christians viewed and engaged with the church.
Discover how being part of a local church offers a tight-knit community to nourish your spiritual life and provides opportunities for service. We dispel common misconceptions about worship and highlight how it naturally transpires in the various facets of church involvement.
Hear insights on the importance of sound doctrine, as we emphasize that not any church can constitute a biblical church. This episode is packed with knowledge to equip you to live your Christian life more purposefully and victoriously through engaging in the local church.
Stay tuned for our next episode as we unravel common questions around baptism. Join us on this enriching exploration of the church's purpose and functions as a part of your journey to understanding what you believe and why you believe it.
In today's episode, we embark on an eye-opening study on the local New Testament church and its significant role in the life of a believer. We talk about varied perceptions people have about the church, how the church was founded, and where its authority originates from.
Whether you are a regular church-goer, an infrequent visitor, or a newbie to Christianity, this episode provides a comprehensive view of the church from a biblical perspective. We all have different images that appear in our mind when we hear the word 'church'. To some, it's a beautiful place of worship, to others, it's a divided entity due to numerous denominations. Nevertheless, we agree that there can be a lot of misunderstandings related to the church.
In this discussion, we put the record straight and affirm the relevance of the church in a believer's life. The church was not an invention of man; it was ordained by God himself and therefore holds profound significance. We delve into scriptural teachings about the church, distinguishing between the universal church (the body of all believers) and local churches, and highlight the importance of church membership in the growth of a believer.
If you're questioning the relevance of being a part of a church body, or wondering about church practices like serving, giving, or denominational differences, this episode is a must-listen. We debunk stereotypes about the church and shed light on its purpose, mission, and the role of a believer within it. We trace the founding of the church to Jesus Christ and outline the progression that's recommended – salvation, baptism, then church membership.
We hope that by understanding the church's biblical position, you will recognize its vitality in your Christian life. Remember, the church isn't just a social club or space for worship; it's pivotal to your growth as a Christian. And as followers of Jesus Christ, we must see its importance because all things important to Him, including the church, should be important to us as well.
There are many unknowns in life. If we are not careful, we can allow these unknowns to cause us to fear, worry, stress, and become anxious. Jesus helps us by giving a few reasons why we should not worry or become anxious about our lives or our future.
A masterpiece is something done with with significant effort and exceptional care. It is a supreme achievement. As we go through the ordinary mundane days of our lives why not make everyday a masterpiece or a supreme achievement! It is how we handle the everyday mundane activities of life that determine if we will reach our goals and dreams.
How should we respond when God doesn't answer our prayers? We see in Scripture that even Jesus had a prayer that God did not answer. Understanding this, we share some thoughts to help us think through when God either does not answer or answers no.
Fasting is a tough spiritual discipline to practice. What makes it so tough and what are some practical ways that we can implement fasting into our lives?
Jesus is with James, John, and Peter while the other nine disciples are trying to cast out a demon. They had done it successfully many times before but now they are unable to. Jesus comes and takes care of the situation and then the disciples ask why they were unable to do what they had been doing. He replied that this kind can come forth by nothing but by prayer and fasting. He linked fasting with prayer in order to accomplish greater obstacles in our lives.
Jesus teaches us a powerful truth about a motivation in prayer. Once we realize that we have nothing to offer, only then will we truly pursue God for our request. The power of nothing motivates us to pray like we normally wouldn't.
Paul uses four different words to describe prayer. He challenges us that it will take more than "just a prayer" to make it through our Christian life. We will discover what Paul meant by each word for prayer and how we should implement these in our lives.
Jesus promised the Holy Spirit to all believers. The Holy Spirit is all we need to live a victorious Christian life! On this episode, we examine the works of the Holy Spirit and how these relate to us in our every day lives.
Repetition is the key to learning. Jesus repeats the phrase to "love one another" many times in John chapter 13-17. Why did he feel the need to repeat this phrase so many times to His disciples? What does it really mean to love other people?
One of the most common questions and thought processes I have gotten over the years is that of whether a person can lose their salvation. This question comes in many different forms and may not be asked outright. We will look at 5 biblical reasons why a person cannot lose their salvation. This episode will be a tremendous help if you have wondered for yourself or as you need to answer to this question.
One of the most common questions and thought processes I have gotten over the years is that of whether a person can lose their salvation. This question comes in many different forms and may not be asked outright. We will look at 5 biblical reasons why a person cannot lose their salvation. This episode will be a tremendous help if you have wondered for yourself or as you need to answer to this question.
There are a few differing views people take from John 15 as it relates to the types of branches and what Jesus says happens to them. Some think it means you can lose your salvation while others don’t. What do each of the branches represent and what happens to each in the end?
Friendship is a vital relationship that we need in our lives. We are created by a relational God to have relationships. It is amazing to hear what Jesus, the Creator God of the universe, says to us about being friends with Him. This is such an encouraging and exciting truth!
What are your dreams and goals in life? We all have goals that we are working towards to accomplish. Many of these are excellent goals and dreams. In pursuing these, we must not confuse these goals with THE goal of life. Our main goal is to abide in Jesus Christ. On this episode, we examine what is means to and how we can abide in Jesus.
Do you desire to be successful? Simply put, success is doing what you were created to do. Success is you simply doing God’s will in your life. The results are up to Him. If we are going to be successful in life then we need to know and do God’s will. The great thing is God’s will is fully open and knowable by anyone.
When you tell yourself…
- I am not loved.
- I cannot overcome that addiction.
- I am nothing. I have no value.
- I am ugly. I am a failure. I am so stupid.
- I am absolutely amazing. I am the better than everyone.
Whose thoughts are these? Who is doing the talking? It is not God or the Holy Spirit. These are all lies that come from Satan. On this episode, we look at where these thoughts come from and how we must get out of our own head by speaking truth back to ourselves.
Everything is created with a purpose is mind. When you were created God had a specific purpose in mind for you. Your were created as a masterpiece therefore you were created to function as a masterpiece to fulfill a specific purpose in God’s kingdom. You have a kingdom purpose.
Identity theft is a major issue today. In the blink of an eye, everything you have can be gone. Just the same Satan is working hard to steal your identity in Jesus Christ. He desires to distort and destroy your identity so you can never discover who you really are. While Satan seeks to steal our identity, God works to give us our identity.
When you look at yourself what do you see? Too often we only see our flaws, our imperfections, or what we lack We don’t see what God sees. We don’t see what God wants us to see. Too often we have an unbiblical view of ourselves. On this episode we learn the truth about ourselves based on what God says.
We have studied in detail the 9 fruit of the Spirit. How do we practically live each fruit out in our everyday lives? Paul gives us three instructions on how to produce the fruit of the Spirit in our lives.
Self-control is an area we all struggle with. Many of the issues or sins we struggle with all boil down to self-control or our lack of it. On this episode, we look at the importance of self-control and some ways to help us to practice it.
Christians are to be meek because Jesus was meek. Meekness is not weakness rather it is strength under control. It is the perfect balance between anger and apathy. On this episode, we examine the fruit of meekness and see how we can live it out in our lives today.
One of the necessary characteristics of a friend is faithfulness or loyalty. We understand faithfulness because the Bible tells us that God is faithful. It is who He is not just something He does. Since God is faithful we are to be faithful to others.
Too many times we measure our goodness by other people rather than by the true standard of good. This can cause us to become complacent in our Christian life thinking that we are doing "good enough." Since Scripture says that there is nothing good in us, it is vital that we live out the fruit of goodness.
We all experience the internal struggle of trying to what is right and not being able to do it. Then trying not to do what is wrong and still doing it. This is a battle we all experience really constantly throughout each day. What does Scripture say about this battle and how can we get victory over the flesh?
No one likes to be around a harsh or abrasive person. But a kind, gentle person anyone would want to be around. Would others consider you a kind Christian?The fruit of gentleness is vitally important in our interactions and responses to other people. This is a fruit of the Spirit that is very important practically speaking in our everyday lives.
There are some people that have a short fuse. It does not take much to set them off or make them angry. As a Christian, we are to be long fused. We are to be very patient with people. This is not easy! We will talk about becoming a long fused Christian.
Peace is something we all of long after. Spiritual peace is completely different than the peace the world seeks after. Spiritual peace is not the absence of evil or turmoil if goes much deeper than that. On this episode, we will discover what spiritual peace is and how we can get it.
Spiritual joy is not the same as happiness nor is it based on our circumstances. Joy is something we can possess in spite of anything going on in our lives. How can we find and experience this spiritual joy in our lives?
We can have the most talent, the most wisdom, the most faith and use it all for God but without love it is worthless. We could sacrifice our money and even our life but without love it will not profit us one bit. Love is the the more excellent way of the Christian life.
Love is the centerpiece of the Christian life. Too often we make other good things the goal but miss what is most important. We will examine this centerpiece of our Christian life and how we can live it out in our daily lives.
Jesus provides us the best example of how to overcome the different types of temptation that we will face in our lives. We will learn from Jesus how He responded to Satan's temptation and also discuss how to discern what voice we are hearing. That of the Spirit or that of the flesh. How can we know which is speaking and which to listen to?
It is interesting to see that it was the Holy Spirit that led Jesus into the wilderness for the express purpose of being tempted by Satan. There are times that God leads us to the wilderness, times that we lead ourselves, and times when other's actions force us there. Regardless of how we get to the wilderness, God is working and there is a purpose in it.
God gives us victory over the flesh by commanding us to walk in the Spirit. What does this mean and how can we do it?
We all experience the inner battle of doing what is right versus what is wrong. We all constantly battle following the Spirit or following the flesh. How can we make sure the flesh does not win? We will talk about the promise God gives us of walking in the Spirit and what that does to the flesh.
We have an enemy that is out to destroy us. Peter describes our enemy as a vicious lion walking around looking for people he can intentionally hurt. Peter also gives us insight into how our enemy works and then gives us practical tools we can use to defend ourselves against Satan's attacks.
We have an enemy that is out to destroy us. Peter describes our enemy as a vicious lion walking around looking for people he can intentionally hurt. Peter also gives us insight into how our enemy works and then gives us practical tools we can use to defend ourselves against Satan's attacks.
What is the role of the pastor? What is the role of the church member? What happens when we lift the pastor up on a pedestal? What happens when a church member will not be led biblically be the pastor? On this episode, we examine what Peter teaches about the relationship between the pastor and the church member.
Suffering comes into our lives in various ways. Some are trials from God while others are trials that we bring on ourselves. Other suffering can come from the insults and ridicule we receive from identifying with Jesus Christ especially in our increasing secular culture today. What is the purpose of the suffering and what is God doing in and through it? How are we to respond in the suffering we experience?
As the end draws closer, evil men and seducers will get worse and worse. Many false teachers will rise up intentionally trying to lead people away from the truth. The Bible says the deception will be so powerful that even strong Christians can be led away. What are we to do? How are we to live knowing the end is near?
There should be a change in a person’s life after a person has called on Jesus Christ to save them.There should be a noticeable difference both inside and out. On this episode, we examine what type of attitude we should have towards sin and how suffering can actually help us to stop sinning. We also look at what a changed life preaches and how it produces judgment in other people's lives.
Christians talk much about the death of Jesus Christ and His resurrection from the grave. We understand His death accomplished the gift of salvation but did his death accomplish anything else? Peter shares with us three truths that the death of Jesus accomplished in our lives today beyond that of salvation.
The world talks much about unity and love. How important is it for Christians to be united? Is it even possible for so many different people from such diverse backgrounds and cultures to be united? If so, what is the common denominator that beings people together and how can we work personally at unity? We examine these questions on this episode and listen to what Peter is teaching us on this important issue.
Jesus is our great example! If we are wondering how we should live our everyday lives then we should look to Jesus and focus on mastering living just like Him. Peter provides us with four areas of life that we should follow in the steps of Jesus.
An often used accusation against Christians and why unbelievers want nothing to do with Jesus or the church is hypocrisy. This reveals that how we live our life is extremely important. Peter gets very practical and shares with us some areas of life that are vitally important for us to live like Jesus.
The Bible has the most manuscript evidence of any book from antiquity and this by an extremely large margin. There is obviously something very unique and different about the Bible compared to other books. Peter teaches us three valuable truths about what the Bible produces in our lives today.
Man has tried for years to take care of his/her problem with evil and sin. People have tried to either pay or work their way into fixing their sin problem but neither of these have worked. Peter shares with us the purpose of God's redemption plan and how His plan is perfect compared to man's plan.
Hope is absolutely essential to life. We need hope just like we need air to breathe. Peter encourages believers who live in a wicked and secular culture to have hope to the end. He provides some very practical ways that we can live with hope each and every day.
The book of 1 Peter is all about living with hope! Peter begins talking about how faith is essential but also what it produces in the believer's life practically speaking. On today's episode, we walk from the beginning of our faith to the end of our faith and examine what lies in-between.
God is for us! This is a powerful truth that we as believers need to grab a hold of. This means we are inseparable from God. It means that everything in your life is working for you. It means you are more than a conquerer. It means you can be victorious in life today not just when you get to heaven.
Do you like it when people accuse you of something? Whether you are guilty or innocent, we typically get defensive and aggravated when people accuse us. The resurrection of Jesus Christ produces a very important truth in the life of a believer.. That Jesus Christ is our advocate.
When Jesus died on the cross what all occurred both physically and spiritually speaking? We examine how Jesus became something we could not become and what that makes us today in God's eyes!
What if someone doesn't believe the Bible? Can we reveal who Jesus is from outside sources? We examine six non Christian sources that paint the same picture that Scripture paints of Jesus Christ. This can be very helpful to show the historicity of the person and work of Jesus to unbelievers. Resource link below:
https://www.cfccampusministry.com/bible-studies/the-importance-of-the-resurrection
One of the first verses people will use in teaching that you can loose your salvation is Hebrews 6:4-6. Is this really what this verse teaches? On this episode, we will examine what the verse teaches and answer the questions of whether a person can loose their salvation or not.
Jesus invites us to follow Him and Peter challenges us to follow in the steps of Jesus. How can we do this and what does it look like in our lives today? We examine four areas of our life that we can choose to follow in the steps of Jesus.
We revisit the topic of abortion to answer three of the very common objections people give for abortion. Our goal for this conversation is to better equip ourselves to defend the choice for life and help people understand the logical conclusion of what they are saying. We will talk through these three popular responses:
- Doesn't a woman have a right to her own body?
- Abortion should be allowed in cases of rape and incest.
- You shouldn't push your beliefs on other people.
Often we think of God's will as some type of mystery that God is hiding from us. That He will only reveal it for just a moment and if we miss it then it is gone. This is totally inconsistent with God's character. God's will is fully knowable and doable today because His will is in the present. We will talk about discovering what God's will is for our lives and then how to fulfill that will.
Do you know God's will for your life right now? When I ask that question in a group most of the time hardly any hands will go up. Most are trying to figure out what God's will is in their life. On this episode, we will discuss what God's will really is and how we can know it today.
If God is not stopping all the evil and suffering then what is He doing about it? We look at what God's answer is to the problem of evil and weigh out if He has done enough.
If God is all powerful then He can stop the evil but He doesn't. Why? What reasons are there for God not to stop the evil and suffering we find in our world?
We know that God exists, God is love, God is all good, God is all powerful, God is all knowing, and evil and suffering exist. So did God create evil and if not where did it come from? We take the next three episodes to answer three foundational questions of how suffering and evil can exist with a loving God.
Doubts will come in our life. Doubt does not make you a bad person or even mean you are forsaking our faith. Doubt can actually be a good thing that produces growth in your life. We examine how Jesus handled the doubt of John the Baptist to learn how we should handle ours.
Is doubt the opposite of faith? Is doubt unbelief? Can we have faith and doubt at the same time? We answer these question about doubt and discover its relationship with faith.
Is faith a reality? Is faith just some figment of our imagination that we cannot be certain whether we possess or not? Is it possible to lose faith? Is is possible to truly know whether we possess faith or not? We will answer these questions about faith to help us understand and identify when we have faith.
Faith is a word that is tossed around a lot within Christianity and in church. There are many great saying and quotes about faith. but what exactly is faith? Sometimes we can get lost in the length of definitions and the many saying about a subject. On this episode, we look specifically at clarifying what faith is by providing a two word definition that will help us understand exactly what faith is.
This is a common question or response I have received over the years. We will look at five specific things that happen at salvation that reveal to us that a person cannot lose their salvation. If a person could lose their salvation then these five things would have too be undone which the Bible does not talk about.
A masterpiece is a work of art or a supreme achievement. Paul challenges us to make everyday of our lives a masterpiece but also in the most important aspects of life. It can be a temptation to slack off once we achieve goals. We must stay faithful and focus on making the most important days a masterpiece.
A masterpiece is a work of art or a supreme achievement. Paul challenges us to make everyday of our lives a masterpiece but especially in the mundane aspects of life. Making these days a masterpiece will lead to us accomplishing and achieving the big goals and dreams we have.
Our lives speak louder than our words. What we do carries more weight than what we say many times. There are three key indicators that should be evident in our lives if we are being obedient to the teachings of Jesus Christ.
There are some wonderful promises that are connected with our obedience that Jesus gives in John 15. At the same time there are some vital problems that are connected with our disobedience.
We come to our last building block in this series that of obedience. Jesus illustrates what our obedience should look like so well in John chapter 15. Here Jesus talks about the "abiding life" and how that relates to our obedience.
We give five verses that you can use to share the Gospel with most anybody and walk through a clear presentation of the Gospel using these verses.
Evangelism just will not happen by accident. There are too many things that will get in the way or hinder us from being obedient. On this episode, we talk about ideas to help you be consistently intention is sharing the Gospel with others.
The word "Evangelism" contains different meaning to different people. Some people would look at evangelism in a negative sense based on what they have experienced as evangelism while others would look at it in a very positive light. Regardless of how we perceive evangelism it is a biblical truth with a clear biblical plan given in scripture.
The building block of evangelism is one of the most important blocks of all. It contains the last command of Jesus to the church and involves believers pursuing others in order to share the Gospel with them. On this episode we will talk about the three people of evangelism.
This episode talks about ways to intentionally build community in your life and to be the one that helps make it contagious so others will want to be involved.
If community is an essential building block to our faith, what is the opposite of engaging in community? Isolation! On today's episode, we talk about how isolation can happen and the negative effects it produces while providing ways to stay away from isolation.
The next building block to establishing a solid faith foundation is that of fellowship or community. On this episode, we will talk about why are we connected together and what we should be actively doing within this community?
Prayer is not bound to a specific time in a specific place in a specific position. There is much freedom in prayer and therefore much enjoyment in prayer. We share some practical ideas about keeping prayer fresh and important in your life.
Some prayers are answered and others are not. What makes the difference? Are there any reasons given why our prayers may not be answered? Where is the power on prayer found? On this episode, we will seek to answer each of these questions.
Prayer has a tendency to be used as a 911 emergency call when things are going bad or our life is falling a part. At other times, prayer is all about us asking for what we need and want. While this is an aspect of prayer, it is far from the real purpose of prayer.
We do not find a command to read "x" amount of scripture per day, per week, or per year of our life. What we do find is the command to meditate day and night. We typically think of meditation as sitting in silence but this is not the biblical meaning of mediation. We examine what biblical mediation is and how we can apply it to our lives.
God's Word is an essential building block in our faith life and as a result we should have an intentional plan on using it. On this episode, we talk about various ideas and ways to establish a plan for using God's Word consistently in our lives.
The second building block in having a solid faith foundation is that of God's Word. When the police are in pursuit of a suspect, they are chasing after this person at all costs. They will do whatever it takes to apprehend the suspect. Just the same, we need to be in constant pursuit of God’s Word so that we can apprehend God’s truth for our lives.
The second building block in having a solid faith foundation is that of God's Word. When the police are in pursuit of a suspect, they are chasing after this person at all costs. They will do whatever it takes to apprehend the suspect. Just the same, we need to be in constant pursuit of God’s Word so that we can apprehend God’s truth for our lives.
Our final episode looking at the first building block of surrender to Jesus Christ will examine practically what it means to seek Him first. Too many times we seek other things first in our job or education while putting Jesus second. Sometimes we just need to adjust our perspective and realize if we put Him first then all the "things" we are working for will be added unto us according to Matthew 6:33.
What does it mean to live a surrendered life to Jesus Christ? It involves a daily decision of saying yes to Jesus and no to self. It involves us pledging full allegiance to Jesus Christ regardless of what may happen in our lives.
As we begin building a solid faith foundation, the first building block is that of salvation and surrender to Jesus Christ. Since Jesus Christ is the Chief Cornerstone, then He is the only way to build a faith life and the first step in building a solid faith foundation in our life.
In order to build the foundation of our life right, we must build block by block. The key building blocks that we are talking about are: surrender to Jesus Christ, God's Word, prayer, fellowship, evangelism, and obedience. We will talk practically about establishing a spiritual growth plan that we can use consistently.
In order to build the foundation of our life right, we must build block by block. The key building blocks that we are talking about are: surrender to Jesus Christ, God's Word, prayer, fellowship, evangelism, and obedience. We will talk practically about establishing a spiritual growth plan that we can use consistently.
What we build our faith life on will directly determine how we can withstand all that Satan and the culture throws at us. Are you building on a rock or on sand?
What we build our faith life on will directly determine how we can withstand all that Satan and the culture throws at us. Are you building on a rock or on sand?
We all want a good return on our investments. Whether it is an investment of money or time, we want to make sure we are receiving the most we can. What do we get if we are willing to meet the requirements of following Jesus? We don't have to wonder because Jesus tells us what we will get in return in the same passage that He gives the requirements.
We all want a good return on our investments. Whether it is an investment of money or time, we want to make sure we are receiving the most we can. What do we get if we are willing to meet the requirements of following Jesus? We don't have to wonder because Jesus tells us what we will get in return in the same passage that He gives the requirements.
There are prerequisites to things in life. Whether it is a certain class to take or a certain age to meet, there are requirements that must be met in order to do some things in life. Jesus gives is two requirements that are absolutely essential to following Him. We will unpack each requirement and see how we can fulfill it in order to follow Him.
There are prerequisites to things in life. Whether it is a certain class to take or a certain age to meet, there are requirements that must be met in order to do some things in life. Jesus gives is two requirements that are absolutely essential to following Him. We will unpack each requirement and see how we can fulfill it in order to follow Him.
We all have people that we follow on social media, YouTube, sports, and in church. We decide who we will and will not follow. For some, we follow intently and could tell you everything about them. Yet for others, we clicked follow but rarely see them. Jesus gives us a very personal invitation to follow Him and for this episode we want to evaluate our lives to see who it is we are really following. We want to make a commitment to follow him for this semester.
We all have people that we follow on social media, YouTube, sports, and in church. We decide who we will and will not follow. For some, we follow intently and could tell you everything about them. Yet for others, we clicked follow but rarely see them. Jesus gives us a very personal invitation to follow Him and for this episode we want to evaluate our lives to see who it is we are really following. We want to make a commitment to follow him for this semester.
People will have specific questions that we need to be prepared to answer. On this episode we talk through questions and statements like these:
- Doesn’t the Bible justify abortion since it is silent on abortion?
- You shouldn’t push your beliefs on other women.
- The Supreme Court decision is setting women back.
- What about embryonic stem cell research?
- Until pro-lifers are ready to help each pregnant woman, they need to shut-up.
- If the embryo (who doesn’t have a brain yet) is so valuable it cannot be killed by abortion, how do you justify pulling the plug on brain dead individuals?
People will have specific questions that we need to be prepared to answer. On this episode we talk through questions and statements like these:
- Doesn’t the Bible justify abortion since it is silent on abortion?
- You shouldn’t push your beliefs on other women.
- The Supreme Court decision is setting women back.
- What about embryonic stem cell research?
- Until pro-lifers are ready to help each pregnant woman, they need to shut-up.
- If the embryo (who doesn’t have a brain yet) is so valuable it cannot be killed by abortion, how do you justify pulling the plug on brain dead individuals?
People will have specific questions that we need to be prepared to answer. On this episode we talk through these two:
- Shouldn’t abortion be allowed in cases of rape and incest?
- Doesn’t a woman have a right to her own body? (My body, my choice.)
People will have specific questions that we need to be prepared to answer. On this episode we talk through these two:
- Shouldn’t abortion be allowed in cases of rape and incest?
- Doesn’t a woman have a right to her own body? (My body, my choice.)
In this episode, we talk about some practical tools you can use to engage people in conversation such as: using logical reasoning, engaging with questions, bringing in the toddler, and revealing the forgiveness and healing found in the Gospel.
In this episode, we talk about some practical tools you can use to engage people in conversation such as: using logical reasoning, engaging with questions, bringing in the toddler, and revealing the forgiveness and healing found in the Gospel.
Satan has placed a mental block, according to 2 Corinthians 4:3-4, in people's minds in order to prevent the truth from being received. Our goal is to identify what that mental block is and try to remove it. Our goal is to engage people in conversation not to silence them. To do so, we must present the truth in love and compassion. This can open up a dialogue to discover the mental block and to share the truth to remove it.
What determines when a person receives the right to life that every other human being possesses? Is it based on the size of the human? Is it based on the level of development? Is it based on its location or its degree of dependence upon another human being. These are the criteria that pro-choice and pro-abortion advocates insist a human must meet before it can have human rights. If this is the case then there is no such thing as human equality. It would be based on what a person can do or not do.
The abortion issues boils down the this question, What is the unborn? How we answer this questions will determine how we answer the issue of abortion. On this episode, we will establish that the unborn is a distinct human being and not some other kind of thing that transitions into a human being after delivery. We will also establish that the unborn is living from the moment of conception. To say otherwise goes against the findings of science.
The Personhood Theory driving abortion produces inequality among humans! If a human being becomes a person who has the right to life based on degree of any kind then all humans are not equal. Humans do not receive their value and dignity based on what they can do but rather on the kind of thing they are - a human being.
Have you ever wondered how people who are pro-abortion and pro-choice can be so passionate on their view. What is their basis or starting point? Everyone has a worldview that is their starting point for determine everything else in life. The Secular Worldview produces the Personhood theory which is the driving force behind abortion and also other social issues. Even many Christians are adopting the personhood theory.
As believers, we have a foundation for our view on abortion. It is not relative to what we think, prefer, or want. Our view is based on what God says. This episode examines just exactly what God says about abortion which will establish a strong foundation as we move forward to communicate with others on this issue.
Words and definitions have meaning. Thoughts and beliefs are comprised of these words and the meaning each carries. How we discuss and talk about abortion is vital to having a correct understanding of this issue. We will talk about misleading definitions and establishing an accurate definition. We will see how pro-choice/pro-abortion proponents try to make abortion sound as common and non-violent as possible. Lastly, we will examine what science says about when life begins.
Doing nothing on a moral issue is not being neutral, it is neglect. The moral issue we want to discuss in the upcoming weeks is abortion. It is easy to get weary and tired of the debate, the politics of abortion, the media, the semantics, the differing sides, and the emotions. If we are not careful we can become numb and apathetic towards this issue especially if abortion never affects us personally. Jesus teaches us in Luke 10:30-37 that remaining neutral on a moral issue is neglect.
Living like Jesus is a lifestyle that we have to adopt or put on. It deals with taking Jesus serious not only as a Savior but as a teacher. Jesus lived the most joyful, fulfilled, and purpose driven life ever lived on earth. Living like Jesus is making the most of your life.
Living like Jesus is a lifestyle that we have to adopt or put on. It deals with taking Jesus serious not only as a Savior but as a teacher. Jesus lived the most joyful, fulfilled, and purpose driven life ever lived on earth. Living like Jesus is making the most of your life.
There is one element in the process of becoming like Jesus that we can resist very hard and that is change. We will talk through our resistance to change and why it is a requirement in the process of becoming like Jesus.
After adjusting our lives to remove the distractions and busyness, we are now prepared for the next step of becoming like Jesus. On this episode, we talk about the step of desire followed by the step of obedience in our pursuit to become like Jesus.
Does the Sabbath have any relevance to believers in 2022? While Christians are not under the Jewish law to keep the Saturday Sabbath, there is a tremendous principle we learn that can help us be physically, emotionally, and spiritual healthy people. Applying the Sabbath principle to our lives will help us to be with Jesus.
Does the Sabbath have any relevance to believers in 2022? While Christians are not under the Jewish law to keep the Saturday Sabbath, there is a tremendous principle we learn that can help us be physically, emotionally, and spiritual healthy people. Applying the Sabbath principle to our lives will help us to be with Jesus.
Taking a moment of silence and solitude is the most important spiritual discipline. It is a matter of life and death spiritually speaking. Taking a moment of silence and solitude was a way of life for Jesus. He needed it and so do we. Find a quiet place is what will provide the clarity to live an effective life and breath life back into our empty souls.
Taking a moment of silence and solitude is the most important spiritual discipline. It is a matter of life and death spiritually speaking. Taking a moment of silence and solitude was a way of life for Jesus. He needed it and so do we. Find a quiet place is what will provide the clarity to live an effective life and breath life back into our empty souls.
Many of us are overwhelmed with the many decisions we have to make everyday. Because of the amount of decisions, we struggle to even make a decision or we are unable to make good decisions for what really matters. Reducing the amount of decisions helps to kill the busyness and distractions and to make good decisions for what matters most.
Recognizing what is essential and what is non-essential is vital in our lives. Decluttering our lives involves removing the non-essentials that are stealing our time, attention, and peace and refocusing back to the essentials. Reducing the clutter in our lives brings a clarity that helps us to be with Jesus.
Many of us have more stuff than we know what to do with both in possessions and in our life. This stuff accumulates and begins to crowd out and take the place of what is most important. Striving to live a life of simplicity or being a minimalist can help us greatly of our goal to be with Jesus.
Noise is whatever we crank up to drown out what is really going on. It is our time filler so we have no idle time. It is what can easily cut off our connection with God, with meaningful relationships with other people, and ourself.
On this episode we talk about how to identify the noise in your life and share some ways to turn it down.
The noise we are talking about is an external distraction we use to turn our minds off, to silence the voice in our heads, or to mask our true emotions and feelings. The noise in your life can easily get in-between you and God.
On this episode we want to talk in detail about what the noise is in our lives and what noise does to our spiritual life.
Busyness and sin are similar in the effects they produce. As we will talk about, busyness and sin cut off our connection with God, our connection with others, and even our connection with ourselves. We become disconnected to what matters most. We will work towards introducing practical principles to remove the busyness.
Busyness and sin are similar in the effects they produce. As we will talk about, busyness and sin cut off our connection with God, our connection with others, and even our connection with ourselves. We become disconnected to what matters most. We will work towards introducing practical principles to remove the busyness.
What does abiding in Jesus really mean from John 15 and how can this help us be with Jesus? A great way to illustrate this truth is through food. Join in on this episode as we illustrate what living a Jesus infused life looks like.
Learning to stop to sit with Jesus with all distractions blocked out will bring us to the place of abiding in Jesus. The abiding life is the life we all want to live. It is a different way of life but the best way of life. You have to experience it yourself to see.
We are not able to spend time with Jesus physically like we do with other people. How then can we be with Jesus? We talk about the second step to be with Jesus that of sitting with Jesus and how we can practically do this.
This first step in being with Jesus is actually having an interest in Jesus. This is a hard question we need to really ask ourselves. Do we have a true interest in Him as a person to follow or if He is just we something we do by tradition.
Distractions divide our attention and steal our time. There are many good things in life that Satan uses as distractions from what is best. We never find Jesus running around too busy or too distracted. He lived and modeled a different way of life and this is the life that you and I really want to live.
So often we equate success with busyness. The busier we are the more successful we will be with but this is an incorrect gauge. One of the greatest enemies to our spiritual life is busyness. If we are not careful the busyness of life can take us away from Who and what is best. Join with the conversation on today's episode.
Being saved or accepting the free gift of salvation does not automatically enroll us into being a true follower of Jesus Christ. He has extended the invitation which we must accept or deny. If we accept there is a process involved that will help us tremendously to become a true follower. We will lay out the process in today's episode.
What does it look like to accept the invitation of Jesus to follow him? What are the practical implications that come with this type of commitment?
In life we constantly experience trials. Each trial that comes into our life reveals something very specific to us about God and reveals that every trial we experience has purpose.
Too many times we separate ourselves so far from those we are to reach that we isolate ourselves from them. Biblical separation turns into unbiblical isolation. Jesus gives us the perfect example of how close we are to get to sinners in order to be effective witnesses.
If we are going to reach others with the truth it will require us to get up close and personal with those around us. Even those who do not act like us, talk like us, or believe like us. Effective witnessing is done in an up close and personal manner outside of our Christian bubble.
If we are going to reach others with the truth it will require us to get up close and personal with those around us. Even those who do not act like us, talk like us, or believe like us. Effective witnessing is done in an up close and personal manner outside of our Christian bubble.
It is important as we share Jesus Christ with unbelievers that we bring them to a point of decision. We must help them to see a decision needs to be made to either accept the free gift of eternal life to to refuse it.
Don't talk about Christianity, talk about Jesus Christ. If we emphasize Christianity, it can become "this religion" versus "Christianity" or "that belief" versus "Christianity" and the conversation comes to a halt. Focus on the person of Jesus Christ and this paves the way for common ground and much conversation.
Finding common ground with others in an important factor to take them from the known to the unknown. It is possible to use the words of unbelievers and use them as a spring board into the Gospel.
God has placed a conscience in every single person on earth. We examine how Paul appealed to the conscience and how we too can use the conscience to lead someone to Jesus Christ.
Creation is the greatest revelation of God to mankind! It speaks all 7,000 plus spoken languages in the world today. Creation is our great ally as we witness to people so must know when and how to use it.
It is vital that we know where our audience is in their understanding in order to start our witnessing in the right place. Paul reveals that for certain people we must begin at creation, with the truth that God is the creator. When should we start at creation and what benefit is there in beginning our dialogue here?
More and more we are encountering unbelievers in our lives. How can we respond to those who are atheist, agnostic, skeptical, or ignorant of the truth? Paul provides us a great example that we can follow which provides some very practical tools that we can implement. These tools can help remove the fear in engaging and witnessing others.
Do you ever wish you could go back in time and change things from your past? Ever wish you could just rip out certain pages in your life story? While we may not be able to erase our past, we don't have to let it define us. You are the author of your story and have the ability to write the future one decision at a time!
Do you have dreams? What about goals and aspirations in life? Since we have a big God, we should dream big as we write our life story!
As the author, you have the power to create the story. You are free to write whatever you want! If you are struggling to figure out what to write remember God has an outline for your life that you can follow.
Our life is like a story. We are the author and are writing it one decision at a time. Each sentence, each paragraph, and each chapter tells a story. What does your life story say today?
We examine what it means for our everyday lives that God is all knowing. We give four practical implications that can strengthen our faith.
Have you ever met a know-it-all? That person who can finish all your sentences and always knows what you are thinking or at least thinks they do. There is only One that knows it all. God's omniscience is a powerful truth about God that has practical application that is relevant for our lives today.
In part two, we examine two objections to God's omnipresence and how this truth is both convicting and comforting at the same time.
What difference does it make in my life that God is all powerful? We look at three practical truths that are comforting for us in this day and time.
What does it mean that God is omnipotent or is all powerful? Are there any limitations to His power and if so does this mean He is not omnipotent?
What about those truths about God that we cannot fully imagine? These are not problems that demand a solution but rather a mystery that causes meditation.
There are just some truths about God that are beyond our understanding but this does not mean we cannot adequately talk about who God is.
The attribute of God's eternality may seem like it could have very little application for our daily lives but that could not be further from the truth. This attribute makes a big difference in our lives each and every day!
The truth that God is eternal is one we cannot fully imagine in our minds but it is one that we can talk about. Our inability to fully comprehend a truth does not diminish the truth in anyway.
What difference does it make? He look at 5 practical applications that we can make from this truth.
What does it mean when we say that God is higher than ________ and you fill in the blank with anything? Does it mean God higher in location or further in distance or does it mean something totally different?
Actions speak louder than words! How active God is reveals how personal He is in our lives.
Our lives are filled with influence. What we do carries major implications in the lives of others. In this episode, we consider how much of a difference our decisions make in the lives of others.
What are we doing with the opportunities that we are given in life? Does it really matter what we do?
For many people it is more natural to lead than to follow. Our desires and wants drive us towards the direction we want in contrast to following the direction of another. We must learn to follow.
We should not follow just anybody! A person must be worthy to be followed. Therefore, we must know the one we are following in order to commit our lives fully to following that person step by step.
Rather than looking back we need to be looking forward keeping our eyes focused on the one we are following. Looking forward will remind us of three things.
Jesus warns that looking back can be detrimental to us following Him. On this episode, we talk about three specific warnings of looking back and what this can do to our daily walk.
s God some figment of our imagination? Is He a material being like you and me? If He is not a material being then what is He and why does it matter? We answer these questions in today's episode.
Is God some figment of our imagination? Is He a material being like you and me? If He is not a material being then what is He and why does it matter? We answer these questions in today's episode.
----more----God cannot change...so what? We look at many implications this one truth has in our lives.
If prayer cannot get God to change his mind then why pray? If God cannot change then is prayer even effective?
In this episode we look at the biblical basis of why it is impossible for God to change.
In this episode we look at the biblical basis of why it is impossible for God to change.
It may seem that studying the attributes of God may be more an old dusty academic exercise or at most only slightly boring. In the episode, we work to blow the dust off this misconception and reveal how vital this is to our Christian life.
It may seem that studying the attributes of God may be more an old dusty academic exercise or at most only slightly boring. In the episode, we work to blow the dust off this misconception and reveal how vital this is to our Christian life.
We can only know what God wants us to know about Him. Thankfully, He has fully revealed Himself to us! As a result, we will only know what we desire to know about God. It will be based on our response to God.
God has provided various means for us to know Him. We talk about a few of these means and their importance in our pursuit of God.
We can only know about someone else what that person allows us to know. Knowing a person is more up to them than it is us. God has instigated this whole relationship and allows us to know many truths about Himself.
On this episode, we talk about two common misconceptions that we can fall trap to in our pursuit to know God.
We look at five key verses about knowing God and what each verse says is so important about knowing Him.
God has instigated and invited us to know Him but we have the option of how we will respond.
Discovering why your were created helps to answer the question, "Who am I?" God does not leave us in the dark about our purpose and His specific will for our lives. You can know what you were created for!
Discovering why your were created helps to answer the question, "Who am I?" God does not leave us in the dark about our purpose and His specific will for our lives. You can know what you were created for!
Has someone ever broken a promise to you? These broken promises can cause us to question a person's intentions and love for us. As we continue to answer the question, "Who am I?" there are three elements of our identity that assure us of God's love.
Has someone ever broken a promise to you? These broken promises can cause us to question a person's intentions and love for us. As we continue to answer the question, "Who am I?" there are three elements of our identity that assure us of God's love.
What do you allow to determine your value... your past failures or your future hopes? Where are we suppose to discover our true worth in this world? Join us on this episode as we learn where are worth is based and what our true value is.
What do you allow to determine your value... your past failures or your future hopes? Where are we suppose to discover our true worth in this world? Join us on this episode as we learn where are worth is based and what our true value is.
Are there ever times when you feel you just don't fit in? You feel excluded or rejected by others? As we seek to understand our true identity, God gives us three reasons why we belong!
Are there ever times when you feel you just don't fit in? You feel excluded or rejected by others? As we seek to understand our true identity, God gives us three reasons why we belong!
There are certain things in life that can cause us to have an identity crisis. This is a time when we are really insecure in who we are. What do we do and where should we base our identity at?
There are certain things in life that can cause us to have an identity crisis. This is a time when we are really insecure in who we are. What do we do and where should we base our identity at?
There are many influences in life that try to shape our identity. It is vitally important that we discover where our identity is found so we can understand who we are despite these changing influences.
There are many influences in life that try to shape our identity. It is vitally important that we discover where our identity is found so we can understand who we are despite these changing influences.
Have you ever experienced resistance or push-back for doing what is right? There are times it can feel that the more you try to do right the harder it becomes. How should we respond?
After studying each fruit of the Spirit, we take this episode to talk practically about how we can produce the fruit of the Spirit in our personal lives.
Self-control is an area that many of us struggle with at various times in our lives. Is self-control really that important and if so how can we gain control of ourself?
Meekness is a very misunderstood virtue and one which the world defines as weak and passive. Is this really the case and if so why would anyone want to be considered meek?
Faithfulness is one of the highest character traits that a person can possess. When you see faithfulness in others it stands out and speaks volumes about that person.
God has equipped us with every resource we need to be over-comers in the battle of good vs. evil!
One thing that we need in our divided country today is kindness towards each other. Kindness is a powerful character trait that can accomplish much and defuse tense situations quickly.
How we react in situations says so much about who we are and who we say we are following. In this episode, we examine the fruit of long-suffering and what it looks like being lived out in a believer's life.
The world experiences peace in the absence of trouble while believers experience peace in the middle of trouble. Join us on this episode as we discover what spiritual peace is and how to obtain it in our lives.
Happiness is determined by our circumstances while spiritual joy is not. In this episode, we learn how to have true joy no matter what circumstances we may be experiencing.
Love is to be the centerpiece of the Christian life! That which draws attention and what people see when they look at our life. This centerpiece of the Christian is also the first fruit of the Spirit.
The Christian finds himself or herself right in the middle of a raging battle between the flesh and the Spirit. This is a real battle that we all experience on a daily basis. In this episode, we examine the severity of this battle and the resource God has given to us to be victorious.
It is always good to remind ourselves of why we are doing what we are doing. We can easily get into habits and routines and completely forget the importance of what we are doing or neglect what is truly important. We take this episode to hit the reset button to ensure we are focused in the right direction.
With all the evil, violence, heartache, and stress, where will you go for safety and protection? David discovered his safe place in God his savior. In this episode, we learn what it means for God to be our savior both physically and spiritually.
Where do yo go to get away from the stress and madness of life? Today's episode discusses where to find a safe and quiet place in order to disconnect and refocus.
With God on our side, we are able to stay one step ahead of our enemies. On this episode, we discover what David meant when he called God his "high tower" and what that means for us personally.
We all have an enemy (Satan) who uses people who in turn become our enemies. How can we protect ourselves from those who are out harm our reputation or testimony?
God runs a delivery service but it is not delivering packages to our front doors. In this episode, we examine three ways that God's delivery service can help us.
The descriptive names of God in the Bible tell us much about who God is to us personally. What does it mean to for you that God is your fortress?
Is it possible for us to truly love God and serve Him but not to have His love for other people? Absolutely! Even believers can harbor prejudice towards other people that God wants to correct.
There are times we just mess up in life. When we just get things completely wrong. How on earth can God use us during these times? Join in on this episode as we discuss how God works even in our disobedience to His will.
What happens when God's will for our lives is not appealing or causes us to go somewhere we do not want to go? There may be times in our lives when what we want doesn't line up with what God wants. What are we to do?
Unanswered prayer can hold us back from taking our next step, test our faith, cause doubt to creep into our minds, or even cause is to get angry with God. How should we respond? We continue our discussion by discovering two more truths that can help us gain the correct perspective with this issue.
Unanswered prayer can hold us back from taking our next step, test our faith, cause doubt to creep into our minds, or even cause is to get angry with God. How should we respond? We share two key truths that can help us gain the correct perspective with this issue.
Every winning streak ends with a loss and every losing streak ends with a win. The seasons of life bring times of winning and losing into our lives. Understanding this seasonal principle will help us to truly flourish no matter if we find ourselves in a season of winning or losing.
Just like someone may get seasonal allergies, only during specific seasons and are very shorted lived, we experience seasonal emotions that we feel during a specific season of life and are shorted lived. Understanding how our emotional seasons work in our lives will help us to embrace and enjoy these seasons.
Either you love change or you hate it! Regardless, certain seasons of life bring change. How should we respond to the change we find ourselves forced into?
We all like to be in control of our lives and destiny. What about the seasons of life that we experience? What kind of control do we have if any at all?
We cannot control when and how most seasons come into our lives. We have to learn to embrace the season and make the most of it. How do we do this especially with those unwelcome seasons? Join us on today's episode as we talk about how to embrace any season of life.
In nature we experience seasons that come and go. Each season has specific events that serve a specific purpose. Just the same, our lives are made up of various seasons that come and go, but each season offers opportunities that God desires to use for a specific purpose.
We have listed 19 different spiritual gifts. As we conclude this study, we share six practical tips that can help you identify your spiritual gift so that you can cultivate that gift to use for God's glory.
God gives each believer a spiritual gift. We are responsible to identify that gift in order to develop and use the gift to its maximum potential. In this episode, we examine the last five spiritual gifts to help you identify what your gift is.
God gives each believer a spiritual gift. We are responsible to identify that gift in order to develop and use the gift to its maximum potential. In this episode we examine seven spiritual gifts listed in I Corinthians 12:4-12 to identify what your gift is.
God gives each believer a spiritual gift. We are responsible to identify that gift in order to develop and use the gift to its maximum potential. In this episode we examine seven spiritual gifts listed in Romans 12:4-8 to identify what your gift is.
What about all those gifted and talented people you see in life? Did you know that you are just as gifted? You are gifted by your maker and if anyone knows what gifts you will excel in it is Him.
In order for you and I to experience fulfillment and be successful, we must focus our time and energy on what we are gifted at. Too many times we feel frustration and a lack of fulfillment because we are either required to or attempt to do things we are not gifted for.
God does not expect you to have the same gifts, talents, and opportunities as others. Comparing ourselves with the gifts and talents of others produces a feeling of inadequacy and hinders our true potential. God desires for you to discover your purpose in life and to flourish in just that.
A natural tendency we have is to compare ourselves with other people. When we do this we are using the wrong measuring stick and this can be detrimental in many areas of our lives. What then is the correct way to measure ourselves?
What does it mean to us in 2021 that God is our rock? How can this help us take our next step in our faith?
Where we are going daily will determine our direction in life. To ensure we are headed in the right direction, we must watch where we are going.
Our eyes are our camera and our mind is our hard drive where we permanently store all that we see. In order to protect our heart, we must constantly keep our eyes focused in the right direction and on the right things.
We are discussing guarding what is most important to us...our heart. Solomon gives three practical ways to guard our heart and the first is by monitoring and measuring what comes out of our mouths.
What matters most in your life? God tells us that protecting our heart is what should matter most because no one is invincible from Satan drawing their heart away.
There is much to learn from the small very unnoticed ant. On this episode, we discover three powerful life lessons from the ant that we can apply to our daily lives.
Our past can either haunt us or teach us. It can either hinder us or help us launch forward in life. How we handle our past mistakes is vitally important to us experiencing growth in our life.
We all make not-so-smart decisions in our lives. These decisions can cause us to get stuck in life hindering us from moving forward. It does not have to be this way!
Detours can be the most frustrating and time wasting hinderances in life. Contrary to our thinking, many times detours are the very thing that God uses to move us forward to our true destiny in life.
There are times in our lives when we just cannot see God at work. We cannot see how anything good could come out of our circumstances. We just keep asking, "Where is God at in all of this?" In this episode, we examine just where God is and what He is doing in circumstances like this.
Another way to get out of our comfort zone and experience growth is to go somewhere you have never been before. This can somewhere geographically on a map or it can be somewhere locally. It could be somewhere different in the same building.
It is easy to get stuck in our comfort zone in life. We get comfortable doing only what we are comfortable doing. Why would we want to change? Getting out of our comfort zone will produce tremendous growth and new opportunities for that growth. In order to get out of our comfort zone, we will have to do something we have never done before.
We expect the men and women who serve in our nation's military to devote complete allegiance to protecting our country and upholding the constitution. This takes first place in their lives. Why is it when Jesus Christ asks for complete allegiance of His followers we feel He is asking a little too much? Like that would make us some kind of religious fanatic? It is all about what has first place in your life.
Have you ever been distracted while driving and start to drift off the side only to hit those loud rumble strips? What happened? You were not focused where you should have been. We can drift in our spiritual life as well when we have our priorities focused in the wrong direction. Sometimes we need some rumble strips in life to alert us and get us back on track.
Time is a valuable gift and one that we can never get back. We defiantly should manage our time well. In order to do that, we must be sure that we have the right priorities and that those priorities in the right order.
Does following Jesus require anything from us? What obligations do we have if we commit to following Him? In this episode we examine what Jesus said the cost of following Him is and determine if the cost is worth it.
Jesus uses the illustration of fishing to apply a much deeper spiritual truth. As we follow Him, He will make us into effective witnesses to reach people all around us with the truth of the Gospel. How does He do this in our lives? Join us on today's episodes.
Does following Jesus require anything from us? Are there any responsibilities or commitments that we need to fulfill? On this episode we take a look at what type of changes we may have to be willing to make in order to follow Him.
Doubt is very misunderstood and therefore remains a topic not discussed openly among believers. A big reason is because many times we will not admit to ourselves that we are experiencing doubt. Join with us on today's episode as we discuss the need to open up and talk about doubt in order to remove it.
Fear is a powerful emotion that can cause people to do things they normally would not do. Circumstances in life can cause fear which in turn can cause doubt in a Christian's life, even the best of Christians. Listen as we discuss how we can handle this type of doubt and remove it from our lives.
We all formulate views of God in our mind from various sources and circumstances that we experience in life. Unfortunately, we can find ourselves with an incorrect view of God and this certainly produces doubts. In this episode, we will look at forming the correct view of God and how to remove these doubts.
Doubt can creep into our minds because we forget to remember all that God has done in the past. Remembering is a powerful tool to remove doubt in our lives.
One big misconception about doubt is that it is unbelief. This understanding of doubt can result in a believer feeling ashamed, being unwilling to talk about it, and ending up with compounding doubt. This compounding doubt can lead to unbelief or a complete rejecting of the faith. Forming a healthy understanding of doubt can strengthen our faith and can truly help us take many more steps in our pursuit to follow Jesus Christ.
Is doubt wrong? Is doubt one step away from you rejecting your faith? Does doubt make you a bad Christian? These are just a few questions that doubt brings up. In this episode, we will discuss and clear up common misconceptions about doubt.
There are many misconceptions about doubt that cause deep confusion in the Christian life. Having a healthy understanding of doubt will aid faith in growing strong.
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What impossibility are you facing in your life right now? You can’t see past it and there seems to be no way around it. How can we take our next step in these situations?
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You cannot live on borrowed faith! I have made this statement many times to teens and young adults. Is this really true? In this episode, we take a look at another different perspective of how borrowing faith can actually help us take our next step in our walk with Jesus Christ. www.CFCcampusministry.com