What’s the Breakdown?: Recent Episodes
Ben
There has been a breakdown between what many Christians say they believe and how they live their lives. Much of this is due to a lack of understanding because of poor or even false teaching of the Word. In order to reconcile our life with our faith, we will be identifying these areas of confusion and error and then we will “break down” the scriptures so we can better understand and in turn “live by faith”. We will be discussing everything from social issues, theological issues, politics and entertainment, as well as how to apply scripture to our life.
Popularized by the hit book series, the phrase "Left Behind" has become one of fear for all those who are unsure of the end times. With the rise of the rapture doctrine, many have taken hold of this idea that all believers will be taken away while all unbelievers will be "left behind" and have to go through a terrible time of tribulation. But is this biblical?
Join me today as I show you that the left behind rapture theology is a misunderstanding and misreading of scripture. After you listen today, I hope the scriptures are made plain to you and that you WANT to be left behind! Being left behind is where Jesus will be with us forever!
https://www.youtube.com/@WhatstheBreakdown
Many who believe a rapture event, similar to what is described in the Left Behind series, believe this event will be something completely separate from the Second Coming of Christ. Is this true? Are the events described in 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18 something altogether different than the final return of Jesus? Join me on the podcast today as we look into the Bible together to see if they are two events or actually one!
https://www.youtube.com/@WhatstheBreakdown
What is the Rapture? Where did this idea come from? Is it a biblical belief?
In our modern churches (especially in the Western world) the idea of the Rapture has taken a dominant place for many. But where did it come from? What are the biblical supports for such a belief? Join me on this journey as we begin to unpack this view and see if it actually matches up with scripture or not. Today's podcast will solely focus on the idea and the main passage from which it was derived. I will be addressing many other aspects of this belief in the podcasts to come so if you don't hear me talk about it during this podcast- just hang on! We'll cover it all!
https://www.youtube.com/@WhatstheBreakdown
Church attendance in the United States has been declining over the last few decades. This isn't just due to a decline in the Christian faith. There are many Christians today who don't see attending a regular church or attending church regularly as necessary. We can come up with all sorts of excuses or justifications as to why we don't show up on Sunday mornings. What does the Bible say? Is this optional? What is the purpose of gathering together on Sundays or Wednesdays? Do Christians really have to go to church? Can't we follow Christ on our own? What about those who are physically unable to go? Join us for today's episode as we look at whether or not we have to gather together.
https://www.youtube.com/@WhatstheBreakdown
There has been a major shift in the Church over the last couple of centuries, especially in the last 50 years, in regard to the teaching on baptism. Some say it isn't necessary, others say it's just a sign or a symbol, while others claim the act itself is what saves you, while still others claim everything in between. But what is the truth? What does the Bible actually say about baptism? Is it necessary for someone to be a Christian? What is the purpose of baptism? Join us for today's episode and allow the scripture to speak to you!
https://www.youtube.com/@WhatstheBreakdown
Have you ever paid close attention to the Christmas story? Have you ever wondered why an innkeeper wouldn't find a space for Mary and Joseph and they’re soon to be baby? The gospel accounts of Matthew and Luke compliment one another as they lay out this story but one thing they also do, is leave very little room for there to be an "inn" at all... Could it be a mistranslation? What if there is a better way to understand the events that took place that doesn't leave us with so many questions and better explains the facts in the gospels? Join me today as we dive into the Christmas story!
https://www.youtube.com/@WhatstheBreakdown
In light of the conflict going on in the modern day state of Israel, we see many in the church across the world voice their support for "Israel". Things are being posted like "I stand with Israel." or "Those who bless you I'll bless and those who curse you I'll curse." Many other scriptures are being quoted about God's love for Israel and declaring them as His "people." But is this biblically true??
The Bible is emphatic that "not all Israel is Israel." So what does it mean? Who is Israel? Does it have anything to do with some land in the Middle East? You may be surprised to find out that being ethnically Jewish has nothing to do with being God's people. Join us today as we examine the Scriptures to see who actually are the people of God!
https://www.youtube.com/@WhatstheBreakdown
What does it mean to follow Jesus? When we say we believe in Christ, what we really mean is we believe Christ. This means we obey Him because He IS God and His word IS truth. When Jesus gives hard teachings about sacrifice and what we must be willing to face and give up in order to follow Him, do we really believe it? Can we look like the world and still follow Jesus? Can we find our identity in the things of the world and simultaneously be found in Christ? Join us today as we talk about counting the cost of following the Savior!
https://www.youtube.com/@WhatstheBreakdown
As Christians, what kind of music should we listen to? What does it mean for a song or a concert to be "Christian"? Is there a particular style that is God's favorite? What should we be looking for in the music we use to give God glory and to sing His praises? What kind of things should we avoid? Music is one of the greatest vehicles to teach God's word but unfortunately many people will choose a song that makes them feel some sort of emotion over a song that is theologically rich and accurate. Join us today as we discuss Christian music!
https://www.youtube.com/@WhatstheBreakdown
Should Christians give to the church? Is it required? How much should a believer give? Does it have to be 10%? Is the New Testament church still under the tithing required in the Old Testament? Join us today as we examine the idea of giving and what it says about the heart of the believer.
https://www.youtube.com/@WhatstheBreakdown
The Bible tells us that we are to share the good news of Christ with others. We should be excited to let others know about this God-Man who died for our sins, was resurrected and ascended to the Father. Our lives should demonstrate a noticeable change that has been caused and continued by the Holy Spirit living in us. Each of us, as Christians, have a story of when Christ changed our lives. What is your story like? You need to share your testimony with others because no one else can. Only you can tell what God actually did, and is doing, in your life. Let your light shine and proudly tell about your encounter with the Savior of the world. This testimony will continue to grow and be added to as you grow in your faith. Keep shouting it from the rooftops!
https://www.youtube.com/@WhatstheBreakdown
Why should someone be baptized? When should someone get baptized? Should it be by immersion? There are many questions in regards to baptism but one of the most highly discussed topics is that of "Infant baptism". Should infants be "baptized"? Why is this practiced in certain denominations? Does it regenerate the child so they can respond to God? Does it wash away his/her "original sin"? Is this the New Testament's version of circumcision and including the child into the covenant family? We will address all those questions and more on today's episode!
https://www.youtube.com/@WhatstheBreakdown
There is a problem in the world and it has effected us all. The problem is sin. What is it? How bad is it? So many, even in the church, are justifying their mistakes and rebellion against God. We don't want to feel bad about what we do but instead of turning from our sin and obeying God, we often come up with ways to feel "okay" about what we are doing. We may twist the scriptures, or find someone who teaches what we want to hear or who makes us feel good about ourselves. However, God's law and standard doesn't pass away- we are called to obey Him. Join us today as we dive into this foundational truth in the Christian faith about our sin and our need for a Savior.
https://www.youtube.com/@WhatstheBreakdown
What does the Bible say about the roles in the church? What is an elder? What is a deacon? Can anyone be a pastor? Can women preach in the church? What about exceptions like Phoebe, Deborah, etc.? These are all questions that are asked and debated over within the church today. However, in many respects, the Bible is very clear where God stands on these questions. Join us today as we look at what scripture says about the roles in the church.
https://www.youtube.com/@WhatstheBreakdown
In an over-sexualized and liberal culture, how should Christians understand and deal with the topics of homosexuality and transgenderism? There are many in the Christian community who have begun to tolerate, accept and ultimately celebrate these different lifestyles, even though they are contrary to God's word. These topics bring out strong emotions on all sides but what does the Bible actually say? How can a Christian glorify God and love everyone the same way Christ loved us? Join us for today's episode!
https://www.youtube.com/@WhatstheBreakdown
The resurrection of Jesus Christ is the single greatest event in the history of time. It changed EVERYTHING! As a matter of fact, the entire Christian faith rests on this event... But do you know why it is so important? Did Jesus really resurrect? What happened leading up to this event and did any of it matter? Join us on today's episode as we discuss "Why Easter?"
https://www.youtube.com/@WhatstheBreakdown
Why do bad things happen to good people? How can God allow tragedy and suffering to persist in this world? Many people out there today (Christian and non-Christian alike) have questions like these. It can be hard to reconcile the hardships of life with our faith sometimes. But what does the Bible say about these things? We need to allow God to speak truth into our hearts and minds in regards to the tragedies of life. Join us today as we look at how God can bring "Beauty from Ashes".
https://www.youtube.com/@WhatstheBreakdown
There are many in the world today who are skeptical of the Christian faith. People have a hard time believing in God or they may doubt that Jesus was a real person. Many people have issues with the Bible and doubt that it can be trusted. What about you? Do you know why you believe? We are told in scripture to "always be ready to give the reason for the hope we profess". Can you defend your faith today? Are you able to answer the questions from skeptics about God, Jesus Christ or the Bible? Join us today as we give you some simple arguments to help you convince the skeptic and defend the faith!
https://www.youtube.com/@WhatstheBreakdown
Should Christians spend a lot of time around non-believers? How should our lives look different once we've begun to follow Christ? So often, Christians allow themselves to fellowship with those in the world more than those in the Body of Christ. The problem is that we are supposed to do the opposite. Yes, we ARE supposed to share the gospel and be a light to the world but we are supposed to live, eat, fellowship, encourage, hold accountable and grow with other BELIEVERS. We risk being led astray if we are living in fellowship with those who are not seeking God. The people with whom we surround ourselves have a profound effect on our lives and our faith. Be very careful with the company you keep!
Join us today on the podcast as we discuss "Good Company".
https://www.youtube.com/@WhatstheBreakdown
What is revival? God desires our hearts and has great plans for us. So why do we feel so often like He isn't there or that He isn't moving like we think He should? Are we missing what could be happening because of our sin? Check out today's episode as we explore what it means to wake up and to be ready! God wants to do something greater than we could ever imagine... it's time for us to walk in faith and allow Him to lead us.
https://www.youtube.com/@WhatstheBreakdown
Prayer is one of the most vital aspects in the life of a Christian. What does it look like in our life? Why should we pray? Maybe you are struggling with praying or how to pray... May today's podcast help you move towards making a prayer a priority in your own life!
https://www.youtube.com/@WhatstheBreakdown
Are Christians supposed to gather together on a regular basis? We often call this "church". Do we need to be there? Can a Christian just do his/her own things and show up occasionally and not make gathering a priority? What does the Bible say? Many Christians can take or leave going to church- we make many excuses and try to justify our absence but will those excuses stand in light of God's word? Join us today for our podcast!
https://www.youtube.com/@WhatstheBreakdown
So often, as Christians, we hold onto our past, our shame and our regrets. We feel like failures or that God won't love us anymore because we make mistakes. These lies are straight from the devil. Yes, God has called to live holy lives and to strive for perfection but He knows we aren't perfect. This is why we can come to Him when we sin and ask for forgiveness. He is our Father now and we are His children. May we recognize the love He has for us and stop running from Him but rather run to Him when there is a problem or when we are struggling. I pray this episode today brings you encouragement and that you, through the power of the Holy Spirit and God's grace, can let go of the burdens you are carrying!
https://www.youtube.com/@WhatstheBreakdown
Life is hard. Sometimes it can be downright overwhelming. But as Christians we are "more than conquerors through Christ..." So how do we face the trials of life and overcome? The Bible tells us to persevere and to "not grow weary in doing good" even if it is difficult. What are some of the reasons and mindsets that cause us to want to give up? How can we push through and continue to be faithful in the hard times? Join us for today's podcast. May it be a blessing to you!
https://www.youtube.com/@WhatstheBreakdown
What does it look like to be a Christian? What does it mean to be truly "free" in Christ? Join us today as we look at many who claim to be believers and the breakdown between their words and their actions. May we be obedient to God's word and Christ's teaching!
https://www.youtube.com/@WhatstheBreakdown
There is an assault on the institution of marriage in our country and in the world today. Satan has been trying to unravel and tear down God's created order since the beginning. The major problem is that many Christians have either sat by and watched this happen or have actively supported other ideas of marriage and relationships that are counter to what God has established. The problem is, marriage (as God defines it AND established it) is one of the most vital pieces to making our communities and country thrive. If you tear down the home then the culture will fall soon after...
Join us as we look at marriage and in doing so may we recognize and appreciate the gift that it is!
https://www.youtube.com/@WhatstheBreakdown
How is your thinking? As Christians, we often find ourselves overwhelmed and consumed by the things of this world. This leads us to being anxious, fearful, negative and critical. Satan is trying to flood our minds with concerns of the world so that we won't look to God for our hope and for our truth. Instead, we often look to the world (education, politics, workplace, etc.) or to ourselves (emotions, experiences, preferences) in order to try to find our balance. However, the world cannot answer our questions and cannot bring us the peace of mind that can only be found in Christ. So, how can we win this war thats being waged in our minds? Join us today as we take a closer look into this battleground!
https://www.youtube.com/@WhatstheBreakdown
We live in a world that tries to tell you lie after lie about who you are and who you aren't... What does the Bible say about our identity? We must seek the truth from the One who created us and find out what He says about each one of us- our value, our purpose and our identity. Join us today as we discuss "Finding Identity" in a broken world.
https://www.youtube.com/@WhatstheBreakdown
Life is difficult... we are often faced with tragedy, struggle and hardship and it can affect how we live our lives and ultimately our faith. How do we honor God and be obedient to Him when we can't see how to solve our problems? When our situations are dire, what can we do to trust in Him?
https://www.youtube.com/@WhatstheBreakdown
Our society has blurred the lines between truth and personal preference. We hear things like "Live your truth." or "You do you." and yet we must ask ourselves- is that right? As Christians, do we have the freedom to simply redefine truth or pick and choose what we want to do? If we are to be a light in a dark world, we must stand on the foundation of truth. The breakdown for many Christians is between what they say they believe and what they act like they believe. We have allowed the ideas of the world to creep into the church and it is playing havoc with so many believers and causing division. The world tells us to define our own truth and to make our own way. But this creates confusion and chaos- both of which are from Satan, not God. God tells us to obey His commands and to be obedient to Him and Him alone. May today's podcast be a challenge and an encouragement to you to reconcile the Word of God with how you see the world and how you live by His truth. Be blessed!
https://www.youtube.com/@WhatstheBreakdown
Abortion has been a hot button topic in our culture for decades and often times the Christian has had a hard time navigating this area. A topic that intersects politics, religion and personal life, it produces many emotions and opinions across the board. For the Christian however, the Bible is clear about God's stance on life, when it begins and why we should protect it. However, we often times don't know how to have honest discussions and answer some of the commonly raised criticisms and objections by those on the pro-choice side of the argument. Listen in today as we address some of these objections and dive into this important topic.
https://www.youtube.com/@WhatstheBreakdown