The StandFast Cast: Recent Episodes
George Grant
Dr. George's Grant's weekly podcast designed to equip & encourage you to live forward by anchoring to our spiritual & historical roots... for more information go to www.StandFast.life
Join Dr. George Grant as he talks about how Nathaniel Ranew improved his life of solitude through meditaion.
Walter Hooper, the executor of C.S.
Lewis’ literary estate maintained that The Aboli-
tion of Man was “an all but indispensable intro-
duction to the entire corpus of Lewisiana.” Lewis
himself revealed that it was “almost my favorite
among my books.” Indeed, he referred to it again
and again in virtually all of his later works—he
says That Hideous Strength is “a novelization of
its essential thesis” and the first four chapters of
Mere Christianity “operate in effect, as a simpli-
fied version or beginners’ guide to Abolition.”
But, the average Evangelical reader today would
be justifiably baffled by this notion: the book,
despite its many pithy epigrammatic quotes, seems
to be arcanely philosophical and morosely pessi-
mistic.
Join Dr. Grant as he shows how Sick Heart River turns the adventure yarn into a spiritual quest with an authority that few have ever rivalled.
- Shelf Life - 7-19 - The Pastor of Kilsyth
- When we talk about Scotland’s Reformation and journey into freedom, names like John Knox, Richard Cameron and Thomas Chalmers easily come to mind. No doubt, they were mighty men of God called and chosen to serve as men who ushered the nation into a greater place of blessing. A reality that changed the world. But have you ever wondered about the pastors who filled the pulpits of the land? The army of men whose “common place” ministries were the meat and drink of parishes of Caledonia? Join Dr. Grant as he introduces you to The Pastor of Kilsyth by Islay Burns, a behind the scenes look into the ordinary ministry of a typical servant of God in Scotland - the spiritual boots on the ground. This look into the ministry of a “common pastor” is nothing short of extraordinary.
The StandFast Cast is back with Episode 114 - Maintaining Joy! Come along with Dr. Grant and his amazing wife Karen as they explore the topic of how joy thrives when we learn to never cease amazement at the good, regular and "ordinary" provisions of God for our lives. Gifts that are so amazing, rich and full that they are the sustenance of life from God!
Join George & Karen from their snow surrounded study as they discuss the wonderful virtue of a healthy & strong mind through rich, deep and regular reading!
Join in with Dr. Grant and Ernie as they delve into a delightful topic to kick off 2022 - Stirling Bridge Book Club’s January focus, Orthodoxy by G. K. Chesterton. You don’t want to miss this!
Join Karen and I for an honest, open and hope-filled conversation on navigating grief during Christmas that will help encourage your heart and inspire you to connect with the Lord and covenant community so you don’t walk this path alone. Christmas cheer is for real life, and has the greatest comforts and medicines for our souls!
Join Karen and I for a delightful discussion on how we plan and prepare for a productive, God-glorifying future that not only gives helpful "marching orders" for productivity but also for family, fun and slowing your year down as you fill it with purpose and stewardship and escape the "tyranny of the urgent".
Join George & Karen for this fun and enjoyable part 1 of a 4 part series as they address beautiful and meaningful realities around Christmas, tradition, holiday seasons and the coming year!
We live in challenging times. Uncertainty, fear and discouragement can overwhelm the child of God in days like these. But God's Word - and history - tell a different story.
Episode 108 = Arise & Build Pt. 3
Listen in to part 3 of this 3 part series as Dr. Grant encourages us to look up, look back and work forward. To "Arise & Build", for the Lord is with us!
We live in challenging times. Uncertainty, fear and discouragement can overwhelm the child of God in days like these. But God's Word - and history - tell a different story.
Episode 107 = Arise & Build Pt. 2
Listen in to part 2 of this 3 part series as Dr. Grant encourages us to look up, look back and work forward. To "Arise & Build", for the Lord is with us!
We live in challenging times. Uncertainty, fear and discouragement can overwhelm the child of God in days like these. But God's Word - and history - tell a different story.
Episode 106 = Arise & Build Pt. 1
Listen in to part 1 of this 3 part series as Dr. Grant encourages us to look up, look back and work forward. To "Arise & Build", for the Lord is with us!
How can we know that our prayers are acceptable to God? Yes, it's true that the believer's prayers go through Christ and are covered with His merit and mingled with His prayers. But How can we know that the heart and mind - the feeling and content of our praying - is a sweet savor to the Lord? When we turn the Bible into our meat and manual for praying, we pray in step with our Savior!
Join Dr. Grant and his wife Karen as they discuss how to learn from the Bible, how to read the Bible and the value it yields us as we learn to read, understand and live out the revelation of the mind and heart of the Lord to us!
A group of about 50 Franklin, TN businessmen and women, educators, local magistrates, and law enforcement officers asked Dr. Grant to address the current cultural climate in our nation.
From a Biblical worldview perspective, what should we be doing?
How should we be thinking?
By looking back at the history of both revolutions and reformations, Dr. Grant plots a pathway forward.
You can think of these two lectures— one shared in this episode and one in the previous— as a preview of the kinds of issues he will take up on his new radio program and podcast “Resistance and Reformation” on the Fight, Laugh, Feast Network.
A group of about 50 Franklin, TN businessmen and women, educators, local magistrates, and law enforcement officers asked Dr. Grant to address the current cultural climate in our nation.
From a Biblical worldview perspective, what should we be doing?
How should we be thinking?
By looking back at the history of both revolutions and reformations, Dr. Grant plots a pathway forward.
You can think of these two lectures— one shared in this episode and the next in episode #103— as a preview of the kinds of issues he will take up on his new radio program and podcast “Resistance and Reformation” on the Fight, Laugh, Feast Network.
On this episode of the StandfastCast George and Karen discuss the new edition of George’s book, “Killer Angel: A Biography of Planned Parenthood’s Margaret Sanger.”
In the process they trace the ideas of radical progressives prior to World War I right up to the advocates of Intersectionality and Cultural Marxism today.
https://www.GeorgeGrant.net/SF101
On this episode of the StandfastCast George and Karen discuss why they remain optimistic about the pro-life cause—despite all appearances to the contrary.
They remain optimistic—not because of any trend in politics or culture, but because of the Gospel.
https://www.GeorgeGrant.net/SF100
On this episode of the StandfastCast George and Karen tell the story of how they became involved in the pro-life movement.
From the earliest days of the Roe v. Wade case in Dallas to the establishment of one of the nation’s first crisis pregnancy centers their personal story has been profoundly shaped by the Gospel’s declaration of the sanctity of life.
https://www.GeorgeGrant.net/SF99
Life always seems to throw us curve balls…
If 2020 taught us nothing else, it taught us that. So, how do we make plans, create goals, and live intentionally when there is so much uncertainty around us.
In this conversation, George and Karen discuss what works best for them.
https://www.GeorgeGrant.net/SF98
In this podcast George and Karen discuss the way they plan for, prepare for, and organize for effectual prayer through the course of the year.
They describe the different ways they have learned to create a sustainable approach uniquely suited to their needs.
Learn more at https://www.GeorgeGrant.net/SF97
This week we talk with Jim Blazevich of NavLife. Years ago, Jim learned (the hard way) that his wife wouldn’t know what to do if he passed.
Sure, he had life insurance the other “precautions” and measures we typically put in place, but there were still so many questions…
Who could fix the cars?
How would the business run?
Could she login to his computer and access the things she needed to know?
Although many of us don’t like thinking about such things, they’re necessary. The death rate is, well… 100%. Sooner or later, we all “tap out.”
Though we can’t decide what happens WHEN we go or even HOW we go, we can make some decisions which affect what happens to the people we love the most AFTER we go…
NavLife is a program that empowers you NOW to equip the people who matter the most to know what to do LATER.
In this episode, we talk all about those awkward, yet necessary questions…
… and we provide you with a tool to set everything in place.
Listen in at www.GeorgeGrant.net/blog/SF96
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Grab the tools you need at www.MyNavLife.com , using the code STANDFAST at checkout.
Tis the season to… sponsor an angel child, send a shoe box of gifts, volunteer at a soup kitchen, gift blankets and jackets and hats…
That is, it’s the season for charity.
Christmas is a time when we typically thing about people in need. We fill up the red kettles as The Salvation Army bell ringers welcome us to the shopping malls, and more…
But need knows no season.
And rather than giving hand-outs (which we actually SHOULD do), we’re called to do more.
Biblical compassion digs deeper and goes farther than charity. Biblical compassion drives at the root causes of the need. Rather than addresses the surface issues, true compassion drives at the systems creating those needs in the first place.
Compassion calls us to look at oppression. And to really evaluate our place.
In this talk we discuss a few things you can do…
It starts with living with your eyes wide open, walking with an awareness as to what’s happening around you and allowing the Spirit to speak.
And it continues as you connect with people in relationship. Whereas “charity” happens as a “one off” AND can happen in a disconnected way, Biblical compassion can’t.
And, finally, it requires time. It’s a long-term commitment to walking with people in relationship, which is one of the true currencies of the Kingdom.
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Listen at www.GerogeGrant.net/blog/SF95
The first Thanksgiving happened over a year after the passengers who traveled aboard the Mayflower made it to the New World.
Interestingly enough, the group learned quickly that the affairs of everyday life— things such as laundry and meal preparation— were the most pressing. Whereas we often search for God amidst the serene and secluded, they found Him amidst the mundane and normal…
One hundred and two of them disembarked the ship, but over 50 of them died over the next two winters. It was hardly a strong start to a new civilization, nothing like the list of things for which we might be thankful.
The group learned quickly that they couldn’t “instantly” build the new civilization of which they dreamt. Rather, they had to consume themselves with simply doing “the next right thing.”
Over time, the built a city on a hill, which would become well-known throughout the world (in their time) and across the pages of history (in our own.). New immigrants reinforced their ranks. Learned skills increased their adaptivity.
Grace abounded…
At one point, when the new experiment was still in doubt, the rations became small— so meager that each person was allowed merely 5 kernels of corn per day. That’s how close they came to starvation.
In this episode of the Standfast-cast we discuss where you go— and how you get there— when there’s nowhere to go but up, when you’ve hit rock bottom yet can Hardley see any way out.
Listen at www.GeorgeGrant.net/blog/SF94 or on your fav podcast provider.
In this episode of the Standfast Cast we continue our conversation from the previous week and discuss WHY the Pilgrims came to the New World in the first place.
By the year 1619, after almost a century of tumult and tribulation, two ships received permission to head to the Americas. One turned back early, as it was taking water and was destined to sink otherwise.
The other, the Mayflower, made the trek.
John Robinson, the pastor who stayed behind in the “old world,” sent his congregants with some advice as to how to live under God and with each other.
He encourage them…
- Don’t forget daily repentance... stay current with God.... Cornerstone of your society is individuals walking before God
- Don’t be quick to take offense...
- Don’t be quick to give offense..
- Make sure you don’t so pursue your private interests in the new world that you do so to the determinant of the common good.
- Free elections. Choose people among you who are full of wisdom... let them lead... and then give them due obedience and respondent.
Providentially, the group who made the voyage cross The Atlantic paused before heading ashore on November 11, 1620. They took Robinson’s counseling and created a covenant before heading to their new home.
They called it… the Mayflower Compact.
Listen to their story at www.GeorgeGrant.net/blog/SF93 or on your fav podcast provider.
There’s a lot happening in our current political climate— too many unknowns to list. But, we have much to be thankful for, even as the votes and elections are sorted.
In fact, this is the month when we lean towards the Thanksgiving holiday every year.
Maybe you remember making pilgrim hats and Indian vests from construction paper and grocery bags back in elementary school. That’s the grandest narrative we attach to Thanksgiving, that first celebration by the Pilgrims in the New World.
But that event didn’t just happen overnight.
In this podcast we trace the story of the first Thanksgiving back 100 years leading up to that first meal. And, you’ll learn that most of it has to do with religious freedom!
This year we look— as we do every four years— at a “historical election.”
Let’s be honest about it. The last one was historical. As was the one before that. And the one before that. And, yes, even the one before that…
In fact, they’re all “historical.”
But what matters more than a “historical” election are the things you and I do every single day to govern ourselves. It’s not that the elections don’t matter, it’s just that, well… our private lives— and what we do with them— matter more.
We tend to flip things upside down.
We assume that the government is the most important area of authority. And then we presume that our churches might provide a close “second.”
But…
When we look at the Scripture, we see something radically different.
The first arena of authority God created was the family. And, individuals make up that family. That means the things which you and I do each day— not every four years— have exponentially more power than what happens in Washington.
In fact, you could argue that what happens there is really a reflection of what happens here…
In this episode of the Standfast-cast, George talks with Andy and Ernie, showing them how so much information that we know "believe" and "share" about Christopher Columbus is totally.... get this... wrong.
In fact, most people don't know that Columbus left what we now know as Spain with a mission-motivation.
And, he didn't do many of the things which the "left" now ascribes to him (nor do people who topple statues, rename cities, and rewrite history even bother to research).
In this episode, we ask the question, "Hey, have we jumped to the wrong conclusions about this historical figure?"
The answer(s) might just surprise you...
One of the obstacles voters face as they head to the polls in 2020 is the paucity of good and practical information about the issues and the candidates.
Of course, with 24-hour cable news, a myriad of social media platforms, internet news sites, magazines, and newspaper, you’d think we’d be drowning in good information. Not so.
Alas, there has rarely been a time in history when the media has been a fractious, polarized, and biased as it is today.
In this edition of the StandfastCast George takes a look at this phenomenon and why it has become so exasperating—and believe it or not, it has very little to do with Trump!
We’re in a season unlike any other. And, regardless of where you stand politically, there are a few things we can do to make sure we “get Covid right.”
That is, regardless of what we think about the politics, the efficacy of masks (or the need for them), the test numbers & case numbers & other metrics…
… there is some Biblical wisdom we’re given on how to move forward.
In this episode of the Standfast-cast, we bump the surface of that discussion…
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Note: George & Karen discussed this topic also in episode #69, “Lessons from the Coronavirus” (May 21, 2020 release date: https://www.GeorgeGrant.net/blog/SF69
Many of us would love to read the great books.
📚 📚 📚 📚 📚
But it's hard to when...
👉 You don't feel like you have the time
👉 You don't know where to even start
👉 You don't have a trusted voice to lead you towards those great books + help you take a deep dive without getting lost
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If that sounds like you, then we've got some great news!
👌 👌 👌 👌 👌
George's new reading program + book club launches mid-September!
👌 👌 👌 👌 👌
Want to be the first to know when we launch?
Sign up to get notified at www.GeorgeGrant.net/SB
The final chapter of James encourages us with the admonition to “be patient.” That is, “wait.”
He refers us to several Old Testament heroes— including Job and Elijah— who were examples of actively enduring while patiently waiting.
And he offers us this hope: we actively wait together. That is, we’re not alone. We walk in community.
We offer hope.
We offer healing.
We restore and “snatch from the fire” those who might lose their way.
Whereas we tend to think that trouble comes from “out there,” James tells us to do something shocking: take a look in the mirror.
In chapter 4, he outlines what worldliness look like, as well as what Godliness looks like. And, as James tends to be, he’s pretty “cut and dry” in his assessments.
Furthermore, he calls us to humility, to realizing that the blessings we experience in this world don’t come to us because we’re “so bless-able.” Rather, they come our way because God is so good and kind.
This, then, encourages us to draw near to Him, to flee temptation, and to bestow the same grace on others that has been freely gifted to us…
… even if it is all a bit counter-cultural.
In chapter 3, James takes us from “invisible faith” (James 2) to “visible wisdom.” Turns out, wisdom is seen by her fruits…
… and the “chief fruit” of wisdom is the words we say (and, of course, the ones we don’t say that we mutter under our breathe).
Furthermore, James defines what the wisdom of God looks like— that is, he shows us the relational results of the wisdom of God. And, once you see it (or the opposite), you instantly know it.
In James 2 we discuss one of the most controversial passages in the New Testament: “Faith without works is dead” (2:26).
What does James mean by this?
We discover that true Biblical faith moves beyond objective facts to experiential reality. And, it turns out that BOTH of these are important.
This talk kicks off a 5-part series on the book of James. Join us as we walk through this 5-chapter powerhouse of a book, using the Keystones approach as our guide.
In James 1, we learn about trials, trouble, and tribulation…
… and we discover that James says we should “chalk it all up” to joy.
That is, he doesn’t say that trials ARE joyful, but that they produce something worth joy— they mature us and create something in us that can’t be acquired any other way.
George reads a lot. And a lot of what he reads is very different from what most people read.
Among his most enduring influences is the great Italian academic semioticist Umberto Eco (1932-2016).
On this episode of the StandfastCast podcast, Karen asks George about why it is that this rather arcane and difficult writer and thinker, and his rather arcane and difficult novels and essays, inspire him so much and remain on his short list of go-to resources.
In 1819, when he was at the height of his influence and effectiveness, Thomas Chalmers preached a sermon on growing in Christ and resistance to temptation and sin. It has been heralded as a classic ever since.
The sermon has been particularly influential in George’s life, helping him understand how the Gospel changes everything.
With a new edition of the sermon published by Standfast Books, George and Karen sat down to talk about the sermon and its powerful effect on them in this Standfast conversation.
Brent Hebert introduces this talk…
He says he had the pleasure of meeting George Grant 2 or 3 years ago at the For God & Truth Conference in Trinity, Alabama.
Brent adds, “It has been said that if you want to know the heart and love of a pastor, take a glimpse at his library and the books he reads. One glimpse at George’s library, it is easy to tell that he loves theology, history and politics….”
Then— “Second to Thomas Chalmers, George’s favorite author would be that of G.K. Chesterton.”
G.K. Chesterton was an early 20th century English writer, philosopher and theologian and perhaps the most quotable writer.
In today’s podcast, George takes a look at “Things Worth Doing” and Chesterton's sense of wonder.
(This talk was first delivered at R.C. Sproul’s 2002 Ligonier Ministries conference.)
Tim Yarbrough introduces this “throwback” talk in which George discusses how God uses covenantal succession through people… even the unexpected people.
Turns out, the Lord only has imperfect people to use. That means, we’re all— by His grace— qualified.
(This talk comes from George’s 2009 lecture at the ACCS— Association of Christian and Classical Schools— conference.)
Perry Coghlan introduces another talk by George in this “throwback” lecture.
(Perry also introduced the first talk in the series, SF73.)
He offers a warning on this one, though…
He says you might NOT want to listen to it. He offers four reasons why—
#1- if you don’t appreciate brutal honesty, don’t listen.
#2- if you don’t want to learn through tough situations, don’t listen.
#3- if you don’t want to dive deep… that is, you want a happy-clappy talk, then don’t listen.
#4- if you don’t want to learn about saints in the past endured hard things… definitely don’t listen.
That said, he suggests three reasons why you might WANT to take the time to pay close attention to what George says over the next hour—
Reason #1- if you want to learn how saints in the past endured— and changed culture…
Reason #2- if you want to see how to create a generational legacy…
Reason #3- if you want to see how your daily choices matter now…
… you owe it to yourself to pause and pay attention.
(This talk comes from George’s 2004 lecture at the ACCS— Association of Christian and Classical Schools— conference.)
Ernie Yarbrough introduces talk #3 in our throwback series…
In Dr. George Grant’s lecture entitled “Theology of Wonder - Integrating the Humanities,” our modern view of a fragmented education that serves primarily utilitarian purposes is confronted with a beautiful and covenantal pattern of education that connects all of life with meaning, purpose and unity. Dr. Grant reminds us that God’s pattern and plan for creation is the basis for all our learning and cultural endeavors — a diverse and rich platform to display His glory and show us His love and holiness.
We are tempted in today’s world to view architecture, agriculture, math, science, biology and the study of space— just to name a few— as largely separate spheres of study. Dr. Grant shows us that when we embrace a biblical worldview, we are confronted in every field study with a theology of wonder as we employ Humanities & Moral Philosophy (the old names for history) to discover the glory of God in the historical and academic accomplishments of mankind.
This “fuller” approach not only gives us a glimpse into the wonder of His works, but it unifies all of our studies in the pursuit of biblical wisdom.
After all, there’s nothing that doesn’t exist under the authority of Christ, right?
(This talk comes from George’s 2008 lecture at the ACCS— Association of Christian and Classical Schools— conference.)
Every presidential election is important, but the 2020 election may well define the trajectory of American politics and culture for a generation or more.
And, chief among the issues that will dominate the campaigns of both major political parties as well as the media’s coverage will be the importance of the Electoral College.
On this episode of the StandfastCast podcast, Karen and George discuss the whole concept of constitutional “checks and balances” and why the provisions of federalism are the firm foundations of our freedoms.
Jacob Frank introduces this talk by Dr. Grant from over TWENTY YEARS AGO!
Jacob meant George just a few years ago (and was in school when this talk was first delivered). Further, in Jacob’s words, “I was in awe not just by what he was teaching, but by his passion!”
In this talk, George discusses things we were “robbed” of— the things we didn’t learn.
Turns out, when memory (or memorials) are lacking, people are prone to even more forgetfulness. And, we lose the lessons of the past.
Lest we despair, though, there is hope. We can access truth and move forward.
Furthermore, looking at the past isn’t simply about living in the past— or conjuring up nostalgia. Rather, it’s about looking back in order to live forward.
(This 20-plus year-old talk comes from George’s 1999 lecture at the ACCS— Association of Christian and Classical Schools— conference.)
Perry Coghlan has been a friend of George Grant’s for about 35 years— in various capacities (George has been Perry’s pastor, now, for over a decade).
Here, Perry introduces George’s talk about the importance of worldview— a lecture in which he discusses why our perception of reality actually matters.
You see, ideas have consequences. Every day we practically “live out” what we really believe.
Looking at the example of Abraham Kuyper in Holland, George takes us on a journey and demonstrates that Jesus is Lord over all things…
When that truth drives deep into our soul, it truly overflows into everything we do.
(This talk comes from George’s 2007 lecture at the ACCS— Association of Christian and Classical Schools— conference.)
Quick on the heels of the Coronavirus pandemic that shuttered much of our nation this spring, America’s fractious racial divide spilled onto city streets following the murder of George Floyd in Minneapolis.
For weeks protests, looting, violence erupted across the land and all too many of our neighbors have been shaken with fear and plunged into despair.
In times like these, how should we then live?
What should we think?
How should we FEEL?
And who should we believe…?
George and Karen take up that vital question in this episode of the Standfast podcast.
Listen in at https://www.GeorgeGrant.net/blog/SF72 or your favorite podcast provider.
On this edition of the StandfastCast George and Karen discuss marriage. They recorded the day before they celebrated their 45th anniversary—which afforded them the opportunity to look back and recall some of the most important lessons about marriage that they’ve learned through the years. Not surprisingly, those lessons practically all revolve around applying and realizing Gospel basics.
More at https://www.GeorgeGrant.net/blog/SF71
From the very beginning (Genesis 2:8), mankind has been at home in a garden. In all the intervening years, many of us have found solace from the wearying effects of this poor fallen world among the flowers and herbs, trees and vines, vegetables and fruits— despite the intrusions of weeds, tares, and thorns.
Gardening has been rather artlessly defined as little more than growing and caring for plants as an enjoyable leisure activity, to produce food, or to create beautiful landscapes with pleasantly arranged flowers, shrubs, and trees. To be sure, for some, gardening is a form of exercise, a way to save money on food, or a way to ensure that fruits and vegetables are free from pesticides or other chemicals.
But it has also always been more than that.
On this episode of the Standfast podcast, Karen and George explore a bit of that as “something more.”
Learn more at https://www.GeorgeGrant.net/blog/SF70
The Covid 19 novel coronavirus pandemic, though by no means unprecedented in human history, has nevertheless dramatically and unexpectedly changed our culture, our economy, our politics, and our lives in a host of different ways: with social distancing, quarantining, sheltering, shuttering, and lockdown measures.
On this episode of the Standfast podcast, Karen and George explore some of the practical and spiritual lessons they have been learning during this extraordinary time. They want to make sure that they do not simply endure the hardship of this season, but instead see it as an opportunity grow in grace and wisdom.
More at https://www.GeorgeGrant.net/blog/SF69
On this edition of the StandfastCast George and Karen discuss marriage. They recorded the day before they celebrated their 45th anniversary—which afforded them the opportunity to look back and recall some of the most important lessons about marriage that they’ve learned through the years. Not surprisingly, those lessons practically all revolve around applying and realizing Gospel basics.
More at https://www.GeorgeGrant.net/blog/SF71
All Scripture is God-breathed (2 Timothy 3:16-17). It’s all of value for all of life.
Yet there are certain passages we tend to “fly-over,” to borrow a term from Bible teacher Bruce Wilkinson. That is, we often see numbers, genealogies, or farewells at the end of letters… and we tend to just “skip” to the next seemingly importance passage.
For more info go to https://www.GeorgeGrant.net/blog/SF68
And, download the free Colossians study at www.GeorgeGrant.net/Colossians
Memorizing the Bible causes us to read it differently. We begin seeing things we haven’t seen, and we start retaining more. We reflect upon the text even when it’s not sitting in front of us, making connections to God’s plan of redemption as well as to life’s everyday events.
Learn more at www.GeorgeGrant.net/blog/67
Download the Colossians study free at www.GeorgeGrant.net/Colossians
In lesson 2 of the Colossians study, George talks about the importance of studying the Scripture. Chalmers had been a pastor for eight years before he discovered the riches of diving deep into the Word. Then, upon doing so, he determined to make the Bible the Vode Mecham (“Book of Reference”) for all of life.
Learn more at www.GeorgeGrant.net/blog/SF66, and download the free Colossians study guide at www.GeorgeGrant.net/Colossians
This January and February, Dr. Grant took 4 weeks to teach the Keystones at his church, Parish Presbyterian, during the “Sunday school” hour. Rather than just talking about the Keystones, however, he chose to lead them through the 4 chapters of Colossians to illustrate how to “do” the Keystones.
Join us for this intro talk to the series.
Learn more at https://www.GeorgeGrant.net/blog/SF65 and download the free PDF of the Colossians study at https://www.GeorgeGrant.net/Colossians
Reformation is a concept woven into the whole fabric of Gospel living. It was not merely a singular event in Church history, instead it is the Biblical pattern of discipleship, growth, and maturity. On this episode of the StandfastCast George and Karen look back and look ahead as they weigh the importance of semper reformanda: the Church reformed and ever reforming.
For more info go to https://www.GeorgeGrant.net/blog/SF64
The practice of lifetime learning is at the heart of Karen and George’s ministry and message. On this episode of the StandfastCast they discuss their commitment to hone the essential tools of pastoral care in their own lives as well as some of the counseling insights that they often recommend to others.
For more info go to https://www.GeorgeGrant.net/blog/SF63
While George has been working through the Keystones for several years, Karen has only begun to use the method since Standfast published the journals earlier this year. On this episode of the StandfastCast she talks with George about how using the Keystones has shaped her devotional practices.
For more info go to https://www.GeorgeGrant.net/blog/SF62
Or, learn about the Keystones at https://www.georgegrant.net/keystones
On this episode of the StandfastCast George and Karen discuss one of their favorite new literary discoveries. Slightly Foxed is a small British press, a conversational podcaster, and a delightful reader’s quarterly publisher. We love them. We think you will too.
For more info go to https://www.GeorgeGrant.net/blog/SF61
Good marriages don’t just happen. They require diligent care and unstinting attention.
On this episode of the StandfastCast George and Karen talk about some of the lessons they’ve learned and some of the habits they’ve nurtured in their 45 years as husband and wife.
For more info go to https://www.GeorgeGrant.net/blog/SF60
A lot of people ask, “What are you reading?”
And, you know the adage, “Readers are leaders and leaders are readers.”
In this talk, George tag teams with Karen and the two discuss what they’re reading, what’s on their “wish list,” and more.
Learn more at https://www.GeorgeGrant.net/blog/SF59
In this special two-part series, George ditches the usual crew of guys and switches (read: upgrade) to Karen, who comes back on the Standfast-cast and talks about books… and finding great books on the shelves of actual book stores.
Amazon and the online retailers are convenient. And we’re thankful we have access to so many resources.
But, nothing beats walking the aisles of actual shelves, interacting with shopkeepers who adore hardbacks, and flipping through the pages before you buy.
For more info, go to https://www.GeorgeGrant.net/blog/SF58
In this stand-alone talk, George talks about the electoral college— and why we need it. Daniel Noor, a friend who is helping edit an updated edition of George’s book about the voting process in America joins this one, bringing his unique perspective as well.
In the end, George reminds us that we don’t merely want a civics lesson (even though democracy matters). Rather, we want to live ALL of live under the kingship of Jesus— including how we govern our collective society.
Listen in. This one is timely and relevant, particularly as we enter another voting season just as the role of President has been decided multiple times— in recent years— by the electoral college rather than merely the “popular vote.”
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More at https://www.GeorgeGrant.net/blog/SF57
In the final talk about righteous ruts we discuss the value of finding good books— and allowing others to inform our perspective. Rather than simply reading what’s popular, though, George gives us some tips on how to find the really good stuff…
The stuff that has stood the test of time…
The books that have informed history and politics and literature and worldview…
And, he gives us a quick tip on how to engage those “hard books.” (Yes, let’s admit it: some of the best stuff is more difficult to read. But, it’s in the process of chiseling through the rock that we begin uncovering the diamonds.)
We also answer a few other questions:
Should all of your reading be “Christian” only?
Should you always finish books that you begin?
How can you get your kids to read more?
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Links for this episode:
Compare George’s home office (https://www.georgegrant.net/blog/HomeOffice) to his library (https://www.georgegrant.net/blog/Library)
Download the free PDF about the Keystones and the reading plan at www.GeorgeGrant.net/kesytones
Go to George’s website: www.GeorgeGrant.net/keystones - when you purchase the 3-part volume we’ll send you the Expulsive Power of a New Affection (digital version) totally free.
Apple Podcasts- https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/the-standfast-cast/id1448007323
Google Play- https://playmusic.app.goo.gl/?ibi=com.google.PlayMusic&isi=691797987&ius=googleplaymusic&apn=com.google.android.music&link=https://play.google.com/music/m/Ifv6ckyjzsg2glq7xqwjjmyqaei?t%3DThe_StandFast_Cast%26pcampaignid%3DMKT-na-all-co-pr-mu-pod-16
Stitcher- http://www.stitcher.com/s?fid=347205&refid=stpr
In this episode we begin with a ramble… about how and why George keeps the routine he does, and where he meets with the Lord.
Here’s one thing you’ll learn: it’s easier than you think. That is, we often make it too complex.
Here’s another: when you write things down (i.e., with pen and paper— not typing!), your mind connects in a greater way to to what you’re doing. That is, writing helps us become fully present, in the moment.
Umberto Eco said it best, “I don’t write so I’ll can remember things later. I wrote so I can learn things now.”
The neurological process of engagement amplifies when we write.
Dawson Trotter, the founded of the Navigators, often said that “thoughts untangle themselves when we write them down…”
And, from a secular perspective, Francis Bacon said that “reading makes a man grow wide, but writing makes him grow deep.”
In this talk we discuss the importance of journaling— and how writing isn’t just for reference back in the future. Rather, it’s for now. It’s a process that helps us engage fully in the moment.
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Links for this episode:
Download the free PDF about the Keystones and the reading plan at www.GeorgeGrant.net/kesytones
Go to George’s website: www.GeorgeGrant.net/keystones - when you purchase the 3-part volume we’ll send you the Expulsive Power of a New Affection (digital version) totally free.
Apple Podcasts- https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/the-standfast-cast/id1448007323
Google Play- https://playmusic.app.goo.gl/?ibi=com.google.PlayMusic&isi=691797987&ius=googleplaymusic&apn=com.google.android.music&link=https://play.google.com/music/m/Ifv6ckyjzsg2glq7xqwjjmyqaei?t%3DThe_StandFast_Cast%26pcampaignid%3DMKT-na-all-co-pr-mu-pod-16
Stitcher- http://www.stitcher.com/s?fid=347205&refid=stpr
In Mark 1 we learn that Jesus “showed up” every single day. The disciples observed that early in the morning, every morning, He moved away to pray.
In this episode we continue last week’s conversation. We talk about, like Jesus did, showing up.
But then we go farther…
What do you actually do when you “get there,” when you carve that sacred space to commune with the Father…?
Here, we talk about the importance of mining the truths of Scripture:
- Read through an app
- Or find a downloadable “through the Bible” plan
- Or purchase a version of the Bible on Amazon (or a bookstore) than enables you to work through the Bible bit-by-bit.
Often, we think the “plan” is the magical thing, but it’s not…
The plan is the tool we use to step into the throne room of grace, where we’re promised we’ll find help in our time of need.
So pick a plan.
Need one? Right now, we’re working through the Keystones in the Standfast Community. We’d love to have you join us— go to www.GeorgeGrant.net/keystones for more info.
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Links for this episode:
Download the free PDF about the Keystones and the reading plan at www.GeorgeGrant.net/kesytones
Go to George’s website: www.GeorgeGrant.net/keystones - when you purchase the 3-part volume we’ll send you the Expulsive Power of a New Affection (digital version) totally free.
Apple Podcasts- https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/the-standfast-cast/id1448007323
Google Play- https://playmusic.app.goo.gl/?ibi=com.google.PlayMusic&isi=691797987&ius=googleplaymusic&apn=com.google.android.music&link=https://play.google.com/music/m/Ifv6ckyjzsg2glq7xqwjjmyqaei?t%3DThe_StandFast_Cast%26pcampaignid%3DMKT-na-all-co-pr-mu-pod-16
Stitcher- http://www.stitcher.com/s?fid=347205&refid=stpr
As we launch into the new year, we talk about one of the trends that always happens anytime we flip the number in the calendar…
Namely, people begin showing up at the gym.
What can we learn from them?
Well, first, showing up is important.
But, second, if you show up without a plan, you’re probably not going to continue showing up for too long.
Enter this discussion about “ruts,” about finding a plan and getting into a groove.
Face it, most of the time we think of “ruts” as things we want to avoid. But what if we could find a righteous rut, a good groove that makes everything supernaturally easier and far more robust?
In this episode of the Standfast-cast we launch a new series about these “righteous ruts.” More importantly, we talk about how to create one.
Two options
1 John 2:15 gives us the best way to do to this. There, the Apostle tells us not to love the things in the world.
There are two ways to do this:
First, we can oppose everything that’s bad. That is, we can choose the negative way.
The problem is that, like you’ve probably heard before, “Two negatives only equal a positive in math.”
As George says, “You can’t fight something with nothing.”
That leads us to the second option…
Second, we can embrace that which is the best. That is, we can choose the positive way.
Referring to Thomas Chalmers’ sermon, The Expulsive Power of a New Affection, George notes that we can run from the world OR we can run TO our Father. That is, we can allow our hearts to embrace a new affection, a greater grace, something more worthy.
When we do this, our palette changes. We transform. We crave the spiritual.
So, schedule.
Make the time to “show up,” just like the people in the gym do at the beginning of every new year.
And then look for a grace-filled rut to fall into…
In this next episode, we’ll outline what that rut might look like….
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Links for this episode:
Go to George’s website: www.GeorgeGrant.net/keystones - when you purchase the 3-part volume we’ll send you the Expulsive Power of a New Affection (digital version) totally free.
Apple Podcasts- https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/the-standfast-cast/id1448007323
Google Play- https://playmusic.app.goo.gl/?ibi=com.google.PlayMusic&isi=691797987&ius=googleplaymusic&apn=com.google.android.music&link=https://play.google.com/music/m/Ifv6ckyjzsg2glq7xqwjjmyqaei?t%3DThe_StandFast_Cast%26pcampaignid%3DMKT-na-all-co-pr-mu-pod-16
Stitcher- http://www.stitcher.com/s?fid=347205&refid=stpr
The final step of Divine Reading (Lectio Divina) is to memorize the key verse of the chapter we’re studying. We hide it in our heart, recognizing that memorized Scripture was the exclusive means people throughout history have had to carry the Word with them.
As you allow the verse to take root in your soul, continue contemplating…
How does this verse seem to summarize the chapter?.
How does the verse fit into the overall narrative arc of the book up to this point?
In what ways does hiding this verse in our hearts shape us more and more in the image of Christ our Savior?
This is all part of the Lectio Divina.
As we apply the Scriptures, we need to be able to see the Gospel in the text (Evangelii).
Where is the pattern of redemption shown, the glory of grace extended, the promise of forgiveness established, and the merit of Jesus laid upon us?
And, there’s this, too…
Most of us are naturally inclined to works righteousness, so where in this passage is the corrective of sovereign grace?
See it?
Write it down.
And hide it in your heart.
Once you’ve reflected on the chapter AND spent time praying through it, it is now time to respond to it.
(The Respond page of the Keystones includes Contemplatio, Evangelii, and Memoria.)
We begin those three with Contemplatio, that is, apply.
The truths of the Scripture need to be practically lived and expressed in our lives (Contemplatio)…
Is there a command I need to obey…
… a grace I need to appropriate…
… a promise I need to cling to…
… a love I need to foster…
… a conviction I need to heed…
… or a kindness I need to extend?.
Write it down: but be tangible and specific— this is the place for practical application after all.
After reading and discovering what the passage says, we move to prayer…
In fact, we take time to stop to pray through the whole passage (Oratio).
We might begin in several places…
What is there to be thankful for here?
How does this prompt us to worship?
Are there matters we need to ask God to give us the grace to do or to be?
Record your supplications and intercessions.
After reading the passage (Lectio), the second step in Divine Reading (Lectio Divina) is to think through what the chapter is teaching (Meditatio).
What does it mean?.
How should it be understood?.
How should the passage be interpreted?.
Is it primarily indicative (helping us to see something) or imperative (commanding us to do something)?
Reflect and journal your insights.
When you open the Keystones book, you’ll notice that there’s a two-page spread for each chapter of the Bible. The left side contains three Reflection steps; the right side contains three Respond steps.
Over the next few talks, we’ll discuss each of the six steps, as they’re based on a historical method of reading Scripture known as the Lectio Divina— that is, Divine (Divina) Reading (Lectio).
The first step in this “Divine Reading” is to first read… not with the end to apply or do any other thing, but to dive in and observe what’s been written and transmitted to us through the ages.
As you read the Gospel chapter (Lectio), what do you observe?.
Are there repeated words, noteworthy images, strong verbs, Old Testament allusions, unusual vocabulary, names, places, promises, commands, or warnings?.
Take note of these and write them down.
This is the first step in Divine Reading…
George and Karen look back at one of their favorite projected from two decades ago. They share what lessons they’ve learned in the intervening years--and how they might approach those books if they were to write them today.
Two decades ago George and Karen wrote a series of worldview books. One of them was a book about books and another was a book about travel. With the perspective of distant hindsight, they revisit those books and the lessons they still have to teach us.
The One who can create mountains and stars and fish and birds and everything else with a word- or even heal the sick by saying so- can certainly “snap His fingers” and adjust reality…
But He often doesn’t.
Exodus 13:17-18… tells us that when the Children of Israel left Egypt, God INTENTIONALLY took them- here’s the quote- “the long way.” He reasoned that if they went the “short way,” straight through the Philistines country (think: David vs. Goliath), they would have shuddered. They hadn’t seen war, so they would have returned to slavery.
So, He led them straight towards the Red Sea and right into the wilderness (yes, all of THAT- yet, the long way- was EASIER than the short way). And, the long way equipped them for things they didn’t yet possess…
In this episode of the podcast, George tells us how the Lord pulled together fragments of his story- which may have seemed disconnected at one time- together into a solid story of redemption. With the Father, we’re always right where we need to be. Even if it seems like we took the long way to get there.
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Links for this episode
Download the Keystones PDF free at www.GeorgeGrant.net/keystones
Ephesians 2:8-10 tells us that grace not only saves us but that it also orchestrates as series of incredible opportunities for us to walk towards, sacred spaces where the Lord promises to use us for our good and His glory.
In this talk we talk through some of the strangest moments in George’s ministry, those times when seemingly random happenstance encounters with others proved to be those precise moments when grace penned the script, when the Author and Finisher of the story brought new characters into the story that only He could bring.
This leads us to the genesis of Franklin Classical School, a seminary in Iraq, a school in Indonesia, and more…
In the end, it all comes down to one of George’s key phrases- and bits of advice he passes to others- “Do the next right thing.”
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Links for this episode
Download the Keystones PDF free at www.GeorgeGrant.net/keystones
As we began recording talk three about his story, George told us that sitting and recalling the events of his life was good.
“It’s helped me see all of these Ebenezers in my life,” he said, “those markers where you can look back and see that the Lord really HAS brought you to where you are…”
In this chapter of his story we move into some twists and turns…
We talk about big dreams that sometimes came up, well, somewhat differently than what was expected.
Yet, though all of it, the Lord continued weaving a tapestry of grace and completing the story.
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Links for this episode
Download the Keystones PDF free at www.GeorgeGrant.net/keystones
George was determined he was going to be a swimming coach, and that he was definitely NOT called to be a pastor. In this talk we go back to his early swimming days (the day we recorded this podcast, he woke up at 4am in order to swim 6,000 yards).
Then we discuss the early days at the University of Houston, his introduction to Campus Crusade, and how he met Karen…
George and Karen got married, went to seminary, and George worked three jobs to support his new family. On the weekends he cleaned floors, during the weeknights he was a janitor, and during the weekdays he had his favorite job- at the bookstore.
That third one provided him with an opportunity for “double reading,” as he calls it. Whereas some of his profs at seminary were teaching questionable theology, the time he was given to read and reflect helped grow deep roots.
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Links for this episode
Download the Keystones PDF free at www.GeorgeGrant.net/keystones
Revelation 12 tells us that we overcome the enemy by two things: the blood of Jesus and the word of our testimony (12:10). So, we decided to pull back the curtain for a few weeks and talk to George about his story.
Turns out, George grew up in a highly moral home- one where right was always taught over wrong. But, it was spiritually void. Despite that, though, George tells us that he felt the same sense that George Whitfield often likened to a “peculiar stirring.”
In this talk George talks with us about his early days at the high school assembly where he heard an evangelist speak of the Gospel, he takes us to a stadium revival, and he walks us to the discount table at a Christian bookstore where he encountered a few books that changed the trajectory of his life- and even marked his future ministry.
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Links for this episode
Books mentioned in this talk:
Charles Spurgeon, The Soul Winner- https://amzn.to/34aO8BM
Richard Baxter, The Reformed Pastor- https://amzn.to/34aO8BM
Download the Keystones PDF free at www.GeorgeGrant.net/keystones
Every church, organization, and ministry is temporary.
Our lives are, like James says, just a vapor. Then we’re gone.
One of the greatest legacies we can leave is a wake of people who replace us, who can carry the baton we were handed.
In this episode we discuss how George views his church, the leader coming behind him, and the importance of discipleship.
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Links for this episode
Download the Keystones PDF free at www.GeorgeGrant.net/keystones
Cam Clausing has spent three years studying the theological method of Herman Bavinck. The fruit of those labors is a doctoral dissertation--but while he was writing that tome he was simultaneously working on a new translation of “Sacrifice of Praise,” a wonderful little book from which every Christian would derive great benefit. George and Cam discuss why.
For the past three years Cam Clausing has been working on his PhD at the University of Edinburgh. The focus of his study and his dissertation has been the theological method of Herman Bavinck. In this conversation with George, Cam reveals the important lessons Bavinck has for us all today.
Chalmers felt-
It is not possible to maintain orthodoxy through induction. Instead, orthodoxy must naturally be deductive- rooted in the rightful elucidation of the Holy Scriptures. Herein is the first principle of ecclesiology.
So, Chalmers endeavored to expose men and women to the Word of God. Further, he labored to create a tool whereby the could bury the Word deep in their hearts.
Chalmers, a mathematician, took a very systematic approach:
- He read the entire New Testament multiple times.
- He chose what he believe to be the key verse in each chapter.
- He encouraged students and parishioners to memorize that verse, which became known as the keystone.
The result was a summary of the New Testament which provided a rich theology, covering all the major themes of the written text.
When Chalmers finished compiling the verses, he recalled-
I finished this day my perusal of the New Testament by daily chapters, in which my object was to commit striking passages to memory.I mean to begin its perusal anew, in which this object shall be revised, and the object of fixing upon one sentiment of the chapter for habitual and recurring contemplation through the day shall be added to the former.
Over time, the keystone verse- to Chalmers- changed. Depending on the depth of his theology, the dynamic of his relationship with the Lord, and the season of life in which he found himself, the Word illumined itself in different capacities.
This was to be expected, though. For, as Hebrews tells us (4:12)-
… the word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing to the division of soul and of spirit, of joints and of marrow, and discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart.
Paul reminds us that as we behold Christ- the living expression of the written Word- we find ourselves in the process of being transformed more and more like Him- so much so that encountering Him becomes increasingly more as if we observe ourselves in a mirror (2 Corinthians 3:18):
And we all, with unveiled face, beholding the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from one degree of glory to another. For this comes from the Lord who is the Spirit.
James reminds us that doing the Word is the natural overflow of encountering it (James 1:23-25):
For if anyone is a hearer of the word and not a doer, he is like a man who looks intently at his natural face in a mirror. For he looks at himself and goes away and at once forgets what he was like. But the one who looks into the perfect law, the law of liberty, and perseveres, being no hearer who forgets but a doer who acts, he will be blessed in his doing.
This all begins with belief, though, which manifests spontaneously as we encounter the Word.
Links for this show-
Download the Keystones introduction at www.GeorgeGrant.net/Keystones
Take a peak inside Geroge’s library at www.GeorgeGrant.net/blog/Library
In this episode, George reintroduces us to one of his heroes in the faith, Thomas Chalmers. And, he talks about a new project on the horizon- the Keystones project.
Here’s the background…
Thomas Chalmers (March 17, 1780 – May 31, 1847) was born during a season in Scotland in which the church was largely lifeless and dry.
Iain Murray is the preeminent Christian historian and biographer of the last generation and the founder of Banner of Truth.
He writes-
When Chalmers was born in 1780 it was about the deadest time in the history of the Church of Scotland since the Reformation. When he died in 1847 it was about the livest. The difference was almost entirely attributable to the Spirit’s work through him.
Chalmers trained a generation of leaders, radically altering the spiritual, moral, and political climate of Scotland.
Kelton McFee, a Free Church of Scotland pastor and professor, said-
Scotland is now filled with men- and England more than a few such- who never weary in giving utterance to their feelings when they speak of those times of happy excitement when they spent in the presence of Dr. Chalmers in Moral Philosophy or Theology in the class room while the great man himself held the mind and the soul all present in his powerful grasp. In as much as he sent forth over its surface a body of men, who if they turn not aside from the path that he sent them forward may, and with God’s help will, bring about the Christian regeneration of Scotland. For now every part has a young, would-be Chalmers.
Whereas humanism often suggests methods of “doing” before “believing,” Chalmers insisted the Biblical paradigm is “believe before do.”
He wrote-
On the system of “Do this and live,” no peace, and even no true obedience, can ever be attained. It is “Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ and thou shalt be saved.” When this belief enters the heart, joy and confidence enter along with it. The righteousness we try to work out for ourselves eludes our important grasp, and never can a soul arrive at a true and permanent rest in the pursuit of this object.
In placing belief at the forefront, Chalmers echoed Jesus’ words from John 6:29-
“This is the work of God, that you believe…”
Right believing always leads to righteous living. A behavior problem is a belief problem.
Links for this show-
Download the Keystones introduction at www.GeorgeGrant.net/keystones
Take a peak inside Geroge’s library at www.GeorgeGrant.net/blog/Library
On today’s StandFast Cast, George and Karen talk about two of their living heroes, Gene and Susan Hunt. Their longstanding ministry to and friendship with the Grants has largely shaped the focus of Parish, King’s Meadow, Franklin Classical, and StandFast.
George and Karen talk today about their mentors: Francis and Edith Schaeffer- their lives, their ministries, and their books. They even give a few tips on where to start if you’ve always wanted to be more familiar with the Schaeffer’s rich legacy.
George and Karen Grant discuss the books they are currently reading.
Karen is reading: “A Year with Peter Drucker” (Harper), “Coming Clean” by Kimberly Rae Miller (Houghton Mifflin), “Learning Evangelism from Jesus” by Jerram Barrs (Crossway), “Patina Living” by Brooke and Steve Gianetti (Gibbs Smith), and “Unnatural Causes” by P.D. James (Faber and Faber).
George is reading: “Esther” by Joyce Baldwin (IVP), “Lotharingia” by Simon Winder (Farrar, Straus, Giroux), “Remembering Belloc” by James Schall (St. Augustine), and “Four Princes” by John Julius Norwich (Atlantic Monthly).
For the past several episodes of the Standfast-cast, George and Karen Grant have discussed the effectual power of the Psalms for the Christian life.
In this ongoing discussion, they zero in on the “Psalms of Lament,” those remarkable Psalms where the aches and hurts of this fallen world are fully expressed and brought before the Lord.
Join George and Karen Grant’s discussion on this podcast episode about using the Psalms in times of grief and disappointment. Karen reminds us of the power of Psalm 23 and George picks up themes from Psalm 46 and 55. In a sense, they assert, the Psalms can be a “toolbox” for faith.
George reminds us of several insights about navigating grief from Jonathan Edwards: don’t feed your sorrows; don’t heed your sorrows; and don’t waste your sorrows.
On this episode, George and Karen Grant discuss the patterns habits they’ve developed for morning devotions. In particular, they discuss the way the Psalms can provide just exactly the right instruction, inspiration, and insight needed for almost any situation or circumstance.
Karen describes her “deep dive” into the Psalms using Charles Haddon Spurgeon’s magisterial work, “The Treasury of David.
George’s conversation with Caleb and Rebecca Faires focuses on their new publication, The Book of Comforts, published by Zondervan. A coffee table book filled with stories, Scripture, illustrations, photographs, and inspirations, the book navigates all the ways the Lord provides comfort to us and for us in times of distress and dismay.
After hearing this discussion, you’ll want to have this book in your home—and you’ll probably want a few spares to give to the hurting people you know and love.
In talk #5 in the Mark series, we go to chapter 5, to the region of the Gadarenes. The Decapolis (area of ten cities), as it was common called, was known for being an area of “trouble” in the ancient world. It was known for its problems.
Aside from being a place of pure unrest (even in our culture today, it’s a dangerous area), the Romans resettled the ten cities, most of them being dedicated to emperor worship. During the time of Jesus, it was also known for pig farming (which will become relevant to the story here). For a faithful Jew, this was not a great place to go.
Jesus ends up there in a strange way. He crosses the Sea of Galilee (and calms a storm in the process in Mark 4:35f.), steps out of his boat, and is immediately met by a man of the tombs- a man with an unclean spirit (5:2). The people of the city sent him there, as he was possessed with many demons. He couldn’t be constrained- even with chains.
When Jesus arrived, the man approached Jesus, fell at His feet, and asked Him what He had to do with him. Then, he begged not to be tormented (5:7).
After some time, the demons in the man- a legion of them- begged Him to send them into the nearby swine. Jesus obliged, and the pigs (now demon-possessed) ran down an embankment and drowned themselves in the Sea of Galilee (5:13).
The farmers told the townspeople and the townspeople returned to survey the scene. No doubt, their entire economic system had just been dealt a huge blow.
They all begged Jesus to leave the area (5:17). And the once-possessed man urged Jesus to permit him to go with him, presumably as a disciple.
Jesus told him to stay- and to go tell all of his friends what the Lord had done for him (5:20).
Now, Jesus leaves the region- by getting back in the boat. He obliges the townspeople, in other words. But, that’s not the end of the story for the demon-possessed man OR the region of the ten cities.
Here’s the rest…
Later in the Gospel, Jesus RETURNS to this man’s area. In fact, He does so not years later but a mere few weeks or months- at the most.
Sometimes, we don’t see what God is doing- not in the moment, anyway. For instance, we might think, “Jesus, take the healed man with you. This is a great story. Everyone knows him and everyone will see your power!”
But Jesus, instead, sends the man to go tell everyone what the Lord has done for him.
Within a few months, Jesus returned to this area- and area which initially wasn’t receptive to Him (see 7:31). While back in Decapolis, Jesus first heals a blind man (7:37).
Then, one of the most famous stories of all occurs- Jesus feeds the 4,000, after the people remain with Him for days, listening to His teaching.
What happened? Perhaps the once-demon-possessed man became an evangelist, someone who opened the doors for the Savior’s return.
In this, we learn the rhythm that Mark teaches throughout his Gospel, the same pattern we’re called to live now. That is, there’s a moment when we need to “come and see” Jesus. Yet we don’t stay there. We turn and “go and tell” others, inviting more and more people into the story of radical redemption.
This talk takes us to chapter 2 of Mark and one of the most famous stories of all, the story in which Jesus heals that’s lowered through a roof by his four friends.
Now, before we go there, we talk about the geography of the area for a bit. You see, Jesus’ home based became Capernaum. It’s likely He “worked” from Peter’s home, as this fishing village may very well have been the hometown of two sets of brothers, Peter & Andrew, as well as James & John.
Notice the map below- and see the various areas where we find Jesus throughout His ministry. The sea provided easy access everywhere, it insured food (and water) were available, and it provided Him with access to crowds.
SEE MAP
In this story, Jesus teaches a group of people who gather to hear him. Remember, at the end of chapter 1, due to touching a leper, Jesus moved to the remote / desolate areas (1:45). When He returns, word travels quickly.
The crowd becomes so large that no one else can come near. So, when four friends arrive with a paralytic friend, the go to the roof, tear a hole in the house, and lower their friend to the feet of Jesus.
Far from simply lifting a few leaves on a thatched hut, this was a big deal. It broke all social norms and conventions and destroyed someone’s home.
Jesus sees THEIR faith and marvels, however (2:5).
At this, the religious leaders (they’ve gathered to hear Him, too), begin questioning in their hearts as to whether or not Jesus can do this- “Who can forgive sins but God alone?”
Jesus perceives this- through their silence.
Then He asks them which is easier- to speak a word of forgiveness or to physically heal someone?
Presumably speaking a word of forgiveness is easier, because Jesus does the more difficult in order to prove He can do the first. He tells them man to take his mat and walk.
The bystanders are in awe. They’ve never seen anything like that, they declare.
And they haven’t. Remember, this the first miracle Mark records. We know the rest of the story- that Jesus is about to unleash a healing frenzy throughout Israel. But, they don’t yet know that.
What are the takeaways?
Listen in…
We talk about the place of faith, we discuss who Jesus really wants to save, and more.
So we begin our third discussion in the book of Mark with a ramble about George’s library. That leads us to one of the first books Andy notices, a book about the libido.
“Can we say that word on the podcast?” he asks.
George affirms we can. Then, as he’s prone to do, he launches into a brief discourse about faith, life, and the intersection of God’s goodness. He says something like, “When sexuality becomes the driving factor in society, things radically shift and go downhill morally… that’s what this book talks about.”
After that, we make the leap to the Gospel of Mark. Straight to chapter 1.
There, we see that Jesus confronted a culture much like ours, an era in which so much seemed adrift morally and spiritually.
Early in chapter 1 we watched Jesus get ordained as a priest. He’s endowed with authority by John the Baptist and He’s endorsed by His Heavenly Father. He defeats Satan in a wilderness-temptation standoff. Then, He injects himself into first century culture. Again, it was backwards and perverted as ours.
We see Jesus confront demons, the broken, despondent, lonely, shunned. He offers healing and redemption to all of them.
He teaches in the synagogue. People are astonished because He teaches with authority. And honor. And grace.
Here’s what’s shocking. The first demon-possessed man we encounter was in their synagogue. It was a new “normal” to them. And, whereas no one else- or no other teaching- had been able to deal with it, Jesus cures the man in an instant.
That leads us to this question: What are we tolerating as normal that we should not? Where have we missed the reach of grace and redemption, simply by not acknowledging the power of the Healer in our midst?
We discuss it in this episode of the Standfast-Cast. And, we acknowledge that Jesus draws lines where we don’t.
People like…
… the Syro-Phoenecian woman
… the Ruler of Synagogue
… Prostitutes
… the sick & infirmed
… the Demon possessed
… the least and last
… they were all always seeking HIm. And they were met with open arms.
The religious elite, on other hand, generally questioned Him.
And the disciples always wanted to know who would be the greatest. In fact, every time He revealed He was going to die, that was their “go to” mantra in the Gospels.
Listen in. Because the outsiders are now insiders.
In talk #2 from the Gospel of Mark we move straight into chapter 1. We find out immediately (immediately being a work Mark uses a lot), that there are a few important themes emerging.
First, Mark writes about “the beginning of the Gospel of Jesus.”
Dr. Grant reminds us that Luke began his Gospel account in the same way, but then followed up with book of Acts as an account of “all Jesus continued” to do and teach- through His church. In this way, Mark thinks missionally. Jesus clearly began something that the church continues- even as he writes his account.
Second, Mark completely omits all the details about Jesus’ birth.
We read nothing about his childhood (i.e., no mention of teaching the religious leaders at the temple when He was 12), etc. Mark hastens the story to drive at the theme of salvation.
Third, we meet John the Baptist- an encounter that sets the priestly tone of the entire book.
John the Baptist was the son of Zechariah, a priest who was promised he would have a son while he was serving in the temple. We forget that John the Baptist was ALSO a Levite. Therefore, everything he does has priestly implications.
Turns out, the priests had two types of baptism. They had a baptism of repentance AND a baptism where the Levites were set aside for ministry.
When the Levites were set aside, they also had two other things:
- 1- an anointing (a large sealed flask would be broken, shattered open)
- 2- a word of declaration
Turns out, we have BOTH in Jesus’ baptism. Perhaps, rather than being a baptism of repentance, it’s a baptism of ordination. After all, all the other factors are present- just as they would have been for priests. And, we know that Jesus, according to Hebrews, is our high priest.
In the ancient world, authors often wrote themselves into stories. They didn’t necessarily tell you they were making a cameo, but they were there. “Insiders” who knew the author well would see the tell-tale signs and realize what was happening.
Turns out, Mark came from a family of some means. More than “some,” actually. Tradition says the Last Supper may have actually been held in an upper room his family owned. Which could have also been the same place the first post-Resurrection Pentecost encounter with the Holy Spirit happened.
That leads many commentators to believe that Mark was the nameless rich young ruler we see in Mark 10:17f.
Read the story and you notice the young man’s familiarity with Jesus- it seems to be more than just “he happens to know who Jesus is.” Jesus, after all, loved him.
He couldn’t do what Jesus asked of him- “sell all you have and give to the poor”- at least, not yet. So, he went away sorrowful.
That’s not the end of the story, though.
Apparently, Jesus and John Mark stayed in close proximity to one another.
You see, most people believe Mark is also the bystander in Gethsemane. As the soldiers come and begin arresting Jesus, the disciples scatter. Mark includes mention of a man who was wearing a linen cloth (as sign of wealth) who is grabbed by a soldier, shimmies out of his clothes, leaves them behind, and runs away naked (see Mark 14:51f.).
We see Mark mentioned in Acts 15:39. Paul and Barnabas part was and head in two separate directions.
The issue?
John Mark. Barnabas wants to take him; Paul doesn’t. Apparently, John Mark bailed out when the “going got tough” on a previous trip. Barnabas, ever the encourager, thinks the young disciple needs another shot. Paul, the one as likely to be left for dead as found preaching in the synagogues doesn’t want the extra “dead weight.” So, they agree to disagree and separate.
Here’s where it gets interesting, though. At the end of his life, Paul reaches out to Timothy, his “son in the faith.” He asks for a few things…
- Scrolls and parchments (to study and write?)
- His cloak
- Mark
Paul was well known and respected. He could have asked for anything, yet he asked for the presence of a person instead of a possession. In his own wards, “John Mark is useful to me.”
What does it mean?
Well, we don’t know. Not specifically.
But we do know that this young man is transformed. He’s changed.
- He goes on to write the first Gospel that’s published, the one that got by his name.
- He becomes a close companion of Peter’s. In fact, many Bible scholars believe that he received a great deal of his revelation and insight about Jesus from Peter.
- His Gospel becomes the outline which Matthew and Luke both use to pen their stories.
What’s the point?
This- grace isn’t a license to sin, but it is a hall pass when we get tripped up along the way. And that pass insures God always gets you to your intended destination.
Listen in. Lots of takeaways from this man’s story.
John Bunyan is a man you and I weren’t every supposed to hear about. In fact, the people who imprisoned him for the better part of 17 years declared that his name should forever perish.
Ironically, that statement is engraved in stone- and we have no idea of the name of the man who made the statement!
Furthermore, Bunyan wrote a somewhat autobiographical parable during his imprisonment that became the second-best-selling book of all time, right behind the Bible.
Pilgrim’s Progress is a traveler’s tale, a genre of literature in the wake of Chaucer’s Canterbury Tales and other stories in which our heroes undertake a quest, a journey. The difference here is that Pilgrim (who eventually becomes “Christian”) travels from here to the celestial city.
Along the way he meets toils and snares, true friends and back-stabbing friends, as well as a litany of other situations we all face.
Scholars have tried to understand what made this book a best-seller. They have no real explanation other than the fact that many times God uses the weak (and imprisoned) to shame the strong (and in power) (1 Corinthians 1:27).
By the way, Bunyan was imprisoned for being a non-conformist, a fancy term which means he wasn’t licensed by the Church of England or the Anglican Church, both of which were accepted means of receiving credentials for clergy.
Today, he’s buried in a cemetery with other modern-day stalwarts of the faith, a place you’d likely love to be when the resurrection coccus.
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Links for this show-
StandFast Community- https://www.georgegrant.net/community
Pilgrim’s Progress, the book with no pictures- https://amzn.to/2H69KGk
Pilgrim’s Progress with pictures- https://amzn.to/2U7asqs
Part 1 and Part 2- https://amzn.to/2IDNzcJ
Other listening options for the podcast include-
Itunes- https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/the-standfast-cast/id1448007323
Google Play- https://playmusic.app.goo.gl/?ibi=com.google.PlayMusic&isi=691797987&ius=googleplaymusic&apn=com.google.android.music&link=https://play.google.com/music/m/Ifv6ckyjzsg2glq7xqwjjmyqaei?t%3DThe_StandFast_Cast%26pcampaignid%3DMKT-na-all-co-pr-mu-pod-16
Stitcher- http://www.stitcher.com/s?fid=347205&refid=stpr
In this talk we continue the discuss on The Great Awakening, focusing on America’s premier theologian, Jonathan Edwards (JE). In many ways, this man was George Whitefield’s (GW) exact opposite…
Whereas GW was a gifted orator; JE trembled and shook as he read his manuscripts.
Whereas GW called for mass conversions; JE actually told people who were ready to convert to stop weeping so that he could finish reading his sermon.
Whereas GW was a traveler; JE remained at a single church for most of his ministry.
Whereas GW drew the masses; JE preached to a small congregation.
But the Lord used both for the pivotal revival that, in many ways, made the American Revolution possible.
That… and salutary neglect, of course. We’ll explain that, too.
This episode features a few sporadic barks from George’s dog, showing you that- yes- we record these lives AND without a script.
Finally, you can find this information and more in chapter 2, “The Great Awakening,” in An Experiment in Liberty.
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Links for this show-
An Experiment in Liberty- https://amzn.to/2T3cFqj
StandFast Community- https://www.georgegrant.net/community
Other listening options for the podcast include-
Itunes- https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/the-standfast-cast/id1448007323
Google Play- https://playmusic.app.goo.gl/?ibi=com.google.PlayMusic&isi=691797987&ius=googleplaymusic&apn=com.google.android.music&link=https://play.google.com/music/m/Ifv6ckyjzsg2glq7xqwjjmyqaei?t%3DThe_StandFast_Cast%26pcampaignid%3DMKT-na-all-co-pr-mu-pod-16
Stitcher- http://www.stitcher.com/s?fid=347205&refid=stpr
Before the Great Awakening, the colonies were really disconnected entities. Remember, the notion of a nation-state was a relatively new phenomenon.
The Great Awakening became important for a few reasons.
First, the prosperity experienced in the New World became a double-edged sword. It was a blessing, but the warning of Deuteronomy 8 became true- that it’s easy to receive the blessing and then forget where it originated. So, the Awakening helped turn colonialists back to the Creator.
Second, the Awakening created an opportunity for colonies to begin communicating in a common language. People who previously never thought of one another now did. More and more, people began to realize they were part of a larger movement.
Third, finally, the Awakening instilled the ideas of spiritual and religion freedom into everyone. And, as we’ve discussed, one always necessitates the other. Spiritual freedom- true freedom- overflows into all of life.
The Awakening was sparked by two men. In this episode we discuss the first, George Whitfield. He was a fiery orator who drew huge crowds in outdoor spaces.
Oddly enough, he was a friend of Ben Franklin’s, a deist, who was held spellbound by his preaching. As were others. People anticipated Whitefield’s arrival in an area months in advance; he truly was America’s first celebrity.
By the way, you can find this information and more in chapter 2, “The Great Awakening,” in An Experiment in Liberty.
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Links for this show-
An Experiment in Liberty- https://amzn.to/2T3cFqj
StandFast Community- https://www.georgegrant.net/community
Other listening options for the podcast include-
Itunes- https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/the-standfast-cast/id1448007323
Google Play- https://playmusic.app.goo.gl/?ibi=com.google.PlayMusic&isi=691797987&ius=googleplaymusic&apn=com.google.android.music&link=https://play.google.com/music/m/Ifv6ckyjzsg2glq7xqwjjmyqaei?t%3DThe_StandFast_Cast%26pcampaignid%3DMKT-na-all-co-pr-mu-pod-16
Stitcher- http://www.stitcher.com/s?fid=347205&refid=stpr
It’s easy for us to “spiritualize” verses like Galatians 5:1- “It’s for freedom Christ set us free.”
However, all of these verses are to be lived-out in the present, in this life now. And, far from just giving us spiritual freedom (as incredible as that is), Christ brings freedom to every area of life.
The religious reformers realized this. On the heels of turning their ecclesiastical structures upside down, they recognized that the same structure there should inform even government.
Priests were no more entitled than kings; kings were no more entitled than priests.
The concept of a “priesthood of all believers” had radical implications. No only could everyone serve in the church, they could be called in every sphere of life.
In this episode of the StandFast Cast we discuss how that simple concept reverberated across the Atlantic and had major ramifications for the New World.
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Links for the show
StandFast Community- https://www.georgegrant.net/community
Other listening options for the podcast include-
Itunes- https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/the-standfast-cast/id1448007323
Google Play- https://playmusic.app.goo.gl/?ibi=com.google.PlayMusic&isi=691797987&ius=googleplaymusic&apn=com.google.android.music&link=https://play.google.com/music/m/Ifv6ckyjzsg2glq7xqwjjmyqaei?t%3DThe_StandFast_Cast%26pcampaignid%3DMKT-na-all-co-pr-mu-pod-16
Stitcher- http://www.stitcher.com/s?fid=347205&refid=stpr