The Dana Hanson Show: Recent Episodes
Dana Hanson
Podcasts from Dana Hanson, Pastor of LIFEHouse.la in Northridge CA and author of "Reboot: 70 Life Lessons with Dallas Willard"
Pastor Wes Dunn on two becoming one...
God is unifying two churches into one for the sake of kingdom work that can only be done with unity.
God is already ahead of us leading us to where he wants us to go...
Pastor Sean Kelly speaks of what the first century church has to say to the 21st...
It's not rocket science...unless I know a rocket scientist
The rhythm of life of the first Christians
Acts 2:42-47
I am intrigued by Stoicism with some teachings rather "Christlike"... But why did Christianity sweep through the Roman world in the first three centuries while Stoicism did not?
Do some Christians seem to force their morality on others? Sure. Are they the only ones who do this in society today? Hardly...
Second in our Jonah series
God is the best explanation for spiritual experience...It takes courage
Is there anything we can do to increase our receptivity in hearing from God? By all means, but do we really want to hear? It's a question of boldness...
Last in our "God is the best explanation..." series
God is the best explanation for morality...
Don't need to believe in God to live morally, but does there need to be God for morality to exist?
Let's explore...
Fifth in our "God is the Best Explanation for..." series
Examining what modern physics and biology say about the origins of life and the incredible design of the universe...Isn't it interesting the Bible connects in so many ways?
With a special appearance by Dr. Rich Melheim explaining the amazing properties of eggs....
Philosophy teacher, David Hanson, shows us the interesting relationship between "Big Bang" Cosmology and the teachings of the Bible.
Second in our "God is the Best Explanation for..." series
The historical validity of the New Testament is light years ahead of any other ancient writing.
Not to mention the 300+ prophesies from the Old Testament fulfilled in Jesus...There is that, too...
First in our new, "God is the Best Explanation for....", series
Using historical, forensic and extra-biblical sources to support the validity of the Resurrection of Jesus from the Dead
It's All About The Signs...Palm Sunday Through a Revelation Filter
Sixth in our Book of Revelation Series...
The only one who is right is Jesus. Be loyal to Him alone...
Fifth in our series from the Book of Revelation
How are we the Knuckles of Christ?
Third in Our Seven Week Series on The Book of Revelation
When we don't follow God's ways and suffer the consequences, that's on us...Lord, have mercy
"Most parents say they are willing to die for their children...But are U willing to live for them?" - Rich Melheim
Here is what this means to me...
What's the story about all in the various accounts of angels leading up to and after the birth of Jesus?
What does Jesus teach about the end of the world? It's closer than we think with not a zombie in sight...
Freedom from addictions and distractions...Freedom for new life
LIFEhouse Worship Leader Rob Reed teaches on truth addressing that which would bind us...John 8
What's it like to live without distraction? I don't know, but Jesus does...
Martha and Mary
Knowing I am special and favorite of God...U too!
Learning from my brain, the one who designed it, Jesus and Peter on the water...and baby Iris!
...with insights from Becoming a Face of Grace, by Ed Khouri
One of the key teachings of life in the Kingdom of God is discovered in four verses...Here's 20 minutes that could change a life
What does Family of Origin/ Family of Destiny mean as it has to do with Christian Community?
Or...
"Oikos" is more than a yogurt
Only One Person Knows the Truth and It's Not Me...However, I Do Know The One Who Knows So There is That... 1 Timothy 4
Do leaders reflect the message of their movement? Do leaders have followers? It starts with character and integrity...Paul's practical guidelines from 1 Timothy 3
When Jesus told us to "love our enemies" He didn't think we would be able to do this on our own...Instead, He knew we would be able to do it with a change of heart...His heart for our own
Why the worst of what is happening doesn't come close to the best of what God delivers...
Last in our Lamentation series- Lamentations 5
Fourth in our series on Lamentations.
Always giving God the glory though action as well as words.
An "all of life" lesson in less time than a Ted Talk...with insights from Lamentations 3
Human anger is primarily about not getting our own way. Not so with God. God's wrath is about His righteousness and His greatness...
Resentment, Deceit and Arrogance...The Unholy Trinity and What Can Be Done About It
These three sources of evil in our world and in our lives can be overcome...Here's how
On Marriage...
Rule 10 Plan And Work Diligently To Maintain The Romance in Your Relationship...
Eighth in our series "Brain and Bible 2.0" connecting the wisdom of Scripture with the insights of Dr. Jordan Peterson from "Beyond Order: 12 More Rules For Life"
How beauty can be a window to the Sacred...
Seventh in our series "Brain and Bible 2.0" connecting the wisdom of Scripture with the insights of Dr. Jordan Peterson from "Beyond Order: 12 More Rules For Life"
We have a maturity crisis in our society...Jesus is the model and has the teachings to enable us to move forward
"Mac" McLeod on how ideas become idols...
Sixth in our series "Brain and Bible 2.0" connecting the wisdom of Scripture with the insights of Dr. Jordan Peterson from "Beyond Order: 12 More Rules For Life"
Veteran Economics/Philosophy/Government/Psychology Teacher, David Hanson, walks us through the Valley of the Shadow of The Woke and we come through the other side knowing how Jesus makes all the difference...
Rule 4 in our series "Brain and Bible 2.0" connecting the wisdom of Scripture with the insights of Dr. Jordan Peterson from "Beyond Order: 12 More Rules For Life"
Want to discover meaning in life?
Do what God wants done by U!
Third in our series "Brain and Bible 2.0" connecting the wisdom of Scripture with the insights of Dr. Jordan Peterson from "Beyond Order: 12 More Rules For Life"
Little things grow into big things...Ignorance is not bliss. How to have healthy conversations...
Second in our series "Brain and Bible 2.0" connecting the wisdom of Scripture with the insights of Dr. Jordan Peterson from "Beyond Order: 12 More Rules For Life"
Joining in the greatest adventure in the galaxies...heroes welcome
Our new series "Brain and Bible 2.0" connecting the wisdom of Scripture with the insights of Dr. Jordan Peterson from "Beyond Order: 12 More Rules For Life"
Conserve and Create are not opposed to each other...
Hey, I'm a Christian...Now What? Welcome to a Life of Loving...
Love one another as I have loved you + Make disciples= Loving like Jesus
Heal the Sick, Deliver the Demonized, Teach the Kingdom of God...From the Playbook of Coach Jesus
If the good news of God is only about my sins being forgiven by Jesus' sacrifice on the cross, and not also about the life I live now after I believe, then why do I need the resurrection of Jesus?
On Not Being My Own Little god...
We live in an age of two year old maturity...Can I grow out of it?
Yes, it's all about seeking the good of your enemies...
Make The Best Possible Peace With Your Parents....
Learning from Jesus and his not-so-perfect family
A secret to pretty much everything...
Better....health....relationships...success at work...overall satisfaction-
One thing? Well, according to Jesus, one thing
Forgiveness does not mean:
I stop hurting...
I forget what happened...
I treat the person exactly as before...
So what is forgiveness?
On the command of Jesus to forgive 70 x 7...
Am I falling short In my life? Am I just spinning my wheels?
Jesus has the answer: Abundance + Responsibility= Adding Value!
Jesus gives us everything we need to live well in a broken world and connect others to this same source...The Kingdom of God
The Whole World is Influenced by Christian Values...So, What's Missing?
To get to the fruit, you need the root...
I choose not to receive condemnation...
I choose not to condemn...
I choose instead to aim high and seek the good of others, including my “enemies”, with the power of the Holy Spirit working through me, combined with the competence God has given me to be a light in the darkness…...Seems like that that's working
It feels like we are all coming out of exile with the pandemic...Now what?
It's the best time to be new!
Younger and Older Brothers...Enough Self-Righteousness to Go Around
What is my sin of choice?
On the Prodigal Son
How Not To Be Despicable and Wicked or…Mathematics Isn’t White Supremacy
While Critical Race Theory alludes to everything being about race and every white person being racist, Jesus would differ. In fact, if you are that person, you are Christ’s enemy…He is the Truth, after all…
Freedom: It looks a lot like love
Fifth in the series based on Broken Signposts: How Christianity Makes Sense of the World, by N.T. Wright
The beauty of the created world and the goodness of the life of Jesus and those who follow Him are a powerful combination
Week Four of our series, How Christianity Makes Sense of The World
Our confidence and hope rests on whom we follow...and there isn't an "R" or a "D" next to his name...
Diving in to a parched and thirsty land...bearing fruit and bringing healing
Week Three of our series, How Christianity Makes Sense of The World
Week one of our new seven-part series on how Christianity makes sense of the world and how following Jesus makes sense, based on "Broken Signposts: How Christianity Makes Sense of The World" by N.T. Wright.
2020? Political parties...The Media...The "Science"...Nope-
I Only Trust in Jesus
Christmas Eve 2020
Some of our best times singing and listening to music are around Christmas. Here is the story behind the story of our oldest, our most popular, and Charlie Brown's favorite...Christmas carols
Pretty much every generation experiences end of the world times. And everyone of us has "end of the world as we know it" just down the road...So, how do we respond without tuning out or dropping out? Live...
The Psalms are filled with a lot of complaining. Is this a good idea? What does God think?
A Practical Guide to Supernatural Healings
Healings...Fourth in our six part series on Spiritual Gifts
God gives us spiritual gifts to grow Christians and build up the Church in the world...
Or
How God wires us through our personalities and spiritual gifts to serve Him and our neighbors in the most impactful ways...
What are the Spiritual Gifts?
William Seymour and 100's of millions of other Christians know the answer to that, and we can all make progress in being receptive to what God has in store...
Gifted? Who Me?
What are spiritual gifts? What gets in our way of using them for God’s work?
David Hanson, son of Pastor and Nancy Hanson, speaks of how God works directly and behind the scene in his life and as a High School teacher...
Jesus spent more than half his life working construction...Two thirds of his teaching in the Gospels is about business and work...What's going on, here?
Second in our God At Work series...What if God is calling us to be less as He is more? What would that look like? We started in a garden, after all...
Our vocation, our calling, is living out The Great Commandment...Love God and Love Our Neighbor As Ourself...We are in the business of sharing love...
At the end of his life Moses is "speaking" his autobiography from Mt. Nebo, when he finally discovers his greatest calling from God wasn't what he thought it was...
The 12 spies return and we find out who is with God and who is with the mob. First the golden calf and now this...Don't think so
The story of the bronze serpent on the pole is bizarre...until you realize it directly relates to the most famous bible verse John3:16 and every falls into place...
How to avoid pandemonium by keeping your eyes fixed to the sky...
Manna and Water from the Rock...Second in our In the Wilderness: Thriving in Hard Seasons
We travel with the Israelites who are learning a hard lesson- With freedom comes responsibility
During this hard season of pandemic, looking into my own burning bush, what do I see? What do I hear? What is God calling me to do?
Angry, bitter, hostile, resentful, toxic, predatory...
Or...
Admirable, truthful, courageous, considerate, forgiving, faithful...
Choose...
On preparing for the storms of life or running away from them...It makes all the difference
Cain, the first human being born on earth murders the second...
It starts with envy...followed by anger, bitterness, hostility, resentment, contempt...violent revenge
Does this have to keep being our story?
With insights from Dr. Jim Wilder and Dr. Jordan Peterson
Part One: What are you aiming at?
An in-depth look at the Bible and brain research, informed by the work of Jordan Peterson, in a three part series, "Maps of Meaning: Finding Your Way Forward In Your Life..."
What does "You 2.0" look like after the Pandemic and Civil Unrest of the last months? God is always moving ahead of us, and the Holy Spirit guides us to see what God is doing and join Him there.
Pentecost Sunday is a day of new beginning just as the Holy Spirit breathed over the waters of creation, in the nostrils of the first human, and over all the followers of Jesus at Pentecost...for the times ahead
What's it like to start fresh? The creator of the sciences is the one who invites you to real new life...
The birthday of the Church is the end of the wait for the Holy Spirit to come upon God's people for good...For Good
From the cave of birth with the babe in the swaddling clothes to the cave of burial with the clothes cast aside- It's all joy!
Our confidence is tested and we are strong and secure in the arms of our loving Father...
Now is the time to be a good neighbor and bring his hope
We continue to learn from Jesus how to thrive in a broken world and model it for those around us...
Faith not fear!
The transfiguration of Jesus is witnessed by Peter, James and John and Peter remembers it well, 30 years later...What does all this mean?
Actually, let's think about two mountaintops...
2 Peter 1:16-18
The devil most often attacks us at our conscience. Trying to influence us to be guilty over our sin or angry at those whom we, rightly or wrongly, think have sinned against us...Here is what we can do
We are not conquering territory for God. Through the victory of Jesus, the territory has already been won. We are on guard duty where God places us...
What does this look like? In Ephesians 6, Paul gives us a helpful picture of what it means to put on the whole armor of God...
When Jesus delivers the madman across the water from a legion of demons, he declares victory. His death and resurrection make it possible for us to stand against the devil and his demons.
What does it mean to you to know Jesus chooses you?
We learn from Jesus how to live well in a broken world...Gathering together with Jesus is team training time...
From Mark 3
Martin Luther taught the “What lifts up Christ”? Rule…
Whatever lifts up Jesus and makes it more likely for you to follow him and become more like him in your own life is a key to Biblical teaching. This same criteria can be used for traditions and customs of the Christian faith practices you follow.
What moves me to be more like Him?
Based on Mark 2
When Jesus calls Matthew, the tax collector, to follow Him, He is inviting the whole world to join Him at Messiah's table...
Digging through the dirt in our lives brings forgiveness and healing...
Based on Mark 2
When Jesus begins his public ministry he says he has come to preach, and we see this means both words and actions...
The Messiah is born and 30 years later...Thirty years!?
God waits a long time to get things going and then, boom!
Here we go...
Mark 1 sermon
Jesus dying on the cross...The ultimate sacrifice...
God coming as man...the other sacrifice...
A Christmas sermon
Matthew and Luke emphasize two different groups of people who come to worship Jesus, the newborn king. Why Shepherds? Why Magi?
God is up to something...
So many of our Christmas customs have Christian roots. That only makes sense. Santa Claus, Christmas trees, Christmas carols and many more.
Brain and Bible: Rule #12 Pet a cat when you encounter one on the street
In the midst of suffering, struggle, and anxiety, there are ways to discover how the Spirit works so well in the present...Not as much thinking as noticing...
A formula for disaster...
If you want to make sure our younger generations have more anxiety and much less socioeconomic success just keep doing things exactly as we are, especially in our eduction system. Throw in attacking boys and young men, while you are at it.
Or, you could do this...
When we don't sweep things under the rug in our relationships and speak clearly and specifically about issues of importance to us, we bring light into the darkness...
Ninth in the Brain and Bible series incorporating deep teachings from Scripture with insights from Jordan Peterson's 12 Rules for Life
Why listening is so important and why we don't do it very well...
Eighth in the Brain and Bible series. Digging deep into the Bible with insights from Jordan Peterson's 12 Rules for Life.
Lying and deception ruin everything else that follows. So, what's the problem and how does God work us through it?
Seventh in a series, Brain and Bible. linking deep Bible teaching with insights from 12 Rules for Life, by Dr. Jordan B. Peterson
Homelessness...
Opioids...
Hurricanes...
Torture...
Evil...
The Monster within...
Courage...
Responsibility...
Sacrifice...
Kingdom of God...
Everything is spiritual....
Fifth in a series, Brain and Bible, linking deep Bible teaching with insights from 12 Rules for Life, by Dr. Jordan B. Peterson.
What is the most important job of a parent? Keeping the baby safe? Financial security? Making sure they get a good start in education?
How about this for a parents job description?
'The first four years of childhood my job is to promote my child’s opportunity to be liked by children and adults.'
Welcome to Rule #5 Do Not Let Your Children Do Anything That Makes You Dislike Them
Fourth in a series, Brain and Bible, linking deep Bible teaching with insights from 12 Rules for Life, by Dr. Jordan B. Peterson
Rule #4 Compare yourself to who you were yesterday, not to who someone else is today
Jealousy easily breeds bitterness and resentment. Starting with the first human beings born on earth, lives get destroyed as a result.
How about working on you instead? Tiny steps under the power of the Holy Spirit...
Good friends bring out the best in you as you bring out the best in them…
Third in the twelve-week teaching series, Brain and Bible. We are digging deep into the scripture with insights from 12 Rules for Life, by Dr. Jordan Peterson.
Rule #3 Make Friends With People Who Want The Best For You
Go to brainandbible.com for more info...
Most people treat other people better than they treat themselves. Even their pets. What can we do about this?
Second in the twelve-week teaching series, Brain and Bible. We are digging deep into the scripture with insights from 12 Rules for Life, by Dr. Jordan Peterson.
Rule #2 Treat Yourself Like Someone You Are Responsible For Helping
First, in the twelve-week teaching series, Brain and Bible. We are digging deep into the scripture with insights from 12 Rules for Life, by Dr. Jordan Peterson.
What do lobsters, predators/bullies, brain chemicals, the disappearance of moral knowledge from our schools, and David vs. Goliath have to do with a healthy life? And posture...
Rule #1 Stand Up Straight With Your Shoulders Back
brainandbible.com
A variety of topics (Proverbs 15) on being right with God:
Getting God’s attention
On being positive…
Playing the victim
What if you are the victim?
Family
Anger
Just so much noise
Scoffers
When you trust in Jesus here is what happens-
You are able to do God’s work in your life because he is already there willing and working the good through you…
How’s that for wisdom?
Philippians 2:10-16, Proverbs 14
"If you love me you will do what I want you to do. You will do what makes me happy".
Try raising your children this way...
Yet, this is the meaning of love for the vast majority of people today.
God has another way of looking at love.
"I will love you, and I will serve you by doing what is good for you, what is good according to the teachings of Jesus, whether you want it or not."
How does God work through us? With insights from Dallas Willard on job, calling, work, and life. Reflecting on what it means to be an extension of God in the world.
In a public discourse marked by lying and toxic shaming, it is refreshing to know God gives us the responsibility to bring sacred words into our relationships. We consider two key ways God uses us in this capacity:
1. God gives us sacred words to help others become more of whom God created them to be.
2. God gives us sacred words to give courage (“en-courage”) others.
When God is behind words, they bring healing and not hurt.
Both Proverbs and the New Testament give us a key to influence...Share the compassion of Jesus with everyone...Share the gospel with those who are receptive
Listen to how this works...
In Proverbs 6, God lists seven things we do that he hates...What are they and what can be done about this?
Using "The Power of Habit" by Charles Duhigg and Proverbs 5:21-23 we see how habits are formed and how God can help us change our bad ones...
Seeking the truth at all possible cost, with courage and consideration is the mark of what we are about as God's people...This means saying, "No!" quite a few times...
We oppose any thinking not based on reason and reality. In the ideologies being forced upon us, we are saying, "No!" quite a bit lately...
Seeking the truth of God relentlessly brings discovery of what God desires us to know about him and invites to to join him in his work together. Through Holy Spirit we have access to the very mind of God...
First in our summer series- Proverbs: Summer of Wisdom
An introduction to Proverbs and the weeks ahead. We will continue to invite the the Holy Spirit to fill us with God’s presence and encounter God's Wisdom.
You can be a genius and filled with knowledge but this does not mean you have wisdom.
Wisdom comes from relationship with our loving Father...
As human beings, God wires us to be transformed from the moment of conception, and he wires us to be transformed spiritually by the Holy Spirit, from our new birth.
What does this look like?
What does Jesus mean when he says we can be filled with the Holy Spirit if we ask?
How do we ask?
With insights from Light Your Church On Fire...
David Housholder
https://1l.ink/TRSX7XH
When we are in harmony with God we are fit together for his purpose to transform our world into his new creation. Here is how it is done...
When Jesus breaks into the world, Caesar is the absolute ruler. Little did he know someone else is coming who will take the throne for good...
Our Middle School Youth led worship for Mother’s Day. Kyra Smolik and AJ Reed speak of the real Wonder Woman from Proverbs 31.
We like to speak of equal rights, but not about equal responsibility…Can’t have one without the other
Acts 10, with insight from Dr. Jordan Peterson
Can we know the truth about our life and the reality of our existence? What does Jesus have to do with this? What does Easter have to do with this? Listen
Forgiveness and new life are the order of the day with Easter. The power and authority of the Resurrected Jesus makes it possible for us to bring the things of heaven on earth. We pass the baton from those who have gone before us as we continue the race to transform all of creation.
The final part of our series, Lord, Teach Us to Pray, based on the model prayer Jesus teaches us, the Lord’s Prayer.
For thine is the Kingdom and the power and the glory, forever and ever, Amen...
A life lived in the presence of God is life itself...
God uses Paul to begin expanding his Kingdom like never before. A large part of the world comes to know about Jesus resulting in the continued transformation of humanity. All this from the "little" man who surrenders to Jesus...
God’s Kingdom is God in action.
So, as we are connected to God, as he makes his home in us, we act as God acts.
The challenge of this truth is this:
Whatever is acting against God is acting against us.
This is evil. Evil is that which opposes God and his ways.
What might that be?
Part six of our series, "Lord, Teach Us to Pray", based on the model prayer Jesus gives us, the Lord’s Prayer.
This is the fifth part of our series, "Lord, Teach Us to Pray", based on the model prayer Jesus teaches us, the Lord’s Prayer.
Lead us not into temptation…
There’s a lot of misunderstanding we will look at concerning this teaching.
We look for God everywhere and we pray he keep us out of trouble…
This is the fourth part of our series, "Lord, Teach Us To Pray", based on the model prayer Jesus teaches us, the Lord’s Prayer.
Tresspasses...Sins...Debts...Transgression...Iniquities...What is it all about?
Forgiveness?
Have Mercy?
Have pity...
Third in our series, "Lord, Teach Us To Pray" based on the model prayer Jesus gives us...The Lord's Prayer
Give us today our daily bread or-
Give us what we need today...You're gonna be there tomorrow
Second in our series on prayer, Lord, Hear Our Prayer, based on the model prayer Jesus gives us, the Lord’s Prayer.
My experiences define me as a person...
Relationship is all about shared experience...
The truth is, experiences make up the substance of reality...
Thy Kingdom come!
"Lord, Teach Us To Pray" is our new series on prayer, based on the model for prayer Jesus gives us…The Lord’s Prayer.
This is the most famous prayer in the world.
Also it may be our least thought-through prayer.
Too familiar, too automatic, too rote.
All prayer is a living conversation between a cherished dad and his children. We want to keep these words alive, put our thought into them, and pray in a way that is meaningful to us when we pray.
We will make progress in having the model of the Lord’s Prayer come alive today!
First, Our Father who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name…Or…
A look at the Beatitudes and and who gets to be blessed in God's world...from Matthew 5
We live in an age of identity. Identity theft, identity politics, identity confusion...What gives?
Jesus is attacked by Satan in the wilderness and it has much to do with identity.
What can we learn from Jesus?
Well, for one thing, our true identity...
At the baptism of Jesus, our identity as sons and daughters of the King is declared, as we join him at the waters.
A sermon on the baptism of Jesus…
Sometimes God uses amazing miracles to draw us to Jesus. Think about the angel appearing to the shepherds on Christmas Eve, “I bring you good news of great joy!”
Other times, God just uses what is there right in front of us. Then, we don’t need a miracle, we just need the facts.
Or , then again, are the facts themselves miracles?
What can we learn from the Magi this Epiphany Sunday? Let's find out
Thank you to TC Christopher for delivering this sermon at short notice when I came down with a bug. He did a great job!
At Christmas we celebrate the birth of Jesus, to be sure. But, as Martin Luther says:
"We see here how Christ, as it were, takes our birth from us and absorbs it in his birth, and grants us his, that in it we might become pure and holy, as if it were our own, so that every Christian may rejoice and glory in Christ’s birth as much as if we were born of Mary as was Jesus.”
So, Merry Christmas and Happy Birthday!
There are many connections between the birth, death and resurrection of Jesus. The shepherds get it first!
Promises of Advent Week Three: A Promise Each of Us Is Invited Into
Each day is an opportunity to be slightly less terrible living between the expectations we have and the hope things will get better. We are called into a life of tiny little steps where we compare ourselves to who we were yesterday not who someone else is today.
Living in the Kingdom of God isn’t as much about being a monk or a spiritual pilgrim as much as it is you being you under the power of the Holy Spirit through the ordinary circumstances of your life.
Insights by David Lose, Jim Wilder, Jordan Peterson, John the Baptist…and Jesus
The Promises of Advent: A Promise So Ordinary It's Easy To Miss
Second in a four part series (attrib. David Lose) for the season on Advent. Based on Luke 3:1-6
A Battle Royal of the seven rulers of the known world of the first century Holy Land vs. John the Nobody…and Jesus
It’s the same today, no matter what is happening in our lives, putting us down for the count, we will overcome because we have the champion of the universe fighting for us…Jeeeessssuuusss!
First in a four part series (attrib. David Lose) for the season on Advent. Based on Luke 21:25-36
The risk we take when we live out, “I believe…” Is this real or just a fantasy…Find out
The message of the Good News of Father, Son and Holy Spirit is about being clear, not about trying to persuade. The persuading is done freely by the Holy Spirit.
An overview of the Holy Spirit from the Old and New Testament...Today, he comes to us in the same power
When you make yourself available to the Holy Spirit, he will supernaturally connect you to others in a natural way...All ages...All hands on deck...
My neighbor, those who are nearest me, can come from a variety of places. Likely this will be arenas of common focus.
Common Family- immediate household and extended family
Common Community- the neighborhood I live in
Common Interests- work, school, gym- anywhere that connects me to the same people on a regular basis
God shows up in a variety of ways in these venues…
Jesus has a plan for his people to move out of building-focused faith. As a Christian, when you move out in the world around you, you are dealing with people that might not share your values, but get to see your values in action.
When you bring God's presence working through you in neighborhoods, school, work, and other locations as a natural part of the rhythm of life, there is a much greater chance of sharing the compassion of Jesus with everyone and sharing the Gospel with those who are receptive.
In the Bible, salt is a metaphor for friendship and faithfulness. When Jesus calls us "the salt of the world" he invites us to share the compassion and joy of God within us with our neighbors.
Everyone needs a little salt in their lives!
Christians filled with the power of the Holy Spirit loving their neighbors as themselves...This is the hope of the world
Pastor Lynn Cory, author and founder of Neighborhood Initiative, is our guest preacher as we launch a six week series based on his work. We are learning how to practically connect with our neighbors, and through prayer and acts of compassion, be a blessing right where we live.
We welcome Rebecca Leinhard, CEO of Tierra del Sol (tierradelsol.org), who gives a compelling view of what it means to be created in the image of God. Using Genesis 1 and 2, Psalm 139, and her own experiences, we gain solid insights about how we all need support in our lives in a variety of ways, and how we are stronger together as we provide that support, like gardeners of a well-tended garden.
“We are only as good as the supports we need to function across multiple environments…”
When Jesus says, “Love your neighbor as yourself,” what does it
mean to “love yourself?”
We don't need to seek new wisdom about how people can live in healthy and thriving community. We do need to try what God has already handed down in teachings like the ten commandments.
Relationships with parents, spouse, family, friends, work, community...it's all here
The first commandments address our relationship with God. How do you love God? Here is what it looks like.
First in a four week series on the Ten Commandments.
Exodus 19 speaks of God establishing a covenant, a promise, with his people; his sons and daughters. That's relationship. Our identity is given to us freely by God.
Then in Exodus 20 God gives us the Ten Commandments. Only after he has established the relationship does he call out our obedience.
In other words, (coined by David Lose) "19 comes before 20"...
Gideon says he is the least of these and who could argue with that? God could...
Why you have every reason to hope for the best
Prayer is so much more than we think. Direct connection with the creator of the universe and an ongoing relationship of trust, wisdom, direction, and power available to those who call out...amazing
What do ancient baptismal fonts, pickles and two year olds have to do with living life God’s way? Have a listen...from Colossians 3:12-17
I am already a new creation.
I am putting my life in the hands of Jesus who gives me my identity. Jesus lives in me and I do not recognize my identity as coming from anywhere else.
Jesus means everything to me and I reject any other attempt to try to collectively label me with an identity. I know who I am. His…
What does it mean that the things of heaven are available on earth?
Christ’s resurrection is your resurrection, too. So, what is true of Jesus is true of you.
This changes everything…
Example?
Problem: Unkindness grows as we are too rushed to get things done
Solution: Accessing the heavenly dimension and discovering Jesus’ better way
Sermon on Colossians 3:1-4
Week Eight of The Gospel Primer Series: Gospel Rhythm
Discipleship and mission does not need to be a big, long, new list of activities that we need to jam into our already busy schedules, it’s really a matter of noticing the rhythms of life that we already live in and shifting from thinking “additional” to being more “intentional” with all of life.
Week 7 of The Gospel Primer: Gospel Identity
Created in God’s own image (three in one), our Gospel Identity is: We are a family of missionary servants, sent as disciples who make disciples. This has great implications for our lives and ministry as we live out of our true identity.
Week six of The Gospel Primer Series: Two Lenses...
It is when we grasp and wrestle with the Two Lenses of Gospel Power and Gospel Purpose that we have a gospel that places our salvation squarely on the work of Jesus on the Cross and sends us out to be his body, his family of rescue and restoration in the world.
Sermon for Week Five of The Gospel Primer: Four Truths...
Moving from unbelief to belief about what is true of God is a big part of gospel fluency, discipleship and the way out from sinful thoughts, actions or emotions.
- Rob Reed preacher
Sermon for Week Four of The Gospel Primer: Gospel Listening...
The gospel addresses all of life, and when we practice Spirit empowered Gospel Listening we can grow in our ability to address others circumstances from a true gospel perspective.
The Story of God answers big questions in our life, very importantly it tells us who we are, whose we are, and what we are here for. And how we tell our own personal story should also help others begin to look to God and his Story for those same answers in their life. God is the HERO of every story!
Week Two of an eight-week guide to transformation in community...
What we believe about God and what he is like will ultimately determine what we believe about ourselves and how life works...in everything.
- developed by Caesar Kolinowski
What is the Gospel?
Week One of an eight-week guide to transformation in community...
- developed by Caesar Kolinowski
Using the power of his resurrection, Jesus creates a new species. From the first Christians on, those who join Him are transforming the world...An Easter sermon
When Jesus comes to Jerusalem on Palm Sunday, he is starting the week that will transform the world and all of creation forever. It all begins with a donkey ride...
We live in an age where desire is god. Where I want what I want when I want it. If I am living life with God, there are times I say, "No." I will not allow others to exalt their desires to the ultimate place in life and then expect me to conform to those desires.
As I receive the Holy Spirit and trust in God, I die to my desire to be liked, my desire to receive your approval. I die to the idea that what I want has any importance at all. It’s not what I want, it is what God wants...
We do not have to search for God. God is where we are. We simply need to open ourselves up to the real world, by being receptive to what is already there. It has a lot to do with thinking...
Only when Jesus becomes the center of our lives and we use all of our time, energy and resources learning from him how to live well in a broken world, will the society around us change.
We are the problem, and through Christ in us, we are the solution.
Human beings have consciousness which makes real choices possible.
What influences the choices we make?
Is there good and evil?
Is there right and wrong?
How do we know?
Our answers to these questions, and others like them, are lived out in real day to day life….a life of beauty…a life of monstrosity…a life of choices
Question: What is a Christian?
Answer: Someone who follows Jesus.
Question: Why would I want to follow him?
Answer: You join with him and learn from him how to live well in a broken world...
One of the key nonnegotiable's in life is joy. When you are glad to be with others. A sparkle in your eyes, open body language and a smile go a long way to let someone know you are glad to be with them.
Combine this authentic joy with gratitude for God and you are on your way...
When you are baptized into God’s holy family, you are marked by him which is sign that you are the son or daughter of the King. Because your dad is king, he is calling you to follow in his ways and to work with him, being a blessing in the world. The more you work with him being a blessing, the more need you will see, and the more blessing you will be, as more power will be available. You will see more and more of God because you will be working with him more and more. This is the life he calls you to. A circle of life.
What happening in 379 and how did we miss this? One of the most important speeches in human history...
(with key insights from David Bentley Hart)
God is Good... is a new series on the good news of Jesus from Paul’s letter to the Colossians. It is interesting how much we have in common with the Colossians. As Paul shares the gospel with them, we too are invited into the same good news. And who doesn’t need good news?
This week we see how God saves us from too much separation and too much striving in our lives. It’s about receiving grace and peace…Colossians 1:1-2
(With some key insights from my friend, David Housholder)
The Magi play an important role in the life of Jesus. Actually, quite remarkable. Here's why...
God worked behind the scenes "big time" with the Roman Empire when he broke into our space and time...Is this happening today? Consider this...
You were there at the first Christmas, one person removed. Let me use Jim Thorpe, my grandpa, and the angels to explain...
The angel and the angels at the first Christmas are very helpful for our understanding of who angels really are...Do you want to know why angels are so important and how amazing it is that you have at least one personally assigned to you? Listen on...
When we walk with Jesus and shine light in the world, we love another and are not a people of contempt...In other words, we are completely different than the mood of the day...
How does this work?
Using some helpful insights from neuroscientist and theologian Dr. Jim Wilder, I look at why we may have difficulties with holiday times, "Blue" Christmas and such, and what can be done about it.
Can we be a joy to the world?
When we define others by their shortcomings we are working against God...including when we identify around our failures. With the light of Jesus all bets are off...
God creates us to be in relationship with him and others. Here are five key ways that help.
- Act like yourself
- God has a plan; I have a purpose in God's plan
- From me to we
- Seeing through the eyes of God
- Luther's genius bonus teaching
As we celebrate the 500 year anniversary of the Reformation, I teach on the roots, a bit on Luther, and then what does the Reformation mean for us today. The message?
You get to be with God...
Almost everyone has someone in their family tree who was the property of another human being, forced to work for no wages, and could be bought and sold. It is just a matter of how far back you trace your roots.
But, there is a worse slavery...Slavery to sin....And we have been set free!
A life alert button saves lives. But you have to wear it.
Kind of like Jesus who brings rescue, healing and new life...If you receive him.
The woman caught in adultery. This event in the life of Jesus is one of the favorites for anyone who wants to make sure no one who is a Christian is “judgmental.” You can’t speak against someone else’s behavior as wrong because we all know, “let he who is without sin cast the first stone.”
Is this what Jesus really means?
Far from it...
The truths of Jesus are admired by almost everyone...To follow those truths and reap the benefits, however, takes trust in him in the power of the Holy Spirit. Human power can't compete with spiritual power nor be made complete by spiritual power.
Race issues are at the forefront of our nation today. In the light of Jesus being the creator and sustainer of all- some observations...Have a listen
Jesus brings God's intent for the world into focus as he deals with the challenges of his own life. Things happen to Jesus like they happen to you and me.
With attempts by some religions, philosophies, and political factions to stifle speech and information that one disagrees with, Christianity is far different...Test everything!
Sibling relationships are complicated. Jesus and his brothers are no different. Sermon based on John 7:1-9
Most of the teaching of Jesus is not hard to understand...just hard to do! When we follow him, we follow him, not what we want him to be. He embodies what we are meant to be. Sermon on John 6:60-69
When we receive Jesus@ Holy Communion, his nourishment becomes part of our own body as we join him in the world...A sermon of eating the body and drinking the blood of Jesus
Who doesn't love stories of people who come form humble origins and become wealthy or influential? Sometimes we call this a self-made man or woman. Except it is a myth. There is no such thing as a self-made man or woman. We are God-made!
Honoring God means honoring Jesus. Everyone is called to acknowledge what he has done for them, give thanks, and trust in his way.
When the strict law-observant Judaean's are confronted with Jesus' way of thinking there are going to be consequences...
A sermon on John 5:9-18
The whole world can see God's Kingdom power in action...Here's a glimpse
Sermon based on John 5:1-9
How the Holy Spirit got the short end of the stick in the Christian family tree and what he does about it...Pentecost sermon
Why are we always worrying about the other person when it comes to Jesus? Well, it's as old as the original disciples. Here's what Jesus has to say...
Why do we follow Jesus? It all boils down to love.
Debee Jusko, LIFEhouse Youth Ministry Leader, invites us to spend some time with Jesus and Peter.
When Jesus appears to the disciples for the third time after he raises from the dead, they are in for a surprise...
What happens when Jesus spends some time with his disciples after he is risen? Walking through walls, breathing on them...and what about Thomas? Does he get a bad rap? Listen...
100 year anniversary weekend for LIFEHouse Church of Northridge CA. This is the sermon@ the celebration worship based on Jeremiah 29:4-7.
After the resurrection of Jesus, everything begins to change in the world and our relationship with God. It all starts in a garden once again..
Where is he and what do you do now that it is the first day of the new creation?
The answer to the first question leads to the answer to the second...
(great insights by NT Wright)
The woman@ the well brings our individual call from God into focus. What is your part in fulfilling God's destiny?
Jesus and the woman at the well have a discussion about life and truth...The wait is over...
Martin Luther's key teaching on the role of the Church and the state, both of which he sees as under to direct rule of God. Luther speaks about the two governments, or the two kingdoms.
When Jesus meets the woman at the well there is more than meets the eye...Sermon based on John 4:1-15
Why are we wired by God to spend one third of our lives essentially doing nothing?
How can one simple key enhance spiritual formation, combat childhood obesity, improve children’s school performance, combat neurodegenerative disorders like Alzheimer’s disease, along with decreasing clinical depression in teens and adults?
One thing??
What is it?
Healthy sleep…
The importance of sleep from a spiritual, physical, and emotional health perspective. The latest brain research is bringing new insight into sleep research and we are discovering good sleep may be the missing key ingredient to the overall health of people today. Using the latest brain and sleep research, with special insight from "The Good and Beautiful God," James Bryant Smith, and "Nurture Shock," Po Bronson and Ashley Merryman, I speak on the benefits of sleep for adults and children.
The unity of the churches of Jesus focusing on what we hold in common is what moves the good news forward...
If you put in as much time examining the evidence, opening yourself to the Holy Spirit, and hanging out with kind and joyful Christians as you do playing fantasy football, binge watching Netflix, or focusing on politics, then, of course you would eventually become a Christian, too...
A sermon based on John 3:1-13 Jesus and Nicodemus
Jesus comes into our lives and lives through us as we trust him and follow him...He is the one person we can confidently do whatever he tells us
A sermon based on the Wedding at Cana
The Christian Church is a lifeguard station, not a lighthouse....A sermon on Jesus calling the first disciples
We talk a lot about leadership, and rightfully so. But what about following? What does it take to be a good follower?
John the Baptist knows...
Jesus is the anchor of our faith, not the one who points him out...
Preachers: No celebrities allowed...What we can learn from John the Baptist
What does it mean for us as a Christian community that God, through Jesus, as Eugene Petersen translated John 1:14, "...moved into the neighborhood."
We are the light of the world in our world...
The events of Christmas after Jesus' birth are anything but festive for Jesus and his family...
Murder, escape, hardship...It's all there
The events of Christmas are contrasted to the death and resurrection of Jesus...All in God's plan
Thanks to He Qi (heqiart.com) for the art used in this message
If you hate people you consider haters you are a hater. If you are bigoted against people you consider bigots, you are a bigot. Let's get the meaning of love and hate straight, shall we? What is the view of Jesus on this?
We are in the final act of God restoring his creation...It's about Jesus and his followers
Faith is trust based on evidence...
Hope is confidence in the evidence
God gets down to basics...
Endure Hardship Well
Learning to stay relational and continue to act like the person God made me to be during times of struggle and suffering. We examine the five levels of maturity, why most adults are stuck at infant or child maturity, and what God can do about it.
Last in a series using biblical principles and brain science based on "Rare Leadership," by Marcus Warner and Jim Wilder.
What is the strongest indicator of emotional health? Our ability to quiet ourselves quickly during emotional upset or...Return to joy
This is the third in a four part series on what it means to be a RARE leader. We are combining biblical principles with the latest brain science, based on the book Rare Leadership, by Marcus Warner and Jim Wilder.
When we develop four uncommon habits to increase our emotional maturity (EQ) we increase trust, joy, and engagement with the people we live with. The people we work with.
Act Like Yourself. Developing the habit of acting like myself, my best true self, living from the heart Jesus gave me.
This is the second in a four part series on what it means to be a RARE leader. We are combining biblical principles with the latest brain science, based on the book Rare Leadership, by Marcus Warner and Jim Wilder.
When we develop four uncommon habits to increase our emotional maturity (EQ) we increase trust, joy, and engagement with the people we live with. The people we work with.
Remain Relational
Relationship is more important than the problem.
Building relationships is #1…Results are #2
Get this wrong and you won’t have a healthy family, healthy team at work, or a healthy life. People before problems is the way of Jesus.
A four part series on RARE leadership, based on biblical principles and the latest brain science, from the same titled book, by Marcus Warner and Jim Wilder.
“We are a low-joy nation. And what happens in low-joy places? Problems are bred. This low-joy has reached the highest levels. Our national leaders have finally succumbed to being almost pure predators.”
What is a predator?
What can be done?
Actually, you might be the best true hope….Listen
Joy is a key theme in the life of Jesus and his teaching. Yet, we rarely speak of this in the Christian community.
According to brain science, a high-joy environment is absolutely necessary for healthy brain growth. Considering a baby grows 2/3 of their brain in the first 90 days, dare I say, from the beginning, we are designed to be filled with joy.
As Christians, we are uniquely called to be the world’s “joy starters.” How?
In our ongoing friendship with God we tell him what is on our hearts and learn to perceive what he is saying to us.
The same is true with dear friends in the faith. We meet together, listen to what we sense God is saying to us, and we share how we are going to respond. In other words, we live life together.
What is spiritual warfare? How does God equip us for the battle? Are you ready to take a stand?
A sermon on the Armor of God from Ephesians 6
In Ephesians 6, Paul considers various roles of life from a Christian perspective, including parenting and work.
Jesus said to “Love your neighbor as yourself.” If you are married, your most important neighbor is your spouse.
A podcast on marriage based on Ephesians 5:21-33
There isn't much difference between first century Rome and 21st century US society when it comes to all things sexual- obsession. How Paul addresses this in Ephesians is helpful for us to navigate our own times...
We learn all the important things of our life through imitation. God says we can imitate him. Really...
St. Paul speaks of making changes that last in the way we live our lives with others. One key is to realize our relationships we have with people are more important than the problems that might come up. From Ephesians 4:17-24
Christians come from all cultures and Jesus bands us together. A primer on how ordinary people can be united by an extraordinary God.
Fear is used to influence and control people. God gives us insight to see Jesus rules the world...No fear
We begin a series from Paul's Letter to the Ephesians.
Paul starts out with the bold promise that the things of God are ours as we are in his Son!
Psalm 134 is a bit neglected. One of the shortest chapters of the Bible. About those who work behind the scenes.
Just like them, listen to the story of Humphrey Monmouth...I call him Henry, that's how obscure he is!
God's never-ending/faithful/steadfast love..."hesed" in the Bible language...is amazing!
Traveling along Psalm 118 in our trip through the Psalms...
Psalm 110 is the Jesus Psalm. He quotes it, and other Bible writers quote from it, more than any other scripture...Why?
From Road to Jesus: Psalm 110@ Traveling God’s Highways: A Trip Through The Psalms series
Too much emphasis on "church going" and not enough emphasis on "loving your neighbor" is a common error most churches make...listen to an alternative view.
from Road to Neighbor: Psalm 105
King David's "Proverbs" speak to us today...
Podcast in the Traveling God's Highways series
With insights from new book, "Rare Leadership," Marcus Warner/ Jim Wilder
When traveling life's highways, there is beauty all around.
From a Psalm series based on the highways of Southern California!
God covers us always as we travel on life's journey's.
From a Psalm series based on the highways of Southern California!
We are not used to people coming back from the dead and then never dying again. It's only happened once. But, once is enough...A message of hope
A message about Holy Communion as children receive their first communion on Maundy Thursday.
Right in the middle of the Easter account, two simple words speak to what really happens on that day....
"...and Peter"
Peter is Jesus' best friend. Peter abandons Jesus when he needs him the most, and denies he even knows him three times.
What do we learn from this?
Why is Jesus such a threat to the Jewish leaders and the Romans?
Follow the money...a primer
What do we learn from Jesus in the Garden of Gethsemane?
Even though it’s hard to trust…Trust
What if God says, “No?"
You can’t force faith
People get stuck
Jesus doesn’t run
What do we learn from the Last Supper?
Who is Judas?
Attaching to the feeder not the food
Betrayal
Communion is more than words
Holy Communion is always a to-go meal
When Jesus talks about the end of the world it is really not the end at all...it is the fulfillment of what Jesus started...the new creation
We get labeled, and we give people labels, for a variety of reasons and most of them are not good. Who likes to be labeled? Not Jesus
What happens to us after we die? What does Jesus have to say about this? Is eternal life and life now connected?
With Jesus working through us we are free to work for his good in our world without hesitation....without obligation
God breaks the rules to make the good news, GOOD NEWS for all people...He still does this today
Who is Rosalind Franklin and what does she have to do with Christmas? Listen to what happens when obscure people make great discoveries...like shepherds
Joseph is an amazing model of graciousness...He doesn't go after Mary for adultery, resulting shame, dowry and her possible stoning... All before the Angel appeared to him...
"I can do all things through him who strengthens me." (Philippians 4:13) Not just for the bad times...
Gentle? Compassionate? When Jesus causes a ruckus in Jerusalem...What was he thinking!?
An overview of Chapters 31-40 of my new book "Reboot: 70 Life Lessons With Dallas Willard."
An overview of Chapters 31-40 from my new book "Reboot:70 Life Lessons With Dallas Willlard."
An overview of Chapters 61-70 of my new book "Reboot: 70 Life Lessons with Dallas Willard."
An overview of Chapters 51-60 of my new book, "Reboot: 70 Life Lessons With Dallas Willard"
"What do you want me to do for you?" When Jesus asks a question, it's wise to have an answer...
Seeing and seeing
An overview of chapters 41-50 of my new book Reboot: "70 Life Lessons with Dallas Willard."
One of the least understood teachings of Jesus has to do with a rich man. What does Jesus have to say about wealth?
Jesus can pick anyone as an example of someone who is thriving in God's Kingdom life. He chooses kids. Why?
An overview of chapters 21-30 of my new book, "Reboot: 70 Life Lessons with Dallas Willard"
A message on loving those closest to you with forgiveness and grace. For many of us this begins with our closest neighbor- our spouse.
An overview of chapters 11-20 of my new book, "Reboot: 70 Life Lessons with Dallas Willard"
We have a "foretaste" of hell in our lives when we are trapped into patterns that aren't from God...
An overview of chapters 1-10 of my new book, "Reboot: 70 Life Lessons with Dallas Willard"
Worldwide, over half the active Lutheran Christians are Black.
In America, the Lutheran Church is 96% White.
Statistically, the Whitest Church in America.....Hmmmm....
Death to self/ self-forgetfulness/ self denial....whatever you call it...that's the road you take when you follow Jesus
How would you like to have complete security and a worry-free life?
It's no secret. It's here...
When you get behind Jesus, you are invited to a life of frustration, impatience, misunderstanding, and disappointment....Wouldn't have it any other way
When he walks the earth, gods and emperors compete with King Jesus for the rule of the world. Who wins?
Same as always, the one who gets things done...
Vision is our most important connection to the world around us. In the spiritual realm, there is seeing and then there is seeing. The vision that comes with opening our eyes and heart.
Final talk in a series on Joy as modeled and taught by Jesus, with insights on recent brain research from the book, "Joy Starts Here," E. Jim Wilder, Edward Khouri, Chris Coursey, and Sheila Sutton.
Third in a series on Joy as modeled and taught by Jesus, with insights on recent brain research from the book, "Joy Starts Here," E. Jim Wilder, Edward Khouri, Chris Coursey, and Sheila Sutton.
Second in a series on Joy as modeled and taught by Jesus, with insights on recent brain research from the book, "Joy Starts Here," E. Jim Wilder, Edward Khouri, Chris Coursey, and Sheila Sutton.
First in a series on Joy as modeled and taught by Jesus, with insights on recent brain research from the book, "Joy Starts Here," E. Jim Wilder, Edward Khouri, Chris Coursey, and Sheila Sutton.
Recent news accounts about this "crisis" in the newer generations when it comes to being active in their faith has everyone scrambling for explanations.
Besides the fact that surveys always depend on how you ask the question and what the questions are, and how the questions are understood, there is someone else who might have a differing opinion on all of this...His initials are H.S.
When Jesus faces the challenges of his life, he goes deep.
When he walks on water, he is letting us know, we are not alone.
Guest preacher, Barbara Lestrange, invites us to consider the compassion and abundance of Jesus bringing the food of life, the food of hope, the food of fellowship, and the food of faith.
Jesus sends his followers out to the local towns to bless people. He sends us out, as well, beginning where we live…
When Jesus was crucified, died, and was buried, not everyone went into hiding. The Marys' especially step up...
From Matthew's Easter story
The well known Hollywood adage, it’s tough to work with children and animals comes true at Easter. I am holding our 21 month old granddaughter Kaylee and things don’t go exactly as planned, but just like life, if all else fails, the answer is Jesus…
When Jesus rides into Jerusalem Palm Sunday, he is declaring something specific about himself and his mission.
We don’t get to choose.
How can touching the clothes of Jesus bring healing? A woman who would not take, "No," for the answer finds out.
The world of the seen and the unseen is held together by Jesus and we explore the theme of science and faith.
God grows us through giving for the sake of others.
It's all his and we get to join with him to expand his influence of good.
It is shocking that one of the greatest health risks in our country today is totally flying under the radar. Mental and physical health. From childhood obesity to depression, there is one thing that could make a major difference.
Relax and listen…
Has someone had an impact in your life that they might not even remember? But it was significant for you?
God works like that, too. Where you don't expect him...
Discouragement? Check
Disappointment? Check
Brokenness? Check
Breakthrough? Check
Experiencing the life of Jesus is experiencing life like Jesus.
From the parable of the sower Mark 4:1-20.
The family of Jesus thought he was out of his mind. How about your family? For that matter, who is your family?
Jesus brings a new perspective…
Mark 3:20-35
There are three paths a young Jewish man can take to become a religious professional in the first century. As far as we can tell, neither Jesus nor the 12 disciples took any of these routes.
Jesus and the 12 are laypeople.
Why does this matter?
We all get to play…
Mark 3:13-19
Rape, murder, incest, adultery, and prostitution. A screenplay for the latest HBO series?
Nope...the family tree of Jesus
How is it that there is someone worshiping Jesus in just about every people group in the world? Why is Jesus so accessible?
When four friends go all out to bring their friend to Jesus, a healing and remarkable insight occurs...
Jesus will do whatever it takes to bring blessing. A sermon based on the healing of the leper, Mark 1:40-45.
There are two kinds of people in the world. Those who need help and those who need to help. We can be any one of these people at any given time, and, sure enough we have been.
How did Jesus help and how did he need help? Based on Mark 1:29-34
Jesus shows how to live an abundant life through the way he lives. He is a model for his students by his lifestyle; the way he interacted with God and other people. The ways of Jesus teach as much as his words.
What did Jesus do?
What is your primary identity?
Your family and where you come from?
What you do for "a living?"
What if you start all over with Jesus giving you your identity?
A message on life based on Mark 1:16-20, w/ insights from David Housholder.
If Jesus is real and he is King of the universe, your trust in him will be revealed by how you live your life. Jesus has all you need to live a life of harmony and satisfaction, where everything fits together.
Who doesn't want that life?
"Who are you?”
Even Jesus gets to figure that one out. In the wilderness. On his own.
Something to do with mind, body and spirit.
Mark 1.12-13
"Who are you?”
Even Jesus gets to figure that one out. In the wilderness. On his own.
Something to do with mind, body and spirit.
Mark 1.12-13
At the baptism of Jesus the separation between heaven and earth is torn apart. Jesus is at the intersection.
Who is he?
Who are you?
The answer is the same...
There are so many times in our lives that a new beginning was exactly what we needed. A fresh start.
What about with God? This is the good news...
It seems it is the brokenness of our lives where God does his best work, if we invite him to join us.
Learning from the events in the life of Joseph...
Can you be a Christian and not follow Jesus?
Can you be a Christian without being a disciple?
What does it mean to trust in Jesus and follow his model and teachings?
A Way of life...
Does God control everything single thing that happens to us? How do I know what God wants me to do?
Clearing up the confusion about God's "operating system."
Insights from Dallas Willard...
There many teachings Christians hold that aren't supported in the Bible. This can be very confusing. Let's work on that...
Science says all that exists comes about through light.
The Bible says all that exists comes through light.
This is really startling, when you think about it.
Our lives are created using light.
But then the Bible tells us it is the life of Jesus that brings us light. Another use of the word light. As in, things that are in the dark come to light.
When we consider God breaking into our human dimension, becoming one of us, we enter a whole new dimension, too.
The 10 Commandments are all about relationship- with God and our neighbor. Without a relationship with God first, they become guidelines for living. With a relationship fueled by the power of Holy Spirit, the 10 Commandments describe a life.
Let's look at the life...
The Body of Christ at the core is about unity. No denominations, cultural differences, or ethnic divide. This is your destination. Much better to get there sooner rather than later…
What happens@Pentecost
To be considered highly educated today, you need not think one second about God, but certainly will be commended if you doubt. If there is a God, then the university is actually ignoring the supreme reality of all of existence. Nothing could be more primitive and uneducated. Paul finds an "acceptable" way of getting this point across.
The life of Jesus is bookended by cloth. After he is raised from the dead, what happens with the grave cloths?
An Easter sermon
In all areas of our lives, the Holy Spirit can set us free from whatever is holding us back.
Liberal? Conservative? Anyone else? We’re all missing the point. Jesus has his own agenda…
Shabazz Napier, MVP of the 2014 NCAA Men's Basketball Championship from U Conn, made comments on the recent attempts by Northwestern athletes to unionize. He said he needs more money because, "there are hungry nights that I go to bed and I'm starving."
Wow, poor guy.
When we say, "The truth hurts," we couldn't be more wrong when it comes to the actual Truth with a capital "T"
Restoring relationship is more important than solving problems.
Consider Jesus and Peter...
The custom of footwashing may seem strange to those who don't practice it. When Jesus did this, was he showing humility, the sacrifice of service, or maybe it was the joy of utter devotion? Listen while we sort this out...
Could the challenge for Christians to connect with the world be as simple as joy? Jesus thinks so...
We are not wired to have power and control over others. We are wired for freedom and here is why...
Recent controversies about "race" are getting a lot of attention in the NFL. What is the latest?
There are times in life when we walk on the way not knowing what to expect- except expecting God to show up...
John 4:43-54
What would the world's reaction be like if we had "John 3:16-17," as our good news?
No condemnation...
Guest preacher Bill Anz talks about being consumed by God's love and the desire to share this with others vs. being a consumer of religious goods and services. Based on John 2:13-21
If I told you that overall the world is getting significantly better in 5 key areas of life, would you believe it? Listen and you decide...
"Through Jesus, God’s Word finally comes to me in human terms. I can’t understand God on God’s own terms. If there is to be a relationship with God, God must address me in my terms. Terms that I am capable of comprehending best suited in my own human condition."
God wires us for joy from the very beginning. Now brain researchers agree. We discover this joy best in family and church. Simple as that...
Nelson Mandela is an awesome leader whom we would not be remembering today except for Jesus. You see, you don't get transformation of South Africa unless you get Jesus...
Recent persecutions of Christians in Egypt once again remind us that brothers and sisters around the world face tremendous hardship and death for the simple fact they worship a God who says, "Love your enemy," rather than "Take vengeance on your enemy."
Wow! That must be some kind of God to foster that kind of faith!
Living in the city can sometimes feel like exile.
God knows what he is doing.
You are exactly in the right place at the right time to be a real blessing.
My top seven countdown of the seven things I most appreciate about living in Los Angeles (and California).
God invades the dark places of our world with his light, reflected by us. There is always hope when we arrive!
God working through his people is what makes the world different. Did you think the Civil Rights movement was about government? Think again...
When we are faced with battles in our lives, why do we seem to suffer from memory loss? We forget all the amazing ways God has blessed us.
Listen to how God cures this....
What ought parents be thinking about when it comes to Halloween, especially as it applies to our children?
What do shattered Hollywood dreams and defaulting on federal college loans have to do with competition? More than you think...Listen to Dana Hanson Show #55
With God we receive more than we need to reflect Him by pouring out even more for the sake of others.
The manna events of the Book of Exodus and how they directly impact our thinking today.
Dana Hanson Show #54
According to the U.S. government, by definition, it appears every child in America is, at one time or another, a bully.
What do you do when you know someone who has a loved one who dies? What do you say? What don't you say? Why is death such an uncomfortable topic, in the first place?
Some reflections on death and grief from a pastor who happens to be a funeral director's son.
Do you want to live an exceptional life? Then be the exception.
Today we consider the challenge of the smartphone in communication.
Dana Hanson Show #49
It's God who blesses the world through us. He uses us no matter what our circumstances, no matter who we are, no matter where we come from. The one thing in the world God didn't create is a cookie cutter.
A sermon with Jacob, Nadia Bolz-Weber, and you...
One of the most intriguing events in the Bible is given the title, "The Binding of Isaac," or "The Sacrifice of Isaac." What is this all about? What does it say about God? Are atheist authors right about God being abusive? Listen and find out how God provides.
Dana Hanson Show #47
Since 9/11, the number of Muslims who live in America has more than doubled. Aren't we supposed to be a hate-filled, bigoted society? What gives? Listen to this and more "shocking" observations...Dana Hanson Show #46
The Spirit of God hovers over the chaos of the deep...and then His creativity explodes! What does this mean for us in our lives?
Dana Hanson Show #45
I interview Bob Levy, a “rookie” member of our Epiphany Ministry team, and we talk about his experience at our recent weekend spiritual retreat at the prison.
Dana Hanson Show #44
On an Epiphany Prison Ministry Spiritual Retreat, we all witness a powerful experience of the amazing freedom that comes through God’s forgiveness.
Episode #43 Dana Hanson Show
(music courtesy of www.makerofmusic.com)
What would happen if professional historians applied their best tools of research to determine whether Jesus died and rose from the dead? What if the good news of Jesus was not simply a “religious” history?
Listen to what might be...Dana Hanson Show #42
Insights into the challenges of life in our society from brain research...really
Dana Hanson Show #41
When we love, we take action. Even rock stars can understand...
final installment on series on love ("love is movement" based/ room1228.com) Dana Hanson Show #40
"Love" is not about getting our needs met-
"Love" is sacrifice.
Listen to the difference
The work of one of President Obama's leading intellectual influences, Reinhold Niebuhr, isn't even part of most university curriculum anywhere. He is considered too conservative or is simply unknown, though he was labeled the "Greatest Theologian of the 20th Century in America," by Time magazine, of all places. He actually had a tremendous influence over one of his students, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., as well.
This is a sign of our time, Why is it so hard for a liberal person to receive a well rounded education today? Listen
Why is love the key ingredient to any relationship? What exactly is Christian love?
Dana's teaching series based on "Lovevolution" (room1228.com)
Twitter, Facebook, etc. makes the wisdom of Proverbs when it comes to the power of words to bless and heal more timely than ever…
Listen
How do we treat people we disagree with?
The wisdom of the Bible comes through, for example, applied to the same-sex marriage debate.
"Race" is a classification of knowledge that has taken hold of thinking in America. As has been pointed out by many, "Race, Class, and Gender," appear to be the new "Holy Trinity." But, in the George Zimmerman trial, things get pretty complicated as far as race is involved.
Here are my observations on this and my take on the whole story.
Minneapolis has the largest population of Somalians in the United States, almost all of them conservative Muslim, many of whom live in the same neighborhoods as gay folks in, according to The Advocate magazine, "The Gayest City in America." Listen to my take after a recent visit.
What is God calling you to do in your life? Rather than waiting around until you receive a clear "sign," why not get going and keep going until He tells you to stop?
A message on Father's Day
The greatest freedom for us to be the person God designs us to be begins with self-forgetfulness. What is it and how do I get it?
Paul gets it (1 Corinthians 3:21-4:7) and author Timothy Keller gives excellent insight. Listen in...
The latest brain research shows children's learning, relationship skills, and emotional maturity grow best in unorganized, unsupervised play. In other words, opposite of the organized adult-led, adult-organized, adult-supervised life most of us have created for them.
Learning to get out of the way...
A stewardship sermon based on events in the life of Benaiah, King Solomon's hitman. Facing our insecurity by jumping right into the pit.
How do we learn how to be generous in giving to God? If you have little kids, they learn the same way as everything else, by watching you. What does your offering teach your kids about your God?
I interview Olu Olubunmi (okayhouseunlimited.com), from Nigeria and James Coffman, from Minneapolis, and we talk about the spread of the gospel in the early church as it relates today. Listen in on a fascinating conversation...
Galilean International, out of Mumbai, India sponsors a great event each year, Visual Communication Media Sunday. This is an annual event, the second Sunday of March (March 10th this year) celebrating followers of Jesus who bless the film and media industry with their work and their witness, as they live out their faithful presence in the film industry throughout the world. Pray for films that provide rich evangelistic opportunities, and continue to be a critical tool in sharing the gospel throughout the world in this visual and media savy world.
Go to Galilean.org to download a prayer booklet and other resources.
David Peters from Galilean International (galilean.org), a media and film company from Mumbai, India, and Rich Melheim from Faithinkubators.com, talk about their weekend experience at the 21st Annual MovieGuide Awards (movieguide.org). We examine the impact of film as a tool to share the gospel and how this relates to a huge growing market for positive and uplifting films in general, in the U.S. and India. 330+ million people are one thing, but how about 1.2 billion??
When you're a kid, there's nothing like mom and dad in the stands at your games. But even better? Grandma and Grandpa! Listen in, as I interview a raving fan of his granddaughters sporting events, Grandpa John Stotler.
What is this season we call, "Lent," all about?
Is it giving something up?
Is it adding something?
Or does it just seem kind of weird?
Listen to my take...
What if there were a way to talk politics with friends you generally disagree with? At least without getting into a shouting match or creating an aggressive hostile environment.
Why not try this?