The Jesus Conversations Podcast: Recent Episodes
https://nwmenscoalition.com
This podcast episode features Dennis and Arnold discussing what it means to truly be alive through Jesus. Arnold shared about his upcoming move from Southern California to Naples, Florida, where his family has relocated, including his grandchild. The conversation centered on John 5:19-21, where Jesus describes how he brings "vivifying" life to people, meaning to awaken and energize them in ways they've never experienced before. Arnold explained how knowing Christ has brought him joy, peace, and a sense of purpose beyond his previous life, describing it as living "on God's agenda" rather than his own. They discussed how this relationship minimizes worry and fear, bringing a natural sense of serving and giving to others. The conversation explored how living this way makes people more alive and vibrant, bringing a sense of wonder and adventure to daily life.
NOTES
John 5:21
Vivifying - from the Greek egayro - awaken literally and figuratively (basis of our English word energize)
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The first thing people want in the midst of pain and suffering is to find relief or escape. Our Christian teaching has been to trust God that He will provide the answer. But what if He doesn't? What if He wants to reveal something about Himself IN the pain? In this episode, Dennis shares with the other men what He has learned about God's nature and heart through an experience of physical pain.
Notes
Wayne Jacobsen post on Lifestream "Finding Him Inside Your Pain"
https://www.lifestream.org/find-him-inside-your-pain/?mc_cid=74725c7179&mc_eid=b0f3b7e085
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Have you encountered Christian friends who deliberately or unknowingly speak hate to other people? How can that be? What causes professing believers in Christ to be derogatory or outright judgemental? Could it be a theological perspective lurking in the background? Listen as our group discusses the reasons believers unintentionally fall into this attitude.
Notes
The Jesus Conversation Podcast 12-24-25 "If you have seen Me..." | The Jesus Conversations Podcast
My Disturbing Relationship with Righteousness | Lifestream | Wayne Jacobsen
EW Kenyon:
STOP Assuming You Know Jesus! The Hidden Dimensions of Christ Every Believer Must Experience -Kenyon
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Most of us who grew up in the Christian faith viewed God as "cranky" in the Old Testament. He is seen as judgmental and vengeful against evil people. In the New Testament, He changes to a "nice guy" with love and forgiveness. Is that true?
Our discussion in this episode focuses on what Jesus meant when He said God had given all judging to the Son... (John 5:22 CLNT). Did He mean He carried out the "cranky" disposition of the Father, or is there another narrative that we need to find to interpret this passage?
Listen and be encouraged as to who God really is, and how Jesus carried out the Father's judgment of justice and love in conciliating mankind back to Himself.
Notes
Movie: National Treasure, with Nicolas Cage.
Leave us your comments on the podcast page below.
We all have or had situations in our families or workplace that are difficult to resolve. We often do not know what to do or if we should even get involved. Dennis and David discuss how Jesus faced situations by simply declaring, "The Son cannot be doing anything of Himself if it is not what He should be observing the Father doing,.." (Jn. 5:19 CLNT). How do we practice this perspective and be aware of what Father God is doing in our circumstances, and save the frustration of trying to perform on our own? We invite you to watch or listen, and perhaps respond with your own experiences.
Notes
Henry Blackaby, Experiencing God
Wayne Jacobsen, He Loves Me
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Can science and the Bible agree on things like the age of the earth or the genetic origins of man? How can different conclusions or preferences ever be reconciled? In this episode, we discuss this dilemma illustrated in a symposium with Francis Collins and NT Wright, two of the brightest minds in science and theology. These two men have found the answer - it begins with Jesus. Listen or watch how starting with Jesus, the Truth, unfolds many mysteries or contradictions in life.
Notes
Francis Collins and N. T. Wright: Evolution, Truth and the Case for God https://youtu.be/QxZn5GDjp2g?si=kz1W0STQLl59yZYI
John 5:19, 30
E.W. Kenyon Reveals the Mystery of Identification | You Are One With Christ (Life-Changing Truth)
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David Fulton joins Dennis in this episode, and having just gotten his copy of the book Just Love offers his impressions. David expressed appreciation for how the book aligns with our discussions about transformation and internal change, rather than external performance. The conversation examined how many prominent Christian leaders and movements from the past have declined or disappeared, leading to reflections on what truly endures in faith beyond temporary buildings and organizations. They discussed the importance of focusing on knowing Jesus, rather than just following religious doctrines or attending church services, emphasizing that genuine faith involves a personal union with Jesus.
Notes
NT Wright - Ephesians
EW Kenyon - YouTube
Jacobsen, Van Der Westhuizen - Just Love
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In this episode, Dennis and Arnold continue to discuss Wayne Jacobson's new book "Just Love," which explores how the concept of righteousness in the Bible has been misinterpreted and should be understood more as justice or just love. They discussed how understanding God's love through Jesus helps people navigate difficult situations and relationships, rather than relying on legalistic principles. The conversation covered how living in sync with God's love affects personal relationships and societal issues, including the challenges of implementing justice and love in human systems. Learn why Jesus is the perfect revelation of God's love and the key to understanding how to live justly and lovingly in an unjust world.
NOTES
Beatles' song "Imagine"
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Our conversation in this edition of The Jesus Conversation Podcast focused on discussing the book Just Love by Wayne Jacobson and Tobie van der Westhuizen, which proposes replacing the word "righteousness" with "justice" in our Bibles. Dennis, Arnold, and David explored how this shift in translation could transform Christianity from a fear-based, performance-oriented system to one based on love, fairness, and genuine relationship with God. We encourage everyone to read this eye-opening book.
Please leave us your comments below.
Our culture today emphasizes being someone who they think you should be, but simultaneously trying not to be better than others. It is a conflicting narrative, especially in educating the next generation. What does God say? Be who you are in Jesus, and let Him transform your life.
Our group returns from several weeks off to enter another conversation on what it means to live with Jesus in us and we in Him. We hope you will be encouraged to be who you are in Him.
Podcast notes:
Gal.1:24; Col. 1:27; Jn. 14:20
The Hidden Truth About “Christ in You” That Few Preach | E.W. Kenyon Teachings
Millions Left the Church — What They’re Turning To Instead - YouTube
Just Love, by Wayne Jacobsen, Tobie van der Westhuizen,
The Church Jesus is Building | Lifestream | Wayne Jacobsen
Ephesians, NT Wright
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Our conversation in this episode begins by discussing "the church Jesus is building". This phrase comes from Wayne Jacobsen in his book Finding Church. What does this church look like? Where is it meeting? How do people get to be part of this church?
Listen or watch as we talk about what God is doing today and how we get to be part of it.
NOTES
Wayne Jacobsen, The Church Jesus is Building | Lifestream | Wayne Jacobsen
The Chosen, S1E8 Jesus and the Woman at the Well (John 4)
NT Wright, Ephesians
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Jesus asks His disciples to look upon the "countrysides, for they are white for the harvest is already" (John 4:35). He is speaking metaphorically about people, but who they? Are they "lost" people as traditionally viewed by the Christian church, or are they people already God's children trying to find their true identity in Him?
Listen as Dennis and Arnold talk about the falsehood of modern evangelism and what Jesus really asks us to do.
Notes
Salvation of all scriptures: Jn. 17:3; Rom. 5:19; 1 Cor. 8:6-8; 1 Cor. 15:22; 2 Cor. 5:15
15,000 Churches Closing in 2026: The Crisis No One Sees
Previous podcasts:
JAU Focus Session 71023 ”All Saved?” | The Jesus Conversations Podcast
JAU Focused Session 6-28-23 ”Why Evangelize?” | The Jesus Conversations Podcast
Wayne Jacobsen, Tobie van der Westhuizen, Just Love
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Believers often question what is God's will and how to obey it. The answer is to know Jesus inside of us and we inside of Him. In this podcast, our group discusses how this works. It is only in Jesus that we get to know the Father, and knowing the Father is key to knowing what He desires to accomplish through our lives.
Notes
Video: Nobody Wants To Be A Pastor Anymore—Here's Why
Wayne Jacobsen books - Lifestream | Lifestream | Wayne Jacobsen
"Mr. Destiny" - movie Mr. Destiny (1990) - IMDb
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Have you ever found yourself doing something so fulfilling that you forgot to stop and eat? Dennis and Arnold talk about how sharing about Jesus with someone can seem to make your heart warm and overcome even the need to eat. Why is this the case? Why did Jesus not have to eat when He was doing to the "will of the Father"?
Notes
Scripture: Jn. 4:31-34
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In John 4:23, Jesus introduces the concept of "true worshipers". Who are these believers? As Jesus declared, they would no longer be going to special places to praise God. But where would they go and how would they approach God? Our group discusses what we believe Jesus was meaning by this statement in light of John 14:20.
Notes
Worship industry collapse - Why The Modern Worship Music Industry Is Collapsing: The Bethel Crisis
NT Wright, Ephesians.
Dennis Deardorff, Who are “true worshipers”? | KNOWING JESUS
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Did God create 118 trillion people on the earth just to take them off to heaven? What about his plan for people in this earthly life? Our discussion in this episode asks the question, what is God's real plan for us now? Is it as Christianity has taught just a preparation for heaven or hell? Thankfully, we are finding that Jesus and God are interested in making this life the best in everyone created.
NOTES
NT Wright article: Christian Post: "Western Christians have misread Heaven, the End Times, spiritual warfare". December 2, 2025
Scripture: Lk. 5:2,3; Rom. 8:19
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Where do you go to find God? Most Christians are taught they need to go to church or seek God in a special place. Jesus teaches us that God is the well of life eonian residing inside each believer. In this episode, our group discusses how this change in location alters how we pray, worship, or give. We realize that God is the well we constantly drink from through Jesus.
Notes
Book: A.E. Knock, All in All, Concordant Publishing
Scriptures: Jer. 2:13 (NKJV); Jn.3:16; 4:14
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It is amazing what a little preposition makes, especially in the language of the original Greek New Testament. For most English translations, John 3:16 has one basic meaning, but when you see the preposition used in the original Greek, you see something profound. You won't read this famous verse the same anymore.
Listen or watch our group discuss what this preposition is and why it is important to our understanding of Jesus in us and us in Him.
Notes
Scriptures: Jn 3:15,16; Rom. 13:14; Eph. 4: 20-25; Col. 3:12-14
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Have you ever been asked a question that challenged or caused you to open your mind to a different way of seeing things? Our conversation today looked at the power of provocative questions, like the one Jesus asked the woman at the well in John 4. His question broke open the woman's perceptions of God and the true source of life.
Many Christians are also locked into a theological framework that prevents them from seeing who and where God is in their lives. They need to be asked a question that will break open their strongly held belief systems.
NOTES
Movie: I Robot
The Chosen, "I have called you by name".
Books: Henry Blackaby, Experiencing God; Frank Viola, God's Favorite Place on Earth; The Jesus Manifesto.
Please leave your comments below or write to knowingJesus22@outlook.com
In this last episode of the year, Scott Wakefield joins Dennis to talk about Scott's latest blog post. Where do people try to find the self-assurance they need to face a world full of uncertainty? Scott talks again about his own personal journey of escaping the bondage of self-seeking pleasure and finding a new identity and affirmation in Jesus. You will find this conversation touching.
Notes
Scotts Blog- https://myscottpage.blogspot.com/, 12/24/25 #2054
Jedidiah Bila Podcast - jedidiahbila.com
Mary Magdalene - The Chosen, "I have called you by name".
Frankin Graham: "God hates" https://share.newsbreak.com/gf0rw67w?s=i3
Scott's email: scot-wak@hotmail.com
Please leave your comments below or write to knowingJesus22@outlook.com
In this Christmas season of 2025, what is most needed is a true perception of God and Christianity. There is a growing mistrust and anti-Christian sentiment among people today, which is being supported by current Christian messaging itself. God and Christianity are being seen as exclusive, bigoted, and prejudiced. It's God is a God who "hates".
Our discussion in this podcast focuses on how these incorrect perceptions can be changed through the manifestation of Jesus in our lives.
Notes
Frankin Graham: "God hates" https://share.newsbreak.com/gf0rw67w?s=i3
Military Spiritual Fitness: JUST IN: Hegseth Announces End Of 'Unacceptable' Army Spiritual Fitness Guide
Scripture: Luke 3:6
Poem: Longfellow, "I Heard the Bells on Christmas Day" Song Stories: I HEARD THE BELLS ON CHRISTMAS DAY
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There are so many challenges to the fact that Christ lives in us. Unfortunately, the primary challenge is current Christian teaching itself. For one, it holds that modern faith still rests on external ritual, not internal reality. For another, Christianity's "future oriented" focus creates a disconnect with present reality. By framing salvation as a ticket to heaven, it overlooks the immediate, transformative power of Christ's presence, leaving believers vulnerable to fear and guilt. Also, it teaches that spiritual growth is an academic process, when the truth is it's a "travail" of Christ being revealed through us through life's circumstances.
Listen or watch this podcast edition, and be encouraged as our team discusses how to know Jesus lives in us.
Notes
"The First Christmas" by Kevin Costner, on Hulu and Disney+
NT Wright videos: Available on YouTube.
John 14:20; Gal. 2:20; Col. 1:27; 3:4
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Christianity has unfortunately been based on a fear narrative. We have been told that we must fear God because of what He can do to us, especially in the next life. But is that the gospel according to Paul? This week, our group discusses how Jesus has changed the narrative of Christianity from fear to love.
NOTES
Scriptures: John 3:16-17; 2 Tim. 1:7
Books: J.P Eby, Savior of the World; Loyal Hurley, The outcome of infinite grace.
Please leave a comment below or write to knowingJesus22@outlook.com
In the face of life's pressures and adversities, where do we find peace and rest? In this episode, our group talks about how learning to "sink into Jesus" brings peace and thankfulness that surpasses human understanding. With the lens of John 14:20, we realize how living inside of Jesus and He in us opens up so much we have not seen concerning Scripture and life.
Notes
Scriptures: John 14:20; Rom. 13:14; Phil. 4:6,7; Col. 2:6,7
NT Wright video: What Story is the Bible Really Telling? | What I've Learned with N.T. Wright
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After reading that God loves the world in John 3:16, you then read in 3:17 that God is also judging. Isn't that a contradiction? How can a loving God also be a God of judgment? The key is understanding what judgment means. Listen or watch as our group discusses the importance of seeing this topic through the perspective of John 14:20.
Notes
Scriptures: John 3:16-19
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Everyone wants to feel loved. It has been described as the basic need of mankind. But how does God feel loved? What does He do to meet the need in His heart for love? The answer is that He loves first. In this podcast, our group discusses the basic principle of knowing and experiencing love. It is in showing love first.
Notes
Scriptures: Jn. 3:16; Rom 5:8; 1 Jn 3:16; I Jn 4:10; 1 Cor. 13:5
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The Concordant Literal New Testament translates John 3:15 this way - that everyone believing on Him should not be perishing but may be having eonian life. What does it mean to not be perishing? And what is eonian life? Listen or watch as our group goes deep into unpacking what God is really saying in this verse.
Notes
Jn. 3:15
Gen. 3:2-5
2 Cor. 4:16
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The most common symbol associated with Christianity is the cross. It is regularly displayed in its churches, and even worn around people's necks. But what does it symbolize? Join us in this conversation as we discuss how the cross can actually replace Jesus as the key focus of our faith.
NOTES
Bible text - John 3:14,15
Charlie Kirk posthumous award
Is a Christian Cross engraved on Charlie Kirk's Medal of Freedom? Video goes viral
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The term "born again" is a popular term used by Christians worldwide. It is used mostly as a prequalification for going to heaven. But what does it mean, and where does the phrase come from? Is it even Biblical? Our group in this podcast discusses the origin of this phrase and others, and what God actually says in His Word.
NOTES
Background text: Jn. 3:3-13
Chapter 7 "In Jesus, I am in heaven and the earth". Series: Knowing Inside of Jesus https://nwmenscoalition.wordpress.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/7.-i-am-in-heaven-now-draft.pdf
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The common message in Christian churches today is that we must die before we can enter heaven. Where is that found in the Bible? Check out our conversation in this episode on where this teaching got started, and is it true? God and Christ of heaven live in our hearts now.
NOTES
Scriptures: John 3:13; Rom. 8:9-11
Book: Wayne Jacobsen, Dave Coleman, So, you don't want to go to church anymore, p.18
Message: Frank Viola, Encountering the living Christ then and now.
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/christ-is-all-frank-viola-audio/id312389288?i=1000724558950
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Dennis is joined with Arnold Quigley in this podcast to discuss how we can only see and know the Father in Jesus, the Son of God. Christianity has given us a distorted view of God, and this is why people struggle with knowing Him. Jesus as His Son is the only way to know Him and relate to Him.
Notes
Jn. 1:34,49
Knowing Inside Jesus - draft to date -https://nwmenscoalition.wordpress.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/knowing-inside-of-jesus-rev.-82725.pdf
Please leave questions or comments in the section below or write to knowingJesus22@outlook.com
After several weeks of absence, our group convenes again to engage in another conversation on Jesus in us and we in Him. Today, our discussion began with the report of a recent evangelistic crusade in Portland, and how effective it was in bringing people to Jesus.
We ask the question, is this how Jesus expected His church to expand the kingdom, or are there other ways? Let us know your thoughts in the comment section below.
Notes
Scriptures: Mt. 28:19,20 The Great Commission; Rom. 13:14
Portland Crusade: Christian revival event draws thousands in quest to save Portland’s soul - OPB
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Is Jesus God or the Son of God? Hear why this question is so important to our understanding of not only Jesus, but also God. Will we hold onto set doctrines or what God says?
Our discussion today will hopefully help you understand Jesus living in you, you in Him, and together in the Father (John 14:20).
NOTES
Book: Wayne Jacobsen, He loves Me.
Book: Dennis Deardorff, Knowing Jesus, Discovering Jesus Lives as Me.
Please leave us a comment or write to knowingJesus22@outlook.com
In this episode, we talk about how knowing Jesus in us and us in Him is not a "one and done" experience. It is actually a process over time and varies for each one of us. It is spurred on by the fact that we can't get enough of the revelation of this reality. As Paul declared late in his life, he had forsaken all to know Him (Phil. 3:7-10). Where are you in this process? Are you satisfied that you know Jesus fully?
NOTES
The Chosen, seasons 1-5, are now on Prime Video.
Nicene Creed - https://www.bibles.net/the-full-text-of-the-nicene-creed/
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Over 80 years ago, CS Lewis wrote in his famous book Mere Christianity:
But already the new man, I'll add, and the new women are dotted here and there all over the earth….Every now and then, one meets them. Their voices and faces are different from ours, stronger, quieter, happier, more radiant. They begin where most of us leave off. They are, I say, recognizable, but you must know what to look for.
He went on to write that these people live the "Christ-life". Were his words prophetic? Could Jesus as Us be what Lewis was referring to? Arnold and Dennis discuss how Lewis was indeed talking about this age in which we are experiencing "the New Man" or Christ in us.
Notes
CS Lewis, Mere Christianity
Wayne Jacobsen, Kyle Rice, The God Journey, episode 991
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After reading an article recently in which the author claims Christianity has become apathetic, Dennis poses the question, are we apathetic? Just because Jesus lives in us and we in Him, and we do not necessarily practice conventional Christian traditions, does that make us apathetic? Our group compares how they live now with the way they lived in the institutional environment of organized Christianity. Which way do they think will do more to impact our country and government? Listen or watch, and let us know what you think.
Notes
Article: "The price of Christianity’s “broken bargain” with democracy" by journalist Jonathan Rauch.
Leave us your thoughts below or write to us at knowingJesus22@outlook.com
In our podcast last week, we discussed how knowing Jesus in us and us inside Jesus changes many of our common Christian beliefs. In this podcast, we look at how what we know changes our lives. Knowing Jesus is the key to personal transformation. But what keeps us from knowing Him?
NOTES
Scriptures: 1 Cor. 13:10-12; 2 Cor. 3:12-18
The Chosen: Mary is forgiven, S2, E6 https://www.bing.com/videos/riverview/relatedvideo?q=the+chosen+jesus+forgives+mary∣=8037586C0B60CE4323398037586C0B60CE432339&mmscn=stvo&FORM=VIRE
Please let us know where you are watching or listening from in the comment section below. Or write to us at knowingJesus22@outlook.com
We are back! After a several weeks break, our group rejoined today and dove into a further discussion of John 14:20, in that day you will know…
What do we know now about Christ and God? What has Christianity and the church taught us about these entities? How does this verse change anything or conflict with what we know about salvation, our future, heaven and hell, and the Trinity? Do we definitely know that we are inside Jesus as He is inside Father?
Listen/watch as we begin to unpack the meaning of this foundational verse to Paul's gospel.
Notes
Knowing Inside Jesus - draft.
Please leave your comments or questions below or write to us at knowingJesus22@Outlook.com
Our group discusses that Easter celebrations today do not have the same excitement that they used to have for us. Why is that? Does knowing Jesus living in us now influence how we view traditional Easter Sunday observances? Listen or watch as we discuss the reasons this high day in Christianity has changed in its relevance.
NOTES
Book: The Untold Story of the NT Church, Revised and Expanded
"Eonian Life", Knowing Jesus Newsletter, Spring 2025
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In this podcast, we break into an already occurring conversation with Dennis, David, and Arnold on the theme of pain and suffering in a believer who knows Jesus lives in him. How should this change our response to the pain or circumstance we encounter? Other questions arise as to what is God's good and what is the meaning of life? If you are going through some painful experience, we hope this short conversation will encourage you.
Notes:
Book: Henry Blackaby, Experiencing God.
Drifter is one of our community members facing health challenges. He would love your prayers.
Please leave your comments or questions below in the comments section.
Also please visit our website Knowing Jesus (nwmenscoalition.com) for more resources and previous podcasts, or write us knowingJesus22@Outlook.com
What did Jesus mean when He said, I can do nothing of Myself? Did He mean He wouldn't or literally could not? When we learn that Jesus lives in us with the Father, we begin to see what Jesus was talking about. True life is learning that I am unable to perform the work of the Father on my own. I must accept that I can do nothing but what the Father does through me.
Notes
John 5:19,30 (NKJV)
Please leave your comments or questions below, or write to us at knowingJesus22@Outlook.com .
How does knowing Jesus in us help face tragedy? Arnold and Dennis discuss a recent homicide in Arnold's family, and how he and his wife July have experienced the presence of Jesus in facing the aftermath of the tragedy. Can we rely on Jesus and the Father to make sense of or bring healing to these instances?
Notes
Inside of Jesus diagram
https://nwmenscoalition.wordpress.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/graphic-jn-14.20.pdf
Please leave your comments or questions below, or write to knowingJesus22@outlook.com
What does it mean to "disappear into Jesus"? How does this compare with how we were taught in mainstream Christianity? Our conversation today looks further into ways we are symmorphosed with Jesus.
Notes
Music intro: "Image of the Firstborn" by Bayila Dalaky https://christrevealed.info/audio/general/ImageoftheFirstborn-BayilaDalaky.mp3
Book: The Long Grey Line https://www.amazon.com/Long-Gray-Line-American-Journey/dp/080509122X
Article: I thought I lived a normal life —at 40, I realized I was in a notorious cult-like church and ran away https://nypost.com/2025/02/21/lifestyle/australian-man-escapes-from-cult-like-church-that-controlled-his-life/
Please leave your comments below or write to knowingJesus22@outlook.com
In this edition, Scott joins Dennis in a discussion on how God is drawing people out of the mainstream church and forming fresh communities where Jesus can be seen and known. One of those communities is with Scott's gym friends. Listen or watch as they talk about the reasons the mainstream church has trouble focusing on just Jesus, and how simple communities of believers are better suited to manifest Jesus to the world.
NOTES
Article - Why Religion's Gripp on Society is Slipping Away
https://www.thefreefinancialadvisor.com/why-religions-grip-on-society-is-slipping-away/
Article - I thought I lived a normal life —at 40, I realized I was in a notorious cult-like church and ran away
https://nypost.com/2025/02/21/lifestyle/australian-man-escapes-from-cult-like-church-that-controlled-his-life/
Video Series - The Chosen
https://watch.thechosen.tv/
Book - J P Eby - Revelation Series https://www.kingdombiblestudies.org/index1.htm
Scott's blog - https://myscottpage.blogspot.com/
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What does "predestination" mean? Many of us believe it has to do with some being saved and others not. What if it doesn't mean that at all? Listen to our discussion today on what God really says in Romans 8:29.
Notes
Scriptures: Rom. 8:19-22; 28-30; 1 Cor. 15:22, 28
Book: JP Eby The Savior of the World
http://www.kingdombiblestudies.org/eBooks/Savior%20of%20the%20World.pdf
Please leave us your comments and questions below, or write to knowingJesus22@Outlook.com
"Where should I go to church"? This is a question that many of us are being asked these days, both by friends and family. Our group shares in this podcast their own experiences and insights on this topic. Is this question evidence of God's leading, and can we trust His guidance will prevail? How can we best assist God in growing His children in the truth?
NOTES
1 Cor. 4:15 - Fathers
Rom. 12; Eph. 4; 1 Cor. 12 - spiritual graces
AI diagram of the definition of the Greek word symmorphous:
One Body
Personality A Personality B
Mind Mind
Will Will
Emotions Emotions
Please leave your comments or questions below or write to knowingJesus22@outlook.com
Our discussion in this episode centers again on the experience of sharing our lives with Jesus. This reality is what Paul calls summorphous in the original Greek scripture. It means "sharing the same form as". How does it work in practical terms? How do two persons - me and Jesus - share the same form or vessel and interact in life?
Notes
Strongs 4832
Summorphous
συμμόρφουs
Adj-AMP
Conformed, having the same form as
*The term symmorphy has been coined by Daniel Yordi in his textual series entitled "Symmorphy" and can be found at https://christrevealed.info/
Book reference - Jordon Petersen, We Who Wrestle with God.
Fathom Notetaker -the blank image pane in the video is an AI note-taking tool applied by the host Dennis Deardorff
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What is it like to live with Jesus every day? How do we look at others and our circumstances?
Dennis and Arnold talk about having the joy and fun of living with Jesus, and seeing how He leads in the interaction with people and experiences. It is what Jesus describes as having life and it more abundantly (Jn 10:10)
Notes
Dennis' book: Knowing Jesus, Discovering how Jesus lives as me. Available on Amazon
Please leave us your comments or write to knowingJesus22@outlook.com
Is it about the rewards? What's in Christianity for me?
Dennis and his friends discuss the issue with current Christian media and teaching that portrays God as our conditional advocate. Does God love us with an expectation? What is the true expectation of our faith? Is it about outcomes and destiny, or a life full of the knowledge of Jesus and the Father?
Notes and links
Pagan Christianity - book
Knowing Inside Jesus - diagram
Knowing Inside Jesus - Created in Him audio podcast
The Commission
Please leave us your comments or write to knowingJesus22@Outlook.com .
Jesus said, "In that day you will know that…you are in Me…." (Jn. 14:20) Do you know this truth to be real in your mind and heart? Do you know that you exist inside of Jesus? In this podcast, Dennis continues his discussion of how he is coming to know this truth for himself. This is the second of his podcast discussions on this topic. Listen or watch as he expounds on how we are created in Jesus from John 1:1-3.
See below for the links to the previous podcast and notes for this discussion.
Notes
Knowing Inside Jesus – Introduction (Knowing the Father)
Knowing Inside Jesus – Diagram
Knowing Inside Jesus - Created in Jesus
Previous Podcasts
JAU Podcast 9-29-24 "Knowing the Father" - audio
JAU Podcast 9-29-24 "Knowing the Father" - video
In this pre-Christmas episode of the Jesus as Us podcast, Dennis and David Fulton talk about what they think God has been doing this last year. They are especially interested in what God may be doing in regards to the revelation of Christ in us. How do we see this revelation spreading or increasing in people's hearts across the world and here in the US? Listen or watch, and be encouraged by what is happening in these exciting days.
NOTES
Article: Sign of Great Hope, Religious Leaders See a Fourth Great Awakening as Americans Flock to Christianity.
Hallow Prayer App
Please add to our conversation. Leave your thoughts in the comment section below or write to us at knowingJesus22@outlook.com
In this episode, Dennis interviews longtime friends Jerry and Joan Bettendorf. Hear their story about growing up, marriage, careers, and how they came to know Jesus. Hear especially how the revelation of Jesus now living in them has impacted their lives. They now introduce themselves as the "Three J's - Jerry, Joan, and Jesus". You will enjoy this couple and their testimony as to the reality of living as Jesus.
NOTES
Jesus Calling, Sarah Young
Write to the Bettendorf's at - jbettendorf@comcast.net
Or please leave your comments below
We are back!
After a several weeks hiatus for travel, Dennis returns with this episode featuring David Fulton discussing how to grasp the love of God. They expressed concerns about how modern Christian theology has become distorted, often focusing too much on salvation, heaven, and hell, rather than on God's unconditional love and the true message of the gospel.
Please leave your comments below or write directly to Dennis at knowingJesus22@outlook.com
In this episode, Dennis talks with his good friend Steve Fivecoat about his life with Jesus. Steve shares how knowing Jesus lives in him has impacted his life and helped him through some tough times recently. Hearing Steve's testimony may help you better understand the reality of Christ in your life.
Notes:
Henry Blackaby, Experiencing GodNorman Grubb, Yes, I amSteve's book: Rescue Me - available on Amazon
Steve's email - s.fivecoat@comcast.net
Steve's Facebook page: Steve's Stories - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100063880033006
Please leave us your questions or thoughts below
Do we choose God, or did He already choose us? Scott joins Dennis for a discussion on the power of knowing God already chooses us to be His special son or daughter in Jesus. The realization of this truth makes a profound difference in how we feel about church and our spiritual journey.
NOTES
Scripture: Eph 1:4
Scott's blog post: https://myscottpage.blogspot.com/2024/10/the-choice.html
J Preston Eby - Savior of the World http://www.kingdombiblestudies.org/eBooks/Savior%20of%20the%20World.pdf
The Chosen - TV series can be found on The Chosen app, Netflix.
PLEASE LEAVE YOUR COMMENTS OR QUESTIONS BELOW
In this episode, David Fulton and Arnold Quigley join Dennis for an in-depth discussion in which Arnold asks, "Have you ever had moments when your me just disappears into God?". They discuss the practical experience of seeing their lives so hidden that all anyone sees is Jesus. How does that happen, for example in our prayer life and interaction with others?
Notes
1 Jn 3:16
Please leave your comments below or write to knowingJesus22@outlook.com
Dennis shares in this episode about his own spiritual journey in the knowledge of Jesus in us. He describes how the revelation of Col. 1:27 has now led to new insights into other key scriptures, such as Romans 8:19-22 and John 14:20. Knowing Jesus in this new way has opened a knowledge of the Father he never knew he wanted.
Notes
Book: Knowing Jesus, Discovering how Jesus lives as me.
Articles: The Unveiling, Part 1 Completed Sons
Other scriptures: Jer. 31:34: Heb. 8:11; 1 Jn 2:22
Contact Dennis at knowingJesus22@outlook.com
Please leave a comment in the comment section.
In this episode, Dennis and Scott discuss the differences between their experiences in the institutional church system and the more organic, spontaneous ministry Scott is now engaged in at the gym. They emphasize the importance of being led by the Father, rather than following rigid protocols or seeking to build an empire.
Notes
Jim Henderson, Jim and Casper go to Church2 Cor. 5:21
Scott's blog: Scotts Page (myscottpage.blogspot.com)
Please leave comments or questions below.
In this episode, Dennis is joined with Arnold Quigley to discuss the impact knowing Jesus lives in him has had on his life up to this point. One of the most important realizations has been to let God take charge of his life and just be who he is. This has given Arnold wonderful freedom and joy.
Notes
Book: Norman Grubb, Who Am I. Quote from page 102.
Please leave comments or questions below.
In this episode, Dennis and David maintain that the true gospel is not about "getting saved" and going to heaven, but about knowing God the Father through the person of Jesus Christ. They argue that the focus should be on experiencing God's presence and participating in His work in the world, rather than pursuing individual rewards or avoiding punishment. This requires a shift from self-focused spirituality to a God-centered perspective.
Notes
NT Wright, Paul a BiographyHenry Blackaby - Experiencing God
Attention: Future episodes may or may not always be released on Sundays. Watch for them anyday of the week.
Please leave your comments below.
Is God in the 2024 Olympics? In this episode, Dennis and David discuss the biblical concept of the "fullness of God" and our identity as God's beloved children. They emphasize the importance of understanding and living out of this truth, rather than focusing on external circumstances or future concerns.
NOTES
God in the Olympics video - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=941fNzgK7Yo
Song: "What the world needs now"
Scriptures: John 1:16: Eph. 1:4; 3:19
Please leave your comments below.
Why is the message "going to heaven" destructive to Christians? What was Jesus' mission, to save people from sin or to make God known? Listen or watch as we discuss in this episode why John 14:20 gets lost in the prevailing Christian narrative of heaven as our ultimate goal, and we thus miss what God wants to in this life.
Notes
Scripture: Lk. 23:43; John 14:2, 20-23
Movies: Beautiful Mind
Book: LaHaye, Jenkins, John's Story, The Last Eye Witness.
Please leave your comments below
Our group in this episode consisted of mainly older men who began today's discussion on the theme of God's use of their lives in the twilight years. They hit on one of the most important roles, and that being spiritual fathers to the next generation. They see the most critical function as speaking into the younger generation from their experience of living in Jesus.
Notes
1 Cor. 4:15
Book: John's Story, LaHaye and Jenkins
Please leave your comments below.
The group in this episode discusses a different interpretation of Paul's "thorn in the flesh" proposed by NT Wright. Rather than a physical ailment, the thorn may have represented the pain and frustration Paul felt from people rejecting the gospel message. This led to a broader discussion about how hard it is for people to accept the Evangel today.
Notes
Scripture: 2 Cor. 12:1-7 Paul's thorn
Please leave your comments below
Today's group discuss how their understanding of God has shifted from seeing Him as a distant, separate being to experiencing a deep, intimate oneness with Him through Jesus. They share how this has transformed their prayer lives and relationship with God, moving away from a focus on sin and performance to living freely in God's presence.
NOTES
Scriptures: Jn 14:20; Acts 17:28; Gal.2:20; Rom. 6:11; Lord's Prayer Matt. 9:9-13
Document: "Knowing Inside of Jesus" https://nwmenscoalition.wordpress.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/knowing-inside-of-jesus-6-30-24-1.pdf
Please leave your comments below.
What do you tell someone still locked in the old narrative that they must strive to improve their standing with God? Our group today talks about how the common Christian belief of being a "work in progress" is rooted in the false narrative of sin and guilt. They shared how discovering their true identity in Christ - that they are already complete and perfect in Him - has set them free from this performance-based mentality.
Notes
Scriptures: Col. 2:9,10
The Who- "I am free"
Iron Butterfly - "In Gadda Da Vida"
Dennis D - "Knowing Inside of Jesus"
Please leave some comments below
Is Jesus a white "Christianized" Anglo or a Jew of Middle Eastern descent? In today's meeting, our group discusses how Western Christianity has "de-judaized" Jesus, overlooking or downplaying his Jewish roots and heritage. We explore the importance of understanding Jesus as a Jew, and how that provides important context and meaning to his life and ministry, and our story in Him.
Notes
NT Wright interview - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B8eDrwWmJrc
Scriptures - Gal. 3:8, 16, 28; 1 Jn. 3:2
Please leave yur comments below.
Prompted by a recent video capturing the moment a sperm penetrates a human egg, Scott and Dennis delve into questions about the beginning of life and the spirit. What does the light captured in the video represent? When does a person become a spiritual being, etc.? Grab your Bible and prepare for deep plowing on this one.
Please leave us your thoughts on the Comment section below.
NOTES
Video link on Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/share/r/yqYeeSY1DG95uEEs/?mibextid=xCPwDs
Sciptures - Jn. 1:3,4,5; 3:3,16,19; Col. 1:16
Scotts Blog - Scotts Page (myscottpage.blogspot.com)
In the video series "The Chosen", Jesus is depicted as very human. If Jesus is our life, and the definition of who we are, would The Chosen Jesus represent us? Our group engaged in a lively discussion on this topic in this episode of Jesus as Us Zoom Meeting.
NOTES
Key scriptures: John 14:20; 17:24; 1 Cor. 11:7; Col. 1:27
J Presten Eby - Kingdom of God Ministires
Knowing Inside of Jesus - https://nwmenscoalition.wordpress.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/knowing-inside-of-jesus-6-8-24.pdf
After a three week hiatus, our group continues the conversation on what it means to be inside of Jesus, according to John 14:20. Today's focus is on Col. 2:10, knowing you are complete or who you are supposed to be.
Listen how the pressure to be like the perfect, sinless Jesus has been a burden, leading to feelings of inadequacy and failure. We realize that we are already complete in Christ, without needing to strive for it. It has been a liberating revelation. The group emphasizes that the focus should be on our identity in Christ, rather than self-improvement.
Please leave your comments below
How do we know that we live in Jesus? Our group discusses how God opens our spiritual senses to realize this truth.
NOTES
Movies: "Little Bit of Heaven"
Scriptures: Jn 14:20; Col. 2:9,10
Document: "Knowing Inside of Jesus" - (copy and paste link in your browser) https://nwmenscoalition.files.wordpress.com/2024/05/knowing-inside-of-jesus-5-5-24.pdf
There will be no podcasts for the next 3 weeks.
What does God mean when He says "in Jesus we are free from the law of sin and death"? (Rom. 8:2) In this episode, we try to define what this death really is. Is it free from dying physically or something else? How do we know if we are free from this death?
NOTES
Scriptures: Jn 14:20; Rom. 8:2-6; 1 Thess. 4:13,14; 2 Tim. 3:12.
Song: "I am free", Newsboys
Video/movies: Freud's Last Session, Netflix; Sheep Among Wolves, You Tube.
Please leave us your questions or comments in the section below.
In this episode, our group continues to explore what it means to live inside of Jesus, as mentioned in John 14:20 "you in Me". We begin to explore the concept of freedom in Jesus and how we experience it. To get a better picture of this freedom, we first tried to define sin and how it enslaves us.
NOTES
Slave Bible - https://youtu.be/lvKUOuYn1-c?si=le7b1UtLb6vJ-v8Z
Scriptures: Rom. 8:2; Gal. 5:1; 2 Cor. 3:17
Please leave your thoughts below in the comment section.
Today, our group talks about what it is like to not be aware of sin. Living in Jesus means that one does not have any awareness of sin or guilt in their lives. How can this be true when our churches continue to teach that we are still sinners?
Notes
Scriptures: Rom. 6:11; 8:1; 2 Cor. 5:21; 1 Jn 3:6
Book: NT Wright, Paul, a biography.
Please leave comments below.
In this episode, one of our attendees, who has not attended church in awhile, announced he was going to church today. This opened up the question, should we encourage people to attend church today, knowing that the common narrative does not match our current perspective? Is there value in attending church, especially if we know so many people are leaving?
NOTES
Books: Wayne Jacobsen, So you don't want to go to church anymore, and He loves me.
PDF: Dennis D, Spiritual Revelation Phases https://nwmenscoalition.files.wordpress.com/2023/08/spiritual-revelation-phases-.pdf
Scriptures: Jn 14:20; 17:3, 21; 1 Jn 2:12-14; 1 Cor. 4:15
David Fulton joins Dennis in this episode to discuss the subject of Easter and how it is portrayed in contemporary Christianity. David suggests from a quote by Philip Yancy that it is a "two edged story". What does he mean, and how is it that believers still have trouble losing their guilt and shame even after hearing the Easter narrative?
NOTES
Philip Yancey, The Jesus I never knew.Scriptures: 2 Cor 5:21; Isa. 53-55; Jn 14:20
Great American Family - media channel
Barbara Tuchman - historian, author
Please leave your comments below
In this episode, our group discussed how traditions like Palm Sunday keep Christianity focused on the past, not the present reality of being in Christ and He in us. While rituals have value, they unintentionally lead the church to see Jesus as a historical figure, rather than its living reality. Are you waving palms for Christ living in you now?
Notes:
Mike Bickle: Passion for Jesus
Heb. 10:19-22; Rev. 7:9,10
The Passion of the Christ
Please leave your comments below
In this episode of our focus sessions, our group reviews the last chapter in J Preston Eby's book Saviour of the World, "Reconciliation in the heaven". It may shock many to learn that even the Devil will humbly bow before the Lord in the final reconciliation of ALL things.
Please leave your comments below.
John 14:20 says we are in Jesus, but when did that occur? Our group today discusses the reality that we have already been placed in Jesus before the world was even formed. That means we have been in Jesus and He in the Father, and we didn't even know it!
Notes on today's discussions:
Book: Pagan Christianity, Barna and Viola
Movie: Peace River, Up Faith & Family Streaming channel
David's Quote: "I could not, with a clear conscience, ask God to take me safely through this war, but I can ask Him for strength and courage to do my job." Soldier Randel Harris from The Day of Battle by Rick Attkinson
Streaming Series: The Chosen, available on Netflix, Peacock, Up Faith and Family, Angel Studios.
Scriptures: 1 Cor. 1:30; Eph 1:4
Please leave us your comments below
In this episode of our JAU Sunday Zoom Meeting, we continue to explore the experience of living in Jesus. Our journey into Him leads us to a fascinating realm full of wonder and mystery beyond words. Just where is this realm, and do we need to die to go there? What is the value to our lives in being allowed to see through the "open door"?
Notes
Some of this recording contains audio by a train conductor from a train a member was riding during the Zoom meeting.
David's scripture quotations - Ps 16:8; 2 Tim. 3:13-15
Dennis scripture mention - Heb. 11:13
Madonna's invitation from God - Madonna Says She 'Spoke to God' When in a Coma and Said 'No' to His Question - Controversy - WN365 (wrestlingnews365.com)
Please leave your comments below
In this episode, our focus group looks at one of the most misunderstood and improperly taught scriptures in the Bible. Listen or watch as we discuss how the author J Present Eby in his book Savior of the World interprets this passage in light of God's overall plan for the reconciliation of the Jews in the next age. You will not have to worry ever again about this fearsome phrase.
Please leave your comments below.
Notes
PBS Series: "The US and the Holocaust"
Today's conversation is a lesson in "spiritual geography". Where is heaven? Is it up, over there or all around? We discuss the reality of our current existence in heaven, which is contrary to the modern Christian teaching of heaven after death. Which view is more exciting?
Please leave us your thoughts in the Comment section below.
NOTES
Scriptures today: Phil. 3:20,21; John 3:13; Col. 3:1,2
Movie: "Love, Kennedy"
Heads up! This episode of the JAU Zoom meeting conversation is sensitive in nature. The group was drawn into discussing the Christian view of homosexuality. How does God view people in this lifestyle, and does our version of Christianity match His view?
What is God calling the sons of God to be and do in this coming age?
Please leave your thoughts below in the comment section.
Dennis and Scott Wakefield meet through Zoom again to talk about their journeys in Jesus. In this conversation, I asked Scott, "How do you know if you have heard from God or your flesh?" This is especially important to know how to pray or launch out in some endeavor. What are the ways we can know if God is really in what we desire?
Leave your comments below
NOTES
Henry Blackaby, Experiencing God
Scott's blog: https://myscottpage.blogspot.com/
Our Focus discussion group continues to review J Preston Eby's book Savior of the World; this week in chapter 13 "Jubilee". What was this OT law and what is its relevance to our future? This is an amazing truth that modern Christianity has overlooked.
Give us your thoughts in the comment section below.
As believers, we are encouraged to walk, worship, and live in the spirit. What does that mean? In this episode, our discussion focuses on the spiritual dimension, as the realm God invites us to enter and engage with Him. The door is open to freely enter the Holy Place. Will we leave the comforts of our religious life to enter?
Notes
Mike Bickle, Passion for JesusNT Wright, Paul, A Biography
Please leave your comments or questions below.
In this episode of our JAU Focus Session, we continue our review of chapter 12 in J Preston Eby's book Savior of the World. We wade into Preston's amazing proposition for the origin of sin and earthly corruption. Listen or watch as we try to summarize Preston's thesis for how God plans to bring everything back into balance and oneness with Himself.
Please leave your comments below or write to knowingJesus22@outlook.com
As we see ourselves in Jesus and us in Him, it definitely changes how we understand prayer. In this episode, we discuss how reading John 14 from this perspective will lead us to know how to approach the Father with our needs.
Please leave your comments below or write to knowingJesus22@outlook.com
Is your Christianity future orientated? Are you looking to escape this life and the mess of the world and go to heaven? If so, it will be hard for you to grasp the truth of Christ in you and you in Him now. In this episode, our group talks about why this is the major hurdle to overcome in understanding the reality of John 14:20,21. Do you "know" He lives in you and you in Him NOW?
Leave your comments below or write to knowingJesus22@outlook.com
Scriptures: Jn. 14:20,21; Gal. 2:20; Rom 6:6-11
In this episode, our focused session group continues its review of JPreston Eby's book, Savior of the World chapter 12. They discuss the history of Christian theology that led to the doctrine of heaven and hell. What were the contributing philosophical assumptions behind the origin of this very well entrenched doctrine today?
Leave your comments below or write to knowingJesus@outlook.com
Our conversation today centers around the phrase "lukewarm", as it is used in Revelation 3:16. What did Jesus really mean by this phrase? Was He calling for more dedication or commitment, or was there another issue at stake? From the context of the scripture in which it is used, what do we find was really on the mind and heart of Jesus?
Leave your comments below or write to us at knowingJesus@outlook.com
Inspired by a recent article, our group discusses what environments best enable a person to find the Truth. Why is it difficult for the institutional church to allow people to ask the tough questions? Do we need to safeguard our Biblical perspectives? Can we trust Jesus to help us navigate the need for what is true or false?
Notes
"The 3-Word Question that Banned Me from Bible Class"
Stepping Up - Video Series
Please leave your comments or write to knowingJesus22@outlook.com
Welcome to a new year of conversations about living as Jesus. We start this year of 2024 talking about the need in many people's lives for some real hope. What will help people most in the face of so many bleak circumstances in our political and economic world? We are convinced that people want more than the usual "bumper sticker" brand of Christianity to give them confidence and peace. They need to see Jesus and how best to see Him than through our lives. But what does that look like? Watch and listen as we attempt to describe this experience. Let us know what you think by leaving your comments below or write to knowingJesus22@outlook.com
We know Jesus as the Savior who appeared as a baby in the manger, but do we know Him as Lord? Our discussion in this episode deals with the process God performs to cause us to bend the knee and confess with our mouth, Jesus IS Lord (Phil. 2:9). This is the power of the "new-same name" of Jesus that we will see in our lives and in the next age (Rev. 3:12).
Please give us your comments in the comment section or write to us at knowingJesus22@outlook.com .
NOTES
NT Wright on the rapture. - YouTube
What does it mean to be zealous? In this episode of JAU Sunday morning Zoom meeting, Dennis and David discuss what they believe Jesus is referring to when He used the word in Rev. 3:16. They ask how Jesus Himself showed what it meant to be zealous from His own life and teaching.
Please leave your ideas in the comment section below, or write to us at knowingJesus22@outlook.com
NOTES
Experiencing God, Henry Balckaby
He Loves Me, Wayne Jacobsen
So You Don't Want to Go to Church Anymore, Jacobsen
Tender Warrior, Stu Weber
The Commission , Dennis Deardorff
Today's JAU discussion centers on two aspects of Jesus' life in us. Through His letter to the church of Philadelphia in Rev. 3:17-13, we see Him revealed as having the "key of David" and turning us into "pillars" in the church. What do these things mean for us today? Listen or watch, and then give us your comments on the page below, or write to us at knowingJesus22@outlook.com .
NOTES
The Chosen - video series
Heb. 10:19-22
N T Wright, Paul, A biography
The Unveiling of Jesus - Part 13
No doubt most of us have had a door shut in our life to a venture or direction. In the same way, many of us have had doors open for wonderful new opportunities. Where do we see God in all this? Our group today talks about how God is behind the open and shut doors, and when we know Him and His heart, we can live with confidence in His will.
Notes
Rev. 3:7,8; Heb. 10:19-22
Please leave a comment or write to knowingJesus22@outlook.com
Living with Christ in me is not a matter of "what I have to do, it's what I get to do". In this episode of our Jesus as Us Sunday morning Zoom conversation, our group discusses what Christ living in us looks like. How does our life appear to others? Are we perfect, without any dysfunction? Can Jesus be seen without our being conscious of His presence in us? Please leave your comments below or write to knowingJesus22@outlook.com
NOTES
How To Identify A ‘True’ Christian, If Indeed You Can Even Find One (religionunplugged.com)
The Chosen
He Loves Me
A recent article on the regrets of people in their last hours of life prompted our group in this episode to ask, do we have any regrets? Do we regret not having the revelation of Jesus in us earlier in our lives? Do we regret that we may have missed out on a different course in life than the one we have lived? Listen or watch as our group discusses how we believe God has brought us to this exact place where we now see our real lives as Jesus.
Notes
No. 1 life regret of dying patients: I see it 'all the time,' says psychology expert—what to do 'before it's too late'.
Please leave your comments below or write to knowingJesus22@outlook.com
In this episode, our JAU focus group tackles chapter 15 "The Restitution of All Things" from J P Eby's book Savior of the World. This is a pinnacle chapter in Eby's position that the end of the world is not what is typically taught in the "Baylon Church". Eby believes all things will be reconstituted back to God, and not destroyed in hell fire. We begin discussing his premise by focusing on the fact of God's oneness and why it is important to his position.
Please leave a comment in the section below or write to us at knowingJesus22@outlook.com
Living and expressing your life as Jesus means following a different protocol than Scripture or religious doctrine. It requires listening to your heart, something modern Christianity has been afraid to teach. Listen to our group discuss why we can trust our hearts, and why it is the "voice" for Jesus and the Father.
Notes:
Key Scriptures: Ezek. 36:26; Heb.10:22
Movie mentions
August Rush
Almost Friends
Rudy
Greater
Leave your comments below or write to knowingJesus22@outlook.com
What is life? Why haven't religious activities produced life? Our JAU group discusses the wonderful joy of LIFE in Jesus. How does living as Jesus produce this life? Listen or watch as we share our insights and experiences.
Leave your comments below or write to knowingJesus22@outlook.com
Notes
Clip from movie Tombstone "just life"
Our session today again focuses on J Preston Eby's book Savior of the World, particularly Chapter 11, "God's Judgments". What we have always thought concerning the judgment of God is inconsistent with His real plan of restoration of the world.
Listen as we discover what the judgments of God are and what they accomplish.
Leave a comment below or write to knowingJesus22@outlook.com
With Jesus in us we can expect He will speak through us and to us in various ways. Our group discusses some personal ways we have experienced His speaking to us and through us to others.
Please leave us your story or comments below, or write to us at knowingJesus22@outlook.com
We apologize that the photo Dave Fulton shared is not yet available. Please write to David at shilo1863@gmail.com for a link or copy.
Is the blatant media criticism of Christianity deserved? Could God be purifying His church to produce a brighter light in the world? Our group discusses the exciting ways God is making Jesus the one true focus of our lives.
Leave your comments below or write to us at knowingJesus22@outlook.com
In this episode, Dennis and Scott talk about Scott's journey into weightlifting and fitness. How has Scott come to enjoy his daily visits to the gym, and what has transpired in his life as a result?
Question for Scott? Write to him at scot-wak@hotmail.com
Scott's blog- myscottpage.blogspot.com
One of the greatest distortions of God's nature has been with His love. When we say He is love, what do we mean? How do we reconcile a God of love and the doctrine of hell? Our focused group tackles J Preston Eby's book Savior of World, Chapter 10.
Leave your comments below or write to knowingJesus22@outlook.com
What does "living in the moment" mean to someone living as Jesus?
Our group discusses how we see Jesus expressing Himself through us in all situations. It is always with the intent of setting us and others free.
Leave us your thoughts below or write to knowingJesus@Outlook.com
Notes
The Unveiling of Jesus - Part 10. https://nwmenscoalition.files.wordpress.com/2023/10/the-unveiling-of-jesus-part-10.pdf
Our Focused Session discusses Chapter 9 in J Preston Eby's book, "Saviour of the World". Do you know the difference between the church's plan for the end of the world and God's?
Please leave your comments below or write to knowingJesus@Outlook.com
In this episode, our group discusses chapter 8 in JP Eby's book "Saviour of the World" entitled "Reconciliation". What does this term mean, and what has been the traditional Christian definition of this subject? Learn the origins of Christianity's "angry God" image.
Today's conversation was difficult. The subject of death is not a topic that people find easy or inspiring. Why is that the case? What is death, and why do many people fear it? Jesus encourages the church at Smyrna "to be faithful until death". Was His encouragement helpful to this church and us?
Notes:
The Unveiling of Jesus - Part 9
https://nwmenscoalition.files.wordpress.com/2023/09/the-unveiling-of-jesus-part-9.pdf
Leave your comments below or write to knowingJesus22@outlook.com
In our ongoing discussion of the book, we now call The Unveiling of Jesus Christ, we look today at the letter to the church of Ephesus. The character of this foremost church symbolizes the basic issue of most unenthused Christians-we are not in love with Jesus. Why has this happened, and what can we do about it? Notes: The Unveiling of Jesus - Part 8 https://nwmenscoalition.files.wordpress.com/2023/09/the-unveiling-of-jesus-part-8-.pdf "My Jesus, I love Thee" hymn https://youtu.be/OplUAO5iQl8?si=eA387iIiNN1Jx89X The Southern Gospel movie https://www.bing.com/ck/a?!&&p=aeb511c5880e6082JmltdHM9MTY5MzA5NDQwMCZpZ3VpZD0xOWUzMTE2MS1iMzBhLTZmYjktMTMzNy0wMzE1YjJiMDZlY2EmaW5zaWQ9NTIzOQ&ptn=3&hsh=3&fclid=19e31161-b30a-6fb9-1337-0315b2b06eca&psq=southern+gospel+movie&u=a1aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuaW1kYi5jb20vdGl0bGUvdHQxMTkzMjY3OC8&ntb=1
Scott Wakefield and Dennis join up again for a conversation about what it means to live a blessed life. Are blessings a determination of God's love for us? What if we are not blessed? How are we blessed living in Jesus? Notes: Scott's blog post: https://myscottpage.blogspot.com/2023/09/living-in-lord.html Scott's email: scot-wak@hotmail.com Write to us at knowingJesus22@outlook.com
Most of us grew up in churches that portrayed God as a God of vengeance and wrath. We were afraid our life after death could be spent in eternal flames. We were certainly not the kind of sons that would ever set creation free. True sons of God have changed their perspective of their heavenly Father to be a loving God, and they live in His love. As we begin to look at the letter to the Church at Ephesus in The Unveiling of Jesus Christ, we see this as the first issue perfected sons must overcome. Notes: The Unveiling of Jesus - Part 7 https://nwmenscoalition.files.wordpress.com/2023/08/the-unveiling-of-jesus-part-7.pdf Southern Gospel - movie
For centuries, the Christian church has promoted "the Gospel of death". What is it, and how do the sons of God overcome this teaching? What is the message that we should have "ears to hear"? NOTES The Unveiling of Jesus - Part 6 https://nwmenscoalition.files.wordpress.com/2023/08/the-unveiling-part-6-.pdf "Sheep Among Wolves" https://youtu.be/Ndf8RqgNVEY?si=XU3Sw4hCt-bFkiM8 PLEASE leave a comment below or write to knowingJesus22@outlook.com
What was the ultimate intention of the seven letters to the churches in the book of Revelation (The Unveiling of Jesus)? What does it mean to be a conqueror, and what needs to be conquered? Do you know that you are seated with God on His throne? Please comment in the section below or write to us at knowingJesus22@Outlook.com Notes The Unveiling of Jesus - Part 5 https://nwmenscoalition.files.wordpress.com/2023/08/the-unveiling-of-jesus-part-5.pdf
What is the "Lake of Fire" and the "Second Death" mentioned in the book of Revelation? We discuss in this episode J Preston Eby's answer in chapter 7 of his book Savior of the World. Please leave any comments in the Comment section below or write to us at knowingJesus22@outlook.com .
The book of Revelation (which we refer to as "The Unveiling of Jesus") is typically considered a book about the cataclysmic battles to occur with the end of the world. But in our conversations in the last weeks, we are looking at the book in a vastly unique way. The battle about to happen and is already happening is not on an earthly plane, but in our minds. Listen or watch our group discuss the personal ways in which we think these battles have or will occur in our lives, to remove the veil that covers our minds from the full knowledge of Christ in us. Notes The Unveiling of Jesus - Part 4 https://nwmenscoalition.files.wordpress.com/2023/08/the-unveiling-of-jesus-part-4.pdf
Please leave a comment below or write to knowingJesus22@outlook.com
Where is Jesus at this moment? Is He in heaven waiting to return to the earth and unleash the judgments of God? Or is He already here on the earth in our lives? If we believe Christ lives in us now, then that changes how we look at the book of Revelation. It is not a book about world events to come, but the process of Christ being "unveiled" in us. Our group discusses how the first chapter gives us clues to the where-abouts of Jesus in John's vision.
Please leave a comment below or write to knowingJesus22@oulook.com Song "Let Them See You"
https://youtu.be/uOg-1JjAdGk
In this episode, our team discusses what J Preston Eby calls the "blasphemous absurdities of the harlot church system" in his book The Savior of the World. What are these "lies intended to scare pour souls into her clutches"? What is the truth about death and hell in the Bible? Leave your comments on the page below or write to knowingJesus22@Outlook.com .
In this episode, we continue to talk about the work God purposes to do in our lives to make us overcomers or conquerors in this coming age. Jesus is being "unveiled" in us, but what does that mean? What are the things that prevent Jesus from being seen in us? Podcast Notes https://nwmenscoalition.files.wordpress.com/2023/07/the-unveiling-of-jesus-2-.pdf Leave your comments below or write to knowingJesus22@Outlook.com
The apostle John wrote in his first epistle that he believed it was "the last hour" (1 Jn. 2:18). What did he mean by that statement? What did he believe would happen in this "hour" or this age? Our group discusses evidence of the antichrist spirits at work trying to veil or oppose the knowledge of Christ in us. Please leave your comments below or write to knowingJesus22@outlook.com Email pdf link
https://nwmenscoalition.files.wordpress.com/2023/07/the-unveiling-of-jesus-71623.pdf
In this episode, our conversation is focused on chapters 3 and 4 of JB Preston's book Savior of the World. We marvel at how different Preston's view (and ours) of the salvation of mankind is so different than the view of the church in which we grew up. This view brings us so much more joy and passion in our lives. Why is this so? You are welcome to leave your comments or questions here or email to knowingJesus22@Outlook.com Link to Eby's book https://www.kingdombiblestudies.org/savior/SOW1.htm
Are Christians really free from sin and imperfection? In this episode, the JAU community discusses that the greatest obstacle to knowing we are free in Jesus is the Christian church itself. The prevailing message is that believers are still not free from sin or expectations of Christ. Every Sunday is like another time of personal confession and promise to stay close to God. Be encouraged with what God really says about sin and your future. Please leave any comments below or write us at knowingJesus22@outlook.com Read the testimony of a suffocating pastor: https://www.npr.org/2023/06/25/1183227484/jon-ward-evangelical-religion-donald-trump-book?utm_source=pocket_saves
In this episode, Scott and Dennis discuss the current ideas and personifications of Jesus. Christianity has obscured the real Jesus from our knowledge. The final great battle will be for the knowledge of Jesus as our identity. Who is the real Jesus and where does He live? Scott's Blog address https://myscottpage.blogspot.com/ Scott's email - scot-wak@hotmail.com or Dennis at knowingJesus22@outlook.com
In this episode of our focused conversation, we review Ch. 2 and 3 of Eby's book Savior of the World. The key points of our conversation include what is the purpose of evangelization, and why is the gospel message different from the normal Christian message? Leave any questions or thoughts in the comment section below, or email us at knowingJesus22@outlook.com
How can death show so much life? One of our members highlights the impact of flowers on his property. The flower shows life, beauty, hope. Even on Flanders field, white poppies are a miracle of God. He is determined to bring the revelation of Jesus through these dark times, and even through ministries that speak of death. Leave your comments here or email to knowingJesus22@outlook.com
In this episode of our Sunday JAU Zoom meeting, we discuss the ironic fact that modern day Christianity does not really teach who Jesus is. Instead, believers are taught He is someone that we will meet someday in heaven. Our music in the background: Tom T Hall "Me and Jesus".
In this episode, Dennis and Scott talk about Scott's interaction with a workmate about sin and man's efforts to be good enough for heaven. How can we help lift the veil of religious doctrine off the eyes of our brothers to see the truth of what God says? Scott's blog - https://myscottpage.blogspot.com/2023/06/sins-of-our-fathers.html
In today's discussion, we look at why well-meaning believers are reluctant to speak the name of Jesus from their hearts. Could there be a sinister force in operation that opposes the name of Jesus from being fully disclosed? And what does that tell us about the time we live in, according to the Bible? Links - Our Daily Bread - https://odb.org/US/2023/06/04/courage-to-stand-for-jesus Book - So You Don't Want to go to church anymore. -https://www.amazon.com/You-Dont-Want-Church-Anymore/dp/0964729229 Blog post - https://myscottpage.blogspot.com/2023/06/the-name-jesus.html
On this Pentecost Sunday, we discuss how, contrary to traditional Christian doctrine, it was Jesus in the Spirit that came to the disciples on that day in 30 A.D. This is the hinge pin to understanding how Jesus is here, now in our world filling believers, as Paul describes. Trinitarians, be warned, this episode may disturb you. Questions or comments can be sent to knowingJesus22@Outlook.com
We are back! After a month of hiatus, our group again convenes to return to our conversation about Jesus. Dennis, having just returned from Europe, notices how rare the name of Jesus is mentioned or even understood in history or religion. What is about Jesus that the world and even Christians are so ignorant?
Dennis and Scott celebrate their 30th podcast since starting these Jesus conversations in 2020. Today's conversation focuses on Scott's witness that his old man is indeed dead, and his life is really Jesus, as God has said. He is now living the "thankful life" for this new identity. Leave a comment or write us at knowingJesus@outlook.com
Scott's blog - https://myscottpage.blogspot.com/2023/04/raising-dead-old-man.html
A small group joins Dennis on this Resurrection Sunday Zoom meeting. We discuss how the message of "Easter" has been conflicted. Christianity has told us that we should be remorseful as guilty sinners on Good Friday, but other than celebrating Christ's resurrection, we still walk out of the Easter service as sinners.
Where is the real good news that we have arisen free from sin in Jesus?! Every day in Him is an adventure.
We welcome Drifter to our meeting this morning!
Note: Dennis will be gone from the Zoom meeting until May 14th.
Our Focused conversation today again looks at the apparent conflict of God's plan for the ages and man's choice. When we choose to look through the lens of the Tree of Life, we see how the two align. We also need to look at scripture through an unbiased search.
One of our group members made the statement in jest that the Bible never talks about a "Second Eve" like it does the Second Man Jesus. Little did he know that his comment would spark a whole new thread of conversation in the deeper understanding of who we are as children of God in the womb of the church - the wife of Christ, the "second eve". Try to open your "eyes of understanding" for this one.
Our group gets into the always difficult understanding of the God's will and man's free choice. How can the two entities both be true? Where does man's free choice interplay with God's predetermined will and plan? Listen and try to understand for yourself.
Our Sunday morning group discusses how the perspective has changed in their concept of God. For most of us, we always looked to God for something - favor, forgiveness, etc. With the understanding of Christ in us, we now look for ways to do things from or with God.
Scott and Dennis discuss what has transpired in their lives over the last three years since starting this podcast. Their conversation includes looking at the old flesh, sin, and revival. Can Christ living in us have a more lasting impact than a revival?
Scott's blog post: Scotts Page: The Road Not Taken (myscottpage.blogspot.com)
The Bible is the story of messed up people being used by God to do great things. In contemporary history, it is still the same. The story of "The Jesus Revolution" is another example. Why is it that God seems to prefer to spark great revivals with broken, dysfunctional humans?
America has witnessed some great revivals over the centuries, beginning with the Great Awakening in the 1730's. One of the next great moves of God was in the 1960's in America, called by Billy Graham "The Jesus Revolution". Recently, another revival has broken out at Ashbury University. What becomes of these revivals or awakenings? What effect have they had on our culture and Christianity? Our group takes on these questions in today's episode.
It's the Lenton season on the Christian religious calendar, but is it still important that we follow this ritual knowing we are free and living in Christ? What does God say is our relationship to sin and sacrifice?
Christianity has taught a picture of Jesus that shows Him unrelatable. What happens when our eyes are open to who He really is - here and now in our lives?
God says that we live as Jesus (Gal. 2:20), but does that mean we can call ourselves Jesus? Scott Wakefield joins Dennis for a one-on-one conversation exploring this and other questions. Scott also shares his experience with a work friend who finds it hard to accept that Jesus lives in Scott. Read more on Scott's blog at
Scotts Page: A Mediterranean Cruise (myscottpage.blogspot.com)
Dennis interview with Scott Landis at Facebook Live | Facebook
This is the first in a series of discussions by an interested group of the JAU community desiring to go deeper in the revelation of Jesus as Us. Today's conversation focuses on the book by J Preston Eby entitled Savior of the World. We discover that the translation of one word in the original Greek can change our entire view of God and His plan for the future of the world.
The book is only available in PDF version herehttp://www.kingdombiblestudies.org/eBooks/Savior%20of%20the%20World.pdf
Why are so many Christians or religious people in general afraid of asking questions or challenging their accepted doctrines or beliefs? Our group talks about the importance of seeking after the truth with trust in God's spirit to lead us.
The age-old question of how a loving God allows terrible things is explored in our conversation today. If God is love, can He show it in affliction? What does Paul mean by "glorying in affliction" in Rom. 5.3-5?You may leave a comment or send a response to knowingJesus22@outlook.com.
What does it mean to be "glorying" in Jesus? Paul tells us in Rom. 5:2 that it should always happen when we live in Jesus. Our group talks about what it looks like to hold our heads up high and smile.
An NFL player after suffering a near death experience declares God has changed how He wants to use him. Does God have to do something dramatic in our lives for us to be willing to be used? How has Christianity quilted people into serving God?
What does it take to manifest Jesus in your life? One of our group members describes his encounter with a homeless lady this past week, and how he wonders what more he could have done for her than just asking some questions and praying for her.
Mentioned in this episodeThe God Journey, A Caring Heart and a Listening Ear (#873)
What is the meaning of the word salvation in the Bible? Is it just getting your "get out of hell card" or is there something more? We have come to realize that we are being saved from the living hell of our old selves through our knowing Jesus is our true life.
Paul's evangel was the message of Christ being unveiled in his life. He committed his life to "evangelizing Him" (Jesus) (Gal. 1:15,16). That is why he could say it was his evangel (Rom. 16:25). What is your evangel of how Jesus is being revealed in your life?
In this episode of Jesus as Us Sunday morning conversations, Dennis shares his recent experience talking to an individual proclaiming to be Jesus. If Paul tells us that our life is Christ, does that give us the prerogative to refer ourselves as Him? What is our best way to show others that Jesus lives in us?
Our group discusses how the lie (Rom. 1:25) has impacted our spiritual perspectives and lives. It is the source of all the identity confusion we see today.
What is the lie Satan told the first couple? Our group engages in a discussion of the biggest lie in the universe and why it matters to humanity today. Background reading - Gen. 3.
Considering this verse, our group discusses the age-long debate over whether man has a free will. Listen/watch our conversation and decide for yourself.
What does Paul mean in Romans 1:21 by the phrase "not as God"? Who or what is this perspective of God? Does modern Christianity worship the "not as God"?
Our JAU Sunday conversation in Romans: Romans 1:18 says "God's indignation is being revealed". What is His indignation and how is it being disclosed?
Our JAU Sunday Zoom group discusses the cause behind all human disorders, according to Paul in Romans 1:18.
Our JAU group begins a series of conversations based on the book of Romans. A question that prompted this discussion has to do with how to relate to the LGBTQ community knowing we live as Jesus. What does Paul say about this issue in the first chapter? What is God's attitude toward these people or sinners in general? What does Rom. 8:28 say about God's ultimate purpose?
On this 21st anniversary of the terrorist attack on the US, we all know the impact it had on our way of life. But what impact has the "9/11" of the spiritual world had on our lives? What changes should we see in our lives knowing that we all died with Jesus (Rom. 6:6; 2 Cor. 5:24)?
This is a touching episode of our JAU Sunday Zoom meeting. Personal stories were shared of witnessing the death of loved ones and their being transferred into the spiritual realm with Jesus. However, is death the only time we see Jesus? Paul tells us that we will see Him "face to face". When will that be, and what happens to us when we do see? The Jesus Conversation podcast: https://jesusconversations.podbean.com/e/the-jesus-conversations-9-3-22-man-in-the-mirror-what-do-you-see/
Scott Wakefield joins Dennis for a conversation, following up Scott's blog post with the same title. What does God say we see when we look in a mirror? Do we see Jesus who lives in us, or do we see something else? How is Jesus seen in us? Scott's blog post : https://myscottpage.blogspot.com/2022/09/the-man-in-mirror.html
After a two week break, our group met again via Zoom to review a teaching presented at the JAU Summer Reunion 8/6/22. The teaching was entitled "The Revelation of Jesus and the Feasts of Israel" and "The Spiritual Revelation Phases". You can find downloadable copies at www.nwmenscoalition.com on the Resource page. This morning's question concerned how Jesus will appear as the fulfillment of the Feast of Tabernacles. How will He appear? How will we see Him?
There are many people, even devout Christians, who have no expectation of the future of their lives. They have no idea what to expect. In this episode, we discuss what Paul refers to in 1 Thess. 4:13.
Christianity has taught everyone is entitled to the promise of blessings from God. All they need to do is follow the principles and rules laid out in the Bible. Paul teaches that this is not the truth of his evangel. Only in Jesus are the blessings and the promised expectations found. What does that look like? Our group discusses how Paul's statement in Gal. 3:16 lays the foundation for living as Jesus. He is our life. We have no other life.
We have all heard that Jesus has set us free, but from what? Most believe it is just from the penalty of sin. Actually, Jesus has set us free from being controlled by the wrong spirit. Most people don't realize how free they really are!
Happy Freedom celebration!
Paul says there is no ethnicity, social class, or gender in Jesus (Gal.3.28). Does that mean we are "nobodies"? How do we view our uniqueness as the image of God and still be one in Jesus? Scott's blog post: https://myscottpage.blogspot.com/2022/06/mehim.html
On this 2022 Father's Day edition of our JAU meeting, our group discusses how our heavenly Father is always working in each of us, even in our bad times. His motive is "to will as to also work for the sake of His delight...working all together for the good..."(Phil. 2:13; Rom. 8:28). We reflected on some amazing ways He has been working in our lives, friends, and family.
In this edition of The Jesus Conversations Podcast, Dennis and Scott explore the personal journey of Dennis out of institutional Christianity. What were the conflicts, and how did the revelation he received change him as a pastor? What impact did hearing or listening to Dennis have on people like Scott?
Links:
Scott's blog post: https://myscottpage.blogspot.com/2022/06/guilt-by-association.html
Scott's testimony on The Jesus Conversation Podcast: https://jesusconversations.podbean.com/e/this-isnt-who-you-are/
Our group today discusses what's next in God's plan for the His church, the body of Christ? Are we waiting to go to heaven, or is God going to show up here with us? If the latter, do we need to do anything, or do we just "surrender" to what we see Him doing? Here is the link to the podcast by Andy and Chrissy Koontz called "Surrender", https://youtu.be/kVKPN-Zty8s
Paul tells us in Eph. 5:21 "to be subject one another in the fear of Christ". What kind of fear is that? Are we supposed to submit ourselves to each other because Jesus will be mad at us if we don't? In this episode, our group explores what this fear possibly means and its bearing on becoming the body of Jesus.
When someone asks you to pray for them, what do you say? How do you pray? Most of the time, we just say "I will pray for you". But what does that mean? What do we pray for? Our group today talks about how Paul prayed for the ecclesia. What did he ask for? What didn't he mention?
In this episode, Dennis and Scott follow up on recent blog posts of Scott's entitled "Life in the Bunker" and "Missed Opportunities". In these posts, Scott personally reflects on how childhood traumas can prevent a person from being all they are intended to be in Jesus. What is God's plan for helping a person, especially a believer, bust out of the bunker? Dennis suggests it is through believers "adjusting" each other in the body of Christ. Are you interconnected with others with the intent of building each other up in the full stature of Jesus?
Our group has been exploring the profound truth of Jesus as Us for over 2 years. This Sunday morning fellowship has indeed been inspiring and encouraging as we walk out this truth. But is it possible there is another level of revelation that Jesus invites us into? It is one thing to know that we are personally and individually manifestations of Himself, but it is another to realize that we are something more together. Paul teaches us that the endgame is to become something together that we can never be individually, and that is the "full stature of Christ" (Eph. 4:13). We apologize for the recording starting late into the first of our conversation.
Our brother David Fulton hosts this episode of the Jesus as Us community and leads the discussion on some perennially tough questions, such as heaven and hell, knowing I am Jesus, can we trust God in these times, and how to share these truths with others.
In this episode, we talk about what it means to "adjust" each other in Jesus (Eph.4.12 CLNT). We are all living as Jesus in reality, but how we behave may need to adjust to match who we really are. That takes each other with much grace and love.
In this episode, our group talks about how Easter Sunday was more about showing off new clothes and bringing reluctant family members to church. How much of the Easter celebration is a manufactured tradition or ritual? Where is the authenticity in our Easter celebrations?
Our weekly Zoom meetings have helped keep our JAU community together for conversation and learning. But where do we go for the next level of edification? Our Zoom meetings are just the launching pad for deeper, more personal relationships that hopefully occur outside the Sunday morning environment. Who are you connected to as a body member to member for those interpersonal safe conversations?
In this discussion, we focus on the nature of the body of Christ. Is it made up of a group of individuals or parts? Modern Christianity has taught that we are individuals together, but is that the true picture of the body? As the ecclesia, we have been called out of individualism to oneness. How does that work?
In this episode, the JAU group discusses the difference between the word church and the Greek word ecclesia. The latter has less to do with the building and more to do with a people "called to be one in Jesus", a connection of many members to one body with no top-down control.
Links mentioned in the conversation:
Mars Hill Church https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-rise-and-fall-of-mars-hill/id1569401963
Origin of the word church https://www.etymonline.com/word/church
Definition of the word ecclesia
https://www.compellingtruth.org/definition-ekklesia.html
Does the revelation that we live as Jesus change anything in our lives? In this episode of the Jesus as Us Sunday morning conversation, we talk about how this knowledge changes how we see everything, including tough or bad circumstances. What do our mouths have to do with this?
Prompted by a recent article claiming evangelical Christians are promoting misogyny, our discussion centered on the controversial topic of submission. Knowing that we are one with and living as Jesus, what does submission look like? Is it top-down command and control or something else? Doesn't Paul teach command and control? How can Jesus be our Master and our life at the same time?
For months, we have been talking about what it means to live as Jesus, or Jesus as Us. In this episode of our Zoom meeting, we share what it means to know Jesus as church. What does that mean? How does a community manifest Jesus? One of the chief attributes is that it is a "safe place" to share and love one another.
The article link on Christian misogyny
Christian nationalism is rooted in stupid tough-guy misogyny: What would Jesus say? | Salon.com
Our conversation in this episode included a comparison of how our contemporary Christian culture attempts to explain our daily circumstances in a logical or systematic way. This is how Christian teachers try to manage the narrative or paradigm of our lives being separate from God. That narrative will never have adequate answers.
The highlight of our conversation in this episode was seeing our brother Arnold live on our Zoom call following his major surgery this week. We "realize" or recognize God in Arnold's health crisis. We also discussed other places where we have recognized God's presence and work in our lives. Christ in us is an adventure, discovering Jesus everywhere.
Dennis and Scott look back at the experiences they had in the institutional, mainline church. They agree that Jesus was there, but was He happy with all the religiosities? Did He dislike the pastors and leaders for the same things that the Pharisees were doing centuries before? Is this why people are leaving the mainline church today? What would society and the world be like if the true church continued like it did in Acts 2?
Scott's blog link - https://myscottpage.blogspot.com/
Our group picked up the question from last week, "How to pray for someone", which led to deeper digging into realizing what is happening around us in the unseen dimension. What we see around us is not the real life that we live in Jesus. One of our group members shared these realizations are "the next step to my real life".
Dennis is joined again with Scott Wakefield in this episode. They tackle how to help someone who has just realized the truth of Christ living in them. Can the person resort to the old conventions of Christian teaching or is there a whole new framework of words and constructs that need to be entertained? How is even Scripture to be read and studied?
Resources cited in this conversation can be found on the Resource page of our website at www.nwmenscolition.com
One of the members of our JAU Zoom group, Arnold Quigley, faces another series of medical procedures for total hip replacement. This will not be a typical hip surgery, but a long-involved process of repeat surgeries and therapies. The question arose, how do we best pray for Arnold? Do we voice the same platitude prayers for healing, or is there a better way to pray for our brother that reflects our knowledge of Christ in our brother? What are Christ's own words for Arnold as he faces these next days?
In this episode, our group talks about the difference between knowing information with our minds and knowing something with our hearts. This knowing is similar to a man and woman knowing they are meant for each other. How do you get this knowing? Can others help us in this knowing?
In this episode, Dennis interviews his friends and new JAU (Jesus as Us) community members Andy and Chrissy Koontz. Hear them talk about their journey of recovery from Andy's brain cancer and their own spiritual quest to know Jesus. With their new revelation of Jesus living in them a whole new outreach is unfolding, not only to other cancer survivors, but also friends across the globe searching for authentic knowledge of Jesus.
Check out their website www.andykoontz.com, and especially the song Andy wrote during his recovery called "You will get through this".
Andy and Chrissy can also be reached through email akoontz2003@hotmail.com
What are we expecting, to go to heaven someday, or the reality of our life as Jesus now? There is so much we have yet to realize about our life now in the spiritual "heavens" with Jesus.
Many people believe God is best seen in how He heals or solves all our problems. But Paul says God is seen in the sufferings of life (2 Cor. 12:9). That is why he rejoiced "in my sufferings for you" Col.1:24). Our group discusses how this principle is illustrated in their own lives.
If an adversity is currently discouraging you, this episode is for you. Hear personal testimonies from members of our JAU group about how they have battled diseases, injury, and other setbacks and have been "blessed" by them. Yes, blessed by them. Listen and be encouraged to see how God works in the tough times.
In this episode, David Fulton shares how he went from thinking it was impossible "to have a relationship with a dead guy" to Jesus "being with him". He describes how Jesus came "alive" and led him in fantastic ways, including mission work in Africa, India, and Serbia.
Our group discusses the experience of making the "big leap" from knowing God and me to realizing He and me are "us". This is a common revelation among people on the journey of Jesus as Us, but when and how it occurs is completely unique. Arnold Quigley, a member of our group, shares when it occurred in his life. For more of Arnold's story, cf The Jesus Conversation Podcast, 4-19-21.
Our group takes time in this episode to allow each member to share a brief history of their lives. This is being done to deepen our knowledge of each other and how the revelation of Jesus as us has changed their lives. One new member describes this experience as a "lightbulb coming on".
After several months, Dennis rejoins with his friend Scott to talk about how the organized church is unable to teach one critical truth. What is that truth, and why can't the institutional church preach it? Scott's blog post https://myscottpage.blogspot.com/2021/12/a-knock-at-door.html
Our group talks in this episode about how the revelation of Jesus as us ruins how we use to read scripture, pray, and sing worship songs. This new lens changes our lives in so many ways. We also welcome Andy and Chrissy to our conversation.
It's been three weeks since our group met via Zoom, and there is much to catch up on, including the progress of Dennis' book. Our discussion centered around how do we best share this revelation with others, especially believers who may still participate in an institutional church environment?
This discussion focuses on the difference between the common English phrase "born again" (Jn 3:3) and the Greek original word "begotten" (Jn. 1:13; 1 Jn 5:1). What do we see in the word begotten that we miss in the common English translation? What difference does it make?
Today, our group discussed the first chapters of the book "So, you don't want to go to church anymore" by Wayne Jacobsen and Dave Coleman as a pretext to understanding eonion life. John 3:36 and 1 Jn. 5:11,12 tells us that eonion life is Jesus. If we know who He is, we know what it is and how we receive it.
Do we really know God? How do we know ourselves? All of these questions are answered in having eonion life. Jesus defines eonion life in John 17:3. It is ability to know the Father as our "Daddy".
Our group discusses the meaning of the Greek word eonion and how it is used in scripture. Does it mean eternal life? How does this common definition miss the true meaning of this word and its meaning for us in this life?
In this episode, we begin a look at Jesus' prayer recorded in John 17. What did Jesus pray for? Was He asking in line with God's desire? What is His desire?
In this special Zoom edition of our JAU group, we talk about how to help this generation of confused people especially young people. How do we help them see who they really are, using love or judgment?
Again, our discussion in this episode revolved around the divide between those in favor of vaccination and those who are not. Does God care? What if He supports both positions? What is God's intention through the Covid pandemic?
The podcast referred to by Wayne Jacobsen is entitled "Sweeter Outcomes". https://www.thegodjourney.com/2021/09/03/sweeter-outcomes-816/
The reason for our struggles is not to learn some lesson from God, be disciplined for sin, or learn to view things God's way. The real reason is to "unveil" Christ in us. God doesn't waste a good crisis in manifesting Himself as Christ in us. That's what His glory is. Rom. 8:18-20.
When do we know that Jesus is in the Father, and we are in Jesus, and He is in us? (Jn. 14:20) For many Christian believers, this is all future. But is that what Jesus was referring to? What is the reality of where Jesus is right now, and how do we know it?
For privacy reasons, the greater portion of our discussion today was not recorded. Certain members of our group are facing some serious decisions and were asking where and what is Jesus doing in this crisis? The recorded portion includes some of our general thoughts and conclusions for all of us in these troubled times.
We cannot know that Jesus lives as us unless we know that He has first become us. What did Jesus have in mind when He became us? If He lives as us, do we comprehend Him? Does He override our wills?
Request corollary materials at dennis.deardorff@gmail.com
God says we are now living as Christ, but how did this happen? How and when did we become Jesus? Is it something we do or is it done to us? Our focus is on 2 Cor. 5:18-21 as the answer to this question.
The questions for discussion in this recording are 1.) How would you speak or act if you knew you were never going to die? And what is the difference between these two statements, "All that you say, we will do" and "Christ is my life, my only life"? Knowing and speaking the life we have as Jesus can help set others free. Rom. 8:18-22
Our group discusses the challenge of helping others know Jesus lives as us. Is it a certain book, teacher, or otherwise? How will creation come to know God as we are? (Rom. 8:19)
In this episode, our group discusses the key scriptures that state God is all in all. For a copy of the list of scriptures, contact Dennis at dennis.deardorff@gmail.com. Find the Concordant Literal New Testament online here: https://www.concordant.org/version/read-concordant-new-testament-online/
In this episode, Dennis is finally able to interview his long-time friend Drifter, whose life is a story of God's grace. Drifter tells how God has become his endearing "Daddy" through all his "street" life and fifteen death experiences. He also tells how the revelation of Jesus living in him has given him new freedom to be himself.
If you would like copies of the material mentioned in this conversation email Dennis at dennis.deardorff@gmail.com
Were the promises made to Abraham to include everyone? Our group discusses the significance of the Seed in Gal. 3:16,17. Can we rightfully ask God anything on our own?
Our Sunday am Jesus as Us Zoom group discusses how living in Jesus, and Him as us, gives us freedom.
After several months, Dennis again joins his friend Scott for a conversation on the topic of what we will be like in our resurrected bodies. Will we recognize each other? How will we appear? Our paradigm of union with God makes an enormous difference on how the Scriptures are interpreted in this regard.
In this episode Dennis welcomes his friend Arnold Quigley to share about his journey in getting to know Jesus in a new way. Arnold shares how coming to know Jesus as his life changed many things including, how to pray, face sickness, view sin and guilt, heaven, hell, and much more.
The title of the book that Dennis and Arnold tried to remember is Everywhere Present, by Stephen Freeman.
If you have questions on any of the content in this episode please write to Dennis at dennis.deardorff@gmail.com
Scott joins Dennis in this episode to talk about how we can know what is true. How do we even trust scripture? The conversation focuses on the example of Paul and his conversion experience. How did Paul know the experience with Jesus was now true as against what he had been trained to believe?
Hold onto your hats! Dennis and David discuss an alternate view of the book of Revelation and related topics in this episode. Is Revelation about future events to happen 2000 years later or was it intended to speak to the believers in the first century? Dennis and David discuss the very plausible idea that Revelation is the "uncovering of Christ" in and through the believers as part of Romans 8:19, the manifestation of the sons of God. Also, who is the "antichrist"? Is he a literal person soon to be revealed to the world? We encourage the listener to have an open ear to this discussion. Article referred to Returning the Book of Revelation to Its Historical Context - St. John's MCC
In this episode Dennis has a conversation via Zoom with his longtime friend Steve Fivecoat. (We apologize for the audio weakness). Steve retired some years ago from a career as a firefighter and talks about his feeling lonely sometimes when the crisis decisions where upon his shoulders. He wondered where God was but looks back and discovered that God was there all along. Steve wrote about his experiences in his book Rescue Me which can be found on Amazon. (Click on the title). It's a very worthwhile and inspirational book.
Steve continues to write about seeing God through his work and life on his Facebook page "Steve's Stories"
The author Norman Grubb can also be found on Amazon. The title Steve reffered to is God Unlimited
Welcome to the first episode of season 2 of The Jesus Conversation Podcast. In this episode we begin a series of reviewing the basic truths that give us the understanding of how Jesus lives as us. The scripture we focus on in this conversation is John 5:19.
In this episode Dennis joins Scott for a discussion on Scott's blog post entitled "The Hope of Glory". Dennis has just returned from traveling and is supposed to be following a 14-day quarantine and Scott is lamenting that his gym has closed all due to Covid 19. The question is where do we find any hope of relief from this pandemic? Is it with our government leaders who only want to shut us down? The conversation touches on other questions such as, What does it mean to have hope in Christ, "the hope of glory"? What is glory? What is God's ultimate plan?
In the fall of 2017 four men from the NWMC Knowing Jesus organization spent a weekend together endeavoring to grasp the future of our ministry. With a new perspective of our union with Jesus what would happen in our lives and how would our ministry change? In this episode these men reunite via a Zoom call three years later to share just what has happened since then. Hear them talk about their freedom in Jesus, understanding God's love, what outreach to others really should focus on, and how the ministry has grown.
In this episode Dennis is talking once again to his friend David Fulton through Zoom. The recording starts with them talking about the interesting corollary of Jesus coming as Messiah to the Jews and His coming "again" to the church. The question is, however, is Jesus really coming again, or has He already come? What do we learn from Paul's conversion encounter with Jesus as to the presence of Jesus in the church now? How was Paul's understanding changed and how has our understanding been changed through asking the right questions and seeing the scriptures through a different lens? What role does the heart play in seeing the revelation of Jesus in us?
Dennis joined Scott Wakefield for this episode over a Zoom call to talk about the unprecedented fires in the area near them. Many people have had to evacuate their homes while others have already lost theirs to the firestorm. Scott suggested the reprieve in the hot weather is an answer to prayer. But what about those who prayed that their homes be saved and were not? Did they not know how to pray?
What is the real purpose for prayer?
In this episode Dennis joins his friend David to talk about the deep theological paradigms that continue to block our belief of Jesus living in us. One of the most dominant is the belief in the reward of heaven. Why be interested in Jesus living in us now if we get to see Him in heaven? The question is, what does God want, to take us to heaven or live in us now?
In this episode the Sunday morning Jesus As Us Zoom fellowship discussed the challenge of knowing the truth of Jesus living as us. What can we do to better know this truth practically and experientially? We realize that much of the hindrance is due to the very teachings of Western Christianity. We need to speak and ask that God will open the eyes of our understanding to this reality.
By the way, we apologize for the pesky crow that wanted to be a part of our conversation.
Dennis is joined again in this episode with Scott Wakefield to take on a very controversial topic - if we live as Jesus does that mean when we make mistakes Jesus is also imperfect? We invite you to listen with a curious and open mind. What really is perfection? Does God expect us to be perfect?
We invite your comments or questions:
scot-wak@hotmail.com
dennis.deardorff@gmail.com
In this episode Dennis is joined once again with his friend Scott through a Zoom conference. Scott's recent posting on his blog about the issue of sin lead to a very deep discussion on what really is sin and how it effects the human conscience. Be ready for a rather different view from Romans 6 than what you may have heard before.
Scott's Blog is at https://myscottpage.blogspot.com/
Drop us a line at dennis.deardorff@gmail.com
In this episode Dennis is joined by his long time friend David Fulton in one of their regular phone conversations. In this discussion David refers to his experience of being excused from an institutional church because he dared to asked the question "Why do you believe what you believe?". It brought out the fact that this group of believers had no desire to explore more about their faith. Dennis and David agree that to know Jesus more intimately you need to be "thirsty".
The book David refers to is NT Wright, Paul, A Biography, Harper One, 2018.
The reference to "Chapter 2" is an article by Dennis entitled "Paradigm Shift".
In this episode Dennis and Scott discuss a statement Dennis heard on a recent television broadcast, "God is shaping us through this current crisis". The recording starts during their earlier discussion on different theological paradigms but quickly focuses on the question of what God is really doing with our lives in these challenging days.
Here are the links to the blog posts referred to: Who is a "Real" Man? Man Down You'll Be A Man
Book reference: John Eldredge, Wild At Heart
Dennis and Scott begin this episode by following up on Scott's latest blog post entitled, "Paying Our Dues ", but it quickly transitioned into the Scott's question to Dennis, "How do you see God in this crisis?". They discuss how we hear and see God depends on our world view of God, either we live separate from Him or He lives in us.
We hope that you are encouraged to see this current world crisis in a different light.
Dennis and Scott Wakefield discuss Scott’s latest blog post “Fingerprints upon an Failed System” and why Christianity has not helped us understand the truth of Christ living as us. What is hindering us from actually believing and living out the truth of Gal. 2:20 and Jn. 14:20?
Dennis and Scott sit down again to further discuss his journey in discovering who he is. This discussion is based on one of his recent blogposts entitled “The Sum of My Own Measure” . Listen in as they unpack about how Scott has become more certain of his identity in and as Jesus.
Knowing Jesus Conversations is a discussion with men (and women) on learning what it means to live as Jesus. This podcast features one of our brothers sharing how discovering his life as Jesus freed him from a common temptation for men. Listen as Scott Wakefield and Dennis Deardorff talk about Scott’s experience hearing the words “This isn’t who you are”. You may contact Scott at scot-wak@hotmail.com . He also writes a blog at https://myscottpage.blogspot.com/
In this edition of Knowing Jesus Conversations Scott Wakefield interviews Dennis Deardorff on how he has come to understand that Jesus is his life. You will hear Dennis talk about how his religious heritage kept him confused as to what is salvation, how the sin issue was resolved, and how he came to know that Jesus lives in Him. We hope that you listen to the whole conversation even if it may be contrary to what you have always been taught by your church. We hope this brief summary of Dennis’ journey will encourage your own pursuit of knowing Jesus lives as you.
Scotts blog: https://myscottpage.blogspot.com/ Contact Scott: scot-wak@hotmail.com Contact Dennis: dennis.deardorff@gmail.com