Dying to Live Podcast: Recent Episodes
JG Podcasts
In John 12 verse 24 Jesus says, "Truly, truly, I say to you, unless a grain of wheat falls into the earth and dies, it remains alone; but if it dies, it bears much fruit."
This podcast is about doing life together in the way the early church experienced it in Acts 2:42 and living that life in all it’s simplicity as a community of believers. Our goal is to help Christians live out authentic Christianity as a family of believers who passionately desire to lay down their lives for God and for one another…dying to live is what it’s all about..
John de Beer, an elder in the life of JoshGen, shares his story of brokenness and restoration after the tragic death of his brother Carl. Together with his wife Christa he chats about some of the trials and deep emotional pain caused by a suicide in the family.
Today we're exploring a subject that is deeply personal, often misunderstood, and profoundly important to the heart of God: "Reflecting God's Heart to Single Moms."
For many single mothers, life is marked by extraordinary courage, sacrifice, and resilience. Yet alongside those realities, many also carry the weight of judgement, stigma, and assumptions—sometimes from the very communities where they should find grace and support. The truth is that women become single mothers through a wide range of circumstances: bereavement, divorce, abandonment, abuse, unplanned pregnancy, or the difficult consequences of living in a broken world. Every story is unique, and every person bears the image of God.
So what should the Church's response be?
How do we move beyond stereotypes and reflect the compassion, truth, and love of Christ? What does Scripture teach about caring for those who are vulnerable? And what does it look like for believers to come alongside single mothers in practical, meaningful, and biblical ways—without compromising truth or withholding grace?
In this episode, we'll consider how the Church can become a place of refuge rather than rejection, support rather than suspicion, and hope rather than hardship. We'll explore God's heart for those who carry heavy burdens and ask what it means for His people to faithfully represent that heart in today's world.
Whether you're a single parent, a church leader, or simply someone who wants to love others more like Christ, we pray this conversation will encourage, challenge, and equip you.
Today we're tackling a topic that affects every single one of us, whether we realise it or not: Conscience.
What exactly is our conscience? Is it simply an inner voice, or has God given every person an inbuilt moral compass? Can we trust our conscience completely, or does it need to be shaped and informed by God's Word?
We'll explore what the Bible teaches about conscience, how it relates to morality, and why our culture seems increasingly divided over questions of right and wrong. We'll also unpack one of the Bible's most sobering phrases: a seared conscience. What does it mean? How does a conscience become hardened? And is there a way back?
Joining us for this conversation are two elders from the Joshua Generation family of churches, Russell Fraser and Michael D'Offay. Together we'll examine Scripture, discuss the challenges Christians face in today's moral landscape, and consider how believers can cultivate a conscience that is sensitive to the voice of God.
Whether you're a Christian seeking biblical clarity or simply curious about where morality comes from, we hope this conversation will challenge your thinking and strengthen your faith.
Every one of us believes things about ourselves, God, or others that simply aren't true. Some of these lies seem small. Others have shaped the course of our entire lives.
Perhaps you've believed you're not good enough. That you're unwanted. That God could never truly love or forgive you. Maybe you've lived under shame, rejection, fear, or condemnation for so long that they've become part of your identity.
The Bible tells us that Satan is a liar and the father of lies. His strategy has always been deception. If he can persuade us to believe a lie, he can keep us living in bondage even when Christ has already paid for our freedom.
The good news of the gospel is that Jesus doesn't simply forgive our sins—He invites us into what we call the great exchange. He exchanges lies for truth, shame for acceptance, fear for peace, bondage for freedom, and our old identity for a new one as sons and daughters of God.
In this episode we'll explore how these lies take root, how they influence our thinking, emotions, and behaviour, and how the Holy Spirit reveals truth that sets people free. We'll talk about repentance—not merely feeling sorry, but changing our minds and agreeing with God. We'll discuss confession, forgiveness, healing of the heart, and where necessary, deliverance from spiritual oppression. Deliverance is an important part of ministry for some people, but it is never the whole story. Lasting freedom comes as God's truth replaces the lies we have believed.
As Jesus said, "You will know the truth, and the truth will set you free."
In this episode we have the privilege of sitting down with Russell Fraser, a respected elder in the life of Joshua Generation Church, a true pastor's pastor, and a spiritual father to many.
For decades, Russell has faithfully served God's people, investing in leaders, strengthening churches, and walking alongside pastors through both the joys and challenges of ministry. His life and ministry have left a lasting impact on countless individuals, not through prominence or platform, but through faithful, consistent shepherding.
In this conversation, Russell shares his personal journey as a pastor—the lessons learned, the victories celebrated, the challenges faced, and the faithfulness of God that has sustained him through every season. Whether you're a church leader, a ministry volunteer, or simply someone wanting to grow in your walk with Christ, you'll find wisdom, encouragement, and practical insights from a man who has spent a lifetime serving Jesus and His Church.
Sleep is something we all need, yet it is often one of the first things we neglect. In a world that celebrates busyness and productivity, many people struggle to find the right balance between work, rest, and recreation. Some wear sleep deprivation as a badge of honour, while others find themselves battling fatigue, oversleeping, or poor sleep habits that affect every area of life.
But what does the Bible say about sleep? Is it simply a biological necessity, or does God have something deeper to teach us through the gift of rest? How much sleep is enough? Can we have too little—or even too much? And how do we navigate the tension between diligence and rest in a way that honours God?
In this episode, we're taking a biblical and medical look at the subject of sleep. Joining us are Michael D'Offay and Dan Barnard, both elders in the life of JoshGen, along with Dr. Hanne Moffat, who brings valuable medical insight to the conversation. Together, we'll explore what Scripture teaches about sleep and rest, examine the health implications of our sleeping habits, and discuss how we can develop rhythms that help us flourish physically, emotionally, and spiritually.
Whether you're someone who struggles to get enough sleep, wonders if you're getting too much, or simply wants to understand God's design for rest, this conversation will provide practical wisdom, biblical perspective, and helpful guidance for everyday life.
As our parents grow older, many of us find ourselves stepping into a role we never expected—the role of caregiver.
What begins with helping out here and there can gradually become a journey filled with difficult decisions, emotional strain, and complex family dynamics. When age-related illnesses such as dementia enter the picture, the challenges can multiply. Questions arise about safety, independence, finances, medical care, and who should take responsibility. Siblings may disagree on what is best. Parents may resist the very help they need. And those carrying the greatest burden can often feel overwhelmed, isolated, and uncertain.
How do we honour our parents while also protecting our own families and wellbeing? What boundaries are healthy and necessary? How do families make wise decisions together when emotions run high and opinions differ? And as Christians, what does God expect of us when caring for ageing parents?
Today, we're going to explore these important and often deeply personal questions with our guests, Nick and Belinda Sophos, and Kate Jonker. Whether you are currently caring for an elderly parent, preparing for that season of life, or supporting someone who is, this conversation will offer practical wisdom, biblical insight, and encouragement for the road ahead.
There comes a moment in every boy's life when childhood begins to give way to manhood. It doesn't happen overnight, and it rarely follows a straight line. One day they're playing with toys; the next they're wrestling with questions about purpose, strength, leadership, relationships, responsibility, and who they are becoming.
For Christian parents, these years can be both rewarding and daunting. Teenage boys are full of energy, potential, and ambition, but they are also navigating powerful influences, temptations, and pressures that can shape the course of their lives.
How do we help our sons grow into men who love God wholeheartedly? How do we cultivate strength without aggression, confidence without arrogance, and independence without rebellion?
What role does a father play in modelling godly masculinity and preparing a son for adulthood? How can a mother continue to influence, encourage, and speak into her son's life during a season when he may seem increasingly distant or independent?
How do we teach our sons to handle failure, temptation, friendships, technology, sexuality, and the responsibilities that come with increasing freedom? How do we help them develop conviction, resilience, humility, and courage in a culture that often offers conflicting definitions of manhood?
And as parents, how do we know when to hold tightly and when to loosen our grip? How do we create healthy boundaries while giving our sons the opportunity to grow, make decisions, and learn responsibility for themselves?
In this episode, we're joined by Tony & Jo Stroebel, Ivan & Karin van Vuuren, elders in the life of JoshGen, as we discuss the joys, challenges, and biblical principles of raising teenage boys. Together we'll explore how parents can intentionally equip their sons to become godly men who lead with integrity, serve with humility, and stand firm in their faith in an increasingly complex world.
Grace is one of the most beautiful truths in the Christian faith. We are saved by grace, sustained by grace, and transformed by grace. Yet throughout church history there has been an ongoing tension between the biblical doctrine of grace and the danger of turning grace into a licence for sin.
In this episode, we are joined by Mike D'Offay and Luke Hulley, both elders within the life of Joshua Generation, to explore what the Bible really teaches about grace, freedom, holiness, and obedience.
What is the difference between biblical grace and what some have called "hyper-grace"? Where does Christian freedom fit into the life of a believer? Does grace mean that obedience no longer matters? Can Christians persist in sin because God's grace abounds? And how do we avoid both legalism on the one hand and licence on the other?
We'll look closely at the teachings of the Apostle Paul, who boldly proclaimed salvation by grace alone, yet repeatedly challenged believers to pursue holiness and resist sin. Paul asks a powerful question in Romans: "Shall we continue in sin that grace may abound?" His answer is emphatic: "By no means!
"We'll explore why true grace does not merely forgive sin—it empowers us to overcome it. Grace is not God's permission to remain unchanged; it is God's power at work within us, transforming us into the likeness of Christ.
Whether you've wrestled with questions about grace, freedom, obedience, discipleship, or holiness, this conversation will help you understand how God's grace leads not to licence, but to a life of joyful obedience and genuine freedom.
Money is one of the most talked-about subjects in the Bible. From stewardship and generosity to debt, contentment, wealth, and wise planning, Scripture gives us practical wisdom for handling finances in a way that honors God.
In this episode, we are joined by our special guests, Dave James and Hayley Friend, who will help us unpack what God's Word teaches about money and how we can apply these principles in our everyday lives.
Together, we'll explore questions such as: How should Christians manage their money? What does the Bible teach about wealth and possessions? What does the Bible say about debt? Where does faith fit into our financial decisions? Is budgeting a practical tool of good stewardship? How do we develop a Kingdom perspective on finances in a world driven by materialism? And what should our relationship with money actually look like?
We'll discuss the balance between trusting God and taking responsibility. Does faith mean simply waiting for God to provide, or does it include careful planning, budgeting, saving, and wise decision-making? How can we trust God as our Provider while faithfully stewarding the resources He has entrusted to us?
We'll discover that money is not merely a financial issue—it's a heart issue. God is not only interested in what we do with our money, but what our money reveals about our priorities, our trust, our faith, and our devotion.
Whether you're struggling financially, planning for the future, trying to get out of debt, seeking to become a better steward, or simply wanting to align your finances with biblical principles, this conversation is for you.
So grab a notebook, open your Bible, and join us as we learn how to manage our money God's way.
Raising teenage girls has never been easy, but many parents would argue that it has never been more challenging than it is today.
We live in a world that is constantly competing for the hearts, minds, and identity of our daughters. Through social media, entertainment, peer pressure, and shifting cultural values, young women are being bombarded with messages about who they should be, what they should believe, and where they should find their worth.
So how do Christian parents navigate these waters? How do we raise godly women in a culture that often pulls in the opposite direction?What is the unique role of a mother in shaping her daughter's character, confidence, and understanding of biblical womanhood?
What is the unique role of a father in providing protection, affirmation, guidance, and a model of godly masculinity?
As our daughters move from childhood into adolescence and eventually adulthood, how do we remain intentional about spending time with them? How do we build relationships strong enough to withstand the pressures they face?
And perhaps one of the greatest parenting challenges of all: how do we establish boundaries that protect without provoking? When should we be firm? When should we be flexible? How do we distinguish between hard boundaries that should never be crossed and soft boundaries that allow our daughters to grow, learn, and mature responsibly?
In this episode, we're going to explore these questions and more as Phil and Mareli, Demetri and Karen (eldership couples in the life of JoshGen) discuss the privilege, responsibility, and challenges of raising teenage girls who love God, know who they are in Christ, and are equipped to stand firm in an increasingly confusing world.
What do we really mean when we say, "God is in control"? It's a phrase Christians often use, especially in times of uncertainty, suffering, or disappointment. But what exactly is the sovereignty of God?
Does it mean that God determines every detail of life? How does His sovereignty relate to our choices, our prayers, our obedience, and our relationship with Him? And if God is truly sovereign, should we simply sit back and accept whatever happens, believing there's nothing for us to do? In this episode, we explore one of the most profound and comforting truths of the Christian faith—the sovereignty of God.
Together we'll consider what the Bible teaches about God's rule and authority over all things, where this doctrine fits into our understanding of who God is, and how it shapes the way we live, trust, pray, and follow Christ every day.
Joining us are Mike D'Offay and Stephan van Zyl, elders within the life of Joshua Generation Church, who share their insights and understanding of God's sovereignty and its practical implications for our lives as believers.
Because the strongest leaders are not driven by titles, ambition, or recognition. They are sons first — secure enough to serve, humble enough to learn, and faithful enough to follow before they ever lead others. Great leadership begins with good followership.
The best leaders are teachable, accountable, and willing to walk under authority before they are entrusted with authority. They understand that before God calls someone to lead publicly, He often teaches them to follow faithfully in private.
In this episode, Hannes van den Heever and Greg Fenn, elders in JoshGen Mossel Bay, share their personal journeys of leadership, discipleship, growth, and learning what it means to lead from a place of sonship and surrender within the community.
Join us as we explore the qualities that shape healthy leaders: character, humility, obedience, courage, servanthood, integrity, and spiritual maturity.
Real leadership doesn’t begin on a platform. It begins with surrender, faithfulness, and the willingness to follow well.
We often sit down with guests who have walked through the joys, struggles, victories and disappointments of life, ministry, marriage and calling… and ask a simple but powerful question: What would you say to your younger self? What would you do differently?
What lessons were learned the hard way?
How has time, experience and faith changed the way you see life today?
In this episode, Steve and Cathy Corkill, who serve as an eldership couple with JoshGen Mossel Bay, look back over many years of marriage and ministry, reflecting honestly on the journey behind them — the challenges, the grace of God, the things they would change, and the advice they would pass on to the next generation.
Whether you’re young and searching for direction, or older and reflecting on your own journey, we hope these conversations encourage you, strengthen your faith, and remind you that wisdom is often written through the ordinary moments of life.
In this episode we’re looking at something that quietly slips into our churches and our hearts — legalism.
What is it, really? Because the Bible is clear. In books like Galatians and Colossians, Paul warned not to add human rules to what God has already said.
Legalism is more than strictness — it’s adding to Scripture, creating extra ‘do’s and don’ts,’ and then measuring spirituality by them. And if we’re honest, we’ve all seen it… and sometimes we’ve done it. So how do we recognise it?
What does the Bible actually say?
And how do we lead people out of it and back into the freedom of the gospel?
Because legalism doesn’t produce life — it produces pressure, pride, or discouragement.
But the gospel produces freedom.
In our previous episode, we spent time exploring one of the most important and personal questions every believer asks at some point in life:
“How do I find God’s will for my life?”
We looked at what Scripture teaches, we talked about guidance, obedience, wisdom, and the role of God’s Word, prayer, and counsel in discerning His direction. That conversation clearly resonated, because many of you reached out with thoughtful, honest, and sometimes very practical questions.So today’s episode is a follow-up.
This is a Question and Answer session based on that first discussion. We’re going to take the real questions that flowed out of the previous podcast and work through them carefully and biblically.
In this episode we tackle one of the most common and deeply personal questions many believers ask:
How do I know God’s will for my life?
hould I take this job?
Should I move to another city?
Should I marry this person?
Should I start this ministry?
Many live with uncertainty, anxiety, or even fear, wondering if they might somehow miss God’s will. Others are waiting for a sign, a feeling, a prophecy or a special revelation before they act. But, what does the Bible actually say?
In this episode, we’re going to open the Scriptures and look carefully at four foundational questions:* What is God’s will according to the Bible? * What is the difference between God’s general will and His specific will for my life? * How do I make decisions that honor God without falling into confusion or superstition? * And when should I seek godly counsel from elders and mature believers?
So today, we’re going to replace confusion with clarity, and anxiety with biblical confidence. Because discovering God’s will is not about chasing secret messages—it’s about walking in obedience to what God has already revealed.
Michael D'Offay and Jeff Kidwell, elders in the life of JoshGen, share their personal experience and journeys on finding God's will.
In a world where marriage is increasingly undervalued, many Christian couples who long for children find themselves facing difficult and emotional decisions when pregnancy does not come easily.
Modern medicine offers a range of assisted pregnancy options, but these can raise important biblical and ethical questions. What should a couple do when they are struggling to conceive? What choices are available? And which options are consistent with the teaching of Scripture? In this podcast, we explore both sides — the medical alternatives and the biblical principles that should guide Christian couples seeking to honor God in this sensitive area.
Helping us navigate this complex topic are Mike and Adrienne D'Offay, an eldership couple in Joshua Generation, together with Dr Louise Dauth, a general practitioner with a special interest in women’s health. Our desire is to provide clarity, compassion, and biblical wisdom for couples walking this challenging journey.
We are living in a confusing time for men.
On one side, men are told to step back, soften, and suppress strength.
On the other side, when they step forward, they are accused of being controlling or toxic.
Many men feel caught between emasculation and accusation.
But the real question is not:
“What does society say a man should be?”
The real question is:
“What kind of man does God call a man to be?”
Families don’t need perfect men.
They need faithful men.
Present men.
Responsible men.
Manning up is not about dominance.
It is about responsibility.
The church has always been called to care for the poor. From the Old Testament to the early church, Scripture makes it clear that compassion for those in need is not optional—it is part of faithful Christian living. We are called to show mercy, to give generously, and to help those who are suffering.
But the church also has a unique mission. It is not simply a social agency or a government program. The church exists to proclaim the gospel of Jesus Christ and to make disciples. That raises an important question for our time: How do we care for the poor without losing our focus on the gospel?
In recent years, the language of social justice has become more prominent in Christian circles. While the pursuit of justice and compassion is biblical, there is a danger when social action begins to replace gospel proclamation. The church must never forget that people’s greatest need is not only physical provision, but spiritual salvation.
So the challenge is to find the right balance. The church must meet real needs, show real love, and serve the poor faithfully—while keeping the gospel at the very center of its mission.
In simple terms:
We care for the poor because of the gospel, and we proclaim the gospel because it is the greatest gift we can give to the poor.
In this episode Chantelle Searle and Kim Muller talk about real biblical hospitality. What is it? Where do we begin? And is it for everyone? When we read the Bible, hospitality is not an optional extra—it is part of normal Christian life.
In Romans 12, we are told to practice hospitality, and in 1 Peter 4, to offer hospitality without grumbling. Hospitality flows from the gospel, because Christ first welcomed us. But hospitality must come from the heart. Otherwise, it simply becomes entertainment—an event to impress rather than an expression of love.
Hospitality can be messy and difficult at times. It might be inviting someone for a meal, hosting people for a weekend conference, or even opening your home for a season. Yet the difficulty does not remove the calling.
So today we want to explore some practical ways to begin—even when hospitality feels daunting—because hospitality does not start with a perfect home, but with an open heart.
Today’s episode is a powerful and deeply moving story of transformation.
Our guest today is Zaib, a young woman who grew up in a very strict Muslim family. From an early age, her life was shaped by fear, rules, and the weight of religious expectations. But God had a different story written for her life.
In this episode, Zaib courageously shares her journey — a journey from fear to freedom. She tells the story of growing up in a tightly controlled environment, the questions that began to stir in her heart, and the remarkable way that Jesus revealed Himself to her.
Coming to Christ was not an easy decision. It came with real cost, deep struggle, and significant risk. Yet through it all, Zaib discovered something she had never known before: the grace, love, and freedom that are found in Jesus Christ.
Her testimony is both challenging and encouraging. It reminds us that the gospel is powerful, that Christ is still drawing people to Himself from every background, and that no one is beyond the reach of God’s saving grace. So wherever you are listening from, I encourage you to listen carefully to this remarkable story.
Here is Zaib’s testimony — from fear to freedom.
This is Part Two of our series on leadership and biblical authority, where we turn our attention to how we follow.
In Part One, we explored biblical authority — leadership that is stewarded, not owned, and authority that builds people rather than controlling them.
But leadership is only half of the picture. Scripture also speaks about how believers respond to leadership, and what healthy, godly submission looks like.
Biblical submission was never meant to silence people or create fear. Instead, it creates order, trust, and shared responsibility within the body of Christ.
Healthy followership isn’t blind obedience or passive agreement. It’s a posture of humility that recognises God’s design for leadership while remaining anchored in truth.
In this episode, Morne van der Walt, Dylan Jones, and Mike D’Offay — elders in the life of JoshGen — explore what it means to follow well, when to submit, and how submission can exist without fear.
In this episode, we’re looking at biblical authority — what it is, how it’s meant to function, and how leaders can exercise it without slipping into control.
Scripture reminds us in Romans 13 that all authority ultimately comes from God. That means leadership authority is not something we own — it’s something we steward. It is delegated, and it is accountable. From the beginning, authority was tied to responsibility.
In Genesis, humanity is given dominion not to dominate, but to cultivate and care. Biblical authority exists to protect, to guide, to correct, and to build up.The clearest model is Jesus Christ. He possessed all authority, yet led through service and sacrifice. He corrected without crushing. He commanded without manipulating. His authority created freedom, not fear.
A leader’s authority extends as far as their responsibility — no further.
You are accountable for vision, values, and direction. You are not called to control every decision or outcome. When authority shifts from stewardship to self-protection, it becomes control. Control manages people. Authority develops them.
Control demands compliance. Authority cultivates conviction.The balance is stewardship — leading with clarity and courage, while remembering the authority you carry is entrusted, not owned.
Morne van der Walt, Dylan Jones and Mike D'Offay, elders in the life of JoshGen, explore what it means to lead with real authority — without control.
In a world that is increasingly diverse, the church often finds itself navigating the complexities of culture, identity, and belonging. But our goal is not simply to build culturally diverse churches. Diversity alone is not the destination.
This podcast explores a deeper pursuit — the formation of a Christ culture.
We believe the church is called to be a community shaped first and foremost by Jesus, where every culture is welcomed, discerned, and transformed by the gospel. Rather than elevating cultural expression as the end goal, we seek to discover how the beauty within each culture can reflect Christ more clearly, while also allowing Scripture to challenge the parts that do not.
Here, we will have honest conversations about the joys and tensions of building church across cultures — the misunderstandings, the growth, the humility, and the unity that comes through shared life in Christ. Our hope is to help leaders and believers move beyond multicultural coexistence toward something deeper: a church where Christ becomes the loudest culture in the room, shaping how we love, lead, worship, and live together.
Jonathan Stanfield, an apostolic leader within Four12 Global, shares some of his experience of leading a church with 23 different nationalities.
A new year brings fresh plans and new possibilities. But what if the year behind you was painful? What if disappointment or loss has made trusting God for the future feel incredibly hard? How do we exercise faith when our confidence has been shaken?
How do we plan wisely for a new year while still living surrendered to God? Is there a way to hold vision in one hand and trust in the other? And what about unbelief? Can faith and doubt live in the same heart?
In Gospel of Mark chapter 9, a desperate father cries out to Jesus, “Lord, I believe; help my unbelief!” That honest prayer reminds us that faith isn’t the absence of doubt—it’s bringing our doubt to God. So what is God’s role in growing our faith? What is ours? And what do we do when our faith feels smaller than a mustard seed?
As we step into 2026, we won’t ignore the tension between planning and surrender—we’ll lean into it. Because maybe faith isn’t certainty for the whole year. Maybe it’s trusting God daily for the next step. If you’re stepping into this year hopeful, hesitant, or barely holding on—this conversation is for you.
Luke Hulley and Dan Barnard, elders who lead congregations in the life of JoshGen, encourage us to find faith for 2026… together.
What happens when leaders fall?
Not just quietly—but publicly, painfully, and in ways that ripple through families, churches, and entire movements. We’ve seen it again and again in the news: moral failure, abuse of power, silence, denial… and the fallout that follows when issues aren’t dealt with biblically.
But here’s the harder question—at what point does ignoring failure become endorsement? And what does faith actually require of us in moments like these? In this episode, we’re asking the uncomfortable but necessary questions.
What is the godly, biblical way to respond when leaders sin?
How do we balance truth and grace, accountability and restoration?
And should we speak out when leaders in other movements fall—or is silence the wiser path? This isn’t about gossip or outrage. It’s about integrity, responsibility, and what it truly means to lead—and follow—according to God’s heart.
Every Janu-WORRY (as some people refer to it) we’re told it’s time for a reset. New year, new goals, new habits, new us. But spiritually, many of us step into the new year carrying the same questions, the same struggles, the same disappointments—and the same old selves. We pray, we hope, we try again, yet sometimes nothing feels new at all.
So what does God actually expect of us? Is the new year a spiritual performance review (KPA) —do better, try harder, fix yourself? Or is God at work in ways we don’t immediately feel or see? What if newness doesn’t always look like change on the outside, but faithfulness on the inside? What if God isn’t holding a big stick over our failures, but gently leading us forward, even when we feel stuck?
In this podcast, New Year, Old Me, we explore the tension between our desire for transformation and the reality of living with unresolved struggles. We’ll talk honestly about faith when nothing feels fresh, hope when progress feels slow, and the grace of a God who meets us not as a “new us,” but as we really are—right here, right now.
Dan Barnard and Brett Bevan, both elders leading congregations in JoshGen, share some humour around expectations made of us AND the challenges of finding God in a new year with old challenges and the old me.
What is discipleship, really? It’s not a program or a checklist—it’s a relationship. Discipleship is learning to follow Jesus and inviting others to walk with Him too. It happens through proximity, conversation, and modeling a life shaped by Christ.
Jesus didn’t just teach truth—He lived it in front of people. He invited others into His life, showed them what obedience looked like, and sent them out to do the same. That’s why discipleship can’t happen alone. Community matters. We grow best when we follow Jesus together.
There is a pattern, but not a formula—teaching and modeling, invitation and practice, walking with people over time. And while we play a role, we are not the Holy Spirit. We can’t transform hearts; we can only be faithful, point to Jesus, and trust God to do the work. That faithfulness starts close to home.
We are called to disciple our children by modeling faith in everyday life, not perfection. Discipleship is simple, but it’s not easy: following Jesus together—and living in a way that invites others to follow too.
Deliverance is a word that often brings confusion, curiosity, or even fear. For some, it’s associated with dramatic encounters and intense moments. For others, it raises honest questions they’ve never felt free to ask.
Today, we want to slow down and bring clarity. In this episode, we’re de-mystifying deliverance. What is deliverance? What are demons? Can a believer have a demon? And what’s the difference between demon possession and demonic oppression?
At its core, deliverance is about freedom—freedom from Satan and his demons, and freedom to walk fully in what Jesus has already accomplished. It’s not about hype or fear; it’s about truth, authority, and wholeness in Christ. And while some deliverance experiences are dramatic, many are gentle moments of freedom—where peace replaces torment and truth replaces lies.
Our goal today is simple: to explain, to equip, and to point back to Jesus, the One who sets captives free. Dave and Keena James, an eldership couple from JoshGen City Bowl, share their experiences with deliverance.
Children change everything—our schedules, our priorities, and often, our faith. As parents, we wrestle with big questions.
Should family life revolve around our children—their needs, their future, their success?
Are we meant to chase sport, achievement, and endless activities in the hope of giving them every advantage? But beneath that lies something deeper.
Where do our children fit in the Kingdom of God? What is their place in church life—not just in programs, but in worship, community, and belonging? Are our kids spectators of faith, or are they being formed as active participants in the people of God? What comes first—Jesus or our children?
And what if following Jesus means inviting our kids into a shared life of faith, where church is not an event we attend, but a community we belong to together? How do we pursue God wholeheartedly, raise children who truly belong, and still make space for marriage along the way? These questions shape our homes, our churches, and the faith our children grow into.
What does it really mean to live by faith? So often, especially in ministry circles, living by faith is reduced to finances—raising support, trusting God for provision, or serving without a salary. And while money can certainly be part of the story, it’s far from the whole picture.
Living by faith is bigger than a bank account. It’s about trusting God with every area of our lives—our decisions, our relationships, our calling, our future, and even our very existence. It’s waking up each day believing that God is who He says He is, and that He can be trusted with what we cannot see.
Living by faith doesn’t always feel safe. Sometimes it’s risky. Sometimes it requires us to step forward without clarity, to move before we feel ready, and to obey without guarantees. It’s not reckless—but it is careful courage, grounded in full reliance on God.
In this episode, we’ll explore what it truly means to live by faith—not just when it’s convenient, but when it costs us something. When trust replaces control. When obedience matters more than outcomes. And when our confidence rests not in ourselves, but in the faithfulness of God. This is a journey of learning to trust Him—fully, daily, and wholeheartedly.
As believers, we live in a world overflowing with entertainment—movies, shows, music, and media that constantly compete for our attention. Some of it inspires us. Some of it challenges us. And some of it quietly pulls us away from God and who He is calling us to be.
Here, we’re asking the hard but necessary questions:
What should we be watching—and what should we walk away from?
Where do we draw the line between discernment and legalism?
How do we navigate fantasy, witchcraft, and symbolic storytelling through a biblical lens?
And how do we honour the truth that what may be permissible for one believer may not be beneficial for another—without using grace as an excuse or causing others to stumble? This isn’t about creating rules—it’s about cultivating wisdom and Biblical discernment.
It’s about guarding our hearts, renewing our minds, and learning how to engage culture without being consumed by it. This is a place for honest conversation, biblical reflection, and grace-filled clarity—because what we consume shapes us more than we often realize.
Mike D'Offay and Dan Barnard, elders in the life of JoshGen, share wisdom, principles and perspective when it comes how we should discern between truth and error for ourselves and our families.
Christmas is more than lights, music, and traditions—it’s a season when hearts are softer and conversations about faith feel more natural. It’s often the one time of year when people who don’t follow Jesus are more open to asking why Christmas is celebrated at all.
For many of us, this includes our own unsaved family members—those we love deeply but often find it difficult to share our faith with. During Christmas gatherings, shared traditions, and moments of reflection, doors open that are usually closed. Invitations to church services or simple Gospel conversations are often received with a willingness that doesn’t exist the rest of the year.
In this podcast, we’ll explore how the Christmas season gives us a unique and powerful opportunity to lovingly share our faith, invite others to encounter the message of Jesus, and point hearts toward the true reason for Christmas—God with us.
Is there really going to be a rapture of the Church?
Does the Bible actually teach it—or is it a modern invention?
And if the word “rapture” isn’t even found in Scripture, why do so many Christians believe in it? Over the years, predictions have come and gone—like claims that Jesus would return on specific dates, including September 23rd—leaving many believers confused, skeptical, or even discouraged. Yet Scripture is clear: no one knows the day or the hour of Christ’s return—not the angels, and not even the Son, but the Father alone. In this episode, we’re going to open the Bible and ask honest questions.
We’ll look at what Scripture really says about Christ’s return, where the idea of the rapture comes from, and whether it’s something Christians should expect. Most importantly, we’ll ask this: How should we live in light of Christ’s coming?
Not in fear.
Not in date-setting.
But with watchfulness, holiness, and urgency—living as if Christ could return at any moment, while faithfully reaching the lost with the gospel of Jesus Christ. Because whether you call it the rapture, the catching away, or the blessed hope, one truth remains certain: Jesus is coming again—and that reality should shape how we live today.
Intercession is one of the most powerful yet often overlooked callings in a believer’s life. It goes beyond personal prayer—intercession shifts our focus from ourselves to standing before God on behalf of others. It is spiritual advocacy, partnership with Heaven, and a willingness to carry someone else’s burden in prayer.
Scripture gives us a clear picture in Daniel, a man who confessed the sins of his nation and sought God’s mercy even when he personally wasn’t at fault. His intercession moved Heaven, released revelation, and impacted the future of his people. Daniel shows us that intercession is persistent, sacrificial, and aligned with God’s heart.
The greatest example, though, is Jesus Christ, who ever lives to make intercession for us. He stands at the right hand of the Father as our Advocate and High Priest. And as His followers, we are invited into that same ministry—to join Jesus in standing in the gap for families, communities, and nations. Intercession isn’t for a select few; it’s a calling for every believer.
In Scripture, spiritual warfare isn’t about fear or chasing the supernatural — it’s the reality that unseen spiritual forces influence our world. But believers aren’t left defenseless. God gives us spiritual authority, not to control spiritual beings, but to stand firm, resist evil, and live aligned with His purpose.
That authority has boundaries. We’re called to exercise it within the areas God has entrusted to us — our own lives, families, and responsibilities. When people try to confront spiritual powers outside that God-given sphere, they can step into confusion, fear, or unnecessary spiritual danger. True authority always flows from humility, dependence on God, obedience to His leading and a close relationship with Jesus. In this episode, Kassie du Plessis & Ruan Slabbert, elders in the life of JoshGen, look at:
* What spiritual warfare really is
* How to exercise authority wisely
* And why stepping beyond God’s boundaries can be risky
In this episode we step back in time to better understand our faith today and explore the rich and often overlooked story of church history—why it matters, how it shapes what we believe, and why knowing our roots is essential for guarding truth.
Throughout the centuries, the church has wrestled with questions, challenges, and controversies. These moments didn’t just fill textbooks—they forged the doctrines we hold today. Understanding that journey equips us to recognize sound teaching, stand firm against heresy, and appreciate the wisdom passed down through generations. Because in the end, truth isn’t new, and what’s new isn’t truth. While some doctrines have been rediscovered over time, none are waiting to be invented.
So join Dylan Jones and Luke Hulley, both elders in the life of JoshGen, as they help us explore how the past impacts the present—and strengthens our faith for the future.
Today we’re talking about a powerful but often misunderstood spiritual gift—the gift of discerning of spirits. This God-given insight helps us recognize what is from the Holy Spirit, what’s simply human, and what may be influenced by the enemy.
When used well, it brings clarity, protection, and wisdom to the church. But it’s important to distinguish true discernment from being critical or suspicious. The genuine gift reflects the Holy Spirit’s character—love, humility, and a desire to build up. A critical or suspicious spirit, however, assumes the worst, focuses on fault-finding, and often causes unnecessary division.
In today’s episode, Shaun and Chantelle Searle who lead the JoshGen Gordon's Bay congregation and Dylan Jones who leads the Muiznebrg congregation, explore what this gift really is, how to grow in it, and how to exercise it in a healthy, Christ-centered way that strengthens the church.
Today, we’re stepping into one of the most discussed—and sometimes divisive—topics in the church: Are the gifts of the Holy Spirit still for today, or did they cease when ‘the perfect came’?
Some say the miraculous gifts—prophecy, tongues, healing—were only for the apostolic age. Others believe the same power that filled the early church is still available to believers right now.
In this episode, we’ll open Scripture, look at history, and ask: What did Paul really mean? What does it look like to walk in the power of the Spirit today—with wisdom, discernment, and love? Whether you come from a charismatic or conservative background, this conversation isn’t about taking sides—it’s about seeking truth together and letting God’s Word speak for itself.
Jonathan Stanfield, lead pastor of Living Hope in the Isle of Man, and Dan Barnard who leads the JoshGen AM Congregation in Sunningdale, share some insights around this important subject.
Christian Nationalism — it’s a phrase that stirs up a lot of heat—and not always a lot of light. Some say believers should reclaim political power to enforce biblical values. Others warn it confuses God’s Kingdom with the kingdoms of this world.
So where should the Church stand? Should we be shaping laws or shaping hearts? Can we really legislate Christian beliefs for those who don’t know Christ?
Jesus said, ‘My kingdom is not of this world,’ yet He also called us the light of the world. In today’s episode, we’ll look at where faith meets politics, what true influence looks like for believers, and even consider voices like Charlie Kirk — asking, does this reflect biblical Christianity or something else?
Luke Hulley and Mike Davies, elders in JoshGen, talk about what it really means to follow the King, not a party.
Is healing for everyone, always? If God can heal — why doesn’t He heal everyone we pray for?
And what does the Bible really say about healing, faith, and suffering? For some, healing brings hope. For others, it brings confusion, doubt, and even disappointment. We read stories of miracles in Scripture, and we hear testimonies of healing today — yet sometimes, despite sincere prayer and deep faith, healing doesn’t come. And people are left wondering: Did I not have enough faith? Did God ignore me? Did I fail somehow? But biblical truth clears the confusion: faith is not “faith in faith” — it’s faith in God.
Healing is not powered by human belief or “faith healing.” True healing is always divine healing — it comes from God alone, according to His purpose, wisdom, and timing. Yes, God does heal — the Bible makes that clear. But the same Bible also speaks of suffering, trials, weakness, and perseverance. Sometimes God displays His power by removing the trial — and sometimes He displays His glory by sustaining us through it.
As Paul said: “My grace is sufficient for you, for My power is made perfect in weakness” (2 Corinthians 12:9). This conversation is not about shallow answers. It’s about biblical faith, honest struggle, and real hope rooted in the character of God.
Change. It touches every one of us. Sometimes we choose it — like a new job, a move, or a personal goal — and other times it crashes into our lives uninvited — loss, uncertainty, or unexpected disruptions. But one thing is certain: change is not optional — it’s inevitable. The real question is how we navigate it.
In today’s episode, we’re going to explore what change really is, why it’s often uncomfortable, and how we can respond to it in a way that builds faith instead of fear. We’ll talk practically about navigating seasons of transition — whether in work, relationships, church, or personal life — and discover that change isn’t actually our enemy. When God is in it, change becomes a tool He uses to shape us, stretch us, and lead us into His purposes.
God's Word reminds us that while everything around us may shift and move, God Himself never changes. Hebrews 13:8 says: “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today and forever.” So while life may feel uncertain, we don’t walk through change alone — we walk with the One who holds our future and leads us step by step.
DISCLAIMER: This podcast should be listened to with discretion as it includes discussion of a sexual nature and may not be appropriate for younger listeners.
In this second part of our conversation, we move from the “why” to the “how.” Joining us are Mike D’Offay, an elder in the life of JoshGen, and Christian counselor Pierre van der Westhuizen. Together we take a more practical look at what it means to walk alongside those who are sexually broken—how to create a safe, gospel-centered environment, how to respond wisely in the moment, and how to discern the next faithful step in each person’s journey toward freedom and wholeness in Christ. Whether you’re a community leader, elder, or simply a believer who wants to love people well, this episode explores real situations and biblical principles that help us minister with both the compassion of Jesus and the courage of His truth, keeping restoration—not perfection—as our goal.
When we talk about the church, it’s natural to ask: “Is my church the best? How does it compare to others? Should I even be thinking that way?” These are questions many believers wrestle with at some point in their journey. On the one hand, we want to be grateful and committed to the local body God has placed us in. On the other hand, we can’t ignore that churches differ—in teaching, culture, priorities, and health.
The challenge is this: how do we evaluate a church without falling into judgmental comparison? The real standard is not whether my church is bigger, more exciting, or seems to worship better than another—it’s whether it aligns with the Word of God and follows the New Testament pattern for the church. Scripture, not personal preference, is the measure by which every church must ultimately be weighed.
So in this episode, together with our guests Michael D'Offay and Luke Hulley, we’ll look to the Bible’s teaching on what defines a faithful church, consider how to weigh the strengths and weaknesses of a local fellowship, and explore how to do so in a way that is humble, God-honouring, and rooted in love for Christ’s bride—the church.
How do we discipline our children in a way that trains hearts and shapes character, reflecting the patient way our heavenly Father trains and teaches us?
Too often, discipline is mistaken for punishment—but true biblical discipline is a process of discipling while guiding our children toward wisdom, maturity, and adulthood. We believe correction begins with connection: communication before correction, and no expectation without communication.
It’s about shepherding their hearts, not simply controlling their behaviour. Together we’ll explore practical steps and truths that will help parents nurture faith, build trust, and lead their children toward a personal relationship with Jesus.
Join us as we discover discipline that disciples rather than punishes.
DISCLAIMER: This podcast should be listened to with discretion as it includes discussion of a sexual nature and may not be appropriate for younger listeners.
In this episode, we sit down with Mike Davies, an elder in the life of JoshGen, and Christian counselor Pierre van der Westhuizen to talk about ministering to those who are sexually broken. The conversation is for ordinary saints, community leaders, and elders who want to walk faithfully with people in sexual brokenness.
Sexual brokenness often flows from both the sins we commit and the sins committed against us. Our journey with them must hold together the warmth of Christ’s love and the clarity of His truth. Together we explore how the local church can offer wise, compassionate counsel—discerning when to shepherd someone ourselves and when to involve trained Christian counselors or other trusted experts—so that love, empathy, and a Christ-centered confrontation of sin remain in proper balance.
In this episode, Dylan Jones and Mike Davies—elders in the life of JoshGen—join Alain Joffe, a digital specialist with a focus on AI, to tackle one of today’s most urgent topics: artificial intelligence. AI is transforming communication, decision-making, ethics, and even how we live out our faith in Christ. Together they ask: How can Christians discern truth in an era of deepfakes and data manipulation? What theological questions arise from machine learning, automation, and the rise of general AI? And how should church elders, leaders and believers respond to these ethical and pastoral challenges? This conversation offers a biblically grounded guide to help the Church think clearly, respond wisely, and stay faithful in a rapidly changing digital world.
[DISCLAIMER: This intro was not written by AI :-)]
Many of us practice prayer, worship, Bible reading, fasting, and meditation—but often they can feel like boxes to tick rather than pathways to knowing God more deeply. In this episode, we’ll explore where these disciplines truly fit within our daily devotions. Are they duties we must perform, or are they invitations to intimacy? Paul reminds us in 1 Timothy that physical training has some value, but godliness is valuable in every way—holding promise for this life and the life to come. Join us as we discover how these spiritual practices can move beyond routine into relationship, shaping our hearts to love Christ more." Demetri, Karen and Ruan share some of their experiences together with principles from God's Word.
Today, we share a powerful testimony of God’s redemptive love and perfect timing. Join us as we hear the incredible journey of Pierre and Juliet van der Westhuizen — a story of how God brought together two hearts from very different paths. Pierre, who walked a road marked by sexual brokenness, and Juliet, who faithfully waited for the man of God she believed God had promised, found their lives intertwined by divine design. Against the doubts of friends, family, and even church leadership, their marriage journey became a walk of faith—trusting that what God had joined together, no one could tear apart. This is a story of grace, courage, and the relentless goodness of God in the making of a marriage.
What is gluttony? Is gluttony really a sin? What does the Bible say about it, and where’s the line between enjoyment and excess? Who decides when enough is enough—our culture, our cravings, or God’s Word? In doing life together as a body of believers and sharing meals is so crucial, where do we draw the line in how much we eat? In this episode, we’ll look at what Scripture teaches about gluttony, why it matters for our hearts and our witness, and how to enjoy God’s gifts without being mastered by them. Mike D’Offay and Dan Barnard, elders in the life of JoshGen, together with Dr. Lolly van Deventer share their insights from God’s Word on the subject.
The word “judge” is often misunderstood and misused—both inside and outside the church. Our liberal world insists, “Do not judge,” as though tolerance were the highest virtue. Yet the Bible speaks with great clarity: we are indeed called to discern between truth and error, holiness and sin. The question is not whether we judge, but whether our judgments are righteous, humble, and according to God’s Word. In this episode, we turn to the Bible to ask: Are we ever to judge the unbelieving world, or is judgment reserved for the household of faith? What does it mean to test all things, to correct a brother, and yet to do so in the spirit of Christ’s love? Following the teaching of the apostles, we will see that true judgment is never harsh criticism nor prideful condemnation, but a necessary work of the Spirit that exalts the authority of Scripture and calls us back to the holiness of God.
In this episode, we explore the spiritual gift of the word of knowledge—what it is, how it operates, and how believers can grow in sensitivity to the Holy Spirit. Whether you’re new to the gifts or desiring to walk in greater clarity and love, this conversation will stir your faith and equip you to hear God's heart for others. We’ll share real-life examples, practical insights, and biblical foundations to help you step out with confidence and humility as you minister to those around you. Brett Bevan, Shaun Searle and Nadene Badenhorst share their practical insights into this amazing gift to the church.
In this episode, Healing in Community, Wayne and Nadene share their personal trauma stories and the different paths they’ve walked toward healing from trauma. Joined by Christian counselor, Christene Pienaar and Brett Bevan an elder in JoshGen, they explore how therapy, pastoral care, and authentic community each play a role in the healing journey. Together, they reflect on how the Church can support those who are experiencing trauma—not by rushing in with advice, but by showing up with grace, presence, and compassion.
Today we’re tackling a question more and more Christians are asking: Is there a biblical perspective on using medicinal cannabis or CBD oil? As these options become more widely used for pain, anxiety, or chronic illness, many believers are left wondering—Is this wise? Is it biblical? Is it beneficial? While the Bible doesn’t mention cannabis or CBD by name, it does give us principles, as with alcohol use, for discernment, self-control, sober mindedness and honoring God with our bodies. And of course, we need to ask—how do we distinguish between responsible medicinal use and the recreational cannabis use that may dull the mind or lead us away from God’s best? In this episode, we’ll explore how Scripture helps us navigate this complex topic with clarity and care. Mike Davies and Morne van der Walt, elders in the life JoshGen give some perspective on the subject, Morne from his background as a pharmacist and Mike from a biblical perspective.
In today's episode we’re tackling something real, raw, and relatable: emotions. We’ve all felt them — joy, anger, sadness, anxiety — but have you ever stopped to ask what are emotions actually for? In this episode, we’ll unpack the idea that emotions are like warning lights on a dashboard. They’re indicators — not problems in themselves. Emotions are neutral. They aren’t sinful. In fact, they’re a gift from God to alert us to what’s going on inside. But here’s the thing: how we respond to those emotions is what matters most. That’s where the trouble begins — or where healing starts. Scripture doesn’t condemn emotion, but it does speak clearly about our response. Anger isn’t the sin. Losing control and lashing out in anger — that’s where sin enters. Sadness isn’t wrong. But allowing it to spiral into despair or bitterness — that’s where we need to be careful. God calls us to respond in a godly way — to take every thought and feeling captive and submit it to Christ. So today, we’ll talk about what that looks like practically. How do we honour God in our emotional life? What tools has He given us? And how can we respond in a way that leads to growth, maturity, and wholeness? Clarence Rule, an elder in the life of JoshGen Sunningdale and Christine Pienaar, a Christian counselor who serves with her husband as a deacon in the City Bowl congregation, share their wisdom and experience around the subject.
We continue the discussion from part one of this 2 part podcast and take questions from our live audience. Clarence Rule and Donovan Sheppard, elders in the life of JoshGen and Pam Marais answer audience questions in the light of their personal experiences of trials, grief and trauma and how God has used it for His good in their lives.
Why does a good and loving God allow suffering? Is it part of the believer’s walk with Him—or a sign that something is wrong? These are deep questions that many of us wrestle with, especially in seasons of hardship. In this episode, we take an honest look at what the Bible teaches about trials, tribulations, and suffering. We’ll explore whether suffering is tied to sin, and why Scripture tells us to “count it all joy” when we face various trials, as James 1 reminds us. Is God distant in our pain, or is He doing something deeper through it? Let’s open the Word together and discover how suffering fits into the life of faith—and how it can shape us, refine us, and even draw us closer to God. Clarence Rule and Donovan Sheppard, elders in the life of JoshGen and Pam Marais share their experiences of trials, grief and trauma and how God has used it for His good in their lives.
Today, we’re diving into a deep yet often misunderstood topic—the experience of sensing God’s presence in our lives and corporate worship. For some, it's deeply physical or even overwhelming. For others, it’s quiet, still, yet undeniably real. But in a world where emotions can sometimes cloud discernment, how do we recognize what’s truly from God? We’re not here to judge or dismiss anyone’s encounter, but to bring wisdom, God's Word, and spiritual maturity to the conversation. Because while God’s presence is transformative, worship must also remain rooted in order, truth, and without quenching the Spirit—or losing the awe." Mike Davies, an elder in the life of JoshGen, together with Morne and Erina van Der Walt who lead JoshGen South Africa, share some of their experiences.
Are faith and feminism compatible? Today, we’re stepping into a big conversation — one that can feel like a collision of worlds. Is feminism compatible with biblical faith? Can we embrace our calling as women and men of God while navigating a culture that’s so often shaped by ideology and cancel culture? Whether you’ve wrestled with these ideas yourself or simply want to understand better, we’re going to explore how a biblical worldview can speak into modern society — boldly, compassionately, and without compromise. Our guests today are Dr Lolly van Deventer, Advocate Nadene Badenhorst and Mike Davies an elder in the life of JoshGen. They share insights into this huge subject.
Disclaimer: This podcast contains testimony and discussions about pornography and sexual brokenness. While we speak with grace and truth, some content may be sensitive for younger listeners. Parental guidance is advised.
Pornography destroys from the inside out—but there is hope. This podcast is for both men and women on the journey toward restoration and freedom. Through vulnerable testomony and truth-filled insight, we’ll explore how the power of Jesus breaks the chains of pornography and defeats the lies of Satan. In Him, we find forgiveness, deep healing, inner renewal, and lasting transformation—freedom that restores hearts, minds, and identities. We’ll also uncover how to walk in purity, guard our hearts, and live in the light through the power of the Holy Spirit, godly community, and renewing our minds with truth. Andrew and Liz, a JoshGen eldership couple, together with Adam Cox on the Milnerton eldership team, share testimonies and insights around freedom from the destructive power of porn.
Assurance of salvation is one of the most vital truths every believer must grasp. God hasn’t called us merely to know about Him, but to walk confidently as His sons and daughters. Yet for many, a quiet question lingers: Am I truly saved? What does it really mean to have assurance of my salvation?
When can I know for certain? These aren’t just theological ideas — they touch the very core of how we do life together, how we worship, and how we endure through life’s trials. In this episode, we’ll explore what the Word teaches about assurance. We’ll look at the role of faith and fruit, and how our confidence isn’t based on our performance, but on the finished, unshakeable work of Jesus Christ.
Luke Hulley and Michael d'Offay, elders in the life of JoshGen, share some of their insights with us.
In a world driven by logic, science, and proof, the idea of the supernatural can seem outdated or even irrelevant. But for us as believers, the supernatural isn’t a fringe element of faith — it’s central to the life and ministry of Jesus and the New Testament Church. So what does it mean to live naturally supernatural in today’s skeptical age? How do we walk in the power of the Holy Spirit while remaining grounded, authentic, and approachable? And how do we minister to people who don’t believe in miracles, signs, or wonders? In this episode of Dying to Live, we’re unpacking what it looks like to live a life where the supernatural becomes natural — not weird, not forced, but an everyday reality that flows from intimacy with God.
In today’s episode, we’re addressing a subject that has deeply influenced many lives in different contexts and continents — the prosperity gospel. While it often comes wrapped in the language of faith, confession and blessing, it distorts the very heart of Christ’s Gospel message and leads many into confusion, disappointment, and crisis of faith. The truth is, following Jesus doesn’t mean we’re spared from suffering — believers still go through trials, hardship, and even persecution. But in the midst of it all, we are promised His presence, His grace, and eternal life. Our aim today isn’t to attack people, but to lovingly bring clarity, expose error, and point us back to the true Gospel — a Gospel of grace, not greed; of Christ and not consumerism. Johane Musviba, Michael D'Offay and Dylan Jones, elders in the life of JoshGen, share their thoughts and bring correction around this controversial subject.
In our secular world from sport to business to entertainment we are judged how well we perform. But, can this be transferred to the Kingdom? Is performance a value we can subscribe to? How do we measure success in the Kingdom? How does Jesus view performance? Does it fit in or is it opposed to Biblical principles? Our team of elders, Dan Barnard, Luke Hulley and Neil Greig bring a perspective of where performance fits in our lives both secular and ministry.
WARNING - This podcast has content that is not appropriate for younger listeners.
Contraception, methods of contraception and even sterilisation are minefields which Christian marriages have to negotiate in our church and society today. Which methods don't violate biblical principles and which do? Where does life begin and what contraception can end life? How do we process grey areas and with whom? Mike Davies and Michael D'Offay, elders in the life of JoshGen and Dr Melissa Janse van Vuuren look at these issues and give answers from theological and medical perspectives.
In this episode we hear the remarkable stories of Marnus and Mareli Coetzee who are saints in the JoshGen Wellington congregation, their journey to salvation through the death of their unborn son and the incredibly supernatural miracle when Marnus was crushed by a 3 ton tractor on their farm. They share their experiences and what God has taught them through these experiences.
In the second part of our 2 part series, What Happens When We Die, we ask questions about heaven. Where is heaven? Do we go there immediately? Are we in a state of soul sleep? Do we see Jesus immediately? Is there a transitional space before the new heavens and new earth? There are so many questions around heaven but the Bible does not have one clear or definitive answer. In this episode Mike Davies, Dan Barnard and Luke Hulley, elders in the life of JoshGen, share what the Bible says about heaven and what we can look forward to.
The question of whether there is a real place called hell has been contested over generations. But, what does the Bible say about hell? Is it a real place? Do people go there for eternity or is temporary? Does the denial of the doctrine of hell negate the whole Gospel? If there is a real place called hell then why aren't believers energized to preach the Gospel more? Our team for today, Mike Davies, Dan Barnard and Luke Hulley, all part of the JoshGen eldership team, share there insights based on what God's Word clearly says about hell.
Why should we celebrate Easter? Are there any reasons why we shouldn't? How should we celebrate Easter? Has Easter not been corrupted by the easter bunny and easter eggs? In this episode we see how Jesus and His resurrection are central to Easter. And, no matter how paganism and commercialism has influenced it traditionally, we need to keep the real reason for Easter "the real reason" which is the death and resurrection of Jesus. Our guests, Mike Davies, an elder in the life of JoshGen, Ashley Gabriel, who leads a Four12 partnering church in the UK, and Dr Lolly van Deventer who is the academic dean at the South African Theological Seminary share some of their insights about Easter.
Walking in the Spirit is essential to our walk with Jesus as believers. What does it mean to walk in step with the Holy Spirit? How do this on a daily basis? Where do our renewed minds fit into this? Some call themselves people of the Word while others people of the Spirit. What is the relationship between the Holy Spirit and the Word of God? Melanie du Toit, who is a prophetic voice in the life of JoshGen, together with elders Dan Barnard and Brett Bevan share some of the principles and practical steps they have learned about walking in step with the Spirit.
In this episode we hear the amazing adoption stories of two couples as they share their remarkable journeys to adoption. How did they hear God's voice? When did they know it was right for them? Where did their journeys start and how did they overcome the many challenges? Two eldership couples, Kate and Ian Jonker and Abby and Brett Bevan share their very personal adoption stories of how God led them.
Before we answer how to get the most out of our Bibles, we should ask the question of why we need to read our Bibles regularly. How much should we read daily? Should we spend much time in the Old Testament as New Testament believers? After reading the whole Bible how do we dig deeper? These and other questions are answered by our team, Mike D'Offay, Luke Hulley, elders in the life of JoshGen, together with Dan and Sam Barnard who serve as an eldership couple in Sunningdale.
Jesus came to reconcile us to God through His death on the cross. The is the most powerful miracle He ever performed, yet, we see Christian marriages destroyed or crippled by Satan. Many people see and believe in healings and miracles as the ultimate power of God but when it comes to marriages in trouble often will head down the divorce route. But, God is primarily in the reconciliation business and after salvation the miracle of marriage restoration rising out of destroyed relationships is the greatest. In this episode Demitri and Karen Nikiforus, an eldership couple from JoshGen Wynberg, share their wonderful miracle of reconcialition in their marriage.
There are times in our lives when God feels far away and life feels like a wilderness. Where is God when this happens? Is He there with us or has He removed Himself? Can an omnipresent God be distant? How do faith and the emotional sense of God's presence play out in situations like this? Melanie du Toit, a prophetic voice in JoshGen and Michael D'Offay with Brett Bevan, both elders within the life of JoshGen, share perspectives from God's Word together with personal experience.
At what age should a parent or Kids Church team introduce a child to Jesus? Is there a minimum age at which we should do this? What about baptism? Is there a minimum age? Should parents give their consent? Is leading a child to salvation the responsibiity of the parents or the church? These are some of the tough questions our two guest eldership couples who lead JoshGen's kids ministry, Deon and Kim Delport and Ian and Kate Jonker answer for us.
In a world where there is no morality, ethical standards are flexible and society does what the latest fad demands, is the Bible still relevant? Can we trust the Bible? Can we trust the whole Bible? These are some of the questions that bring doubt to the minds of especially our younger generation of believers. Our team of elders, Mike D'Offay, Dan Barnard and Luke Hulley dig deeper and explore some of the reasons why the Bible is God's word and still is very relevant to our generation.
With the recent fire devastation in California and the world coverage of the disaster coupled with social media reporting many Christians are asking the question, "Does God judge the world through natural disasters?" Are Christians protected from disasters? What does the Bible say about God and His judgement? Does God use natural disasters for His own purposes? These and other questions are answered with a Biblical perspective by our team of Mike D'Offay, Luke Hulley and Dan Barnard, who serve as elders in the life of JoshGen.
When it comes to new year resolutions, planning or goalsetting everyone has an opinion on what is right and what isn't. What should our response be to the pressures of planning or new year resolutions? What is the godly response? How do we achieve a balance between the two? In this episode our team answers these questions and others, BUT, the consensus is that the key response should be pressing in and drawing closer to the One who holds the future and knows where we should ultimately be.
Luke Hulley Blogpost
PODCAST CONTAINS TESTIMONY THAT MAY IMPACT SENSITIVE LISTENERS
This is the riveting testimony and dramatic journey of a talented young man who experienced mental illness at school which developed into full schizophrenia at university and took his life in a downward spiral on a very dark journey. Culminating in a tragic event and resulting in his arrest and committal to Valkenburg Psychiatric Hospital, Julian Goldswain's life appeared to be over, facing a future as a state mental patient. He was told by doctors that he would never be healed, get married, have children or work again. But God had other ideas and a journey of restoration changed him radically leading to the complete healing of his mental illness and coming off all medication. This transformation was likened by doctors to the mental equivalent of a paraplegic rising from a wheelchair and walking again. Julian and his wife Chantelle are on eldership with the JoshGen Muizenberg congregation and do life together with their two teenage boys Thorin and Gabe.
In this episode we ask the question, is supernatural healing still relevant and if so how do we exercise the gift of healing? Should everyone be healed? What if you are not healed, has God let you down? Does it depend on our faith or the faith of the one praying for healing? There are many theologies around healing so how do we know what to believe? These and other questions are answered, together testimonies of God's healing in the lives of believers, by our panel, Dan Barnard, Sonja van der Merwe and Martin Janssen.
At first glance you might answer...everyone knows who Andrew Selley is. But, with the growth of our congregations, a new JoshGen leader in South Africa and Andrew leading JoshGen internationally from the USA, not everyone knows him or his story. We chat with him about his personal testimony, how JoshGen started and how he views the future with JoshGen and the Four12 partnership of churches.
The words, spiritual authority, can bring security or ring warning bells of control and abuse. How do we understand true spiritual authority? What does the Bible have to say about authority? Do people within the body of Christ have authority over others? Authority has been used for control, abuse and personal gain yet it is one of the most amazing gifts God has given the church. With so much to unpack Russell Fraser and Dylan Jones, both elders in the life of JoshGen, share keys to understand real Biblical authority and how we are held accountable to God through His delegated authority.
The Bible doesn't give us clear commands on how to fast, how often or when to fast. But Jesus clearly implies it by saying "When you fast.." Perhaps the lack of clear guidelines is a reason why fasting isn't regarded by many as an important spiritual discipline. In this episode our team gives evidence with remarkable testimonies about fasting and how it has made an deep impact in the lives of many. It's not about giving up, sacrificing or twisting God's arm to do something for us, but rather, taking time to focus on God and drawing closer to Him that has the impact. Through fasting God changes us and impacts those around us for His purposes and the kingdom.
Finding God's will and hearing His voice is very personal yet at the same time it is not? We are a part of a community of believers and everything we do has a knock-on effect within the local church. So, do we seek God's will alone or do our leaders find God's will for us? When do we go to leaders and ask for guidance? Whose responsibility is it for the final decision? These and other questions are answered by Dan Barnard, an elder in the life of JoshGen, and Morne and Erina van der Walt, an eldership couple who lead the work of JoshGen in South Africa.
Jesus prayed His final prayer in the garden and asked the Father that his followers would be united. The biggest challenge to unity is conflict. How do we resolve conflict amongst believers? What does the Bible say about resolving conflict? What do we do when we reach a stalemate? As broken people we often are the barriers to resolution. These questions and others are answered by our panel, Phil van der Westhuizen, Kim Delport and Luke Hulley, who serve the body within the life of JoshGen.
Many questions are being asked this festive season around celebrating Christmas, so, we are running this repeat of last year's podcast that answers these questions.
It’s that time of the year again with the festive season fast approaching! Christmas is spiritually sacred for many people while for others Christmas is viewed as a pagan festival that believers should avoid since we are called to not copy or love the world. In this episode Mike D'Offay, Carel Albertyn and Clarence Rule, elders in JoshGen, look at the origins of the festival and how Christians should approach Christmas and celebrating the birth of Jesus.
In this episode we dig deeper and look at some of the challenges faced by singles. Doing life together as singles and families can be a challenge? How do we overcome any obstacles? How do singles integrate into families? How should families be inclusive during the festive season? We see in God's Word that He places the lonely into families, but, how is this walked out in practice. Jacques and Janette du Toit, an eldership couple who lead JoshGen Sunningdale PM, Tanya Brandis and Brent Eichstadt, both singles, share perspectives from both sides.
The word accountability often conjures up the thought of control and telling people what to do or how to behave. But, the heart of true accountability is not based in control. It's a partnership between believers of allowing people and leaders to speak into your life and help you grow into what is God's best for you. Accountability can be tough when those who love you speak into your life and highlight blindspots that hinder you on your journey to fullness in Christ. In this episode Dan and Sam Barnard, eldership couple from Sunningdale am and Maurice Ras an elder in the life of JoshGen Wellington share some of their journeys to fullness in God through a path of accountability.
The festive season is upon us and people are getting ready to celebrate Christmas. But not all who celebrate the birth of Jesus are believers. Many use this occasion to pay their annual visit to church. How do we use these opportunities of openness to share the Gospel? Is it any different to the rest of the year? When unsaved family members visit over the holidays how do we share the real meaning of Christmas with them? These and other questions are answered by Dan Barnard and Martin Jansen, elders in the life of JoshGen Church.
Addiction to screens impacts the brain in the same way as cocaine. The effect of screens is impacting the lives of believers in a very subtle way and it appears like nobody is doing much about it. In this episode we look at the destructiveness of screens to personal health, family life and even devotions. What is too much? How do we get free from the addictive nature of screens? Are we even aware that we are addicted? In this episode Maurice and Juliette Ras, an eldership couple from JoshGen Worcester together with Dan Barnard an elder in the life of JohGen, share some of the statistics that reveal how destructive screens are in the lives of people. They look at keys to freedom from this subtle addiction.
Navigating the minefield of friendships in our congregations, communities, jobs and with those who in the world is always a challenge. Is a spouse sufficient as a friend? What is the basis for godly friendships? How do have friendships with those who are unsaved without compromising? What does God's word have to say about friendship? These questions are answered by Deon and Kim Delport, an eldership couple serving in JoshGen Sea Point, and Phil van der Westhuizen from the Melkbos congregation eldership team.
Our current generation of young people faces challenges like never before and the big question is how do we reach them and make Jesus relevant for them? Bridging the generation gap has never been so important. Young people are crying out for family and to be a part of something. How can the church be the church to "youthies"? Luke Watson, an elder in the life of JoshGen, leads the youth across the church and together with youth leaders Tristan, Rosie and Kevin answer these questions.
As believers we are moulded by what we listen to, view or read. What should we be watching, listening to or reading online or offline? Which authors, teachers or preachers are kosher? How do we discern which have solid theology or are self-help or motivational cloaked with Christian cliches. In this episode Mike D'Offay, Morne van der Walt and Dan Barnard, elders in the life of JoshGen, give us keys for learning to discern what is safe to consume and what should be wary of.
How can you be addicted to ministry? Can devotion to Christ and His church be too much? There is a cost to discipleship and we are called to die in order to live. But how is this outworked in a balanced way? These are some of the questions answered by our team in this podcast as they share testimonies of how God brought them through very real journeys of taking on too much. Sharing some of their journeys are Kim Muller, an elder and apostolic voice in the life of Joshgen and Brett and Abby Bevan who serve as an eldership couple in JoshGen Edgemead.
Is it just trick or treat with some ghostly costumes, skeletons witches and pumpkins or is there a deeper spiritual connotaion to Halloween? Should Christians celebrate Halloween? These and other questions are answered by Mike D'Offay together Demitri and Karen Nikiforus.
Articles on Halloween can be found on the Four 12 Global website or you can copy these links to read the articles.
https://four12global.com/articles/tricked-or-sweet/
https://four12global.com/articles/tricks-treats-compromise/
https://four12global.com/articles/candy-costumes-evil/
What is rest and how should we be resting? What are the challenges to rest and how do we overcome them? This is a big challenge for those in full time ministry as well as those who are double timers, that is, who work during the day and minister in the evenings and on weekends. These and other questions are answered through testimonies and experience by Barry and Lienkie van der Westhuizen, an eldership couple serving in JoshGen Durbanville, and Dylan Jones who leads the Muizenberg congregation.
What does it mean to be a part of a team? What are the kingdom values of a leadership team? The church is made up of teams from saints to elders and apostles so where do we all fit in and how do kingdom teams function under the headship of Christ? These and other questions form the basis of this podcast discussion and are answered by Kevin Samuels, Neil Greig and Patti Barnard who are all part of eldership teams across JoshGen.
This is the Questions and Answers session of the podcast Navigating Depression as Believers. In order to have a full benefit from this Q and A session you'd need to listen to the previous podcast about Navigating Depression as Believers.
Morne van der Walt and Michael D'Offay, elders in the life of JoshGen, together with Lorna Baker, a counselling psychologist, and Brigitte Melly answer questions from the studio audience.
Can believers be depressed? Shouldn't we be walking with faith and overcoming depression? What is depression? Do we get help from medical professionals or elders and pastors? Can I be depressed, on medication and still walk in freedom? Morne van der Walt, an elder in the life of JoshGen, Lorna Baker, a counselling psychologist, and, Brigitte Melly who suffered from severe depression for many years answer these and other questions around navigating depression as believers.
Finding your child at the bottom of a swimming pool while you are building a safety fence would result in asking many why questions. Johann and Lolly van Deventer, serving as an eldership couple in JoshGen Worcester, experienced the painful loss of a child in this situation. They share their journey of grief, loss and the trauma of losing a little boy while experiencing the incredible comfort and mercy of a sovereign God through their church community. They answer the questions of ...how do I process grief? Why did this happen? Whose fault was it? And, how do we work throught this?
How do we resolve conflict? When does love cover a multitude of sins? What does the Bible say about exercise? How far is go in the Great Commission? What does honour look like in the Bible and how do we apply Matthew 18 when resolving conflict? Mike D'Offay and Luke Hulley, elders in the life of JoshGen Church, together with Dr Lolly Van Deventer give us answers and a Biblical perspective to these questions.
Parenting in a digital world is a minefield. How much screentime you allow a child can detrimetally affect brain development, social skills and create mental health issues for their future. Children under the age of three years should not have any screen time and up to the age of five years minimal screentime. No child should have a smartphone before the age of fourteen and exposure to social media not before sixteen. Maurice and Juliette Ras, elders in the life of JoshGen Church share keys and tools to digital parenting. Juliette is a play therapist and gives shocking statistics around the dangers of screentime for young children. But, there is hope and they encourage parents to educate themselves and disciple their children.
What is modesty? Who should be modest? Is modesty for women or does it include men? The principle of modesty extends far beyond the stereotypical view of 1 Peter 3 in that it applies only to women. We live in a liberal world where flaunting, exibitionism and self-promotion is the norm and a person's right. We see this across social media like Tik Tok, Instagram and Facebook where people exhibit and flaunt themselves in the most extreme ways. Dr Lollie van Deventer, Mike D'Offay and Dan Barnard, leaders in the life of JoshGen, answer these and other questions from a Biblical perspective concluding that modesty is rooted in Christlike-like humilty and strong identity which is rooted in Christ.
What is the Gospel? What Gospel should we be preaching? Where do we find it in Scripture? There are many gospels that have been preached. Some overtly false but others are just that, "other gospels". They have a lot of truth but aren't the Biblical Gospel and have been corrupted or addded to. Dr Cornelia van Deventer, academic dean with SA Theologial Seminary and wife of Johan who leads JoshGen Worcester, Dan Barnard who leads JoshGen Milnerton congregation and Mike D'Offay an elder in the life of Josh Gen, dig deeper into what the true Gospel is. They explore the differences with false and other gospels and the Biblical Gospel we should be preaching.
Do you have a heart for hospitality and hosting? How does one host people? Is hospitality for all saints? Where do we start? These are some of the questions answered by Brett and Abby Bevan, elders on team at JoshGen Edgemead. This couple are power hosts having had many people experiencing hospitality in their small home. Brett has been on the receiving end across the world and in many cultures and shares together with Abby on how to be a great guest or host.
If you'd like to host there are many opportunities especially with the Four12 Conference coming up. Here's an email link for potential hosts. hosting@joshgen.org.za
How does the new Hate Speech Act impact believers and churches? Does it remove existing freedoms? Are there provisions made to exercise our faith freely? Does it make people criminals for expressing their views and faith?
These and other questions are expertly answered by Nadene Badenhorst, an advocate by profession now serving on the JoshGen team, Gerhard Claassen, a lawyer by profession and elder with JoshGen and Mike d'Offay an elder in the life of JoshGen.
Andrew and Liz East have walked a journey of doing life together the New Testament way in churches across the world. They share some of their life lessons and experiences of hearing God's voice, stepping out in faith, with the challenges of marriage in ministry and dreaming with God. How do we practically hear what God wants us do when making big decisions like changing continents? What are they keys to partnering in ministry as a couple? These and other questions are answered by Liz and Andrew from a wealth experience as the minister across JoshGen and the Four 12 partnership of churches.
Every day we face a barrage of advertising, billboards showing the latest in tech and the media telling us why we should be aspiring to a more successful lifestyle. Is it wrong to want more? Should we upgrade to the latest version? Where does covetousness start and how do we practically deal with what the world thinks we should have. Dylan Jones, Mike Davies and Dan Barnard, all elders in the life of JoshGen, give us more understanding about true Biblical contentment, how to face the challenges of a material world and how Paul understood true contentment even in the most difficult of circumstances.
The New Testament writings of Paul, Peter, James and others are full of analogies on running the race, running with perseverance and fighting the good fight. We must persevere, endure and count it all joy when faced with trials. But how do we do this? How do we fight the good fight? When sickness, pain and suffering arrive at our door how do we endure to the end? Luke Hulley and Dylan Jones, elders in the life of JoshGen Church, take a deeper look into the theology and practical application of endurance and peseverance. Mike Fast shares his physical journey of endurance and trials in his battle with leukaemia and how God carried him through his darkest hours.
How do you identify your spiritual gifts? How do you exercise your gifts within the body of believers? Stepping out in your gifting involves risk and faith so when and where do you start? WhichaThe Bible has a lot to say about spiritual gifts in Romans 12, 1 Corinthians 12 and 14 but the practical outworking is often the big question. These and other questions are answered by Luke Hulley, Calla Albertyn and Dylan Jones, elders in the life of JoshGen.
In our liberal world marriage is no longer valued and has become a disposable commodity. You start and end when you feel like it. It's not forever. Living in a fallen world, how do we deal with serious marriage issues as believers? Can broken marriages be restored? How or where do we start when the problems seem insurmountable?
In this episode we hear the testimony of Enrico and Lizette Abrahams, elders in the life of JoshGen Church Edgemead, where God completely restored their marriage after divorce. They share the principles of how God rebuilt their marriage and how important it was that their relationship with God was restored first. It takes two whole people to complete a godly and healthy marriage.
How do we experience the heart of Father God? What does the Bible says about God's love? In this podcast we chat with Mervis van der Merwe about his personal journey of discovering God's heart and love for him when he was desperate for love. He shares an intimate journey of experiencing the Father's love through his relationship with Jesus.
What translation should I read for devotions? Which translation is most helpful as a study Bible? Can I read the Message and why is the Passion translation dangerous? Is the King James Version the only one we should read? The translation debate has raged for centuries creating confusion for many. Mike Davies, Luke Hulley and Mike d'Offay, elders in the life of JoshGen Church, give us insight into what is a good translation is, why we need updated translations and why others are dangerous.
What does Biblical devotion look like? How do we make devoted people? Where does devotion come from? And, how do we help believers to walk in devotion?
Devotion starts from within and comes from experiencing salvation resulting in a deep love for Jesus and His church. Mike d'Offay, Dylan Jones and Dan & Sam Barnard offer help from life experience to answer these questions and provide a Biblical perspective of commitment to Christ by being devoted.
Can we truly have assurance of salvation?
How do we as a church respond to homelessness and the poor?
Is the use of anointing oil still relevant?
What is blasphemy of the Holy Spirit?
Should we pray to the Holy Spirit?
Mike D'Offay and Luke Hulley elders in the life of JoshGen answer these and other difficult questions.
We live in a fatherless generation impacting not only the lives of young men but also young women. The questions Brett Bevan, an elder at JoshGen Edgemead, and Gerald Elliott, a deacon in the life of JoshGen, answer are...
What is the role of a spiritual father to men and women?
How do we disciple those without a father figure?
What are the challenges faced by those who take on these roles?
What does God's Word say about fathers in the faith?
Does grace mean that I can do anything and I am forgiven? As a Christian do I need to confess my sins? Is the conviction of the Holy Spirit still relevant to us today? Are all my sins forgiven...past, present and future?
Mike D'Offay, Dylan Jones and Luke Hulley, all elders in the life of JoshGen, answer these questions and others to give us a true Biblical perspective on what grace is.
The big questions around Sout Africa's national and provincial elections taking place on the 29th May 2024 include...
Should Christians vote?
Who should we vote for?
How do I vote with so many different parties?
Do I have to vote as a believer?
Is it better not to vote?
Fortunately, it is not the role of the church to tell who to vote for. But there are biblical, ethical and moral questions that need to be dealt with sensitively. These and other important questions are answered by Dan Matthews, an elder in JoshGen George and a former Christian political activist, and Nadene Badehorst, an advocate by profession and active in FORSA while serving God in several areas within JoshGen.
THe FORSA Score Card can be found at
https://www.forsa.org.za/freedom-of-religion-voting-scorecard [COPY and PASTE to your browser]
I've won the lottery so how much should I tithe? Is there moderation in gambling? Is playing the stockmarket playing with God's money? Where does God expect us to invest and should we invest? And, if it's God's money should we be taking risks? Derek Engelbrecht, an elder in Josh Gen Wellington, and Mike D'Offay answer the big question of who's money is it and what are our responsibilities as the steward's of God's money.
Is Christian counseling just secular psychology repackaged? Do we need counselors in the church? What is the role of discipleship and does it replace counseling? Do Christian counselors replace the need for professional psychologists? Isn't the Holy Spirit, our great Counselor, all we need and not human counsel? Grant Baker, an elder in JoshGen, and his wife Lorna, a counseling psychologist, give us answers to these and other questions.
Social media can either control you or serve you. So, we ask...what place should social media take in a believer's life? Are there guidelines for Christians on these social platforms? What does the Bible have to say about social media and how should we conduct ourselves on these social networks. Dr. Cornelia van Deventer, Dylan Jones and Mike D'Offay answer these and other important questions encompassing walking in the light with our communication and relationships as we navigate the minefields and quicksands of social media networks.
Are all doctrinal truths equal and for that matter essential? What is the mark of the beast? What Greek and commentary resources should we be using? Can I curse my unfair manager like David did in the Psalms? What is a healthy discipleship relationship? What about tribes who have never heard the gospel...will they go to hell? Mike d'Offay and Luke Hulley answer some of these questions posed by our listeners. This Q and A podcast will be a regular feature and we encourage listeners to send in their questions.
Is worship just singing? Are we comanded to worship? Is there a place for emotions in worship? What role should worship take in our personal devotions? The Word of God is filled with references to worship and how we should worship. In this episode Maurice Ras and Michael Joubert share their personal journeys in worship and answer some of these questions.
Jesus taught a fair amount about kingdom finances and Acts 2:42 to 47 speaks about selling possessions to give to those in need. How do we become God's money managers? How much should we give and how do we know when to give? Where does generosity start and what happens if we give when we aren't sure we've heard from God? These and other questions around stewarding God's resources are given practical answers by Phillip and Marli van der Westhuizen together with Mike Davies.
Does the the Bible prohibit couples from living together before marriage? Is it possible to live together without sinning and are there circumstances where it is permitted? Dave and Keena James together with Luke Hulley and Mike Davies answer these and other important questions giving a clear understanding as to what God's Word says about living together before marriage.
We live in a woke generation where dating is for sex, everything goes and nothing is off limits. The question we ask is whether God has a plan for dating? Unfortunately God's Word says nothing about dating...you're either married or not. So, how do young men and women who are believers negotiate the minefield of dating and relationships. Leonard Strydom leads a congregation of mainly young men and women in JoshGen Stellenbosch and regularly deals with these questions as an elder. In this episode he brings in Hannah and Josh who are dating with the intention of pursuing marriage in the future. Together they share wisdom from experience, trials and errors as they reflect on their dating journeys.
Whether you have been a follower of Jesus for 6 months or 60 years, the challenge of having a quiet time or daily devotions is a very real challenge for many of us. In this episode Lee Serafin, Karen and Demetri Nikiforus together with Michael D'Offay share personal experiences, spiritual truths and biblical foundations around personal devotions, couples devotions and family devotions. There is not one way, a formula or pattern for daily devotions. As with all relationships our quiet times are diverse as we connect with Jesus daily and it's this connection that is the fundamental common thread we need to experience in our daily devotions.
How do we exercise our faith in God is an age old question we all face. With the extremes from both sides in the contemporary church, finding a balance is key to our walk with God. In this episode Luke Hulley and Michael D'Offay answer some of the big questions around exercising our faith.
In this episode, with a live studio audience, we look at a word that impacts charismatic churches following the model of New Testament church and that is, cults. Why are churches often labelled as cults? What are we doing differently that attracts a label like this? So, the main question answered in part one of this episode by our guests Mike Davies and Dr Cornelia van Deventer together with Michael d'Offay is...how do we as New Testament believers recognise a cult and understand biblically why we aren't part of one?
In part two our guests answer questions posed by the live studio audience.
James says in chapter 1 of his epistle that we should..."Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds". He doesn't say if but when. In this episode, Wayne Turner and Michael d'Offay chat with Pamela Marais and Juliet van der Westhuizen as they share their remarkable God journey of trials, grief and suffering. They tell a story of how Jesus carried them through trials that no family should endure with the joy James commands of us. Losing a father, grandfather and husband was a messy, difficult and painful experience but God was in the midst of it carrying them as He has promised.
Eschatology or the doctrine of the last things has raised more questions than answers over generations. Many of us avoid apocalyptic books in the Bible because of the lack of understanding while others study it in such detail in order to attempt to gain all knowledge. But how should we approach the book of Revelation and what benefit is there from reading the book? In this podcast Luke Hulley, Dylan Jones and Mike D'Offay give us some insight into how we should read end times literature in the Bible.
In Philippians 1 v 9 Paul says that "it is my prayer that your love may abound more and more, with knowledge and all discernment". It's God's desire that we should grow in discernment as believers. But what about the gift of discernment? How does this differ from natural discernment? Luke Hulley and Dylan Jones together with Mike D'Offay drill down deeper into what the differences are and how we should exercise discernment and the gift of discernment.
Is the role of preaching and teaching the function of just the elders? Should ordinary saints be able to exercise these giftings in the local church? In today's episode Mike, Dan and Carel answer these questions and others while giving us perspective on the place of regular saints within these two ministries.
In this episode we bring Mike and Lolly back into studio to look at how we should be reading and studying God's in context and not twisting texts to suit our theology and Biblical understanding. How we read God's Word with understanding is vital for growth and as Paul says to Timothy we need to accurately handle God's Word. Lolly shares with us some amazing resources for reading, listening and studying God's Word.
www.logos.com
www.scribd.com
How do we as Christians navigate our places of work and find our place in this environment without compromise. We spend the majority of our time at work with the average person spending over 90 000 hours in a lifetime. The Bible says that work is fundemental to all of our lives and that we are required to honour God through it. Dylan Jones and Lindsay Fiamingo share their experiences of honouring God in sometimes very difficult workplaces and trying situations.
Link to article mentioned by Mike - https://four12global.com/articles/thank-god-its-monday/
Marriage as the institution we know as New Testament believers is under attack like never before. Building a marriage that last needs building blocks to create a stable foundation on which we can build for long term success. Mac and Naudine Adami share some fundamental principles such as love, respect, accountabilty, repentance and forgiveness which are important in building marriages that last.
Longevity in leadership is simply staying the course and reaching the goal that God has placed ahead of us through fulfilling His plans and purposes. But simple is not always easy and the challenges of staying the course make it very difficult. Jeff Kidwell shares how he has stayed the course over 40 years of ministry while facing hurdles and challenges and gives us keys to achieving longevity.
The world of the arts and social media can be a minefield for Christians in the industry yet this is brought even closer to home as Christians as the entry level to the arts is becoming easier for all. Through social media we can become media influencers and content creators and walk a similar minefield to those in the media and arts industry. How we navigate this and what boundaries we can push without compromising our faith and bibllical foundations is a question we should be asking. Howard Fyvie, media man, filmmaker and regular saint chats with us about some of these big questions and provides solutions through his personal experiences in the industry.
TMT or Timothy Ministry Training could be considered one of JoshGen's best kept secrets. In this episode we have five guests in studio, leaders, staff and students who share their personal experiences of how God has in worked their lives throught the ministry of TMT. Mike, who is the dean of TMT, takes the role of guest as well and gives us an overview of what TMT is all about and who can participate in the programme. If you need a gap year, preparation for a variety of ministries or a springboard into university or a career then TMT is a possible option that God may be leading you into.
It’s that time of the year again with the festive season fast approaching! Christmas is spiritually sacred for many people while for others Christmas is viewed as a pagan festival that believers should avoid since we are called to not copy or love the world. In this episode Carel Albertyn and Clarence Rule, elders in JoshGen, look at the origins of the festival and how Christians should approach Christmas and celebrating the birth of Jesus.
As Christians, we carry in a sense dual citizenship. We are citizens of heaven but also are citizens here in South Africa. We submit to the Lord God but Scripture is also clear that we need to submit to earthly authorities. Romans 13:1 says “Let every person be subject to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God, and those that exist have been instituted by God.”
But how does this work out for us today in democratic societies in the 21st Century, especially as our governments are increasingly become anti-Christian. How do we learn to obey God but also honour the government? We have with us Nadene Badenhorst who is an advocate and worked for FORSA and now serving as a full-time deacon in JoshGen. She shares her wide experience and knowledge as to how we should respond to government in various situations.
It's important we have fathers in the faith who we can look up to as examples for us. Russell Fraser serves on eldership in JG and have done so for 23 years faithfully. Russell is recognised as a five-fold pastor. In this episode, want to hear a bit of his story and learn from him, how we can also learn to love God's people and how to do so skillfully.
Hebrews 13:7 says "Remember your leaders, those who spoke to you the word of God. Consider the outcome of their way of life, and imitate their faith."
Lolly and Mike are both back in the studio with us to discuss more around gender roles. In the last last episode we spoke through why we hold to a traditional view from scripture of godly male headship and how God's pattern is male and female roles as complementing each other. We would encourage you to listen to the first part of this to give context (released 19 Sept)
We want to focus more on husband and wife roles in the nitty-gritty of home and how women can be used in public roles in church life. We believe in godly patriarchy and male headship in church and the home. How does this look practically in the partnership of husbands and wives when it comes to decision making?
In this episode we look at one of the fundamental doctrines of the christian faith–repentance. Hebrews 6:1 tells us that repentance from dead works and faith towards God, is a basic truth we all have to grasp and understand. Jesus, Peter and Paul preached about repentance and Jesus even tells churches in Revelation to repent from their ways. But, what is true repentance exactly and how can we live out a lifestyle of repentance as followers of Jesus?
Mike Davies helps us understand the truth of Biblical repentance and explains how this doctrine has been watered down to the point of heresy in the church today.
There is popular phrase in our culture called ‘toxic masculinity’. It was originally coined as as reference to men who were super aggressive, who treated women as objects and were emotionally hardened. What has happened now is that any form of competitiveness, masculinity and male leadership is frowned upon and seen as inherently abusive.
The Bible says men were made in the image of God. Our question this episode is, what does a godly man look like and how does it differ from toxic masculinity?
Luke Watson and Bret Bevan are both elders serving within JoshGen joining us for this episode and helping understand the truth of what God's idea is of a real man.
Moving or relocating can be traumatic and stressful even if it's an answer to the call of God. We live in a very mobile, transient culture where people often move for personal gain, e.g. for work opportunities, a lifestyle change or those who move to be closer to family. While those aren’t necessarily wrong in themselves, we want to look at relocating according to God’s will and see what that looks like.
Adam Hellyer, an elder with JosGen, and Andrew and Cindy Byett share their stories, sometimes very emotional, of how God led them to move across the ocean to another continent.
In this episode we explore what the Bible says about healing and how we should exercise the gift of healing. What happens when some don’t get healed and is it God’s will to heal everyone? We would like to leave you with a clear understanding of God’s character as the One who loves to heal but also uses trials and even illness for our good. He is a good God who works through healing and adversity. Maurice Ras and Dylan Jones share their experiences and give us insight into what God's word says about how we should pray for the sick and exercise faith with the gift of healing.
Statistics show that more than 90% of women who have experienced menopause were never prepared for it which highlights a huge need for more awareness. Menopause has a phenomenal impact in the daily lives of women, their families, relationships, work and ministry. This critical lack of awareness was clearly demonstrated in a recent JoshGen ladies meeting where more than 600 women attended. As a result of this came requests for more equipping and very importantly a desire to share the impacts of menopause with men in relation to their wives, sisters, mothers, spiritual sisters and co-workers.
Dr Louise Dauth, a general practitioner with a special interest in women’s health, and Kim Delport, a core team member of JoshGen’s women’s ministry Anchored, share valuable insights on how both women and men can navigate the impacts of this life changing experience in a godly way.
https://www.imsociety.org
https://www.menopause.org.au/
https://www.newsonhealth.co.uk/
As our church grows we reach across race, creed and culture and the dynamics of doing life together may change. Does this pose a problem to us as we lead people into God’s best for them in multicultural congregations and communities?
Zandi and Luke Hulley who lead the City Bowl congregation say no. They have demonstrated that leading people of different cultures into a new identity in Christ overcomes and replaces cultural differences and biases. Loving people, being devoted to one another, putting on compassionate hearts, kindness, humility, meekness, and patience while bearing with one another creates a new culture in Christ. We will have differences but these will diminish as we devote ourselves to one another.
In this episode we look at the pervasive rise of egalitarian theology and the push against traditional gender roles and examine what the Bible teaches about these roles and why we hold to a traditional view of male headship. We chat with our guests Dr. Cornelia Van Deventer (PhD NT Studies) and Mike Davies about how men and women flourish best within a complementarian church. We have seen and experienced God's Biblical design which is evidenced in own congregations here at Joshua Generation.
In this episode we focus on the topic of evangelism. Craig Bennet and Justin Slade, team members from Jonathan Conrathe's evangelism team, share practical steps for fulfilling the Great Commission. They give us a picture of the essence of New Testament evangelism and what effective sharing of the Gospel should look like. We see what it is and what it isn't and how ordinary believers can effectively learn to share their faith with others as they reflect the light of Christ in our fallen communities. It is going to take the whole Church to reach the whole world with the Gospel with each and every believer having a part to play in the great Great Commission.
This is the first podcast in our series on 1 and 2 Timothy. 1 Timothy is the first of Paul's pastoral epistles where he offers Timothy practical advice as well as addressing pastoral issues. In this episode we look at chapter 1 where Paul cautions against false teachings and also identifies himself as the chief of sinners. He gives Timothy instructions about the prophetic words he received so that he may fight the good fight.
In this show we introduce our new guest expert on early childhood development. Cherry Howell comes with almost 50 years in education and brings a wealth of knowledge in area of early childhood development and child's play. She talks about how important it is for parents to understand the phases of their child's development. She corrects a few myths and shows the importance of development rather than education. This is the first in a series that will be aired the first Monday of every month.
We dedicate this show to Will Marais who was our guest in August sharing about his terminal diagnosis and how God has carried him through. Will served God full out till his death last Friday and modelled to us how we need to serve God with passion until it's our time to meet Jesus at His appointed time. So it's with sadness that we replay this programme but also with joy knowing that despite him not being with us he still asks people to follow Jesus at the end of this show.
In the interview Will Marais chats to Wayne about the journey he has been on with his cancer diagnosis. After receiving the news that he had between 8 and 10 months to live, Will shares about his hope in Christ and the challenges he and his family have faced with this diagnosis. He explains how they have approached it with the knowledge that God can heal but whether He does or not they are full of hope and confidence that His purpose will prevail. As Paul says in Thessalonians we fall asleep as we no longer experience death if we have died with Christ.
Will Marais chats to Wayne about the journey he is on with his cancer diagnosis. After receiving the news that he has between 8 and 10 months to live, Will shares about the hope he has and the challenges he and his family have faced with this diagnosis. He explains how they have approached it with the knowledge that God can heal but whether He does or not they are full of hope and confidence that His purpose will prevail. As Paul says in Thessalonians we fall asleep as we no longer experience death if we have died with Christ.
IN this episode we look at some of the promises and how they applied to Paul under house arrest and how they apply to us today.
In this episode we finish chapter 3 of Philippians from verse 12 to 21. Paul warns against evildoers and those who will try to wreck your faith. He urges Christians to press forward and persevere, a topic which is not often preached.
In this edition we look at the first half of Philippians chapter 3 where Paul gives a warning to the Philippian church about being wary of the dogs who come to impose the law in the form of circumcision. Paul is blatant in his description of these men.
In this episode we look at part 2 of Philippians 2 from verses 14 - 30. Again the subject of unity comes up but Paul speaks into the negatives that can result in disunity. The theme of rejoicing continues despite Paul's lockdown under house arrest..
In the second chapter of Philippians we look at verses 1-11 and again we see Paul's themes of love, rejoicing and unity.
In this episode we take a look at Philippians chapter 1 and look at some the principles Paul teaches the Philippian church.
In this edition Dylan and Wayne chat about how Paul would view our lockdown situation. He spent time in house arrest which would be similar to the lockdown we have been through. We look at the book of Philippians to see Paul's mind and writings while in lockdown and explore his attitude.
The phrase "doing life together" has been overused and has lost some of its meaning despite it being so important in the life of the New Testament church. The key to doing life together is getting down and just doing it. What then does it mean? What it's is not is just three meetings a week then off into our own world again.
We see in Acts 2:42-47 the record by Luke of the pattern that the apostles used to build the unity of the church community. They were characterised by devotion to one another, the apostles teaching, prayer, breaking of bread, sharing, fellowship and much more. All of this was rooted in sincere and deep relationships. They lived in each others lives. In today's corporate speak we talk about not operating in silos but engaging with one another. It is imperative that we do the same in the body of believers by going deeper than this and building sincere and devoted relationships. Dylan, Ross and Wayne take a look at doing life from personal experience with a little humour and reflect on what we are doing right and where we need to grow.
The atmosphere went from joyful to subdued and then to tears as we heard the story of the suffering church in Zimbabwe in this podcast interview with Neville Sandama. He is the lead elder in Josh Gen Harare and shares stories on this podcast, while in tears, of the hardship and suffering of believers from a pastors heart perspective. Yet, in the midst of the economic hardships of hunger amongst church members he gives testimony of God moving and people coming to Christ in numbers. Despite hunger and hardship they are content and consider themselves worthy to be suffering for the Gospel.
All three of us were in tears as our hearts were touched by the accounts of men and women of God who preach the Gospel and pastor the congregation in Josh Gen Harare under dire circumstances.
In this edition we look at three important aspects of apologetics, first cause, design and fine tuning. Something must have caused the universe to come into being, there is someone who designed the universe and the fine tuning of the universe is so precise it couldn't have happened by itself. In this podcast Adam Hellyer helps us understand how to apply these principles using apologetics and how to effectively defend the faith. His booklet is available for free download from https://www.four12global.com/resources/booklets/following-jesus/
The greatest desire we have or should have is to hear God's voice. Hear what His plans and purposes are for our lives. How do we hear God's voice? When should be listening? Where should we be listening? We look at these and other questions around God's desire to speak to us in intimate fellowship. Jeff Kidwell and Ross Lahana chat with Wayne about personal experiences and principles they've learned in their walks with God and how they have learned to hear His voice. If we are going to move forward with Him we have to hear His voice in our facets of our lives.
In this edition we look at three important aspects of apologetics, first cause, design and fine tuning. Something must have caused the universe to come into being, there is someone who designed the universe and the fine tuning of the universe is so precise it couldn't have happened by itself. In this podcast Adam Hellyer helps us understand how to apply these principles using apologetics and how to effectively defend the faith. His booklet is available for free download from https://www.four12global.com/resources/booklets/following-jesus/
In a world beset by issues of independence and hedonism we are often influenced by standards that do not reflect true kingdom values of sacrifice and dying to the self. We look at leadership that places a high value on obedience to God's call and serving where He finds the greatest need. Crucial to leadership is submission to God's authority and finding the centre of His will.
Ross Lahana and Ross Gillespie share their journeys of sacrificial leadership and how they uprooted families and moved cities and suburbs in response to God's call in submission to the direction godly leaders. Their challenges and examples are testimonies of submission to God, His authority, plans and purposes. The remarkable truth and challenge to us is that this doesn't just apply to leaders and full time workers but also to each one of us saints in the local church.
There is an increasing concern amongst believers across church denominations about the Hebrew Roots Movement which insists on bringing Christians back under the Law of Moses. Paul explicitly states that we are under grace and not the Law. Throughout his letters Paul is consistent with this theology. In this episode we explore the dangers of this heresy and how it impacts the church. Luke Hulley and Mike d'Offay join us for this podcast giving insight as to where this doctrine originates and how we can counter the theology and its implications.
In JoshGen we have had the privilege of going out on outreaches sharing the NT principles of Acts 2:42 and how we do life together. Sharing our lives with believers on different continents has had a huge impact. In this episode we chat with leaders from other countries who have received outreach teams and they share how these teams have impacted their churches.
We are joined by Jonathan Stanfield from Living Hope Church on the Isle of Man, Neville Sandama and Martin Mugari from JoshGen Harare and Lance and Sue MacIntosh who have been sent out to serve the Body of Christ across Malawi. Each of them share their stories of how teams have impacted their congregations.
In this episode we chat with team members who went on a regional outreach to Namibia in order to serve the local church and model a NT lifestyle. Rodney, Mieneke and Craig share their experience of what it means to be called by God to join an outreach and how they imparted some of what God has been doing in their lives. An important aspect was how they experienced hospitality as a visiting team and how it impacted them and taught them some of the principles of hospitality which they can in turn serve others with in the future.
How do we evanglise as the local church with a focus on Acts 1 and Acts 2:42. As a NT church we need to focus on reaching our communities effectively using the same methods and strategies yet relevant for our 21st century community. We chat with Todd and Jen about the ministry are doing in their local community.
You will spend about 99,000 hours of your life at work. Considering that for about 134,000 hours over the same period you’ll be asleep, time focused on your job will quite literally account for most of your conscious time on earth.
Work is such a huge part of our lives, yet we tend to pay little attention to how our faith and community life intersect with our jobs. This was the inspiration behind Seed Share – a new community initiative happening in the southern suburbs of Cape Town.
In this episode Dylan and Wayne chat with Lisa about her Seed Share initiative and how it has impacted her local congregation.
Lisa Aspeling is a marketing and public relations practitioner who joined JoshGen Wynberg at the end of 2017. After quitting the corporate world and taking a four-month sabbatical in the United Kingdom, she returned to Cape Town – determined to follow in her parents’ footsteps.
Lisa became aware of how many people in her church community were self-employed and urgently needed more income to keep their businesses going and to continue supporting their families.
She adds, “Small businesses heavily rely on their first-degree connections and word of mouth marketing. It suddenly occurred to me that I had pretty much no idea about my church community’s work lives. I’d see them on Wednesdays and Sundays – and sometimes even more often – but we somehow never spoke too much about work.”
“Being faced with my own financial and faith challenges, and seeing others in similar positions, made me realise how practical it would be to connect people in my community to talk about our work and partnering with God, together,” she says.
In this episode we discuss how to partner cross-culturally in our country of many languages, races and cultures. With a history of separateness, conflict and diversity we need to find true unity in church communities racially and culturally divided and very different to our own.
In studio we have Manie Lombard a pastor from Zambia and Mike Fast a pastor from Canada both working cross culturally in communities under the banner of Four 12 Global. Discussing this very difficult topic and asking painful questions, we came to an understanding that most of us need to examine hearts and attitudes when beginning a journey of new relationships into what Christ desires for unity in His church.
Ephesians 2:10 says, "For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them." God has gifted each one of us with gifts and skills in order to make an impact for the Kingdom of God.
Serving is as simple using these gifts to serve others within the local church and as we reach out to others. We see that in the early church of Acts God raised up servants in order for people to to be reached with the Gospel.
In this episode we look at the importance of serving, how we can do it and the impact it makes for the Kingdom.
In this episode we look at hospitality, what it is, how we do it and as an authentic New Testament lifestyle. Mike Davies and Ross LaHana join us in studio as we chat around the true meaning of Biblical hospitality and its application in our modern lifestyles. We unpack some of the theology and Biblical basis while looking through the lens of Acts 2v42-47 as a foundation for New Testament living.
Acts 2 verses 42-47 teaches us that we need people in our lives as we do life together as believers. Independence and dependence are wrong as we aren't islands or lone rangers. We need to be interdependent as we live out our lives as Christians. John de Beer gives a clear message of how we should do it.
John shares how important and amazing the principle of accountability is in a safe environment with fellow believers. We need to be asking the right questions showing that we are inspired to grow in Christ and helping to see and help others see their blind spots.
Peer pressure is always as a negative. John de Beer gives another spin on this "principle" as he calls it. As children of God we should be the peer pressure using it to influence people for the kingdom of God.
“Church-hurt caused a deep identity crisis for James, and just starting university never aided his disillusionment. God’s grace and love toward James stopped him in his tracks before James made what could have been the biggest mistake of his life.”
After reading about orphans in the bible, 8 year old Raphael felt God speak to him about reaching out to orphans. This led to him doing all he can to campaign for an orphanage in the local township of Barcelona, and get as many people on board to help these orphans whenever they can. His motivation and determination has made him an 8-year-old role model raising a considerable amount of funds for the orphanage.
When we approach any challenge or situation one of the most important factors is our attitude, especially when dealing with people. In this episode John de Beer shares that attitude is everything.
In Acts 2:42 we see that the local church was a devoted community. They were devoted to Jesus but also, very importantly, to each other. We need to be a community that not only loves but is devoted to each other in all aspects of life in everything we do.
Doing life together as we see from Acts 2:42-47 is vital for the growth of the local church but it takes time with intentional. Sometimes we need to step outside our comfort zones of church on a Sunday and home group mid week and spend time in the lives of others. John shares more about this principle.
Radically Healed From Depression
Michal Turner shares her journey of depression, anxiety and suicide and how God radically healed her instantly through His Word.
The idea of fellowship to many is tea and cake after church in the hall. But it's much more than church, bible study and prayer meeting. It's taking time to do life together. We need to be in fellowship with Jesus and intimately involved in each others lives. Without this devotion to each other we will not build community or the kingdom of God.
Many of us take the subject of unity lightly because we have heard so much about. In this episode Ryan Kingsley shares some of the principles of real unity.
In this episode Ross looks at devotion and how it is lacking in our church community. We are passionately devoted to many things but when it comes to our faith we are lacking. He looks at how we can become more devoted in our faith towards God and His people.
What does real love look like. The world portrays it sentimental and sloppy without much substance but in God's kingdom it is something very different. Ryan Kingsley takes a look at real love from a kingdom perspective.
Mike shares in this episode that life is not always easy and that God promises us a blessed life and not an easy life.
Devotion to God's Word, the apostles teaching, is central to doing life together as a community. Without the foundation of God's written Word our community building efforts will amount to very little. We need to be completely devoted God's message to us.
Julian Goldswain shares his testimony of how God healed him from mental illness. He was diagnosed with schizophrenia and doctors said he would never be normal, have a job or a family. But God had other ideas and delivered him completely. He has been off all medication for over 10 years. His beautiful family, running his own business and being a leader in his church displays God's amazing grace and mercy.
Ryan Kingsley shares about following Jesus and asks the question, "Do you love what Jesus loves?" If you do you then following him will be easy.
Ross Gillespie gives some background to Acts 2:42-47 on how to live out authentic Christianity as a family of believers who passionately desire to lay down their lives for God and for one another.
Mike shares in this episode that God promises a new life and not necessarily a better life.
Angie Hausner shares their adoption journey of God's grace and provision of two beautiful children, Zoe and Jake.
The thought of submission to many is a real issue. Just because there have been circumstances where submission has meant heavy handed leadership, it does not mean it isn't of God. Ryan shares in this episode that unity and submission are integrally linked.
Raisa shares how from an early age she had identity issues and became really independent after her parents were divorced. It was only through God's grace that she came to know Him as her Saviour.
In our current turmoil and upheaval economically, politically and spiritually Mike shares a message of hope for South Africa.