Church is Messy

Rick and Svea answer your questions about truth.Topics Discussed in this Episode:00:00 Intro01:58 Loaded Questions takes on a different format from other messages06:38 Why does truth matter?10:51 Is it possible for Christianity to be true and other religions to be true?15:05 How can we know Scripture is true?19:06 In Scripture is it possible the authors were biased?22:48 What do I need God for?24:43 How can you discern if what you're hearing is from God or the devil?26:48 Do you obtain knowledge at all? How do the disciples know they saw Jesus?31:49 How do we know what denominations are teaching truth when they have different beliefs but are still using the Bible as the source of that belief?35:41 The Apocrypha: Is it true and how is it distinguished from Scripture?37:23 Jesus' mother, Mary.39:38 I'm not a Christian for the perks, I'm a Christian because I'm convinced it's true.

Rick and Svea finish off the series on Galatians mostly focusing on burdens, loads, and pride.Topics Discussed in this Episode:00:00 Intro03:26 A LOT of diverse topics to cover is Galatians 6.04:44 What resonated with Svea that she wasn't able to cover in this passage?05:41 Carrying our own load and bearing each other's burdens.11:40 God isn't calling you to fix the people who sinned against you.17:21 I'm responsible for what I contribute, now necessarily how other people respond.20:01 How do you tell the difference between someone caught in sin and someone doing something you don't like?22:00 Presenting pride in the affirmative vs being the root of all sin (the pride Jesus died to forgive vs the pride commended in this passage).29:14 Swinging on the pendulum of feelings of inferiority and superiority.34:49 As Christians how do we engage with people and ideas that offer insight into human nature but are deeply hostile to the gospel?

Today Rick and Svea contrast works of the flesh with fruit of the Spirit.Topics Discussed in this Episode:00:00 Intro02:21 "Don't bite and devour each other..."04:50 Defining ourselves by obeying rigid rules or religious structures invites comparison on who is and isn't achieving and breeds pride.06:09 How might Jesus has told the parable of The Good Samaritan to Autumn Ridge Church?08:16 If the Gospel stops messing with us, we're changing it; it's not changing us.11:09 Paul was writing to believers, not unbelievers. Works of the flesh happen within church people.13:38 We don't conquer works of the flesh by religious rule-keeping. Change happens by the Spirit growing Christ-like character in you.17:04 Contrasting religious rule-keeping with living by the Spirit.26:03 when we live by the Spirit, we can no longer stomach biting and devouring each other.

Today Rick and Svea look at the allure of certainty instead of clarity, creating environments where litmus tests are the norm vs being in Christ. Topics Discussed in this Episode:00:00 Intro01:46 Crawford Loritts was at Autumn Ridge Church.03:31 Back into Galatians. Svea says it's a difficult book.05:06 Gravitating toward environments and activities where we feel significant.08:34 Getting into the shoes of a typical Galatian man.11:29 Giving in to the allure of certainty instead of clarity.13:25 Putting so much emphasis on circumcision.15:55 Modern-day litmus tests to see if we're in the "in crowd."16:43 We are people of the Gospel; being in Christ.18:02 Being in Christ - can you lose your salvation?22:06 Deconstruction.31:08 Bad news. Good news.

Welcome to episode 100! Today, as they discuss Galatians chapter 4, Rick and Svea dig into having everything in Christ but living as though we have nothing. Topics Discussed in this Episode:00:00 Intro00:38 Episode 100: Where did the name "Church Is Messy" come from?03:15 Galatians 4, we've been given everything in Christ but it's so easy for us to live as though we have nothing.06:33 A specific example of how we get it wrong: conflict.17:21 Paul leans in on conflict.18:43 Adoption: the irrevocable security we have in our standing with God.

Today Rick and Svea acknowledge Galatians is a difficult book to understand, especially if we don't have an understanding of the Old Testament. They talk about tools to help gain understanding and spend some time discussing "the law".Topics Discussed in this Episode:00:00 Intro01:32 Galatians is a hard book to get through and understand. Use tools like The Bible Project or The Message to help understand the deep content of Galatians.09:05 Looking at Galatians 3, an understanding of the Promise, the law, and Jesus' role in them is crucial.11:02 Understanding "the law."13:29 Misconceptions about the law.22:42 Galatians keeps driving us to stop trying to live by the structure of the law and following its rules but for our hearts to be so aligned with Jesus that he drives our behavior.23:34 Ragamuffins.27:21 Application of being one in Christ, recognizing our distinctions, and seeking to understand differing viewpoints.

This episode is focused solely on answering your questions. We've received four very different questions and today we're putting out this bonus episode to answer them.Topics Discussed in this Episode:00:00 Intro00:50 Question 1 - In Galatians 2 Paul specifically says gentiles don't need to be circumcised after following Christ - but yet he directs Timothy to get circumcised (Acts 16). This seems like a double-standard.10:29 Question 2 - Jesus became sin for us on the cross. How can God become sin when he's perfect and can't even look upon sin?15:50 Question 3 - What is the difference between an Apostle (capital "A") and an apostle (lower-case "a")?22:44 Question 4 - How do you stay united with someone with whom you have a deep idealogical disagreement?

In this episode Rick and Svea dig really deep into gospel fluency vs gospel gibberish. The gospel isn't just trusting Jesus for salvation, it's trusting Jesus for and with the rest of your life.Topics Discussed in this Episode:00:00 Intro00:57 Garrison Keillor and fake spring.02:29 "You foolish Galatians..."04:49 The Christian life is NOT trusting Jesus for salvation and then living the rest of your life doing things on your own and following rules.10:40 The problem with trusting in something or someone other than the Holy Spirit to fill the various "holes" in our lives.14:52 Digging in: The gospel isn't just for salvation, it's for the rest of your life.20:56 Series Thesis: The only thing that counts is faith expressing itself through love. Antithesis: The only thing that counts is self-reliance expressed through law.24:32 Self-esteem: If you are in Christ you are fully-delighted in by God. Until you believe it, it's going to ring hollow and you won't experience the freedom Paul is talking about in Galatians.30:52 The will power approach to life vs believing the gospel.

In week two of our Galatians study Rick and Svea discuss conflict, the freedom we have in Jesus, and gospel fluency.Topics Discussed in this Episode:00:00 Intro01:40 Answering your questions: Does Galatians give a hierarchy of how we should relate to other people?07:16 Galatians chapter 2.09:33 Addressing conflict with other Jesus followers.15:53 The intersection of conflict, freedom in Christ and gospel fluency.18:52 The framework of gospel fluency.20:13 A summary of the gospel.24:05 Practical hand-holds to gospel fluency.27:35 Accepting and loving people vs endorsing practices contrary to the gospel.30:54 Explaining behaviors and lifestyles contrary to the gospel to your kids.

As we kick of our new series on the book of Galatians, Rick and Svea discuss false gospels and answer a listener question.Topics Discussed in this Episode:00:00 Intro03:23 Whose approval are you seeking?06:37 An example of appropriate and missing the gospel.10:03 The specific problems the Galatian church faced - adding to the gospel.14:10 We're all trying to reflect Jesus, not each other.17:41 How do we discern legalistic practices vs healthy practices in our own life?22:03 The progressive gospel and the regressive gospel: current, deadly false gospels.28:06 Listener question: How do we balance loving people without accepting all the choices people make?34:43 Upcoming themes in Galatians.

We're putting a bow on The Lion's Share series. Today we scrutinize our own church and discuss our ministry method.Topics Discussed in this Episode:00:00 Intro01:06 Turning the focus on how Autumn Ridge handles money. Being transparent.03:29 Where is the organization: more than enough, just enough, less than enough? Our strategy.10:58 Year-end giving.12:46 Why this timing (January) on a series about finances?14:54 Our ministry method - the hub model.25:26 The kind of church we aspire to be.27:22 The upcoming Galatians series and a "Thank You."

Today Rick and Svea talk about their own struggles with greed and simplicity and the New Testament framework of faithful giving and generous giving.Bible passages referenced in today's episode:1 Timothy 6:17-19; 1 Corinthians 9:13-14; 2 Corinthians 8:1-5Topics Discussed in this Episode:00:00 Intro01:13 This message pushed Rick to wrestle down his own contentment.03:56 Simplicity: a corollary to contentment.05:16 Svea fell back into the trap of not practicing simplicity this past week.07:16 Rick confronting greed as he's excited about his new hobby of hunting.08:34 The practice of generosity - a tangible expression of love.09:28 It's not about the amount it's about the heart.13:19 Generosity binds us together.14:20 How can I approach generous giving - some guidelines.14:55 (1) Diagnose your reality.15:30 (2) What do you want your reality to be.15:42 (3) Make a plan to close the gap.17:01 What about tithing?18:50 Prioritize giving to the local church - faithful giving - and then giving to others - generous giving - (see the 1 & 2 Corinthian references, above).23:38 The joy of aligning all we are with who Christ is.24:49 This series has helped to connect the dots on why Jesus spoke about money so much.

Today Rick and Svea dig deep into the essence of the prosperity gospel, it falsehoods, and the various expressions of the prosperity gospel.Topics Discussed in this Episode:00:00 Intro01:47 Intro to the prosperity gospel.02:50 The real essence of the prosperity gospel.03:42 Live Q&A after most Saturday services (when Rick preaches).04:22 From the Q&A session last weekend: what is the fallout of the prosperity gospel?06:01 The year was 2013.14:48 The ditch: manipulation vs. grace.17:55 Why do we obey God?20:07 Different expressions of the prosperity gospel.20:41 Health and Healing prosperity gospel,26:13 The inverse: the poverty gospel,28:24 The purity, sex, and marriage prosperity gospel,31:17 The parenting prosperity gospel,32:38 The country and culture prosperity gospel.36:42 The error of the prosperity gospel: our actions force God's hand.37:38 The hope of trusting God IN our circumstances not FOR our circumstances.

In the first half of the episode Rick and Svea share where their vulnerabilities lie regarding money. In the second half they dig into contentment.Topics Discussed in this Episode:00:00 Intro01:12 Rick's history with Football.04:25 Rick and Svea wrestle through how calendars and money demonstrate who or what has our hearts.07:05 Svea talks about being vulnerable to finding security in money.11:32 Rick talks about his primary vulnerability comes through the satisfaction and significance money can bring.13:48 This series reveals deep soul issues and the opportunity we have to invite God into those spaces.14:52 Svea and her husband, Steve, are taking a serious look at intentionally redistributing any surplus funds.18:49 A danger of jumping straight from greed into generosity without first learning contentment.20:13 Digging into contentment.23:47 Lasting contentment.28:23 Watch out and be on guard - the dangers of moving up and to the right (the dangers of more than enough).30:54 Next week: the prosperity gospel. It's a bigger problem, and has infected, more than we realize.

In this episode, Rick and Svea unpack some of the ideas behind "Just Enough."Topics Discussed in this Episode:00:00 Intro00:27 Review of 202404:45 The Lion's Share.07:37 The tension and awkwardness of a money message series.08:20 Wanting for people not from people.12:53 Resisting the temptation to sit the series out.15:00 The topics this series will cover.16:07 Just enough.18:23 Do I find significance, security, or satisfaction in what I have or who I have?23:06 The challenge: what is "just enough"?33:41 The emphasis Jesus put on the motivations of our heart.

Rick and Svea close out Jonah talking about traps, windows and mirrors, God's judgement in the Old Testament, and how we can apply the themes of Jonah to life after elections (this episode was recorded on Election Day, 2024). Ultimately, it boils down to this week's sermon topic: Unrelenting Grace.Topics discussed in this Episode:00:00 Intro01:22 Election Day banter.02:46 A pastoral encouragement about election anxiety.05:09 Keep looking up - keep your eyes fixed on God.07:06 The early Church.09:53 Like Jonah, we all have traps we fall into when we find our security, significance, or satisfaction in something other than Jesus.11:21 Do we see Jonah as a window or as a mirror? Perhaps the book is a window and the man is a mirror.13:25 What do we fixate on when an idol is being messed with? For Rick it's organizing shoes, for Svea it's organizing closets. Instead, what needs to happen is to get honest with God and tell him how we're feeling.18:17 What about...judgement in the Old Testament.21:19 Jonah doesn't want God to be good toward other people, only to his people.22:37 What can we apply from Jonah as we move into the weeks and months following the elections?27:40 Jonah doesn't have a completely satisfying ending. There's no closure. But that's part of its genius.30:45 A prayer.

The roles are reversed: Rick asks Svea about her message on Jonah and we get insight into what didn't make it into the message this past week.Topics discussed in this episode:00:00 Intro01:33 Believing God is gracious, compassionate, slow to anger and abounding in love at the heart level banishes fear, heals hurts, and melts anger.04:00 How do you recognize the real ugliness and brokenness in the world that touches our lives, remember who God is and what we're like in him in such a way we are not angry people?08:12 What was left on the cutting room floor?09:17 Answer: Jonah didn't want to be seen as a fool to the Ninevites or his own people because God relented on overthrowing the Ninevites.16:25 Why do we want to whitewash certain biblical figures?18:08 We want simple - the good guys and the bad guys, but we're all good guys and bad guys.25:11 Elijah and Jonah - similarities and differences.27:26 Rebellion and religion are almost identical - they both lead to the same thing - self-reliance.29:06 Jesus is the better Jonah.

Rick and Svea grapple with a number of important themes from Jonah this week:God's provisionJonah is full of biblical parallelsObedienceTopics discussed in this episode:00:00 Intro00:59 Lots of fun aspects and different connections in the text a more casual reading may miss. (Such as the fish in Jonah switches from masculine to feminine in Hebrew.)04:25 The fish: tomb or womb?05:51 Did Jonah's view of the fish change in retrospect? God's provision may look different than we're expecting.07:21 Two rabbit trails: the fish-historical narrative vs parable vs satire and womb-God's compassion.10:06 Parallel between Jonah's fish and the Christian fish symbol - Jesus is the means of deliverance.12:46 Typology: the parallel with baptism. The inexhaustible depths of how Jonah is connected to the entire Bible.20:30 Jonah chapter three: half-hearted obedience.22:51 Where many of us find ourselves: wanting to be obedient to God but not always for the right reasons. External Obedience + Internal Obstinance = Slavery.29:46 A comparison and contrast of walking through difficult seasons of obedience with what we see in Jonah.

Rick and Svea make light of finally getting to "the whale" and how this is often given the lion's share of the messaging about Jonah when it's really an insignificant element of the story. This week's episode drips with challenges to go deeper and looking at what the text is actually saying.Topics discussed in this episode:00:00 Intro01:33 Svea is struck by how many of us grew up with a child-like level of understanding of the book of Jonah.05:00 For many the focus of the book is on a very small part of the story - and with the wrong intent. The large fish wasn't a means of punishment but a means of grace.08:17 God's provision and grace can often times be an opportunity to learn or practice humility. 10:30 We may not have the same fears of the sea as in the time of Jonah, but we do have a fear of chaos and death. The global pandemic exposed our big fish.12:54 Western Christians can learn much from the global church.14:51 Vince Lombardi: fatigue makes cowards of us all.18:47 Holding all of our fears, pains, insecurities, etc. before God.22:43 Jonah's prayer in chapter 2.27:09 In chapters 3 & 4 we'll see examples of external repentance, but no evidence of an internal repentance. Are there things we're doing right on the outside but on the inside we're still hostile to God?

This week Rick and Svea look at Jonah 1:1-16. Jonah acts as an enemy of God and yet God shows him grace. They draw out a number a parallels between Jonah and Jesus and how they differ in their motivation.Topics discussed in this episode:00:00 Intro01:42 Where is the line?06:51 Rick gets honest - some of his backstory.10:29 God sets his heart on his enemies and loves his enemies like a son.11:41 Jonah acts as an enemy of God but God shows him scandalous grace. 18:14 Jonah is the entire Bible in miniature.20:17 Jonah goes down in the ship to sleep; perhaps depression and trying to escape God?21:47 Parallels between Jonah and Jesus (in Mark 4).23:15 Studying Jonah has given Rick an even greater appreciated for baptism.24:12 The symbolism of Jonah "going down" in chapter 1. Svea talks about "accident chains" from her aviation days.27:47 Being vulnerable vs being exposed.35:08 Jonah would rather die than carry a message of reconciliation. Jesus would rather die than NOT carry a message of reconciliation.

In the weekend message introducing the book of Jonah, Rick stated there are two common views to interpreting the story of Jonah: historical narrative or primarily parable. In this episode Rick and Svea discuss a question posed to them: Does Jesus' reference to Jonah in Matthew 12, when foretelling his own death and resurrection, support a particular interpretation of Jonah?Topics discussed in this episode:00:00 Intro01:04 Our unity isn't based on everyone agreeing on everything. Our unity is based on inclusion in Christ. It's okay to have different understandings on a variety of topics and still maintain unity.03:12 Many of us only thought of Jonah as a miraculous, historical account. Learning people view this book as anything other than history can be destabilizing and feel like a slippery slope to less allegiance toward the Bible.08:51 The astute question: Jesus referencing Jonah.11:40 Four options for interpreting Jesus' reference to Jonah.17:17 Reaffirmation of the authority and inerrancy of Scripture when multiple viewpoints of interpreting passages like Jonah are present.

Rick and Svea introduce us to the book of Jonah and its timeframe in history. This is a book filled with comedy and satire; in many ways hundreds of years before its time, and yet is has profoundly important questions and themes it wants us to deal with.Note: this episode was recorded prior to the first message being given.Topics discussed in this episode:00:00 Intro.02:20 Background of the book of Jonah - it's like the arc of the entire Bible condensed into a few chapters.05:01 Synopsis of Jonah.08:33 The focus: are we aligned with the heart of God or will we insist on God doing something different.10:16 Two camps of thought regarding Jonah: the book as historical narrative or the book as parable.14:36 If we regard the book as parable are we removing some of the story's potency?16:00 Pride + Ignorance = Foolishness. Humility + Instruction = Wisdom.19:16 Coming to Scripture with preconceived ideas about what it says vs approaching the text in humility and letting it speak to us.22:14 In our scientific and post-Christian culture, Jonah is the sort of story people love to point to and discredit our faith or the credibility of the Bible.25:15 So, is Jonah historical narrative or is it a parable?32:15 What is the theme on which this series will focus?

In this episode Rick and Svea try to bring light, not heat to the discussion of politics.Svea recommends watching the message on which this episode is based before listening to the podcast.Find the video here: https://youtu.be/KHN2c6-z-OwTopics Discussed in this Episode:00:00 Intro01:09 Discussion of Politics and Churches and Church Leaders04:46 Rick's goal as a pastor is to teach people how to think about politics and how to align with the Bible.06:12 How do we reconcile the idea that everyone is trying to do their best with politics?07:00 The early church in Rome had complicated interactions between Jews and Gentiles.10:53 How to seek unity without conformity; "bring the light, not the heat."13:22 What are churches to do about engaging people with political issues?15:41 How to seek to understand others with different views from yours versus trying to convince each other to change.19:59 Discussion on single-issue voting.24:45 How do people interact when we challenge their perspectives or try to control them?29:04 How do we engage in local government?30:58 What Biblical principles can we apply to understanding politics?32:07 Rick shares how prioritizing and weighting different issues can help us make decisions: Which candidate will be most helpful for the issues that are most important to you?36:32 Discussion of supporting the interests of others while voting.39:29 How do we engage online politically or engage with our peers online?41:28 What about the use of fear in today's political rhetoric?45:31 Be informed, but don't get formed by negative influences.

Welcome to a new season of Church Is Messy! Rick and Svea kick the season off with a bang and delve into a number of questions and topics related to our recently completed series, Gifted, on the Holy Spirit.Topics discussed in today's episode:00:00 Intro and Rick and Svea's Summer Highlights and Lessons Learned.05:53 Recap of the Ghosted message series and a summary of the topics: including what is the Holy Spirit's role in spreading the Gospel, what is the Spirit's role in our own faith, what about spiritual gifts, and what is God's will for us?15:21 Jesus said it is better than he goes away and we get the Spirit. Why might he have said this?18:27 How did the believers experience the Spirit differently before and after Jesus?22:30 We can engage with the Spirit and develop the fruit of the spirit by developing "spiritual practices" and habits.24:11 People often focus on spiritual gifts that appear as "sensational" or "extraordinary" rather than seemingly ordinary.26:31 What about instances where the Holy Spirit did do a sensational miracle or work? How do we approach those instances?32:54 Everyone wants to know "God's will for them." How does the Spirit play a role in this and what practically do we experience?36:57 Discussion of what people think about being lead by the Spirit and the role the Bible plays in the Spirit's leading.44:03 How should a church plan and pursue vision and plans while acknowledging the Spirit's role in success?47:58 How can we get to know our spiritual gifts? 53:49 Story about the photo on Rick's wall that "speaks to him."

Rick and Svea discuss a topic about which they both feel passionate: spiritual formation. What is it? How is it different than discipleship? Is it even a biblical term? Listen and catch the vision for why they're so excited about spiritual formation.Want to take your next step? Check out our classes: https://autumnridge.churchcenter.com/groups/classes-studies?Topics in this Episode:00:00 Intro00:59 What is spiritual formation and how is it different from discipleship? Spiritual formation includes things that form us other than discipling under Jesus.02:56 How does the Practicing the Way class help define or clarify what spiritual formation is?04:54 Is "spiritual formation" new age, or unbiblical?05:19 What does the Bible say about spiritual formation?07:04 There are so many things that form us spiritually or distract us from being formed by Jesus.10:00 Discussion of various methods of discipleship and whether traditional practices for following Jesus are sufficient in themselves or if there are missing components.11:41 Svea suggests that many believers have neglected the practice of actually spending time with Jesus. This has sometimes been reduced to understanding, believing, and doing the right things, but as the book of James says, even demons know the truth. 15:28 "WHO we are" and "HOW we are" and "who we are BECOMING" are all more important than what we do.20:12 All things we do should be shaped and informed by Jesus's example and teaching24:05 Romans 12 explains how spiritual formation isn't mystical or new age-y, but is logical even.25:51 Why is Autumn Ridge leaning into spiritual formation and the Practicing the Way class?

What are two topics we've been told to avoid talking about if we don't want an argument? Religion and Politics. Rick and Svea dive head-first into the issue of politics. Take a look at the list of topics below and you'll see there isn't much they didn't touch on.Be sure to check out the resources so you can be informed as you make your own determination about how to proceed as an ambassador of Christ in the arena of politics.Additional Resources:Church Politics PodcastThe Ballot and the BibleAnd CampaignThe After PartyTopics Discussed in this Episode:00:00 Intro00:53 Context: we tend to think there are good guys and bad guys politically, but things can be more confusing than that.02:53 There is so much tribalism, power-grabbing, and moral superiority in US politics today.03:55 We are NOT saying "don't vote," "don't register with a political party," "don't go to school board meetings," but we ARE saying to participate as an ambassador of Jesus.06:37 We should be humble about our opinions while still trying our best.07:51 Good Christian citizens or Christian Nationalism11:13 Is the USA a "Christian Nation"?14:36 There isn't a perfect political candidate--Jesus isn't on the ballot. So what do we do?21:38 Should we evaluate politicians based on their worst mistakes? Are there really good or bad people?21:55 Are there only 1 or 2 options on how to accomplish all various political ends, or are we a bunch of broken people trying to figure things out?27:51 Should we automatically vote for Christian candidates? Do they have character and competency for that role?30:09 Rick discusses additional resources that can provide helpful insights to those who want to learn more about how to engage in politics as a believer.37:04 Closing prayer for wisdom and guidance as listeners move through the upcoming 2024 political season.

In this bonus episode between seasons, Rick and Svea discuss large recurring themes in familiar Old Testament stories. A lot of the discussion revolves around the content of the Bible being so amazing and such a big deal, God communicated it in the best way possible for all communities, all generations, and all cultures with everything in these stories pointing us to Jesus, the Gospel, and life in him.Topics in this Episode:00:00 Intro01:43 The ethos of the series: a deep dive into incredible, familiar, overlooked stories that are often perceived as childish.02:38 The Bible stories we often share with kids were originally written by and for adults. They are great to share with kids, but they're not kids stories.05:31 These stories aren't necessarily misunderstood, but they are often "under-understood"09:49 Rick talks about his view of the Bible as a supernatural text written by literary genuses. 10:55 A lot of these old testament stories are about the nature of sin--humans choosing to do things their own way instead of God's way.14:57 An individual's interpretation of a Bible text isn't the litmus test for trusting and believing the Bible. The litmus test is "do they want to understand and trust it (the Bible) whatever the truth is?"15:51 Many times, parts of the Bible are read as more scientific than they really are. Genesis is historical narrative, not poetry, but it isn't necessarily an academic textbook.16:20 We should take the Bible seriously, but that means we take everything seriously. Not everything is explainable, but all parts of the Bible should be taken as real.27:08 The content of the Bible is so amazing and such a big deal, God communicated it in the best way possible for all communities, all generations, and all cultures.33:26 Rick shares an example of communicating ideas across history: how would we communicate a cell phone to Moses? We might describe it like a little box you hold up and use to talk to someone far away--we wouldn't explain the invention of electricity, satellites, digital signals, silicon chips, microphones and speakers, batteries, etc. Can we think of Creation the same way?36:41 Should we be concerned that the stories in Genesis were told elsewhere in earlier historical texts? Rick suggests that the author of Genesis used commonly known stories and told them from a theologically accurate perspective.41:14 We should see the power, glory, wisdom, and majesty of God alongside the human condition in these stories MORE than the scientific details of the how.42:16 We love certainty, whereas the Bible sometimes leaves details unclear. Still, the purposes and objectives of the Bible are sufficient for what we need.45:55 Everything in these OT stories points us to Jesus, the Gospel, and life in him.

Pastor Caleb Smith joins Rick and Svea on today's episode. They dig into what is perhaps one of the most debated stories Jesus ever told, The Parable of the Dishonest Manager in Luke 16.Show Notes00:00 Intro Rick's story from the gym trying a new workout and being less than shrewd03:13 Many preachers skip this parable because it can throw people off, but Caleb was excited to study and preach this passage. 05:03 Discussion of reading the Bible through the original, intended audience's perspective07:40 There is some cutting room floor content that didn't make it into the sermon, as follows:        Some of the cultural aspects of the characters:            >The rich man was likely known throughout the region as having many ties in the community.            >The manager was "not going to dig", because that was almost as lowly as being a beggar.10:55 We don't have to identify ourselves with any of the characters in this parable. The point Jesus was trying to drive home wasn't to be like either of the main characters. Western readers tend to read parables as ethical behavior examples. 11:46 We tend to focus on behavior modification as the most important thing. Jesus emphasizes our value modifications.14:15 This parable is interesting because it is directed at the disciples rather than the pharisees like in the preceding three parables.14:56 If dishonest people focus on relationships, then how much more should believers focus on relationships?17:04 We need to put our mental energy to work to strategically focus on building relationships.19:15 Two people can do the exact same things in relationships but have very different intentions, one being loving and the other not. Manipulators want from, not for.21:18 Caleb is wearing yellow socks that are "actually orange and white for University of Tennessee".22:05 Moments of crisis often reveal what we value most and what gives us security. We should establish our values and security before these crises come.28:10 "Jesus was firing his disciples from a job he never gave them in the first place," meaning that our security in Jesus doesn't make it our responsibility to keep God safe from unrighteousness or imperfection. What jobs would Jesus fire us from that he never gave us in the first place?32:13 Recommendation for Poet and Peasant by Kenneth Bailey and articles from the Bible Project on this parable in Luke 16.32:50 Rick admonishes people to not wait to develop friendship until you need it. You can't wait to build friendships in a crisis moment. Our church is committed to support building friendships in what we do.34:43 The next series coming up is Sunday School for Grown-Ups. We hope to bring new insights into these "kids stories".

Today's TopicRick and Svea discuss one of Jesus' most famous stories, The Prodigal Son found in Luke 15:11-32.Topics Discussed in this Episode00:00 Intro - Rick's late caffeine morning.01:39 Talking about the word, "Lost."04:21 Love requires we be sensitive about the language we use, especially around those who have not yet come to faith in Jesus. We shouldn't be motivated by proclaiming, we should be motivated by people hearing - and hearing our intent.08:48 The crowd who heard this story by Jesus and with whom they may have identified.11:59 Focusing on the older brother.13:02 Practicing the Way classes this week tackling sin and our view of a Father who would make a fool of himself by running to us to shower us with love and forgiveness when we repent.14:57 "Riffing" on God the Father and the father in the parable.19:52 Tim Keller and The Prodigal Son. If you live this you'll be misunderstood and people won't think you take sin or doctrine seriously.23:44 The difference between doing and becoming.29:36 The song "Stained Glass Masquerade" Ricked used in the message. Being a safe place to be real with each other about our struggles and our sin. Knowing we have "spiritual friends" who have our back.

Rick and Svea reverse roles today. He puts Svea in the "hot seat" as they discuss the genius of the stories in Luke 15:1-10. In these parables, Jesus simultaneously speaks to, and shows compassion toward, two groups of people who viewed themselves as being at opposite ends of the spectrum.Topics Discussed in this Episode00:00 Intro01:14 Mother's Day is this weekend. Svea has a lot of "mom labels."04:29 Getting into the Lost Words of Jesus series - parables of lost things. Jesus really knew his audience. How did Svea get into studying the text?06:07 How was Jesus' audience of sinners, religious leaders, and tax collectors both valued, loved, honored, but also lost? What was that audience like? How did Jesus connect with them all?08:45 Jesus was showing his heart and compassion for his audience. 09:46 Do we view these parables from the lens of a Pharisee, a lost sheep, or a Shepherd? How did different groups in Jesus's original audience approach his stories?15:08 How did these parables affect people at that time? What possibly were Jesus and Luke's intentions in telling and recording these stories?17:04 Application points: How do we avoid isolation within Christian communities and build relationships with those who are different from us?22:57 Should we maintain relationships even if the other person is never going to follow Jesus How do we approach relationships with nonbelievers as a Church and as individuals? What role does God play in these relationships?27:54 Close in Prayer.

Rick and Svea talk about Rick's last weekend message about focusing in on our mission.Topics Discussed in this Episode00:00 Intro00:50 What was the purpose of this past sermon? Why was it applicable to our church? 01:23 Discussion of changes in our church and in other churches - post-COVID, senior pastors, men and women in leadership, worship service options, etc. 05:15 The Bible and the Gospel require change and surrendering of preferences in many ways.08:29 All that we are and all that we have is based on Jesus, and we are grounded on the principle of trying to reach people for Jesus.13:09 How do we balance salvation as God's work, but other rewards come for our work? How does the Biblical metaphor of "building on a foundation" and the trial by fire function in the context of the Gospel?15:28 Our reward as followers of Jesus is seeing other people come to know Jesus.17:51 We are created FOR good works: reference 2 Corinthians 5 and how believers are ambassadors of Jesus.19:57 What is it that propels our church forward to reach people with the Gospel? We are not going to invest our time in things that do not help us reach our goals. Rick shares examples of how Autumn Ridge has been applying this.24:47 Future generations of local churches will need to manage whatever programs and initiatives we create and hand them off to them.27:35 The purpose of churches is to be all about what Jesus is about. 29:58 Methods do not equate to the mission, and if they are ineffective in reaching our mission, we can change them.34:27 Gospel comfort does not come from the way a church does things or from different circumstances.36:13 Every day, we are to live for the glory of Christ, to be with him, be like him, and do as he did in big and little things.

On this episode, Pastor Otis Hall joins Rick and Svea in the studio to continue the weekend's discussion on James 1:27 and how that verse can propel us into action to care for our society's most vulnerable.Topics Discussed in this Episode00:00 Intro01:17 We looked at a passage in James that gave us insight into the fostering world.02:26 James 1:27 is about having a passion for compassion for all vulnerable people. Jesus did this numerous times throughout the gospels.05:14 The Jewish community at the time was focused on doing things for the vulnerable, but they were still learning the heart, intention, and approach of caring for the vulnerable.07:47 Why did Pastor Otis focus on foster care for this season of Love Is The Agenda?10:59 Early Christians played a significant role in helping and rescuing children in their community, even though it was illegal at the time.12:52 Discussion of Autumn Ridge's current initiatives to help people take their first step in caring for vulnerable youth in their community--addressing food scarcity through Big Boxes program, offering simple contributions through the mission store, and putting together a respite night for foster families, and bolstering our own kids programs--which include foster kids.18:30 Rick's experience fostering a teenager and encountering challenges that came from a kid's prior experiences. Everyone needs a community of support.27:06 As the end of the James passage states, how does living out the gospel by caring for vulnerable people support our sanctification and personal faith?30:14 How do we understand the common objection that things like Autumn Ridge's fostering initiative are all about good works versus grace in Jesus?31:41 Closing prayer for everyone who engages in serving Rochester's foster care community.

Today, Pastor Caleb Smith joins Svea in the studio as they close out our discussions on family by looking at parenting and parental influence.Topics Discussed in this Episode00:00 Intro01:36 An exceptional message that spoke to people of many different categories of people who have parental influence whether or not children are a part of home life.03:23 The parental models we have in the bulk of Scripture are not examples of great parenting - usually just the opposite.06:13 The parental influence and example of Jesus - largely exhibited in his relationship with the disciples.08:14 Dual roles of actively shaping and modeling with our lives.13:46 Speaking to people who are grieved by what may have been "caught" vs what was "taught."16:50 How are you engaging in your discipleship with Jesus? The fruit of the Spirit is a natural byproduct of intentional discipleship.19:20 Each child is different, so there is no one-size-fits-all approach to parenting.22:45 Disconnecting the idea that discipline means punishment or retribution. Discipline is about training and thriving.27:38 How do we account for great parents who do not follow Jesus?33:52 When we don't know what to do or how to proceed, we can go back to the foundation of what it means to be a child of God ourselves and try to bring that, as best we can, into our own child's life.

Today's TopicRick and Svea talk about singleness, dating, and loneliness. They discuss Jesus and his singleness, guarding against being defined by another person, and not choosing a path that leads away from Jesus.Topics Discussed in this Episode00:00 Intro.00:52 Nerding out on church history.04:58 Fighting against alienating singles - Svea's experience.06:02 Feeling the anti-gospel pull toward homogeneity and seeing the world as we are.08:24 Looking at Hagar: an outcast seen by God and our fundamental need to be seen.09:28 Being single isn't the problem; being alone is the problem. A vision to known and be known.10:56 The soapbox: the weekend services are not a church; they are something our church does. Don't be a consumer and evaluate church by what we receive, but also by what we give.13:11 We are a diverse group of people united in Christ.14:27 A discussion about two groups that tend to be successful at building community17:56 Coaching for those who come to Autumn Ridge: throw the ball back - help make it easier to keep a conversation going.20:02 A theology of singleness: Jesus' humanity as a single person.23:48 As a human, Jesus needed other people, but he NEVER used people.26:43 Guarding against defining our significance by someone else.31:25 Practical tips to avoid problems in pursuing a pure life35:24 Don't ever let yourself be wooed into walking down a path that leads you away from Jesus.

Today, Rick and Svea examine Ephesians 5 and what Paul says (and doesn't say) about marriage, our presuppositions, and our culture. By applying this chapter to all relationships, what can the family of believers learn about the gospel way of life?Topics Discussed in this Episode00:00 Intro00:42 Welcome to new listeners02:40 Church should be a comfortable, restful, and safe place - a family06:55 What could single people take away from a message on marriage08:44 All of the Christian life is meant to put others first - mutual submission is a command to all believers10:05 Reflecting, resisting, or redeeming our culture12:33 Presuppositionalism16:15 What are the differences between Jewish thought and Grecco-Roman thought on marriage?21:19 Ephesians 5: Putting the needs of the other person first.23:14 Submission: I voluntarily choose your lead or your need over my agenda.25:21 Does the church family's mutual submission look different from a married couple's mutual submission?31:09 Unity: what we “remember” the text saying vs what it actually says33:48 Scripture wasn't written in a vacuum. How do you live for Christ within the culture you are a part of? An example of Christians redeeming Roman culture.37:34 The Bible does not say the husband is the head (authority) of the house. The husband is the head, and the wife is the body - they are unified.

1 Timothy Message Series1 Timothy Chapter 6Rick and Svea swap chairs as Svea preached the message on 1 Timothy 6 this week and Rick asks her clarifying questions.Topics Discussed in this Episode00:00 Intro and recap of the message.02:54 Discussion of what slavery was like in the NT times.08:57 Not every single verse in the Bible points to how the world is "supposed to be" but Scripture engages culture where it is and inform us on what it looks like to follow God in the reality of life's situations.10:17 The circles of context. The overarching message of the New Testament regarding slavery is it's wrong. But, if you were a slave and serving Jesus, how do you behave? You respect your master.15:03 Aristides: Less than 100 years after 1 Timothy was written, the behavior of Christians, including slaves and their masters, was reported to the Emperor as being counter-cultural.17:08 Money. How did this chapter mess with Svea as she prepared the message?19:18 Svea's response: discussing the topic of money with congregation members at either end of the wealth spectrum and the "gut punch" to both the spender and the saver.21:31 Learning to trust God. The experience of finding security trusting in the means by which God provides instead of trusting God.24:54 We tend to hedge our bets with trusting Jesus. All of us need to learn to trust the Giver, not the gift.25:44 Figuring out Simplicity. Generosity seems more obvious.26:46 Simplicity is the focus on doing and engaging in the things that support our top priorities. It's not minimalism. It is applying the gospel best to whatever phase of life you're in.32:52 Being mindful, not mindless, helps to create margin.35:56 Jonathan Edwards quote.37:09 Taking a short break. Be back after Easter for Home Improvement.

1 Timothy Message Series1 Timothy Chapter 5:17-25Today, we live up to “Church Is Messy” as we dive into the topic of accountability. How do we rightly hold people accountable? How do we respond when we're being held accountable? How do we respond to anxiety-producing situations? Roll up your sleeves and get ready for a little messiness.Topics Discussed in this Episode00:00 Intro01:13 Overview of “Church is Messy” name and concept.02:20 How do we hold others and leaders accountable within a local church?06:30 How is Autumn Ridge leadership structured?09:39 Trust can grow better with open accountability than with a facade of perfectionism.11:13 Do we need to be concerned about false accusations?12:26 Discussion of how 1 Timothy presents character requirements of leadership, but not a specific job description.15:01 How does Autumn Ridge use 1 Timothy to inform its leadership selection process?19:01 What sorts of things need to be brought up for the benefit of accountability and relationships?23:12 How do we respond to conflict and relational tensions?27:14 Svea talks about how she processes her own response to feedback while also focusing on understanding the other person's perspective and experience.30:28 Rick places high importance on pastoral candidates who have experienced real hurt because it helps them understand others' hurt as well.31:28 “Know where your home is,” and know where your identity and purpose are when dealing with anxiety-producing situations.

1 Timothy Message Series1 Timothy Chapter 5:1-16While the first half of 1 Timothy 5 is often viewed as a tutorial on caring for widows, this week Rick and Svea discuss what may be surprising themes this section is dripping with: leadership in challenging situations and what confrontation in the way of Jesus looks like.Topics Discussed in this Episode00:00 Intro.01:03 Svea: I've always read the chapter from a widow's perspective.04:39 Surprised by the biblical confrontation and leadership themes in 1 Timothy 5.08:49 What kind of disposition will help us to navigate and engage with change in our lives?10:00 The goal of confrontation is to save a relationship not to sever a relationship.13:11 What might it look like to truly live out seeing others as our mothers and fathers or brothers and sisters (as in the opening verses of chapter 5) - especially in conflict?18:37 Don't view others as a burden but care for them and see the far-reaching impact of that decision: safety in community.23:19 In the way of Jesus are we easy to confront and hard to offend? Being defined by Jesus, not our ideas and performance.27:08 How might we have encouraged Timothy if we had been a part of the Ephesian church?

In this episode, Pastors Rick Henderson and Svea Merry discuss 1 Timothy 4 and the issues of church leadership, reliance on the Spirit vs our conscience, understanding spiritual growth, and primary and second issues of Christianity. 00:27 Intro - Recap of the series, intro to 1 Timothy 4, and transitioning from 1 Timothy 301:28 If people watch us progress in our faith, relationships, or leadership, they will see us changing from one way to another. 03:26 1 Timothy 3 has qualifications for church leaders, but how do we handle growth while balancing minimum requirements for leadership? 08:31 If no one is perfect and every leader is still progressing, like Timothy, then how can we determine when someone is ready to lead? 10:57 Some studies show that, statistically, men apply for jobs that they expect to grow into, while women often don't apply if they don't meet every single qualifications. 17:26 Timothy was called to leadership and empowered by the Spirit, not his own qualifications. Similarly, we should rely on God to support us in all we do as we invest ourselves.21:50 Discussion of the difference between our conscience and the Spirit, and the role of Scripture, prayer, and community in these things.25:20 We have some older code in us that doesn't check out. Ref. Start Wars: Return of the Jedi scene. How do we recognize and deal with old code in us?29:36 Q&A time: answering listeners' questions: 1 Corinthians 11, female head coverings, avoiding instruments, etc. 30:44 What are the differences between Orthodoxy and salvation? What about primary issues or secondary issues? And, Rick refers to a clip from Alistair Begg on "The Man on the Middle Cross"35:57 Discussion of the desire for certainty instead of clarity and the problems it can cause. 40:54 Ending with prayer that God will make us more like Jesus as our church addresses these topics in 1 Timothy. 

1 Timothy Message Series1 Timothy Chapter 3In this discussion on 1 Timothy 3, Rick and Svea answer your questions about our attitudes toward leaders who taught us something we now disagree with, the interpretation that is inherently connected to Bible translation, specific words and phrases in 1 Timothy 3, and leaning into our own shortcomings as we look at the qualifications of leaders.Topics Discussed in this Episode00:00 Intro.01:33 Rick's most interesting things from 1 Timothy in order: understanding the gospel, studying the Bible for all it's worth, and then men and women in leadership03:18 How can we handle the pastors and leaders who taught us the Gospel and the Word if we now disagree with them? 09:08 What's the difference between false teachers and people who get something wrong about Scripture? If a pastor is wrong about something in Scripture are they a false teacher?11:32 Fear-mongering with Scriptural perspectives: many of us were instilled with fear of any disagreement over Scripture.14:09 What do we do with Bible translation committees who provide translations with a specific doctrine in mind? 16:36 Bible translation and interpretation are inherently connected.18:37 How do we pick a Bible translation? First, pick one you can read and understand. 22:30 Different benefits of paraphrase, thought-for-thought, and word-for-word translations. The goal is to "discern the meaning rather than the equivalent word."23:37 How do we interpret the usage of "wife" and "woman" in 1 Timothy 3.26:30 Is there a chance that 1 Timothy intended to politely address a specific scenario where church leaders' wives were disrupting the church's ministry?28:36 Pastor Rick discusses the context of home life in the context of 1 Timothy. 34:38 Discussion of "one-women man," divorce, widows, and singleness.41:27 Leaning into our shortcomings and shortcomings in following Jesus: authority, identity, and activity.

1 Timothy Message Series1 Timothy Chapter 2:11-15Join us for an in-depth discussion on 1 Timothy 2:11-15. Rick and Svea dive into the differences of interpretation, a brief history that brought us to this discussion, and a recognition that men and women are different.Topics Discussed in this Episode00:00 Intro.01:43 Context: 1 Timothy 2:11-15.03:47 Navigating differences of interpretation.10:19 The Bible IS clear on the essentials we must agree on.13:08 Do research.18:20 Punched in the brain the "The Question."20:23 How has this issue become so enmeshed with liberalism and feminism?23:05 A brief history: complementarianism.24:27 A brief history: soldiers coming home after WWII - America and Europe diverged.27:15 A brief history: 50s, 60s, & 70s: youth culture, a major cultural shakeup.29:56 A brief history: mainline Protestants, Fundamentalists, and Neo Evangelicals.36:28 A brief history: merging of ideas and becoming too simplistic - liberal and conservative.39:39 Holding up Scripture and being more like Jesus.44:51 A First-century problem: the gospel's reputation was on the line.48:00 There IS a difference between men and women.50:48 Titus: Men and women are not interchangeable, but both are indispensable.

1 Timothy Message Series1 Timothy Chapter 2:1-10Join us for an in-depth discussion on 1 Timothy 2:1-10. Rick and Svea tackle embracing humility and mutual submission and the far-reaching implications of the gospel for men and women.Additional Resourceshttps://autumnridge.church/1-timothy/Topics Discussed in this Episode00:00 Welcome and Introduction.01:00 The challenge and conviction about not praying for those in authority.03:10 How does praying for those in authority play out?04:37 Embracing humility and submission "resets" and recalibrates us.06:31 What does it look like to pray with thanksgiving for those who are trying to do away with a godly way of life?09:55 Practical ways to model humility and submission.10:31 Our conscience and the Holy Spirit are not the same.20:38 Gospel Fluency.22:56 The implications of the gospel: Men and women in 1 Timothy 2:8-1029:52 Using verses 1-10 as a mirror of self-examination as we move into verses 11 and following.

1 Timothy Message Series1 Timothy Chapter 1Join us for an in-depth discussion on 1 Timothy 1. Rick and Svea dig into living the gospel, dealing with false teaching, and our tendencies to add to or subtract from Scripture.Additional Resourceshttps://autumnridge.church/1-timothy/Topics Discussed in this Episode00:00 Welcome and introduction.01:56 1 Timothy Series and the thesis: "We teach what we know but reproduce who we are."03:15 Purpose and context of 1 Timothy and its overarching message of living the gospel.06:56 What is the ice cream, ketchup, and mustard gospel?09:34 Paul instructed Timothy on standing up to false teachers in Ephesus. How does this apply to us?14:12 Does calling out false teachers apply to situations outside the Church?17:03 We are "pilgrims" and we are responsible TO others, not responsible FOR others, like ambassadors.18:23 Tendencies and vulnerabilities of adding or removing commands from Scripture.19:56 How to collaborate on self-awareness and gospel accuracy.23:12 Discussion of "I'll never be more disappointed in you than I am in myself," and humility, shame, or self-condemnation. 31:30 Should we just overlook sin instead of addressing it? Why not?

Today Rick and Svea share the studio with Pastor Otis Hall. In the Parable of the Sower (Matt. 13:1-9), they discuss shifting the focus to looking for the desired result: a good harvest,  not just from the perspective of sowing the seed.NOTE: This is the last episode of 2023. Rick and Svea will be back behind the microphones in January 2024 for a new series, Devoted.Message Scripture Passages:Mathew 9:35-38; Mathew 13:1-9; Mathew 13:18-23Topics Discussed Today: 00:00 Intro 01:14 Otis's background in plant science and molecular genetics--pre-ministry 02:04 Otis's long-term experience of being called into ministry 03:16 Background of Otis's sermon, Matthew 9 and Jesus's prayer for “workers” for the harvest, and Matthew 13 with the parable of the sower. 09:41 How did Jesus model addressing people's needs prior to sharing the Gospel? 10:46 What about sharing the Gospel apart from loving service? Or, “Just share the Word.” 14:53 How to practically incorporate service and love while sharing the Gospel? 28:03 So what do we actually do? How can members of our congregation engage?

So far in this series, we've looked at the unexpected messages to four churches in modern-day Turkey.UNEXPECTED MESSAGE:• It's better to have no church than an unloving church.• It's better to let a church suffer than to prevent it. • It's possible for a church to stand up for Jesus while standing against Jesus.    • It's possible for a church to wrongly value staying together over staying faithful.  • It's possible for everyone but Jesus to be convinced that a church is alive and well.• A church may be strongest when it's weak.• It's possible for a church to be physically rich but spiritually bankrupt.Message Scripture Passage:Revelation 3:14-22Series Thesis:KNOWING the truth doesn't change anything. SUBMITTING to the truth changes everything.Topics Discussed Today: 00:00 Intro 01:48 Lukewarm coffee and lukewarm churches. 02:26 What does "lukewarm" mean in the letter to Laodicea?  06:15 History of Laodicea with hot springs, cold water streams, and financial wealth. 07:46 What does this context and history suggest about Jesus's message here? 14:27 Svea's story of trusting Jesus when learning to ski as a kid. 18:51 Self-reliance and competency in spiritual matters. 20:08 Discussion of Jesus's pace in dealing with people--efficient, quick, slow, or something else? 25:52 How could Autumn Ridge Church learn from and apply the messages in this and the other letters to churches in Revelation?

So far in this series, we've looked at the unexpected messages to four churches in modern-day Turkey.UNEXPECTED MESSAGE:• It's better to have no church than an unloving church.• It's better to let a church suffer than to prevent it. • It's possible for a church to stand up for Jesus while standing against Jesus.    • It's possible for a church to wrongly value staying together over staying faithful.  • It's possible for everyone but Jesus to be convinced that a church is alive and well.• A church may be strongest when it's weak.Message Scripture Passage:Revelation 3:7-13Series Thesis:KNOWING the truth doesn't change anything. SUBMITTING to the truth changes everything.Topics Discussed Today: 00:00 Intro 01:53 Additional discussion from last episode on Sardis: how do we know if our church is alive? 04:31 God is committed to making us more like Jesus. What are the signs of the Spirit in us? 09:36 Is it good for churches to have non-believers among them? 12:50 Responding to these letters individually and collectively.  14:14 Engaging in serving others individually and collectively. 18:11 Pastoral moment on not just knowing the truth but also submitting to it. 20:14 Rick's experience of gaining social standing in the community and the challenges it brought in his own life. 23:38 What do we do when our own perspectives get in the way of success in following Jesus? 28:22 Looking at love, purpose, and unity as key themes in Jesus's seven letters. 30:22 Testing of character and gaining clarity on our spiritual health is a gift of Jesus. 34:51 Jesus' description of himself in letter to Philadelphia, he claims to be God but then also talks about "his God". How do we understand these ideas? 39:31 Our goal is for people to say, "Look at what God did in and through this church."

So far in this series, we've looked at the unexpected messages to four churches in modern-day Turkey.UNEXPECTED MESSAGE:• It's better to have no church than an unloving church.• It's better to let a church suffer than to prevent it. • It's possible for a church to stand up for Jesus while standing against Jesus.    • It's possible for a church to wrongly value staying together over staying faithful.  • It's possible for everyone but Jesus to be convinced that a church is alive and well.Message Scripture Passage:Revelation 3:1-6Series Thesis:KNOWING the truth doesn't change anything. SUBMITTING to the truth changes everything.Topics Discussed Today: 00:00 Intro 01:00 Overview of the church in Sardis: unnoticed, irrelevant. 01:45 The church in Sardis started strong but might have become routine. 03:37 What does it take to avoid lukewarm faith. 05:31 Usage of “woke” in Scripture compared to current cultural usage. 11:38 What is Jesus looking for in a healthy church? 13:42 What is the heartbeat of believers and the Church? 15:17 Adoption, repentance, and the certainty of salvation in Jesus. 18:56 Jesus knew us and our future even before we believed in him. 21:40 God is gentle and kind to believers, even in discipline and rebuke. 25:04 Is the Church for believers or non-believers? Or someone else? 28:27 “The gravitational pull to be for ourselves is so strong.” Read 2 Corinthians 5 for the fix. 30:30 What are three markers of a healthy church?

So far in this series, we've looked at the unexpected messages to four churches in modern-day Turkey. It's better to have no church than an unloving church. It's better to let a church suffer than to prevent it.  It's possible for a church to stand up for Jesus while standing against Jesus. It's possible for a church to wrongly value staying together over staying faithful.    Rick and Svea discuss how gospel fluency (and define what it is) helps to understand what was going on in Thyatira.Message Scripture Passage:Revelation 2:18-29Series Thesis:KNOWING the truth doesn't change anything. SUBMITTING to the truth changes everything.Topics Discussed Today: 00:00 Intro 01:17 What is gospel fluency? How does this perspective help us? 01:44 How does the content of the gospel impact us? 05:13 What do you mean by knowing the content of the gospel? 07:06 The implications of gospel fluency 09:02 The motivation of gospel fluency 10:45 Intro to the church in Thyatira and the popular stigma around it. 12:10 Who is Jezebel, and what made her harmful to that church? 15:08 Is tolerating sin the same as anti-gospel behavior? 16:52 How do we not tolerate sin and anti-gospel behavior? 23:30 Discussion of references and metaphors in Revelation 2:18-29

So far in this series, we've looked at the unexpected messages to three churches in modern-day Turkey. It's better to have no church than an unloving church. It's better to let a church suffer than to prevent it.  It's possible for a church to stand up for Jesus while standing against Jesus.  Today, we spend quite a bit of time looking at practical steps to reflect Jesus properly so we stand for him and don't stand against him.Message Scripture Passage:Revelation 2:12-17Series Thesis:KNOWING the truth doesn't change anything. SUBMITTING to the truth changes everything.Topics Discussed Today: 00:00 Intro 01:36 Symbolism in the letter to Pergamum 02:50 Jesus shows his intimate familiarity with each church 05:31 John's isolation lends validity to the message from Jesus 05:45 Which John wrote this letter 08:49 Bringing out unexpected messages in this series 12:02 This passage beautifully plays out our series thesis 13:41 Practical steps to reflect Jesus properly 14:52 Loving well 18:12 Navigating loving and kindness in the workplace 22:12 Using wisdom to engage instead of affirming or celebrating 25:49 The emphasis is on what's happening inside the church, not outside the church 27:37 The big problem with the American church is lovelessness and rudeness 30:24 We love to focus on the sins of the "out" group, not the sins of the "in" group

It's better to let a church suffer and to prevent it. Today's episode unpacks suffering, faith, and trust in Jesus.Message Scripture Passage:Revelation 2:8-11Series Thesis:KNOWING the truth doesn't change anything. SUBMITTING to the truth changes everything.Topics Discussed Today: 00:00 Intro. 01:54 Recap and overview of the series resources. 04:31 The strength of our faith and the strength of Jesus 06:52 The New Testament was originally written to groups and communities of people, not to individuals. 09:48 Did Jesus avoid rebuking the church in Smyrna just because they were already suffering so much? 12:17 What does it mean when Jesus said Smyrna would suffer persecution for "10 days"? 14:12 Discussion of the statement that "A dead Jesus is a worthless Jesus." 16:16 Trusting in Jesus rather than in teachers, pastors, and leaders. 18:14 People who don't flinch are the people who love Jesus, not the people who know theology. 26:14 Difference between "children of the empire" or "children of the kingdom." 29:29 Persecution and Protection.

Rick and Svea kick off the new "Dear Church" series with a discussion about symbolism in the Book of Revelation and move on to the difficult topic of a loveless church. Rick then casts a vision for what he thinks a loving church exemplifies.Message Scripture Passage:Revelation 1:17-2:7Series Thesis:KNOWING the truth doesn't change anything. SUBMITTING to the truth changes everything.Topics Discussed Today:00:00 Intro00:40 The start of our small group season and the benefit of group study03:21 What is the church or a church?06:28 Jesus is present among the churches and is “holding” the messengers of each church08:13 What is the “star” of each church--angel, messenger, pastor?13:00 Why did John only send one circular letter to seven churches?16:55 Do we know which individual actually delivered this letter?17:26 The detriment of a loveless church - Jesus “removing the lampstand”21:23 What is a loving church? How do we be a loving church?28:52 Vision of what a church looks like that both loves God and loves others