Commons Church Podcast

Baptism is more than just a ritual — it's a layered encounter with grace that stretches from ancient Jewish practices to the earliest Christian communities. But why do we do it? And how does it shape our faith today?In this thoughtful reflection, we explore:

Life is different in the light of Easter. Easter plops us into a world that is supposed to feel brand new. We've just experienced resurrection, after all. Shouldn't the world be all white daisies and blue skies? Well, yes and no. The thing about living resurrection is that we live it even as we wait for it. Resurrection re-orders life with the expectation that nothing is ever really over. After the winter, there's the warm spring. After the violence, there's the opportunity to practice peace. In the dark early morning, there's the contemplation of a transformed friend. Let's explore Easter's fifty days, imagining again what resurrection life means for us and how that makes a difference in the world that God loves. Through Jesus, we see the world as it should be. Now we are tasked to make it so. ★ Support this podcast ★

The Table — not the cross — is the symbol Jesus chose to remember him by.In this Easter reflection, we step into the Strange New World of resurrection and explore why the Eucharist, Communion, and the Lord's Supper have always been at the heart of Christian practice. Long before the gospels were written, before theology was fully formed, the first followers of Jesus gathered around a table — and they experienced grace you could taste.In this video, discover:

Why does Easter begin with something as heartbreaking — and irreversible — as death?In this honest, layered Easter message, Jeremy shares a deeply personal reflection on parenting, grief, and the story of Jesus' death and resurrection. From losing a beloved family dog to wrestling with theological shorthand that reduces Easter to a transaction, this is an exploration of why the cross is not about God's anger — but about God's grace.Through the words of Jesus in John 12, we rediscover: • ✝️ The cross as the judgment of the world, not its condemnation •

On this Palm Sunday, we join the joyful chorus, shouting “Hosanna!” as we celebrate Jesus' triumphant entry into Jerusalem. We thank You for sending Your Son, our humble King, who comes in peace and love. As we wave our palms and lay down our cloaks, may we open our hearts to welcome him fully. Help us to follow his path of humility, service, and sacrifice. Prepare us for the journey ahead, through the joy and the sorrow, leading us to the promise of resurrection.May our lives reflect his light and love. In the strong name of the risen Christ, we pray.Amen.Make It ★ Support this podcast ★

Today we explore the powerful conclusion to the Lord's Prayer, examining the familiar yet mysterious lines about temptation, evil, and the well-known benediction: "For thine is the kingdom, the power, and the glory forever."In this message, we unpack some fascinating questions:Why do we ask God not to lead us into temptation? Does God actually tempt us?What exactly is "the evil" we're being delivered from? Is it the devil, or something closer to home?Where did the popular benediction at the end of the prayer originate, and why isn't it included in all biblical manuscripts?Discover the rich historical roots of the Lord's Prayer and its early usage in the ancient text known as the Didache, along with how early Christian communities shaped this prayer we still recite today.Join us as we delve deep into practical and spiritual insights, exploring how this prayer shapes our understanding of God, community, and our role in transforming the world around us. Learn how Jesus invites us not to simply resist temptation but to actively refuse to remain in a world of brokenness and injustice.Subscribe and journey with us into a deeper understanding of prayer, faith, and what it truly means to live out God's kingdom on earth.#LordsPrayer #Prayer #ChristianLiving #BibleStudy #Temptation #SpiritualGrowth #ChristianHistory #KingdomOfGod #FaithCommunity #PracticalFaith ★ Support this podcast ★

Today, we dive into one of the most challenging and profound lines from the Lord's Prayer: "Forgive us our debts as we forgive our debtors," or is it "trespasses"? In this powerful exploration, we unpack the deep metaphors behind "debts" and "trespasses," examining our obligations, broken boundaries, and the true possibilities of forgiveness.What happens when forgiveness feels unfair? Can we forgive even when we've been intentionally hurt? And how do we navigate forgiveness in everyday relationships—especially when it involves unmet expectations and subtle hurts?Join us as we share relatable personal stories, like navigating family fairness during spring break, and uncover how Jesus teaches us about forgiveness, fairness, and the transformative power of grace. Learn the difference between debts (ophlei-mata) and trespasses (paraptoma) and discover how these metaphors shape our understanding of sin, obligation, and community.We'll discuss:The original meaning behind "debts" and "trespasses" in the Lord's PrayerHow Jesus' teaching reshapes our approach to forgivenessPractical insights into managing forgiveness in personal and communal relationshipsWhy forgiveness is essential—not just spiritually—but emotionally and relationallyWhether you've struggled with forgiving others, forgiving yourself, or understanding the divine dynamics of forgiveness, this message offers fresh insights and real-world applications.Subscribe and join us in this meaningful journey toward a life marked by grace, healing, and hope.#Forgiveness #LordsPrayer #ChristianLiving #BibleStudy #Relationships #Grace #Healing #FaithCommunity #JesusTeaching #SpiritualGrowth ★ Support this podcast ★

Join Bobbi from Commons Church on March 23, 2025, as she explores the powerful line from the Lord's Prayer: "Give us today our daily bread." This isn't just about physical food, but about all our needs – physical, emotional, and spiritual.In this thought-provoking talk, Bobbi delves into the historical and social context of this prayer, connecting it to the Exodus story and the concept of Sabbath rest. She shares personal reflections on her own prayer journey and the many forms prayer can take.What makes this message truly unique is the integration of Polyvagal Theory. Bobbi explains the three systems of survival – freeze, fight/flight, and social engagement – and how they relate to our ability to trust and have our needs met. Discover how our bodies are designed for connection and collaboration in receiving what we need, and how this ties into the act of prayer.We'll explore different interpretations of "daily bread," from literal sustenance to a metaphor for a new kind of tomorrow. Plus, hear prayers from various traditions, including the First Nations Version of the New Testament.Whether you're new to prayer or have been practicing for years, this message will offer fresh insights and a deeper understanding of how prayer connects us to God and to each other.Key Points:The Lord's Prayer and "daily bread"Historical and social context of prayerPersonal prayer journeys and different prayer formsPolyvagal Theory and its connection to trust and needsCommunity and collaboration in meeting needsDifferent prayer traditionsDon't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more messages from Commons Church!Sign up for our newsletter: commons.church/newsletterLearn more about our Annual General Meeting: commons.church/agm#Prayer #PolyvagalTheory #Lent #DailyBread #CommonsChurch #Sermon #Christianity #Faith #Spirituality #Jesus ★ Support this podcast ★

This week, we dive deep into the heart of the Lord's Prayer—exploring what Jesus teaches us about prayer and how it can transform our spiritual lives.We begin by reflecting on Meister Eckhart's profound reminder: "If the only prayer you ever say in your entire life is 'thank you,' it will be enough." With this powerful simplicity, we enter into a discussion about how the language we choose in prayer shapes our relationship with God and one another.Today's sermon invites us to explore:Prayerful Adjectives: Why the attributes we assign to God matter deeply.Parental Figures: Understanding the familial language Jesus uses—beyond traditional gender binaries—to ground our prayers in shared community.Our Shared Reality: Recognizing prayer as an expression of unity, reminding us that God belongs to all of us.Newborn Desires: How aligning our desires with God's transforms not just our prayers but our lives.Ultimately, this message encourages us to reimagine prayer as sacred conversation—where we are fully known, completely safe, and unconditionally loved. It's a space where authenticity meets divine embrace.Join us as we rediscover prayer as a profound act of trust, solidarity, and hope. May this teaching encourage you to see yourself and the world through the compassionate eyes of our collective Father. ★ Support this podcast ★

Today, we dive deep into one of the most pivotal and tragic moments in the story of David—the moment where everything shifts. We'll explore:✅ War for the sake of war✅ Rooftop encounters and unchecked power✅ Like father, like son—how brokenness repeats✅ Learning the lessons before it's too lateBefore we begin, a content warning: this episode deals with themes of sexual assault and violence. I'll handle these topics with care, but if you need to skip this one for your well-being, I completely understand.We often hear the famous phrase: “Power tends to corrupt, and absolute power corrupts absolutely.” But have we considered the full quote?“Great men are almost always bad men… still more so when you superadd the certainty of corruption by authority.”David's life is the perfect case study. Once a humble shepherd, a warrior with integrity, a man after God's own heart—his rise to power was meteoric. But once he sat on the throne, something changed. Power reshaped him. His choices had devastating consequences, not just for himself, but for his family and his nation.This is a story of how small compromises turn into tragic collapses. How sin, left unchecked, doesn't just hurt us—it ripples through generations. And perhaps most importantly, it forces us to ask: What am I overlooking in my own life?Because if we celebrate the victories of David while ignoring his downfall, we risk walking the same path.

In the fifth sermon in our Becoming King series David finally becomes king! Bobbi takes us through the beginning of David's kingship and the questions that surround his ascension.Becoming King: David is anointed by the elders of Israel and finally made king. He's got everything a king could want, power, riches, and God on his side. However, Bobbi shows us that David's meteoric rise to power brings with it questions like, what will the future hold for someone who seemingly has it all? What insecurities will come about for someone who has secured everything? And, what has been left behind in the process of David's success?Priest Things: David attempts to bring the Ark of the Covenant to Jerusalem. His first attempt ended in the death of a man named Uzzah. During his second attempt, David takes on a more priestly role by following instructions outlined in the law, wearing a garment of a priest, and by offering sacrifices along the way to Jerusalem. These are the tools that Bobbi named that equip us to be priests for ourselves and the world: eucharist and baptism, liturgical seasons and community life, scripture and prayer.Everything You Ever Wanted: Once the Ark is settled in a tent in Jerusalem David finally rests in his palace, free from his enemies. He Inquires of Nathan the prophet about building a House for God. God instructs Nathan to tell David otherwise. The House of God will not be built during David's reign, but instead, it will be built during his son Solomon's reign. What God wants David to remember is that it was God who brought him to this point, and it will be God who will builds the House of David, establishing David's family as part of God's everlasting kingdom—planting a seed of messianic hope.David Prays: David is reminded of how God's presence had been woven throughout his life. David reflects on Nathan's words with a prayer, reminding us to take account of our lives and where we are headed. Bobbi encourages us to reckon with our current situation and pay attention to God's involvement. Like David, we are meant to commune with God more. Even when you have it all - there's more to have - there's always a deeper meaning to find. ★ Support this podcast ★

This week, we're revisiting the story of David—but through the lens of his deep and loyal friendship with Jonathan. It's complicated: Jonathan is the son of Saul, the very man trying to kill David, and David is married to Saul's daughter. Talk about family drama!We'll explore themes of paranoia, uncertainty, friendship, and honesty—and what they reveal about Saul's growing insecurity and David's unwavering bond with Jonathan.Along the way, we'll unpack:✅ Why Saul's paranoia led to his downfall✅ How Hebrew poetry shapes our understanding of this story✅ What David & Jonathan's friendship teaches us about real intimacy✅ Why true friends don't just hype you up—they tell you the hard truthsAnd yes, we'll even talk about why it's so hard to say “I love you” to a friend—and how social media has changed the way we express closeness.Don't miss this deep dive into one of the Bible's most powerful friendships. Hit play, and let's explore together!#DavidAndJonathan #BiblicalFriendship #Saul #Faith #BibleStudy #HonestFriendships ★ Support this podcast ★

Join us as we dive into the story of David, fresh off his victory over Goliath, and discover that becoming king is far from a smooth ride!

Today, we dive into one of the most famous stories of all time—the showdown between David and Goliath. But this isn't just a tale of an underdog with a slingshot; it's a story about identity, power, and the narratives we choose to believe.We'll explore:

In this part one, we dive deep into the story of David—the shepherd boy chosen to be Israel's greatest king. But before his rise, we must first understand the fall of Saul, the last judge, and the evolving concept of God within the Hebrew Scriptures.From the crisis-driven leadership of the judges to Israel's desire for a king, this journey explores how power, leadership, and divine purpose shape history. What does it truly mean to be “a man after God's own heart”? And how does David's story ultimately point us to Jesus?

Let's start the new year expanding ideas of intimacy, attention, and intention as more of an art than a solution. The thing about art––be it dancing, painting, or writing––is that there are endless layers and iterations to all that we create. ★ Support this podcast ★

Join us this week as we explore The Art of Attention—the second installment in our series on intimacy and relationships. Building on last week's focus on intentionality, we'll dive into what it means to truly listen, notice, and connect with the people in our lives.This episode covers: • The lessons hidden in everyday moments, like a Tuesday family dinner. • How our brains naturally filter information and the importance of curiosity in overcoming these limits. • A deeper look at Jesus' attentive interactions in John 5 and how they challenge us to be more present.Discover how genuine attention can reshape relationships, give others agency, and build connection—both with those around us and within ourselves. ★ Support this podcast ★

What does it take to cultivate meaningful, authentic relationships in a world that thrives on distraction? This week, we explore the challenges and beauty of fostering deeper connections with friends, partners, and even ourselves. It's about setting boundaries, being intentional, and finding intimacy in ways that truly matter. ★ Support this podcast ★

We explore the story of Jesus turning water into wine at the wedding in Cana and uncover its deeper meaning during the Christmas season. Through themes of anticipation, divine timing, and the power of small moments, this story invites us to recognize the presence of God in the ordinary and embrace the joy of transformation. A reflection on the beauty of faith and the magic of Christmas. ★ Support this podcast ★

Join us for an inspiring and heartfelt exploration of Jesus' childhood story from Luke 2:41-52. In this message titled “The Boy in the Temple: Growing Up, Getting Lost, and Being Found”, we reflect on how Jesus' formative years reveal deep truths about divine vulnerability, growing into our humanity, and finding God even when we feel lost.This third Sunday of Advent is a time of joy and anticipation, and yet it doesn't shy away from our struggles. Bobbi invites us to embrace the tension of the season: joy and gloom, light and darkness, searching and being found. What can we learn from a 12-year-old Jesus in the temple? How does his story mirror our own journeys of faith, growth, and belonging? ★ Support this podcast ★

As we enter the Advent season, let's approach Jesus' life from a new angle. Not simply his birth, but all the stories that come before his public ministry. This series will look at old testament passages seen to point to Jesus, at the formative years of Jesus' life, and exploring the lessons and experiences that shaped him as he grew. We'll reflect on his humble beginnings, the nurturing of his faith, and the quiet yet profound moments that prepared him for his mission. Join us as we seek to understand the depths of Jesus' humanity and find inspiration for our own spiritual journeys during this sacred season. ★ Support this podcast ★

What does the parable of the sheep and the goats teach us about judgment, grace, and the nature of God's kingdom? In this compelling talk, we unpack one of Jesus' most famous—and often misunderstood—stories, exploring themes of humility, service, and the presence of the divine in everyday acts of love.Through this lens, we challenge traditional ideas of judgment and eternity, showing how Jesus shifts our focus from future speculation to present action. Join us as we discover how the life of the age to come begins in the here and now, inviting us to notice the divine all around us. Perfect for anyone seeking a fresh perspective on faith, theology, and living with compassion in today's world. ★ Support this podcast ★

Today, we dive into one of Jesus' parables told in two different places, exploring their deeper meanings and transformative implications. Are these stories about divine judgment, or are they invitations to a life of trust, grace, and courage in the face of uncertainty?We unpack the Parable of the Talents and its counterpart in Luke's Gospel, reframing traditional interpretations and examining how these stories challenge us to rethink God's character and our response to grace. Along the way, we explore themes of trust, justice, and the cost of doing the right thing, with a powerful parallel to Zacchaeus' story. ★ Support this podcast ★

This week, we explore the powerful lessons of Matthew 25 through Jesus' parables on readiness, grace, and judgment. We delve into the deeper meaning of Jesus' teachings and how they challenge our expectations of certainty, faithfulness, and generosity. Discover how these parables invite us to embrace grace, trust the divine timing, and shine our light in the world—even in moments when we might feel unprepared. Perfect for anyone seeking a fresh perspective on spirituality, purpose, and living with compassionate faith in today's complex world. ★ Support this podcast ★

Jesus taught primarily in parables. Short pithy stories that surprise us with Jesus' unique perspective on life. These parables centre around three main concepts. Kingdom, Grace and, wait  for it... Judgment. Over the last few years we have developed series to focus on the stories of kingdom, and of grace, and in this series we intend to face into the hardest parables, those that give us Jesus' unique perspective on judgment. ★ Support this podcast ★

Jesus taught primarily in parables. Short pithy stories that surprise us with Jesus' unique perspective on life. These parables centre around three main concepts. Kingdom, Grace and, wait  for it... Judgment. Over the last few years we have developed series to focus on the stories of kingdom, and of grace, and in this series we intend to face into the hardest parables, those that give us Jesus' unique perspective on judgment. And maybe, like Jesus, we can come to believe that even this, is for our good. And as we immerse ourselves in Jesus' narrative world-we hope to be transformed by the experience of gracious judgment.  ★ Support this podcast ★

In this sermon, we begin our new series on the parables of judgment—one of the most challenging and misunderstood aspects of Jesus' teachings. Judgment often sounds intimidating, but what if it's not about condemnation or punishment? What if it's God's loving correction, guiding us back when we've strayed off the path?Join us as we explore: • How Jesus reframes judgment as an act of love and guidance, not punishment • The true meaning behind Jesus' parables of judgment, like the parable of the vineyard • Why God's judgment is for us, not against us, and how it helps us find life, not destruction • The deeper purpose of God's correction in our journey toward grace

In this week's sermon, we tackle one of the most challenging aspects of faith: our relationship with wealth. Is generosity an obligation, or can it be a deeper, more fulfilling part of our spiritual journey? We explore how wealth has often corrupted religious spaces, leading to misconceptions like the 10% tithe, and we break down what the Bible really says about giving.Join us as we: • Debunk the cultural myth of the tithe. • Explore Jesus' teaching on generosity in the Sermon on the Mount. • Unpack René Girard's theory of mimetic desire and how it shapes our modern relationship with wealth. • Discover how a “good eye” can lead us to a life of meaningful, intentional generosity that reflects the heart of God.

In this bonus podcast, we explore the often misunderstood relationship between Jesus and the Pharisees. While the Pharisees are frequently seen as the “villains” of the New Testament, there is much more nuance to their interactions with Jesus. We'll discuss the different groups present in Jesus' time, including the Sadducees, Zealots, and Essenes, and how Jesus' teachings most closely aligned with the Pharisees, despite some important differences.We'll learn about the Pharisees' emphasis on study, interpretation of the Torah, and their innovative approach to making religious practices accessible to the common people. We'll also discuss why Jesus sometimes critiqued certain Pharisees while maintaining respect for their overall tradition. Understanding this relationship helps us better appreciate both Jesus' teachings and our Jewish neighbors today. ★ Support this podcast ★

As pastors and friends, this is a question that emerges in conversation pretty regularly. We all have doubts about what we believe, questions about whether our beliefs are well-founded, and we struggle sometimes to find the rhythms and habits that support the faith we want to foster. At Commons, we think wrestling with these questions is an essential part of being a faith-full human. In fact, our journey towards understanding who Jesus  is and what He teaches often brings us to a point where we must wrestle with our uncertainties, and hopefully do it together. Throughout this series, we will delve into these themes, offering practical insights and encouragement. We will explore how our doubts can lead to deeper faith, how friendships can support us, and how volunteering can bring us closer to God and each other. Together, let's hold onto faith, knowing that it is through our questions, our connections, and our acts of service that we truly find the divine. ★ Support this podcast ★

This week we explore the felt experience of faith and what it means to hold on to faith even when emotions fluctuate. We discuss how faith can be both a deep, personal relationship with God and a set of religious practices that sustain us through life's ups and downs. From a conversation with my son about bacon to the story of the “beloved disciple” racing to the empty tomb, we dive into how our faith is shaped by unique experiences, rituals, and sometimes even doubts.Whether you feel close to God today or find yourself going through the motions, this message will encourage you to embrace faith as a lived journey. We'll look at how both the emotional and practical aspects of faith play a role in helping us hold on, especially when things get tough.

As pastors and friends, this is a question that emerges in conversation pretty regularly. We all have doubts about what we believe, questions about whether our beliefs are well-founded, and we struggle sometimes to find the rhythms and habits that support the faith we want to foster. At Commons, we think wrestling with these questions is an essential part of being a faith-full human. In fact, our journey towards understanding who Jesus  is and what He teaches often brings us to a point where we must wrestle with our uncertainties, and hopefully do it together. Throughout this series, we will delve into these themes, offering practical insights and encouragement. We will explore how our doubts can lead to deeper faith, how friendships can support us, and how volunteering can bring us closer to God and each other. Together, let's hold onto faith, knowing that it is through our questions, our connections, and our acts of service that we truly find the divine. ★ Support this podcast ★

This week, we explore how faith can evolve through critical ideas, personal growth, and changing life experiences. Centered on the journey of faith, this series tackles topics like theology, doubt, and resilience. Through the story of Nicodemus, we learn about deconstructing and rebuilding faith, embracing uncertainty, and trusting in a love beyond ourselves. This is an invitation to hold on, grow, and continuously be “born again” into new spiritual depths. ★ Support this podcast ★

There is no doubt that every single one of us cares about the planet. Driving west through valleys made low by the Rocky Mountains is just one way to feel small in the best possible way. But how do we hold that care, and that smallness, alongside the convictions of our faith? Is it love God, love people, love the planet? If Jesus didn't say that, could he have? Through the themes of play, awe, sustainability, and change we'll consider how our love of God can fuse with our love of creation. ★ Support this podcast ★

There is no doubt that every single one of us cares about the planet. Driving west through valleys made low by the Rocky Mountains is just one way to feel small in the best possible way. But how do we hold that care, and that smallness, alongside the convictions of our faith? Is it love God, love people, love the planet? If Jesus didn't say that, could he have? Through the themes of play, awe, sustainability, and change we'll consider how our love of God can fuse with our love of creation. ★ Support this podcast ★

There is no doubt that every single one of us cares about the planet. Driving west through valleys made low by the Rocky Mountains is just one way to feel small in the best possible way. But how do we hold that care, and that smallness, alongside the convictions of our faith? Is it love God, love people, love the planet? If Jesus didn't say that, could he have? Through the themes of play, awe, sustainability, and change we'll consider how our love of God can fuse with our love of creation. ★ Support this podcast ★

There is no doubt that every single one of us cares about the planet. Driving west through valleys made low by the Rocky Mountains is just one way to feel small in the best possible way. But how do we hold that care, and that smallness, alongside the convictions of our faith? Is it love God, love people, love the planet? If Jesus didn't say that, could he have? Through the themes of play, awe, sustainability, and change we'll consider how our love of God can fuse with our love of creation. ★ Support this podcast ★

Whether you're a homebody or not, home matters. Of course there are the equity pieces of housing first and affordability. These are big concerns in the life of the city. It's good to want for others what we want for ourselves: safety, security, and a place to receive our Amazon packages. But there's also a quieter hope for what home can mean. As is our practice in the summer, we'll listen to the teaching team explore themes of rest, digest, repair, and relate through their experience of home and theological reflections on the places we live. ★ Support this podcast ★

Whether you're a homebody or not, home matters. Of course there are the equity pieces of housing first and affordability. These are big concerns in the life of the city. It's good to want for others what we want for ourselves: safety, security, and a place to receive our Amazon packages. But there's also a quieter hope for what home can mean. As is our practice in the summer, we'll listen to the teaching team explore themes of rest, digest, repair, and relate through their experience of home and theological reflections on the places we live. ★ Support this podcast ★

Whether you're a homebody or not, home matters. Of course there are the equity pieces of housing first and affordability. These are big concerns in the life of the city. It's good to want for others what we want for ourselves: safety, security, and a place to receive our Amazon packages. But there's also a quieter hope for what home can mean. As is our practice in the summer, we'll listen to the teaching team explore themes of rest, digest, repair, and relate through their experience of home and theological reflections on the places we live. ★ Support this podcast ★

Whether you're a homebody or not, home matters. Of course there are the equity pieces of housing first and affordability. These are big concerns in the life of the city. It's good to want for others what we want for ourselves: safety, security, and a place to receive our Amazon packages. But there's also a quieter hope for what home can mean. As is our practice in the summer, we'll listen to the teaching team explore themes of rest, digest, repair, and relate through their experience of home and theological reflections on the places we live. ★ Support this podcast ★

This week, we explore key moments in the life of Saul, the first king of Israel, through the lens of 1 Samuel 13. We'll uncover the complexities of biblical translation, the importance of understanding the true purpose behind scripture, and the dangers of intertwining religion with politics. Through stories of assassination, propaganda, and manipulation, this sermon challenges us to look beyond the details and grasp the deeper lessons that guide our faith journey. ★ Support this podcast ★

In this exploration of 1 Samuel 9-12, we delve into the intriguing story of Saul's ascension to kingship and Samuel's complex reaction. We're reminded of our human tendency to judge by appearances, as Saul is initially described as tall and handsome. Yet, the narrative subtly warns us against such superficial assessments. As we witness Samuel's reluctance to anoint Saul, we're invited to reflect on our own moments of passive resistance to God's will. This story challenges us to examine where we might be holding back in our own lives, whether out of wisdom or fear. Ultimately, we're encouraged to move forward with purpose, trusting in God's presence even amidst our doubts and hesitations. ★ Support this podcast ★

We explore the themes of leadership, authority, and the pursuit of God's will. The story of Samuel and the Israelites' demand for a king serves as a cautionary tale, reminding us that true authority lies not in titles or positions, but in the influence earned through demonstrating care and trustworthiness. We are challenged to reflect on our own choices and the ways in which we may bend towards our own desires, potentially steering away from what is just and right. The message emphasizes the importance of seeking God's guidance directly, rather than relying solely on human leaders. ★ Support this podcast ★

We're exploring the complex relationship between God and the Israelites during the time of the judges. The story of Samuel's unexpected rise to priesthood despite not being a Levite highlights God's willingness to bend the rules when necessary to move the story forward. We see that God is open to dialogue and consistently imagines a reality unbounded by our limited expectations. The ark of the covenant, a physical representation of God's presence, is examined, and its connection to the forgiveness of sins through Christ's sacrifice is beautifully drawn. Ultimately, we are reminded that God is not interested in ruthless aggression or war, even from his chosen people. God would rather lose and appear foolish than support our endless pursuits of violence. This realization is the beginning of a path that leads us to the ultimate forgiveness found in Jesus. ★ Support this podcast ★

This message explores the powerful story of Hannah in 1 Samuel, highlighting her faithfulness, self-awareness, and trust in God amidst adversity. Hannah's story teaches us that we can hold onto our faith even as we navigate difficult circumstances and confront distorted religious narratives. The message emphasizes the importance of knowing ourselves, advocating for our needs, and trusting in God's ultimate power to reverse fortunes. As we face transitions and change in our own lives, we can find comfort in the idea that God is always at work, even when human agency seems to shape events. The complex portrayal of characters in 1 Samuel invites us to explore the depths of our own moral character and recognize the potential for holiness in our involvement with the world. ★ Support this podcast ★

The story of Samson, as told in the Book of Judges, sheds light on the complexities of human nature and our relationship with God. We see in Samson a man driven by impulses and desires, reflecting the struggles we all face in our own lives. Yet, even in his flaws, God's spirit moves through him, showing us that God can work with what is true and genuine in each of us. The story challenges us to look beyond the surface and see the deeper spiritual truths at play. As we journey with Samson, we are reminded that putting our hope in human strength and fierceness alone cannot bring true peace. Instead, we must turn to the compassion and transformative power of Christ to find our way through the wreckage of our lives and the world around us. ★ Support this podcast ★

This sermon explores the stories of two unique judges, Shamgar and Deborah, in the Book of Judges. It highlights how their stories expand the narrative of salvation and leadership, challenging the Israelites' preconceived notions. The sermon suggests that even in the midst of the conquest of Canaan, there are hints that salvation and leadership can come from unexpected sources, such as a Canaanite warrior (Shamgar) and a woman (Deborah). The story of Jael, a foreign woman who defeats Sisera, further emphasizes this point. While the violence in these stories is not celebrated, the sermon points out that they may be part of a larger journey towards peace and a more inclusive understanding of God's plan. ★ Support this podcast ★