Encounter the Truth

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Through faithful teaching of the Scriptures, we seek to facilitate encounters with the truth of God’s Word – and ultimately, with the Lord Jesus Christ, who is the Truth that came down from heaven. Our prayer is that those who do not yet know Jesus will come to a saving knowledge of the truth, that believers will be grounded in the truth, and that local churches will be encouraged in their witness to the truth.

Jonathan Griffiths


    • Jun 16, 2025 LATEST EPISODE
    • weekdays NEW EPISODES
    • 24m AVG DURATION
    • 1,195 EPISODES


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    Latest episodes from Encounter the Truth

    Living Out True Righteousness (Part 1 of 2)

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 16, 2025 24:58


    This section of chapter 5 is showing us that we need a Saviour who can deal with our guilt. As he outlines this kingdom ethic, Jesus is actually telling us how he wants us, his saved people, to live. Jesus really does mean that his saved people are to live out a righteousness that will be greater than even the righteousness of the Pharisees. Living out that righteousness will be evidence that we have been forgiven, that we have experienced his grace, and have been filled with his Spirit.

    Attaining True Righteousness (Part 2 of 2)

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 13, 2025 24:58


    Although some thought Jesus overturned the Law of Moses, he insists that he has come to fulfil it. His teaching on the Law's requirements sets a standard of righteousness that we fail to meet on our own—and so it shows us that we need to rely on him and his righteousness to be acceptable to the Father. At the same time, Jesus does mean to call us to live according to a radically high standard. This is only possible through the gracious work of his Spirit in us.

    Attaining True Righteousness (Part 1 of 2)

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 12, 2025 24:58


    Although some thought Jesus overturned the Law of Moses, he insists that he has come to fulfil it. His teaching on the Law's requirements sets a standard of righteousness that we fail to meet on our own—and so it shows us that we need to rely on him and his righteousness to be acceptable to the Father. At the same time, Jesus does mean to call us to live according to a radically high standard. This is only possible through the gracious work of his Spirit in us.

    Seeking True Blessing (Part 2 of 2)

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 11, 2025 24:58


    While the world thinks blessing is found in aggressive self-advancement and self-preservation, Jesus teaches the surprising and counter-cultural message that blessing is found in an attitude of meekness and humility—because that is the disposition that is required for entering the kingdom of heaven through faith in him. Those who enjoy true blessing will live distinctively as salt and light in this world.

    Seeking True Blessing (Part 1 of 2)

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 10, 2025 24:58


    While the world thinks blessing is found in aggressive self-advancement and self-preservation, Jesus teaches the surprising and counter-cultural message that blessing is found in an attitude of meekness and humility—because that is the disposition that is required for entering the kingdom of heaven through faith in him. Those who enjoy true blessing will live distinctively as salt and light in this world.

    Moving Forward in Love (Part 2 of 2)

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 9, 2025 24:58


    One commentator has described the Corinthian church as a dumpster fire: sexual immorality, cliques, snobbery, spiritual arrogance, lawsuits among believers—they were doing it all. And Paul hasn't held back his rebuke. But his final words in 1 Corinthians reflect not rejection but redemptive love, showing that even a deeply flawed church has a future. Christians are called to move forward in love—restored by grace, modeling forgiveness, honoring one another, giving generously, and striving for unity.

    Moving Forward in Love (Part 1 of 2)

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 6, 2025 24:58


    One commentator has described the Corinthian church as a dumpster fire: sexual immorality, cliques, snobbery, spiritual arrogance, lawsuits among believers—they were doing it all. And Paul hasn't held back his rebuke. But his final words in 1 Corinthians reflect not rejection but redemptive love, showing that even a deeply flawed church has a future. Christians are called to move forward in love—restored by grace, modeling forgiveness, honoring one another, giving generously, and striving for unity.

    The Defeat of Death (Part 2 of 2)

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 5, 2025 24:58


    Paul's vision for church gatherings is Spirit-filled but not chaotic, Christ-centered but also mindful of outsiders, and expressive but orderly. The true mark of spiritual worship is the building up of believers, the conversion of the lost, and the peaceable order that reflects God's nature. This matters because public worship is the heart of church life.

    The Defeat of Death (Part 1 of 2)

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 4, 2025 24:58


    In 1 Corinthians, Paul has addressed numerous issues in the church—division, immorality, pride—but he "lands the plane" on the doctrine of resurrection because it holds the key to understanding the gospel, Christian hope, and faithful living. This doctrine should reshape how we live, fight sin, endure hardship, and serve with joy—because the victory over death is already won in Christ.

    Gifts That Build the Church (Part 2 of 2)

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 3, 2025 24:58


    Paul's vision for church gatherings is Spirit-filled but not chaotic, Christ-centered but also mindful of outsiders, and expressive but orderly. The true mark of spiritual worship is the building up of believers, the conversion of the lost, and the peaceable order that reflects God's nature. This matters because public worship is the heart of church life.

    Gifts That Build the Church (Part 1 of 2)

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 2, 2025 24:58


    Paul's vision for church gatherings is Spirit-filled but not chaotic, Christ-centered but also mindful of outsiders, and expressive but orderly. The true mark of spiritual worship is the building up of believers, the conversion of the lost, and the peaceable order that reflects God's nature. This matters because public worship is the heart of church life.

    True Love (Part 2 of 2)

    Play Episode Listen Later May 30, 2025 24:58


    Paul underscores the centrality of love: even the most impressive spiritual gifts or sacrificial acts are meaningless without it. Love is not about performance, status, or zeal without compassion. He warns that it is possible to be outwardly effective in ministry while being spiritually empty due to a lack of love.

    True Love (Part 1 of 2)

    Play Episode Listen Later May 29, 2025 24:58


    Paul underscores the centrality of love: even the most impressive spiritual gifts or sacrificial acts are meaningless without it. Love is not about performance, status, or zeal without compassion. He warns that it is possible to be outwardly effective in ministry while being spiritually empty due to a lack of love.

    Being the Body of Christ (Part 2 of 2)

    Play Episode Listen Later May 28, 2025 24:58


    Paul teaches that all Christians are united by the Holy Spirit through their confession that “Jesus is Lord.” This unity is expressed through diverse spiritual gifts, which differ in nature but are all meant “for the common good." Every believer, no matter how prominent or hidden their role, is indispensable.

    Being the Body of Christ (Part 1 of 2)

    Play Episode Listen Later May 27, 2025 24:58


    Paul teaches that all Christians are united by the Holy Spirit through their confession that “Jesus is Lord.” This unity is expressed through diverse spiritual gifts, which differ in nature but are all meant “for the common good." Every believer, no matter how prominent or hidden their role, is indispensable.

    Diversity and Unity in Worship (Part 2 of 2)

    Play Episode Listen Later May 26, 2025 24:58


    Paul addresses critical issues of unity and diversity within the church, focusing on gender distinctions and social divisions during worship gatherings. This chapter challenges believers to live counterculturally by honoring God's design for men and women, and by preserving the unity of the church community, especially in how they celebrate the Lord's Supper.

    Diversity and Unity in Worship (Part 1 of 2)

    Play Episode Listen Later May 23, 2025 24:58


    Paul addresses critical issues of unity and diversity within the church, focusing on gender distinctions and social divisions during worship gatherings. This chapter challenges believers to live counterculturally by honoring God's design for men and women, and by preserving the unity of the church community, especially in how they celebrate the Lord's Supper.

    Running to Win the Prize (Part 2 of 2)

    Play Episode Listen Later May 22, 2025 24:58


    In 1 Corinthians 10, Paul continues the theme introduced in chapter 9—running the Christian life with the goal of winning the eternal prize. Drawing imagery from the athletic contests familiar to his audience in Corinth, Paul exhorts believers to pursue the Christian life with discipline, intentionality, and spiritual vigilance. The ultimate goal, he reminds us, is not participation alone, but faithful perseverance leading to the gift of salvation.

    Running to Win the Prize (Part 1 of 2)

    Play Episode Listen Later May 21, 2025 24:58


    In 1 Corinthians 10, Paul continues the theme introduced in chapter 9—running the Christian life with the goal of winning the eternal prize. Drawing imagery from the athletic contests familiar to his audience in Corinth, Paul exhorts believers to pursue the Christian life with discipline, intentionality, and spiritual vigilance. The ultimate goal, he reminds us, is not participation alone, but faithful perseverance leading to the gift of salvation.

    Gospel Rights and Responsibilities (Part 2 of 2)

    Play Episode Listen Later May 20, 2025 24:58


    Here Paul teaches about Christian freedom and the responsibility to limit that freedom out of love for others and for the sake of the gospel. Using one's liberty without love can become a "stumbling block" to others, wounding their weaker consciences. True discipleship often means surrendering personal rights in order to build others up in faith and reflect the love of Christ.

    Gospel Rights and Responsibilities (Part 1 of 2)

    Play Episode Listen Later May 19, 2025 24:58


    Here Paul teaches about Christian freedom and the responsibility to limit that freedom out of love for others and for the sake of the gospel. Using one's liberty without love can become a "stumbling block" to others, wounding their weaker consciences. True discipleship often means surrendering personal rights in order to build others up in faith and reflect the love of Christ.

    Marriage and Singleness When the Time Is Short (Part 2 of 2)

    Play Episode Listen Later May 16, 2025 24:58


    The time is short—the Lord could return any day. How then shall we live? Do we downplay marriage and sexuality? No. We prize our marriages. We stay as we were when called, and we serve the Lord there. And in this passage we gain a new perspective on singleness—we see its special value for believers.

    Marriage and Singleness When the Time Is Short (Part 1 of 2)

    Play Episode Listen Later May 15, 2025 24:58


    The time is short—the Lord could return any day. How then shall we live? Do we downplay marriage and sexuality? No. We prize our marriages. We stay as we were when called, and we serve the Lord there. And in this passage we gain a new perspective on singleness—we see its special value for believers.

    Dealing with the Mess of Sin (Part 2 of 2)

    Play Episode Listen Later May 14, 2025 24:58


    We see the people's collective brokenness over their sin of intermarrying with unbelievers, leading to genuine repentance and decisive actions to address their wrongdoing. And the hope in God's forgiveness serves as a reality check that the consequences of sin often remain, urging us to turn from sin before it takes root.

    Dealing with the Mess of Sin (Part 1 of 2)

    Play Episode Listen Later May 13, 2025 24:58


    We see the people's collective brokenness over their sin of intermarrying with unbelievers, leading to genuine repentance and decisive actions to address their wrongdoing. And the hope in God's forgiveness serves as a reality check that the consequences of sin often remain, urging us to turn from sin before it takes root.

    The Disruptive Power of the Word of God (Part 2 of 2)

    Play Episode Listen Later May 12, 2025 24:58


    Ezra grieves as the returning exiles sin by intermarrying with non-Israelite peoples, leading to spiritual compromise. Here we find the ongoing need for repentance and reliance on God's abundant grace, pointing forward to the ultimate redemption found in Jesus Christ.

    The Disruptive Power of the Word of God (Part 1 of 2)

    Play Episode Listen Later May 9, 2025 24:58


    Ezra grieves as the returning exiles sin by intermarrying with non-Israelite peoples, leading to spiritual compromise. Here we find the ongoing need for repentance and reliance on God's abundant grace, pointing forward to the ultimate redemption found in Jesus Christ.

    The Good Hand of God (Part 2 of 2)

    Play Episode Listen Later May 8, 2025 24:58


    God's provision, guidance, and protection for His people is shown as Ezra leads a group of exiles on a perilous journey back to Jerusalem. Ezra models dependence on God through prayer and fasting, emphasizing the Lord's hand in ensuring their safe arrival.

    The Good Hand of God (Part 1 of 2)

    Play Episode Listen Later May 7, 2025 24:58


    God's provision, guidance, and protection for His people is shown as Ezra leads a group of exiles on a perilous journey back to Jerusalem. Ezra models dependence on God through prayer and fasting, emphasizing the Lord's hand in ensuring their safe arrival.

    The Teacher Who Brings Renewal (Part 2 of 2)

    Play Episode Listen Later May 6, 2025 24:58


    Ezra is described as one who studied, obeyed, and taught the Law of the Lord, demonstrating the qualities God uses to inspire transformation among His people. We see the importance of leaders with a heart for God's Word and a reliance on His divine provision to bring renewal and growth to His people.

    The Teacher Who Brings Renewal (Part 1 of 2)

    Play Episode Listen Later May 5, 2025 24:58


    Ezra is described as one who studied, obeyed, and taught the Law of the Lord, demonstrating the qualities God uses to inspire transformation among His people. We see the importance of leaders with a heart for God's Word and a reliance on His divine provision to bring renewal and growth to His people.

    The Lord's Purpose Prevails (Part 2 of 2)

    Play Episode Listen Later May 2, 2025 24:58


    The faithfulness of God is shown as the temple rebuilding is completed after years of opposition. We see the people worshipping and joyfully celebrating, reminding us that God's purposes prevail not only for the accomplishment of tasks but ultimately for His people's worship and His glory.

    The Lord's Purpose Prevails (Part 1 of 2)

    Play Episode Listen Later May 1, 2025 24:58


    The faithfulness of God is shown as the temple rebuilding is completed after years of opposition. We see the people worshipping and joyfully celebrating, reminding us that God's purposes prevail not only for the accomplishment of tasks but ultimately for His people's worship and His glory.

    When Trouble Comes Knocking (Part 2 of 2)

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 30, 2025 24:58


    The deception, discouragement, and accusations from adversaries that the returned exiles faced while rebuilding the temple reminds us to expect challenges when serving God. Despite setbacks, God's purposes will ultimately prevail.

    When Trouble Comes Knocking (Part 1 of 2)

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 29, 2025 24:58


    The deception, discouragement, and accusations from adversaries that the returned exiles faced while rebuilding the temple reminds us to expect challenges when serving God. Despite setbacks, God's purposes will ultimately prevail.

    First Things First (Part 2 of 2)

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 28, 2025 24:58


    In Ezra 3, we see the rebuilding of the altar and the laying of the temple's foundation after the exiles returned to Jerusalem. The people, unified and humbled by their experiences, prioritized worship over construction, reestablishing sacrifices to address sin and draw near to God.

    First Things First (Part 1 of 2)

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 25, 2025 24:58


    In Ezra 3, we see the rebuilding of the altar and the laying of the temple's foundation after the exiles returned to Jerusalem. The people, unified and humbled by their experiences, prioritized worship over construction, reestablishing sacrifices to address sin and draw near to God.

    Who Is Ultimately in Control (Part 2 of 2)

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 24, 2025 24:58


    In the beginning of Ezra, God's sovereignty is demonstrated in fulfilling His promises. Despite Judah's long exile, God stirred King Cyrus of Persia to issue a decree allowing the Israelites to return to Jerusalem and rebuild the temple.

    Who Is Ultimately in Control? (Part 1 of 2)

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 23, 2025 24:58


    In the beginning of Ezra, God's sovereignty is demonstrated in fulfilling His promises. Despite Judah's long exile, God stirred King Cyrus of Persia to issue a decree allowing the Israelites to return to Jerusalem and rebuild the temple.

    The God of Persistent Faithfulness (Part 2 of 2)

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 22, 2025 24:58


    The final chapter of 2 Chronicles sets the stage for our study in Ezra. Despite repeated warnings from prophets, the people mocked God's messengers, leading to judgment. However, God's faithfulness shines as He fulfills His promises of restoration, reminding us of the hope found in God's relentless grace.

    The God of Persistent Faithfulness (Part 1 of 2)

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 21, 2025 24:58


    The final chapter of 2 Chronicles sets the stage for our study in Ezra. Despite repeated warnings from prophets, the people mocked God's messengers, leading to judgment. However, God's faithfulness shines as He fulfills His promises of restoration, reminding us of the hope found in God's relentless grace.

    The Risen King (Part 2 of 2)

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 18, 2025 24:58


    Death could not hold this King. He is risen to reign. John tells us that he has given us this written record of Jesus' life, death, and resurrection for a specific purpose: that we may believe and have life in his name. Will you accept this offer of life in Jesus' name?

    The Risen King (Part 1 of 2)

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 17, 2025 24:58


    Death could not hold this King. He is risen to reign. John tells us that he has given us this written record of Jesus' life, death, and resurrection for a specific purpose: that we may believe and have life in his name. Will you accept this offer of life in Jesus' name?

    The Crucified King (Part 2 of 2)

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 16, 2025 24:58


    Jesus is crucified under the charge that he is King of the Jews. In deepest irony, this charge is proved true. Jesus fulfills the words of Psalm 22—and dies as the Messiah of Israel and Saviour of the world. Do you recognize who he is and what he has done for you? Does it move you to know that this King willingly suffered in your place?

    The Crucified King (Part 1 of 2)

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 15, 2025 24:58


    Jesus is crucified under the charge that he is King of the Jews. In deepest irony, this charge is proved true. Jesus fulfills the words of Psalm 22—and dies as the Messiah of Israel and Saviour of the world. Do you recognize who he is and what he has done for you? Does it move you to know that this King willingly suffered in your place?

    Who Is the True King (Part 2 of 2)

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 14, 2025 24:58


    Pilate views himself as the king as he tries Jesus, but we see that Jesus is the real King, whose kingdom is not of this world. Jesus proves by his words and deeds that he speaks the truth and is indeed, the way, the truth and the life. Do you recognize the truth of who Jesus is? Will you submit to the authority of this King?

    Who Is the True King? (Part 1 of 2)

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 11, 2025 24:58


    Pilate views himself as the king as he tries Jesus, but we see that Jesus is the real King, whose kingdom is not of this world. Jesus proves by his words and deeds that he speaks the truth and is indeed, the way, the truth and the life. Do you recognize the truth of who Jesus is? Will you submit to the authority of this King?

    The Experience of Life (Part 2 of 2)

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 10, 2025 24:58


    Because Jesus has died for our sins and risen again, we can be born again and receive the Spirit. The is the great open invitation and offer of Easter.

    The Experience of Life (Part 1 of 2)

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 9, 2025 24:58


    Because Jesus has died for our sins and risen again, we can be born again and receive the Spirit. The is the great open invitation and offer of Easter.

    The Victory of Life (Part 2 of 2)

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 8, 2025 24:58


    Our hope hinges on the resurrection of Jesus. If he has not been raised, then our hope is futile. But, praise God, Jesus has in fact been raised from the dead—and we are a people of hope!

    The Victory of Life (Part 1 of 2)

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 7, 2025 24:58


    Our hope hinges on the resurrection of Jesus. If he has not been raised, then our hope is futile. But, praise God, Jesus has in fact been raised from the dead—and we are a people of hope!

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