Mavericks & Misfits with Jeff Lyle

Episode 245: Sit Down with Alexander PaganiRecently, Jeff Lyle spent some time in the studio with best-selling author and deliverance minister, Alexander Pagani. Their discussion helps Mavericks and Misfits audience members in multiple ways. In this powerful discussion, we are led into a discussion concerning the transformative power of reformation in the Church. The key message revolves around the three R's: Repentance, Reformation, and Revival. Jeff and Alexander challenge us to embrace change not as critics or revolutionaries, but as reformers who enhance systems rather than destroy them. The tribe of Asher is highlighted as a biblical example of continuous favor and legacy, reminding us that God desires to bless His people abundantly. This message encourages us to seek 'food fit for kings' - high-level revelatory teachings that nourish our spirits deeply above the level of constant milk which is more fit for spiritual infants. As we reflect on our own walk with God, we are prompted to consider: Are we truly embracing Holy Spirit led reformation in our lives and churches? Are we seeking the deeper truths God wants to reveal to us? This episode inspires us to pursue a faith that is both grounded in scripture and open to the fresh move of the Spirit.

Episode 244 - What Will Antichrist Do?In this powerful, scriptural exploration of the Antichrist, Mavericks & misfits subscribers are reminded of the critical importance of staying vigilant in our faith. The discussion delves into Revelation 13 and 2 Thessalonians 2, painting a vivid picture of the end times. This episode challenges us to consider how our current spiritual commitments reflect our readiness for future trials. Are we living out our faith authentically now, or merely presuming we'll stand firm when real persecution comes to the whole earth? This message urges us to deepen our relationship with Christ daily, emphasizing that our ability to resist future deception hinges on our present devotion. It's a wake-up call to live out the Great Commission, serve others, and carry our cross daily - not just in words, but in tangible actions that reflect Christ's love.

Episode 243: He Is Not the AntichristRecently a man arose into the public eye, declaring himself to be the fulfillment of prophecies from Judaism, Islam, and Christianity. In short, he has self-titled as the Messiah. This aggressive statement sent ripples into people from all three religions. Should we even consider this on any level? Some Christians believe that this man is the Antichrist. In this episode of Mavericks & Misfits, we take an exploration of end-time prophecy as we delve into the biblical understanding of the Antichrist. The discussion centers on key passages from 1 John, 2 Thessalonians, and Revelation, painting a vivid picture of this future global deceiver. We learn that the Antichrist will be an individual who opposes God, exalts himself, and seeks worldwide worship. This serves as a sobering reminder of the spiritual warfare that surrounds us, even now. As believers, we're called to stay vigilant, grounded in Scripture, and committed to Christ, preparing our hearts now for the challenges that will come at a rapid clip as we get closer to the end of this age. This message urges us to examine our faith, ensuring it's not just superficial, but deep-rooted and able to withstand future trials. It also gives a direct answer to why this man is definitely not the Antichrist.

Episode 242: Combatting Spiritual FatigueIn our journey of faith, we often encounter seasons of weariness and spiritual fatigue. This podcast episode reminds us that God's design includes rest, as exemplified in Genesis 2 and the Sabbath commandment. We're encouraged to view rest not just as physical relaxation, but as a divine gift to renew our strength in the Lord. The powerful words of Isaiah 40:28-31 assure us that those who wait on the Lord will renew their strength. Similarly, Jesus' invitation in Matthew 11:28-30 to take His yoke upon us promises rest for our souls. As we navigate busy lives, we're challenged to find Jesus' 'easy yoke and light burden' amidst our responsibilities. Today, on Mavericks & Misfits, Jeff urges us to persevere in doing good, maintain fellowship with believers, and combat anxiety through prayer and thanksgiving. By embracing these spiritual practices, we can find renewal and peace that surpasses understanding, even in the midst of life's demands.

Episode 241: Here's What's HappeningIn this episode of the Mavericks & misfits Podcast, we're challenged to step up and take our place in God's Kingdom. The central theme revolves around our identity as both sons/daughters and also as servants of God. While we rest in our identity as children of God, we're also called to put on our 'work gloves' and actively participate in building His Kingdom. This dual nature reflects Jesus' own example - He was the Son of God, yet came to serve. We're reminded of Moses at the burning bush - a moment of holy communion, followed by active obedience. This episode urges us to move beyond perpetual criticism or passive spirituality, and instead commit to long-term, faithful service in our local churches. It's a call to endurance, to push through seasons of dryness and difficulty, knowing that joy and fruitfulness await those who persevere. This teaching is deeply relevant to our faith journey, pushing us out of our comfort zones and into the adventurous life Christ has called us to live.

Episode 240: Third-Heaven EncountersIn our spiritual journey, we often hear claims of extraordinary experiences with God, such as visits to the 'third heaven'. This message challenges us to approach these testimonies with discernment, rooted in biblical truth. We explore key passages like Daniel 10, Isaiah 6, and 2 Corinthians 12, where encounters with God left individuals profoundly changed - humbled, awestruck, and often physically affected. These biblical accounts remind us that genuine divine encounters transform us fundamentally, increasing our humility and love for God while decreasing our ego. As we navigate our faith, let's seek truth above sensationalism, remembering that God's grace and His Word are sufficient for our spiritual growth. This message encourages us to desire authentic encounters with God, but to also be content with His presence in our daily lives, trusting His wisdom in how He chooses to reveal Himself to us.

Episode 239: Let This Rock YouAt the heart of our faith lies a profound truth that we often overlook: the incredible exchange that took place on the cross. 2 Corinthians 5:21 reveals this staggering reality - Christ, who knew no sin, became sin for us so that we might become the righteousness of God. This isn't just theological jargon; it's a life-altering truth that should grip our hearts daily. Have we truly grasped the depths of Christ's sacrifice? The sinless One took on the full weight of our depravity, facing not just physical torment, but the spiritual agony of separation from the Father. In return, we receive His perfect righteousness. This undeserved grace should transform how we view ourselves, our struggles, and our purpose. Let's challenge ourselves to meditate on this truth, allowing it to strip away our self-centeredness and ignite a passion to live wholly for the One who gave everything for us.

Episode 238: Getting Fit & Going HighAre we vessels of honor or dishonor in God's house? In this episode of the Mavericks & Misfits Podcast Jeff Lyle unpacks 2 Timothy 2 and challenges us to examine our spiritual lives. The Apostle Paul uses the metaphor of vessels in a home to represent believers in God's household. Some vessels are for honorable use, while others are for dishonorable purposes. This imagery prompts us to consider: what fills our hearts and lives? Are we allowing 'waste' to accumulate, or are we actively pursuing holiness? The call to 'cleanse ourselves from what is dishonorable isn't about perfection, but intentional and powerful spiritual growth. It's a reminder that spiritual maturity doesn't happen by accident – it requires our proactive cooperation with God's work in us. As we purify our hearts and minds, we become more useful to the Master, ready for every good work He has prepared for us. This message urges us to take our spiritual development seriously, recognizing that our choices and attitudes directly impact our effectiveness in God's Kingdom.

Episode 237: Flee, Follow & FightIn this episode of the Mavericks & Misfits Podcast, Jeff Lyle challenges us to examine our approach to faith and controversy within the Christian community. Drawing from 1 Timothy 6:11-12, we are given three crucial directives: Flee, Follow, and Fight. Scripture calls believers to flee from unhealthy controversy and pointless debates that often plague online Christian discourse. Instead, Jesus-followers are called to follow after righteousness, godliness, faith, love, steadfastness, and gentleness. This pursuit of Christ-like character is presented as far more valuable than winning arguments. The final directive, to 'fight the good fight of faith,' reminds us that our true battle is not against fellow believers, but against spiritual forces of evil. This episode compels us to reflect on how we spend our time and energy as Christians. Are we building up the body of Christ or tearing it down through needless quarrels? It challenges us to prioritize spiritual growth, discipleship, and the advancement of God's kingdom over the temporary satisfaction of proving ourselves right in debates.

Episode 236: The Hour of Trouble & TrialIn our darkest hours, we often find the brightest opportunities for spiritual growth. This episode of the Mavericks & Misfits Podcast explores the Apostle Paul's imprisonment, as described in Philippians 1:12-18, revealing how even our most challenging trials can advance God's Kingdom. Paul's unwavering faith in the face of adversity teaches us that our struggles aren't just personal battles, but powerful platforms for God's glory. When we adopt a Kingdom perspective, we begin to see our trials not as setbacks, but as setups for God's greater purpose. This shift in mindset allows us to find joy amidst suffering, knowing that our endurance can inspire others and further the gospel. As we navigate our own valleys of trouble, let's remember that our response to hardship can be a powerful testimony, emboldening fellow believers and reaching those who might never hear the gospel otherwise.

Episode 235: Do We Submit to Human Authority?In a world that often rebels against authority, we're challenged to examine our own attitudes and behaviors. The truths from 1 Peter 2 remind us that submission to authority isn't just a suggestion - it's a biblical mandate. We are called to honor everyone, from government officials to workplace supervisors, even when we disagree with them. This isn't about blind obedience, but about trusting God's sovereignty in establishing authorities. The key is to maintain our integrity and do good, even when facing unjust treatment. By doing so, we silence critics and reflect Christ's character. This message invites us to shift our perspective: instead of focusing on the flaws of those in authority, we're encouraged to see submission as an opportunity to honor God and grow in our faith.

Episode 234: 6 Marks of Genuine SalvationAre we truly saved? This profound question challenges us to examine our faith through six essential marks of genuine salvation found in the little book of 1st John. We are called to not just believe the truth, but to live it out daily. Our walk should reflect the light of Christ, not the darkness of the world. Obedience isn't just an option; it's a hallmark of authentic faith. The way we love others, especially fellow believers, speaks volumes about our relationship with God. As we grow in sanctification, our hearts should increasingly reject worldly values and embrace holiness. Perhaps most encouragingly, we are reminded in this episode of Mavericks & Misfits that true believers are overcomers - not immune to spiritual warfare, but victorious through enduring faith. This episode urges us to look beyond surface-level religiosity and dive deep into the transformative power of genuine salvation. Genuine salvation will evidence itself in genuine transformation.

Episode 233: What Unplugs Your Prayer LifeToday's episode of Mavericks & Misfits takes us into an exploration of prayer - we intentionally delve into the often-overlooked reasons why our prayers might go unanswered. Drawing from scriptures like Psalm 66:18 and Isaiah 59:2, we are reminded that sin and iniquity can create a barrier between us and God, hindering our prayers. This isn't about guilt, but about understanding the profound connection between our daily lives and our spiritual communion. We are challenged to examine our hearts, our relationships, and even our speech patterns. Are we harboring bitterness? Are we honoring our spouses? Are our words aligned with God's love? These questions aren't just about morality; they are about cultivating a lifestyle that keeps our prayer-lanes unobstructed and open. As we reflect on these insights, we are invited to pursue a deeper level of personal consecration, not just for the sake of answered prayers, but for a richer, more authentic relationship with our King.

Episode 232: Escaping Toil, Pressure & FrustrationIn our spiritual journey, we often encounter seasons of toil, frustration, and emptiness. This episode of Mavericks & Misfits delves into the story of Peter's miraculous catch of fish in Luke 5, revealing a profound truth: our breakthrough isn't about the 'fish' we catch, but about welcoming Jesus into our 'boat.' When we're feeling stuck or unproductive in our faith, the answer isn't to try harder or look within ourselves for solutions. Instead, we're called to simply invite Jesus into our situation, surrender control, and trust His timing. This shift in focus from our own efforts to Christ's presence can transform our perspective, leading to unexpected blessings and a deeper understanding of our purpose in God's kingdom. As we learn to prioritize our relationship with Jesus over visible results, we open ourselves to true spiritual growth and fulfillment.

Episode 231: Doubting God's GoodnessHas God been good to you? Is God good to you right now? Do you have an expectation of God's goodness to you for the future? In this episode of the Mavericks & Misfits podcast, we are challenged to confront our doubts about God's goodness, especially during difficult times. The key scripture explored is Isaiah 54:2-3, where God exhorts His people to 'enlarge the place of your tent' and to 'lengthen your cords.' This passage, originally directed at ancient Israel, carries a profound message for us today: God wants us to prepare for growth, abundance, and His favor, even when we feel undeserving. Jeff Lyle draws credible parallels between Israel's rebellion and our own struggles with sin, reminding us that God's love and compassion persist even through seasons of His discipline. This message challenges us to shift our perspective from a works-based relationship with God to one rooted in His unconditional love and grace. As we journey in faith, we are encouraged to combat the enemy's accusations and embrace God's promises of restoration and blessing, regardless of our past failures or current circumstances.

Episode 230: Before You Take Off Your ArmorIn this episode of Mavericks & Misfits, we examine the undiagnosed issue of pride and arrogance in many Christians' hearts., We are challenged to examine our own hearts, and to confront the subtle ways we may be living with undiagnosed presumption. Drawing from the story of King Ahab and Ben-Hadad in 1 Kings 20, we are reminded of the danger of boasting before the battle has even begun. The key phrase, 'Let not him who straps on his armor boast of himself as he who takes off his armor,' serves as a wake-up call to our often complacent faith. This message urges us to consider how our cultural context, particularly in prosperous nations, may have bred a false sense of invincibility in our spiritual lives. We're encouraged to embrace the biblical truths of suffering, self-denial, and humility as essential components of authentic discipleship. By confronting our latent arrogance and hyper-victorious mentality, we can cultivate a more genuine, battle-ready faith that's prepared for the spiritual warfare we face daily.

Episode 229: The Salted Slug in the ChurchIn this episode of Mavericks & Misfits, we're challenged to confront a crucial aspect of our faith that's often overlooked in modern Christianity: the necessity of repentance. The central theme revolves around Jesus' words in Luke 13:3, 'Unless you repent, you will all likewise perish.' We're reminded that this hard truth, though uncomfortable, is an essential part of the gospel message. Jeff uses the vivid analogy of a 'salted slug' to illustrate how the church has tried to dissolve this challenging doctrine. However, we're called to resurrect this vital teaching, recognizing that true love often means speaking difficult truths. As we reflect on this, we're encouraged to examine our own faith journeys. Are we embracing a full gospel that includes repentance, or have we settled for a watered-down version that avoids confronting sin? This message urges us to stand firm in biblical truth, even when it's countercultural, and to lovingly share the complete gospel message with others.

Episode 228: Resentment, Anger & Bitterness: Get it FixedIn this powerful message, we're challenged to confront a critical aspect of our spiritual lives: unresolved anger and conflict. The teaching draws from Jesus' words in Matthew 5:21-24, where He equates anger with murder in God's eyes. This radical perspective forces us to reevaluate how we handle our relationships, especially within the church. We're reminded that forgiveness isn't optional for believers; it's a fundamental reflection of Christ's nature within us. The message emphasizes that our vertical relationship with God is directly impacted by our horizontal relationships with others. Are we willing to leave our gift at the altar and reconcile with our brother before we worship? This teaching calls us to examine our hearts, confront our bitterness, and take courageous steps towards reconciliation, even when it's uncomfortable. It's a wake-up call to prioritize relational health in our spiritual journey, recognizing that our treatment of others directly reflects our relationship with God.

Episode 227: Too Strong for GodAre we too strong for our own good? This thought-provoking message challenges our desire for constant victory and strength, reminding us that God sometimes allows weakness in our lives for a greater purpose. The story of King Uzziah in 2 Chronicles 26 serves as a powerful warning about the dangers of pride that can come with uninterrupted success. As long as Uzziah sought the Lord, he prospered, but when he became strong, he grew proud and fell. This narrative invites us to examine our own hearts: Are we relying on our own strength or on God's grace? It's a call to cultivate humility and maintain a posture of dependence on God, even in our moments of triumph. We're encouraged to see our weaknesses not as obstacles, but as opportunities for God's power to be perfected in us.

Episode 226: Birthright, Destiny & RewardAs we step into 2025, we're called to reflect on our spiritual birthright and the choices that shape our destiny. The story of Jacob and Esau from Genesis 25 serves as a powerful reminder of how easily we can trade our God-given inheritance for temporary satisfaction. Esau's decision to sell his birthright for a bowl of stew symbolizes the danger of prioritizing immediate gratification over eternal rewards. This narrative challenges us to examine our daily decisions: Are we choosing the path that leads to our spiritual destiny, or are we settling for 'bowls of stew' that satisfy only for a moment? We're reminded that our inheritance in Christ is not just about salvation, but about the rewards we earn through faithful living. Let's be intentional about evaluating our choices, resisting the pull of temporary pleasures, and staying focused on the eternal value of our actions. As we navigate the obstacles of life, may we hold fast to our identity as children of God, refusing to compromise our birthright for fleeting worldly gains.

Episode 225: Four Kingdom SeasonsAs we embark on a new year, let's reflect on four distinct spiritual seasons that shape our faith journey. Drawing wisdom from Joshua 5, we're reminded of the Season of Purging, where God lovingly disciplines us to remove doubt and unbelief. This challenging time prepares us for the promised land ahead. Next, we enter a Season of Consecration, symbolized by the Israelites' males circumcision before attempting to in inherit the land of promise. Here, we're called to intentionally set ourselves apart for God's purposes, allowing Him to heal our wounds and strengthen our faith. The Season of Contemplation follows, where we pause to remember God's faithfulness, just as the Israelites celebrated Passover before conquering Jericho. Finally, we reach the Season of Receiving, where we enjoy the fruits of our spiritual labor and God's promises. These seasons remind us that our journey with God is dynamic, purposeful, and ultimately rewarding. As we navigate these phases, let's embrace each season with patience and faith, knowing that God is shaping us for His glory.

Episode 223: Upside Down ChristmasAs we approach the Christmas season, we're invited to reflect on the profound paradox of Christ's birth. The Gospel of Luke presents us with a seemingly ordinary event - a child born in humble circumstances. Yet this birth represents the most extraordinary moment in human history: God becoming man. We're challenged to look beyond the sentimentality often associated with the nativity and recognize the raw, messy reality of Jesus' birth. This serves as a powerful reminder of Christ's willingness to fully embrace the human experience, from the vulnerability of infancy to the agony of the cross. The imagery of the King of Kings being wrapped in simple swaddling clothes and laid in a manger speaks volumes about God's nature and His plan for redemption. As we contemplate this, we're called to emulate Christ's humility in our own lives, recognizing that true greatness often comes through lowering ourselves in service to others.

Episode 222: The Blasphemy of the Holy SpiritIn the most recent episode of Mavericks & Misfits, we encounter a powerful exploration of the unpardonable sin as we delve into the depths of Jesus' teaching on the blasphemy against the Holy Spirit. The central passage, found in Matthew 12, reveals a profound spiritual truth: while all sins can be forgiven, there's one that stands apart, and Jesus declared that this sin will not be forgiven in this age or the one to come. As we unpack this concept, we're challenged to consider the gravity of repeatedly and willfully attributing the work of Holy Spirit to Satan. This isn't about a momentary lapse or theological misunderstanding, but a hardened heart that persistently rejects the Holy Spirit's ways, works, and revelation. We are reminded of the crucial role the Holy Spirit plays in our salvation journey - convicting us of sin and granting us the ability to repent. This message serves as both a sobering warning and a call to remain sensitive to the Spirit's work in our lives. As we reflect on this teaching, we're encouraged to approach God's work with humility and openness, recognizing that His ways may sometimes challenge our preconceptions.

Episode 221: Getting Free From the Spirit of FearIn this episode of Mavericks & Misfits, we are confronted with the reality of spiritual warfare and the dangerous possibility of the spirit of fear in our lives. The central theme revolves around Deuteronomy 20:8, which warns us about the contagious nature of any fear we might be carrying inside. We're reminded that God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power, love, and a sound mind (2 Timothy 1:7). The testimony from 2022 of the dove and the vultures on the grounds of Antioch Outpost serves as a poignant metaphor for the spiritual battles we face, highlighting how periods of peace can be followed by intense spiritual attacks. This message challenges us to recognize fear as a spiritual issue, not just an emotional one, and encourages us to seek deliverance and freedom. We're called to examine our hearts, confront our fears, and consider how our spiritual state affects those around us. The ultimate goal is to live in the fullness of faith, free from the bondage of fear, so we can fulfill our divine purpose and positively impact others.

Episode 220: The Greatest QuestionIn this episode of Mavericks & Misfits, we delve into the true meaning of eternal life and what it means to genuinely know Christ. The passage reveals that eternal life isn't just about believing facts about Jesus, but about having an intimate, transformative relationship with Him. We're challenged to examine our hearts and ask: do we truly know Jesus, or are even we possibly going through religious motions? This message reminds us that many people, even those who appear to be doing good works in Jesus' name, may be shocked to find they never truly knew Him. It's a call for us to move beyond surface-level faith and into a deep, surrendered relationship with Christ. As we reflect on this, we're encouraged to approach God humbly, asking Him to reveal any areas where we may be falling short of true intimacy with Him. This teaching invites us to simplify our faith, focusing on what truly matters - knowing and being known by Jesus.

Episode 219: What Is Driving You?In our spiritual journey, we often face the challenge of aligning our emotions, thoughts, and will with God's truth. This episode of Mavericks & Misfits delves into Colossians 3:1-2, urging us to 'seek the things that are above' and 'set our minds on things above, not on earthly things.' It's a powerful reminder that as Christians, we're called to intentionally focus our thoughts on Christ and His kingdom. Jeff Lyle emphasizes that discipleship requires discipline - it's not accidental, but a conscious choice we make daily. By developing a mind centered on Kingdom truth, we can better discern deception and maintain our peace, even when our emotions fluctuate. This lesson challenges us to examine what's driving our lives: is it our ever-changing feelings, our analytical minds, or our Holy Spirit-empowered will? As we reflect on this, we're encouraged to surrender our will to God, allowing Him to guide us beyond the limitations of our emotions and intellect.

Episode 218: When Do We Expose Them?In a world where spiritual leaders sometimes fall from grace, how do we navigate our faith journey with discernment? This powerful episode of Mavericks & Misfits delves into the challenging terrain of suspicion and skepticism in Christian ministry. Drawing wisdom from Acts 5, we're reminded of Gamaliel's counsel to 'leave them alone' if a movement is truly of God. This teaches us the importance of humility in our judgments, and the need to trust in God's ultimate discernment. Today's podcast challenges us to examine our own hearts first, focusing on rooting out bitterness, cynicism, and unwarranted suspicion. It's a call to balance healthy discernment with a recognition that God often uses imperfect vessels for His perfect purposes. As we wrestle with these truths, we're encouraged to pray for wisdom, seek God's guidance, and resist the temptation to become crusaders against every perceived flaw in ministry.

Episode 217: Going On Record About the ElectionIn our spiritual journey, we often face the challenge of aligning our emotions, thoughts, and will with God's truth. As we approach a critical moment in our nation's history, we're called to reflect deeply on our values and how they align with our faith. This message challenges us to consider the sanctity of life and the profound responsibility we bear as Christians in shaping our society. The central theme revolves around protecting the unborn, drawing parallels to biblical accounts of child sacrifice to false gods like Molech. We're reminded of God's judgment on nations, including ancient Israel, for such practices – and we are called to consider how God would ever let America escape the same judgment. This isn't just about politics; it's about standing for God's creation and His image in every human life. As believers, we must ask ourselves: How will we account for our choices before God? Are we truly living out our faith in all aspects of our lives, including our civic duties? This message urges us to courageously stand for biblical principles, even when it's uncomfortable or unpopular. It's a call to align our votes with our values and to be unashamed in defending the vulnerable.

Episode 209: 3 Prophetic QuestionsJesus once asked his closest followers three vital questions. From those three questions found in Mark 8:18, we are able today to draw out three priorities that all modern believers should be considering. With the global chaos and biblical signs of the end of the age happening right in front of us, there is no option to be a passive spectator. These three ancient prophetic questions from Jesus can serve as a catalyst for our own present journeys in the faith. Time is of the essence, and we cannot afford to wake up late.

Episode 215: When Holy Spirit Gifts CeaseIn this final look at spiritual gifts, we delve into the heart of a controversial topic that challenges our understanding of God's ongoing work in the world. The debate revolves around the continuation of the Holy Spirit's gifts in modern times, urging us to reconsider any preconceived notions we might hold. By examining 1 Corinthians 13 and the prophecy of Joel 2, we're invited to see how these spiritual gifts are intricately tied to the second coming of Christ. This perspective encourages us to remain open and proactive about the supernatural workings of God in our lives today. As we reflect on this, we're challenged to ask ourselves: are we limiting God's power in our lives by disbelieving in these gifts? How might our faith and ministry be transformed if we embraced the full spectrum of Holy Spirit's work? This episode of Mavericks & Misfits calls us to a deeper, more experiential faith that goes beyond mere intellectual assent.

Episode 214: How Is Prophetic Ministry Released?In this episode of mavericks & misfits, we delve into the fascinating world of New Testament prophecy, exploring its purpose and proper use within the church. The key message is that prophecy, when used correctly, builds up, encourages, and consoles believers. We are reminded of 1 Corinthians 14:3-4, which emphasizes that prophecy is for a believer's edification. This gift is not primarily about predicting doomsday events or setting dates for the end times, but rather about speaking God's heart into situations and lives. We are challenged to pursue this gift earnestly, as Paul instructs, but also to test every prophetic word against Scripture. Toward the end of the podcast, the parallel drawn between clear streams of water and destructive flows of lava reminds us that true prophecy should refresh and nourish, not burn and destroy. As we reflect on this, let's consider how we can cultivate a healthy prophetic culture in our churches, one that honors God and builds up the body of Christ.

Episode 213: Prophecy- What It Is & What It Isn'tIn our journey of faith, we often encounter the profound mystery of spiritual gifts and, particularly, prophecy generates much debate among Christians. This episode of Mavericks & Misfits challenges us to reconsider our understanding of prophetic ministry in the New Testament era. We are reminded that while Old Testament prophecy carried the full weight of divine authority, the New Testament gift of prophecy requires discernment and testing within the community of believers. This shift emphasizes our collective responsibility in stewarding this particular spiritual gift. The Apostle Paul's exhortation in 1 Thessalonians 5:20-21 becomes our guiding principle: 'Do not despise prophecies, but test everything; hold fast what is good.' This teaching invites us to embrace the prophetic with wisdom, encouraging a balanced approach that neither rejects nor blindly accepts every prophetic word as unquestionably being sent from God. As we navigate this delicate terrain, we are called to cultivate a spirit of discernment, rooted in Scripture and guided by the Holy Spirit, fostering a mature and responsible engagement with prophetic ministry in our contemporary faith communities.

Episode 211: Supernatural Powers of Healings & MiraclesIn this exploration of spiritual gifts, we delve into the complex and often misunderstood realms of healing and miracles. Today's episode challenges us to examine our beliefs about these two gifts of the Spirit, urging us to find a balance between robust faith and specific biblical understanding about what these gifts are and how they are used. We're reminded that while the gifts of healings (plural in the original Greek) and miracles are real and available today, yet they don't always manifest as we expect. The examples of Paul, who healed many but also had ministry partners that were not instantly healed, teach us humility and dependence on God's will and the need for growing faith. This episode also encourages us to pursue these two gifts earnestly, but also to approach them with wisdom, avoiding both skepticism and presumption. It's a call to deepen our faith while remaining grounded in Scripture, reminding us that our ultimate goal is to grow closer to Jesus, not primarily to possess supernatural powers.

Episode 210: Words of Wisdom, Knowledge & FaithToday, we jump back into three powerful gifts of the Holy Spirit: the word of wisdom, the word of knowledge, and the gift of faith. These gifts are not meant for personal gain or recognition, but for the common good of the body of Christ. The word of wisdom brings divine insight into complex situations, as demonstrated in Acts 15 when Peter addressed the Jerusalem council. The word of knowledge supernaturally reveals information about others, often paired with wisdom to minister effectively. Finally, the gift of faith is described as an endowment of unwavering trust in God's promises. Jeff shares about how these three gifts flow in a few individuals with whom he ministers. We are all encouraged to earnestly desire these gifts, recognizing that they all operate by faith and are meant to edify the church. Pay special attention to what is shared about the gift of faith as it is the gift that empowers the use of all the other gifts.

Episode 210: Private, Personal Praying in TonguesIn this exploration of the gift of tongues, we delve into the profound spiritual practice of praying in the Spirit. The apostle Paul's teachings in 1 Corinthians 14 illuminate the distinction between private and public use of tongues. We learn that praying in tongues bypasses our intellect, allowing the Holy Spirit to intercede through us according to God's will. This practice requires humility and faith, as we surrender our need for understanding and control. By embracing this gift, we can experience a deeper partnership and intimacy with God, and also the edification of our own spirit. This episode of mavericks & Misfits challenges us to step out of our comfort zones and pursue this spiritual gift, reminding us that it's a journey of growth and faith.

Episode 209: The Fight Over TonguesIn this powerful exploration of the gift of tongues, we delve into the heart of a controversial yet vital aspect of Christian life, discipleship, and ministry. Today's episode emphasizes that tongues, far from being obsolete, remain a relevant and transformative gift for believers today. We're challenged to examine our preconceptions and to open ourselves up to the supernatural workings of the Holy Spirit. Today's podcast draws from key passages in Acts and 1 Corinthians, illustrating how tongues manifested differently yet consistently throughout early church history. This diversity reminds us that God's ways often transcend our limited understanding, calling us to faith beyond intellectual reasoning. As we contemplate the three types of tongues - prayer, praise, and prophetic - we're invited to embrace a deeper, more mysterious dimension of our relationship with God. This episode of Mavericks & Misfits encourages us to step out of our comfort zones and into a realm where the Spirit edifies us in ways our minds cannot fully comprehend.

Episode 208: What If We Were Taught Error About the Gifts?As we continue to explore the gifts of the Holy Spirit on Mavericks & Misfits, we are challenged in this episode to reconsider our understanding of the Holy Spirit's active role in our lives today. Spiritual gifts are not just a theological debate, but a vital aspect of our Christian walk. The Bible alone must settle the ongoing debate about the modern validity of spiritual gifts. This teaching encourages us to study Scripture with an open mind, seeking God's truth rather than relying solely on denominational teachings. We are called to earnestly desire spiritual gifts – that has to mean something! Whoever reached you first with their teachings on Holy Spirit gifts is likely the source of what you still believe today. But what if you were taught error? This episode invites us to examine our own beliefs and practices, challenging us to grow in our understanding and use of spiritual gifts for the benefit of the Body of Christ.

Episode 207: The Gifts of the SpiritIn this latest episode of Mavericks & Misfits, we are challenged to reconsider our understanding of the gifts of the Holy Spirit. The core teaching comes from 1 Corinthians 12, where Paul emphasizes that spiritual gifts are given to each believer for the common good of the church. We are reminded that these gifts aren't just for a select few or limited to a specific time in history, but are meant for all believers today. Or are they? Many Jesus-loving, Kingdom-advancing Christians emphatically deny that Holy Spirit gifts continue today. This episode encourages us to embrace both the Word of God and the gifts of the Spirit, rather than choosing between them ourselves or forcing others to do so. As we reflect on this, we're invited to examine our own beliefs and ask ourselves: Are we fully embracing all that God has for us through His Spirit?

Episode 206: The Waiting SeasonIn this exploration of waiting seasons, we are reminded that God's timing is often different from our own. This episode emphasizes that waiting isn't about inactivity, but about faithful service and character development. We're encouraged to embrace these seasons as opportunities for growth, learning to trust in God's perfect plan. Jeff draws from the words of Jesus in Luke 21:19, 'In your patience possess your souls,' highlighting the spiritual importance of endurance and steadfastness. This message challenges us to shift our focus from seeking immediate success to developing Christ-like character, reminding us that our ultimate calling is to become more like Jesus.

Episode 205: Why I Vote ConservativeNeither political party in America perfectly represents Christian values. We won't be electing a Messiah in 2024. Yet, to vote is to give expression into the direction our nation is heading. Christians should cast a vote in order to help advance in America a platform that best represents the values which God assigns blessing to, and to avoid any held values which God has promised that He will curse. This episode of Mavericks & Misfits speaks boldly into two primary issues, and the spiritual convictions behind those issues, which serve to secure the political vote of host Jeff Lyle.

Episode 204: How To RepentIn this episode of mavericks & Misfits, we are challenged to examine our understanding of true repentance. It's not just a one-time event, but a lifestyle for Christians who value intimate fellowship with God. We are reminded that repentance begins with the Holy Spirit's conviction, followed by our confession and forsaking of sin. This teaching emphasizes the importance of trusting in God's forgiveness and cleansing, as stated in 1 John 1:9. We are encouraged to advance in our faith journey, even after stumbling, knowing that God's grace empowers us to keep moving forward. This teaching offers practical steps for maintaining a repentant heart, crucial for our spiritual growth and maintaining a close relationship with God.

Episode 203: To Wrestle With GodIf you are unsure as to whether or not you have ever wrestled with God, it is likely that you already have done so, but you likely did not know it was Him. Jacob had the same experience, and only identified God as the one who pinned Him AFTER the match was over. In our wrestling-with-God season there is both profit and pain. How we cooperate with the wrestling determines which one of these two results we live more with. If we welcome Him to pin us, He blesses us and gives us new starts and greater revelation. If we continue to fight for self, we live with a greater awareness of the pain and miss the value of the profit. This episode is going to connect so many dots for those who listen.