Running the race of life is hard. But with the Bible front and center and a heart to encourage, trusted pastor, Dr. Erwin Lutzer takes you on a journey into the Word to help you make it across the finish line.
The Running to Win - 25 Minute Edition podcast, hosted by Pastor Erwin Lutzer, has been a valuable source of spiritual guidance and teaching for me for over 20 years. As a born again believer and former addict, I have faced many challenges in my journey of faith, and this podcast has consistently brought me back to the cross and helped me grow in my relationship with God. Pastor Lutzer's teachings are grounded in the unchanging truth of God's Word, and his humility and sense of humor make him a relatable and engaging teacher. Each episode leaves me wanting to delve deeper into Scripture and seek a closer walk with Christ.
One of the best aspects of this podcast is Pastor Lutzer's ability to speak directly to the listener's heart. His themes often feel as if they are specifically directed at me, speaking to my personal struggles and encouraging me on my journey. He presents biblical truths in a way that is easily understandable and applicable to everyday life. The messages are deeply convicting yet filled with hope, reminding listeners of God's faithfulness and love.
Another positive aspect of this podcast is its focus on evangelism and sharing the gospel with others. Pastor Lutzer's passion for winning souls for God's kingdom shines through in his teachings, inspiring listeners to do the same. His messages not only equip believers with a deeper understanding of Scripture but also empower them to share their faith confidently.
It is difficult to find any major flaws in this podcast, as it consistently delivers powerful messages rooted in Scripture. However, one potential drawback could be the length of each episode lasting only 25 minutes. While this allows for bite-sized teachings that can fit into busy schedules, some listeners may wish for longer episodes that allow for more in-depth exploration of certain topics. However, it is important to note that this format also makes the podcast accessible for those who prefer shorter content or have limited time available.
In conclusion, The Running to Win - 25 Minute Edition podcast is an invaluable resource for spiritual growth and understanding. Pastor Erwin Lutzer's teachings are rooted in God's Word, presented with humility and humor, and speak directly to the listener's heart. The focus on evangelism and sharing the gospel adds a practical dimension to the teachings, inspiring believers to live out their faith boldly. Despite its shorter length, this podcast consistently delivers impactful messages that leave listeners hungry for more of God's Word.
What would it take for us to deny our faith? Scripture foretells a future global persecution under the antichrist, similar to what many Christians face in parts of the Muslim world today. In this message, Pastor Lutzer examines how believers might endure the ultimate test of faith when facing death. God has given us spiritual resources to sustain us. This month's special offer is available for a donation of any amount. Get yours at https://rtwoffer.com or call us at 1-888-218-9337.
To trust in riches is to trust in a vapor that passes away. What if our money is of no value on that final day of judgment? In this message from the book of James, Pastor Lutzer identifies key lessons about wealth, knowing the Judge stands at the door. Everything we possess belongs to God and could be reclaimed by Him at any moment. This month's special offer is available for a donation of any amount. Get yours at https://rtwoffer.com or call us at 1-888-218-9337.
Our relationship with money reveals our true spiritual condition. One day, all that gives us security, including our money, will vanish. In this message from the book of James, Pastor Lutzer unveils five dangers surrounding wealth. What of our financial decisions would change if we truly believed it's all from God? This month's special offer is available for a donation of any amount. Get yours at https://rtwoffer.com or call us at 1-888-218-9337.
Sometimes, we are tempted to take the easy way out of a trial, even if it's not God's way. Jesus Himself was offered all the kingdoms of the world if only He would worship Satan. In this message, Pastor Lutzer explains how Satan works as “the splitter,” separating us from God, each other, and our true identity in Christ. Will we stand firm on God's Word? This month's special offer is available for a donation of any amount. Get yours at https://rtwoffer.com or call us at 1-888-218-9337.
The devil wants to split us from the fabric of God's love—making us believe God doesn't keep His promises. But Jesus fought off Satan by using the Word of God. In this message from Matthew 4, Pastor Lutzer reveals the underlying purposes of temptation—purposes of both the devil and God. Temptation is the crucible of faith. This month's special offer is available for a donation of any amount. Get yours at https://rtwoffer.com or call us at 1-888-218-9337.
Family and community mean much more when tough times come. The book of Ruth reveals how God works through relationships, bringing redemption through unlikely people. In this message, Pastor Lutzer considers two lessons for us about our community and our witness. Each of us is part of God's ultimate storyline of redemption. This month's special offer is available for a donation of any amount. Get yours at https://rtwoffer.com or call us at 1-888-218-9337.
Economic hardship reveals our deepest values and priorities. In the book of Ruth, a famine drives Naomi's family to Moab. In this message, Pastor Lutzer explores how God uses financial downturns and personal tragedies to teach us the true value of family and faith. Could God be working even in our most bitter circumstances? This month's special offer is available for a donation of any amount. Get yours at https://rtwoffer.com or call us at 1-888-218-9337.
When tough times come—and they are coming—God shakes us up to make sure we remember who our real provider is. He can sustain us through adversity. In this message, Pastor Lutzer provides three principles to hang onto when our crisis comes. Even through trials, God is working to develop our character. This month's special offer is available for a donation of any amount. Get yours at https://rtwoffer.com or call us at 1-888-218-9337.
When God wants to deepen our spiritual maturity, He sometimes takes away all the comforts we're used to. It's possible for God to lead His people into a famine. In this message, Pastor Lutzer explores the life of a man who experienced an unexpected famine: Abraham. Where do we turn when hardship hits? This month's special offer is available for a donation of any amount. Get yours at https://rtwoffer.com or call us at 1-888-218-9337.
When God chooses to judge a nation, He has several methods at His disposal. One of them is economic collapse. In this message from Jeremiah 5, Pastor Lutzer demonstrates three lessons about judgment: it's unavoidable, it's nationwide, and yet it's a great opportunity. We were created for this moment. This month's special offer is available for a donation of any amount. Get yours at https://rtwoffer.com or call us at 1-888-218-9337.
The days ahead may well bring less money, fewer options, higher prices, and more uncertainty. Is the United States under God's judgment? In this message, Pastor Lutzer compares the judgments—moral, economic, and religious—from the book of Jeremiah to what is happening today. Let's see God's faithfulness amid a nation under judgment. This month's special offer is available for a donation of any amount. Get yours at https://rtwoffer.com or call us at 1-888-218-9337.
Fear consumes many of us, and for the rest, it lurks in the back of our minds. But as God's people, what do we have to fear? In this message from Psalm 27, Pastor Lutzer highlights four different blessings that come to those who are in distress. When we encounter trials, we know that we are still in the hands of our sovereign God. This month's special offer is available for a donation of any amount. Get yours at https://rtwoffer.com or call us at 1-888-218-9337.
Fear consumes many of us, and for the rest, it lurks in the back of our minds. But as God's people, what do we have to fear? In this message from Psalm 27, Pastor Lutzer highlights four different blessings that come to those who are in distress. When we encounter trials, we know that we are still in the hands of our sovereign God. This month's special offer is available for a donation of any amount. Get yours at https://rtwoffer.com or call us at 1-888-218-9337.
Everyone faces grief and loneliness at some point. Christ Himself experienced the darkness of grief. In this message, Pastor Lutzer reveals three rooms of sorrow—grief, loneliness, and the hidden “bunker” where many Christians retreat. There are times when all that we can do is to trust God. This month's special offer is available for a donation of any amount. Get yours at https://rtwoffer.com or call us at 1-888-218-9337.
Grief and loneliness can leave us feeling trapped in darkness. What is God's purpose amid profound loss? In this message from Psalm 88, Pastor Erwin Lutzer distinguishes between “bad grief” and “good grief,” sharing poignant stories of healing and hope. One day, the sun will shine again. This month's special offer is available for a donation of any amount. Get yours at https://rtwoffer.com or call us at 1-888-218-9337.
History isn't moving in an endless cycle but toward a definitive end. Jesus will ultimately return to separate the righteous from the unrighteous. In this message from Matthew 25, Pastor Lutzer emphasizes why our eternal destiny hinges on one crucial question: “Whom are you following?” Today is the day of salvation. This month's special offer is available for a donation of any amount. Get yours at https://rtwoffer.com or call us at 1-888-218-9337.
God's unseen hand is guiding the forces of history. Through Bible prophecy, we can understand the last chapter of the story. In this message from Matthew 24, Pastor Erwin Lutzer examines the judgment of the nations, exploring its timing, location, participants, purpose, and most critically, the basis for judgment. Are we ready and prepared? This month's special offer is available for a donation of any amount. Get yours at https://rtwoffer.com or call us at 1-888-218-9337.
When God sends a warning from the heavens, it may affect a nation for a time. But too often, everything goes back to the way it was. In this message, Pastor Lutzer makes two conclusive observations about our nation's immediate judgment and our ultimate judgment before God. What's God's message to us? This month's special offer is available for a donation of any amount. Get yours at https://rtwoffer.com or call us at 1-888-218-9337.
After 9/11, God briefly returned to public discourse in the U.S. A politically acceptable version of “God” championed tolerance, freedom, and democracy. In this message from Isaiah 10, Pastor Lutzer outlines three key principles about the true God's national judgment. What will it take for us to repent of our sins as a nation? This month's special offer is available for a donation of any amount. Get yours at https://rtwoffer.com or call us at 1-888-218-9337.
God can use many ways to judge a nation. His judgment takes many forms, like natural disasters or the deprivation of personal freedoms. In this message, Pastor Lutzer considers five aspects of God's judgments on nations—and His church. Do we truly understand the wrath of God? This month's special offer is available for a donation of any amount. Get yours at https://rtwoffer.com or call us at 1-888-218-9337.
Few of us would make the wrath of God our first choice for a Bible study. Yet God's prophets thundered words of His judgment to the people of their day. In this message, Pastor Lutzer lists the first of seven different ways that God judged Israel. God's warnings to the nations have not changed. This month's special offer is available for a donation of any amount. Get yours at https://rtwoffer.com or call us at 1-888-218-9337.
God doesn't ignore national sins. America's moral decline includes indifference to God, acceptance of witchcraft, and false religiosity. In this message, Pastor Lutzer challenges the church to be a faithful witness amid our generation's spiritual darkness. The lost stumble blindly, unaware they're actually searching for Jesus. This month's special offer is available for a donation of any amount. Get yours at https://rtwoffer.com or call us at 1-888-218-9337.
Sometimes it seems that evil keeps winning—not only around us but also nationally. Some ask: “Is God still in control?” In this message, Pastor Lutzer shows us seven examples of sins that God will hold a country accountable for. There will be a day of reckoning for both humanity and the nations. This month's special offer is available for a donation of any amount. Get yours at https://rtwoffer.com or call us at 1-888-218-9337.
Sometimes God's providence may seem counterproductive or clash with our plans. But God has our best in mind. In this message, Pastor Lutzer provides three insights about God's sovereign purpose for nations and even individuals. Will we trust His wisdom even when we don't understand His ways? This month's special offer is available for a donation of any amount. Get yours at https://rtwoffer.com or call us at 1-888-218-9337.
Despite human and demonic forces at play, nations ultimately rise and fall by God's will. Nebuchadnezzar learned this when God humbled him for seven years. In this message from the book of Daniel, Pastor Lutzer examines three assertions about God's providence among the nations. We can trust that God is working for our good. This month's special offer is available for a donation of any amount. Get yours at https://rtwoffer.com or call us at 1-888-218-9337.
Where is history headed? God Himself determines the times and boundaries of nations to lead people to seek Him. In this message from Acts 17, Pastor Lutzer looks at God's ultimate purpose for the nations. Will seeing God's hand in history change how we interpret the headlines and our cultural roots? This month's special offer is available for a donation of any amount. Get yours at https://rtwoffer.com or call us at 1-888-218-9337.
Around the world today, nations are populated by the descendants of three of Noah's sons. When things seem to slip out of control, don't forget this: God is over all nations. In this message from Genesis, Pastor Lutzer walks us through the origin of the nations and the reason God scattered the people. Are we looking for Him? This month's special offer is available for a donation of any amount. Get yours at https://rtwoffer.com or call us at 1-888-218-9337.
Our past sins and mistakes may seem unforgivable—even beyond redemption. But God gives extraordinary grace toward those who cannot save themselves. In this message, Pastor Lutzer exposes the dangerous myth that “God helps those who help themselves” by contrasting two approaches to grace. How can we receive grace? This month's special offer is available for a donation of any amount. Get yours at https://rtwoffer.com or call us at 1-888-218-9337.
Over 80% of Americans think the Bible says: “God helps those who help themselves.” But it doesn't. In this message, Pastor Lutzer challenges a popular belief with the powerful truth about our need for new life, not self-improvement. What if surrender to the God who raises the dead is our path to spiritual breakthrough? This month's special offer is available for a donation of any amount. Get yours at https://rtwoffer.com or call us at 1-888-218-9337.
We were born to desire pleasure. But we shouldn't go for the lesser pleasures but the greater pleasures of delighting in God. In this message from Psalm 16, Pastor Lutzer identifies at least three thieves of our happiness in God. What if God's pleasures and our pleasures converge and become one and the same? This month's special offer is available for a donation of any amount. Get yours at https://rtwoffer.com or call us at 1-888-218-9337.
Does being a Christian mean we miss out on “all the fun”? This common lie deceives even believers. In this message, Pastor Lutzer reveals the first of five truths that transform our understanding of pleasure—both ours and God's. Serving God and experiencing authentic pleasure aren't in opposition. This month's special offer is available for a donation of any amount. Get yours at https://rtwoffer.com or call us at 1-888-218-9337.
The pain and struggle of this world often seems senseless. But the providence of God—both bitter and sweet—unfolds even in life's darkest moments. In this message, Pastor Lutzer answers four crucial questions about our free will and God's will. In the bitter providences, let's learn to worship and trust like never before. This month's special offer is available for a donation of any amount. Get yours at https://rtwoffer.com or call us at 1-888-218-9337.
Some people think the Fall ruined God's plans. Was it in God's plan for Eve to pick that fatal fruit from the tree in the Garden of Eden? In this message, Pastor Lutzer shows us three links in God's interconnected purposes: creation, redemption, and consummation. Let's unlock the key to God's redemptive purposes. This month's special offer is available for a donation of any amount. Get yours at https://rtwoffer.com or call us at 1-888-218-9337.
God knows everything. For some, this might be terrifying but for others it's comforting. In this message from Psalm 139, Pastor Lutzer harmonizes four beliefs about God's knowledge, like tuning a beautiful violin. Could we really trust a God who knows the end from the beginning? This month's special offer is available for a donation of any amount. Get yours at https://rtwoffer.com or call us at 1-888-218-9337.
Some would think we act with our free will, then God responds with a countermove. But what does Scripture reveal about God's knowledge of the future? In this message, Pastor Lutzer shows how limiting God's knowledge weakens our trust in His Word and promises. Let's embrace the all-knowing God who holds our tomorrow. This month's special offer is available for a donation of any amount. Get yours at https://rtwoffer.com or call us at 1-888-218-9337.
We all struggle to make sense of suffering and natural disasters in a broken world. The Bible says creation itself groans under the curse, waiting to participate in the ultimate redemption. In this message from Luke 13, Pastor Erwin Lutzer discusses this crucial question: What are the messages of natural disasters? What is God really saying? This month's special offer is available for a donation of any amount. Get yours at https://rtwoffer.com or call us at 1-888-218-9337.
Many avoid calling disasters an “act of God,” preferring to blame natural forces alone. Yet nature itself reveals both God's love and judgment in our fallen world. In this message, Pastor Lutzer explores three critical questions about God's sovereignty over creation. How should Christians understand God's role in natural disasters? This month's special offer is available for a donation of any amount. Get yours at https://rtwoffer.com or call us at 1-888-218-9337.
If God judges each person based on what truth they knew, what, then, becomes of those who never learn about Jesus? In this message, Pastor Lutzer gives two decisive conclusions about God's justice for those of different religions. His answer reveals why Christianity stands alone—through Christ, salvation is a gift we cannot buy. This month's special offer is available for a donation of any amount. Get yours at https://rtwoffer.com or call us at 1-888-218-9337.
God ultimately judges people according to the light they've received. So is God fair toward those who never hear the Gospel? In this message, Pastor Lutzer examines four critical questions about judgment, pluralism, and eternal destiny. Christianity stands unique—offering not a teacher, but the only sinless Savior who died for us. This month's special offer is available for a donation of any amount. Get yours at https://rtwoffer.com or call us at 1-888-218-9337.
We all worship something. We either worship the true God as He's revealed Himself, or we invent our own idols. In this message from Isaiah 55, Pastor Lutzer contrasts the popular “gods” of our day with the true and living God. The God who is mysteriously hidden is also the God who seeks us out. This month's special offer is available for a donation of any amount. Get yours at https://rtwoffer.com or call us at 1-888-218-9337.
People today create their own views of God, selecting only the appealing attributes like a cafeteria. But God doesn't think like we do. In this message, Pastor Lutzer challenges six popular but unbiblical conceptions of God. Our understanding of God must align with Scripture's revelation—not our preferences about who we want Him to be. This month's special offer is available for a donation of any amount. Get yours at https://rtwoffer.com or call us at 1-888-218-9337.
Where is God amid tremendous injustice, abuse, and pain? He's with us. In this message from Matthew 27, Pastor Lutzer demonstrates how God suffered on the cross. No one else is at the center of the universe with a God who says, “I suffered for you and here is proof in the wounded hands of Jesus.” This month's special offer is available for a donation of any amount. Get yours at https://rtwoffer.com or call us at 1-888-218-9337.
Modern views of God often make Him too human-like. But some Christians emphasize only certain aspects of His nature. In this message, Pastor Lutzer addresses three questions: “Can God suffer?” “Did God suffer?” and “Does God still suffer?” Let's discover why God experiences His emotions in harmony, not conflict. This month's special offer is available for a donation of any amount. Get yours at https://rtwoffer.com or call us at 1-888-218-9337.
In the Old Testament, sin was judged swiftly and severely. Today, it appears sin goes virtually unpunished. In this message, Pastor Lutzer clarifies the crucial difference between the immediate physical judgments seen in biblical times and the future eternal judgment for us all. Is it actually safer to sin today? This month's special offer is available for a donation of any amount. Get yours at https://rtwoffer.com or call us at 1-888-218-9337.
Many believe God has evolved from being harsh to becoming gentler and kinder. But God hasn't changed. In this message from Hebrews 12, Pastor Lutzer shows how God Himself remains the same, but His administration has changed. Let's explore three contrasts between the Old and New Covenants that clarify this distinction. This month's special offer is available for a donation of any amount. Get yours at https://rtwoffer.com or call us at 1-888-218-9337.
Many people think they can come to God on their own terms. To truly find Him, we must set aside our preconceptions and listen to what God Himself says. In this message from Hebrews 10, Pastor Lutzer shows why we need the right mediator and the right sacrifice. Never assume it doesn't matter how we approach God. This month's special offer is available for a donation of any amount. Get yours at https://rtwoffer.com or call us at 1-888-218-9337.
There is no fear of God in this generation. Yet in our sinfulness and rebellion, the reality is we can never approach Him directly. In this message, Pastor Lutzer warns against both worshipping a false god and approaching the true God incorrectly. Nothing is more important than what we believe about God. This month's special offer is available for a donation of any amount. Get yours at https://rtwoffer.com or call us at 1-888-218-9337.
All four gospels document Jesus' death and resurrection. John's account shows how the risen Christ first appeared to Mary Magdalene. In this message, Pastor Lutzer highlights the honest and personal relationship she had with Jesus. Mary's journey from demon-possessed to daughter of God reveals Christ's transforming power. This month's special offer is available for a donation of any amount. Get yours at https://rtwoffer.com or call us at 1-888-218-9337.
The Romans expertly executed Jesus, ensuring He was truly dead. Yet God's power prevailed, resurrecting His Son in glorious triumph. In this message from John 20, Pastor Lutzer highlights Mary Magdalene, a woman prominent in Jesus' life. Consider the wonder of seeing your Savior alive again after witnessing His death! This month's special offer is available for a donation of any amount. Get yours at https://rtwoffer.com or call us at 1-888-218-9337.
The central event in human history drew many kinds of responses. At the cross, the crowd jeered Jesus, the chief priests mocked Him, and His mother simply wept. In this message, Pastor Lutzer draws three profound implications from Jesus' sacrificial death. What if we bear personal responsibility for how we respond to Jesus' death? This month's special offer is available for a donation of any amount. Get yours at https://rtwoffer.com or call us at 1-888-218-9337.
Hanging on the cross, Jesus endured mockery and contempt. His Father witnessed it all too. In this message from Mark 15, Pastor Lutzer examines three responses at the crucifixion: Jesus, other individuals, and the crowds. But instead of punishing those who tortured His Son, God directed His judgment onto Jesus—for us. This month's special offer is available for a donation of any amount. Get yours at https://rtwoffer.com or call us at 1-888-218-9337.