Start2Finish: The Exartizo Podcast

Continuing our look into the attributes of God, this week's episode focuses on the primary attribute of God's love. It is important to be mindful that the Scripture doesn't just portray God as merely displaying acts of love, it reveals Him as "being" love. God is love (1 John 4:8). It is His nature and His very being. Scriptures: 2 Pet. 3:18; 1 John 4:8; Deut. 7:6-8; John 3:16; Rom. 5:8; John 15:13; Psalm 118:1; Psalm 100:5; Psalm 34:8. Production: Samuel Romano Music: Justin Jollie Communications: chris@vcbcs.org

This episode continues our look into the important subject of Theology by exploring 4 basic attributes of God's nature: 1. He is Eternal 2. He is Transcendent 3. He is Personal 4. He is Spirit To begin a study of God (theology defined), it is important to establish the reality of God's existence. Faith begins with an apprehending of the reality of God (Heb. 11:6- "...he who comes to God must believe that He is..."). The Bible doesn't explain God, it merely reveals and declares that "He is!" For a believer, it is critical to place faith that "God is" and be able to support that premise with what the Bible records concerning Him. Enjoy this episode of Start2Finish as we spend time pouring over some primary, fundamental attributes of God's essence and being. Scriptures: Gen. 1:1; Rev. 22:20; Heb. 11:6; Ex. 3:13-14; Psalm 90:1-2; Job 11:7-9; Isaiah 55:8-9; Malachi 3:6; James 1:17; John 17:23; John 4:24; Phil. 2:6-8; 1 Tim. 1:17; Exodus 33:20. Production: Samuel Romano Music: Justin Jollie Communication: chris@vcbcs.org

In today's episode, Dr. Romano explores some of Theology's essentials such as: Continuing the faithful tradition of the church in pursuing sound doctrine (Acts 2:42). The importance of the church as a "teaching community." Doing theology for the purpose of providing clarity and integration to the body of Christ. Doing theology through the help and guidance of the Spirit (John 16:13). Doing theology through the reliance upon the Scriptures (2 Tim. 3:16). Maintaining proper motives for studying theology: humility, love, the glory of God. Production: Jason Romano Music: Justin Jollie Communications: chris@vcbcs.org

Today's episode begins our last series of SEASON 1, with an introduction to the subject of Theology. Featured in this episode is: A basic definition of Theology: "Words, Ideas, Thoughts, & Concepts about God." (Theos = God; Logos = Word) All people have a theology! The question is, is it a "good theology" or a "bad theology?" Perceptions of Theology in the "church" Theology was once the "Queen of the Sciences!" The proper approach to exploring theology: "Not something to prove, but something to discover." Scriptures: Matt. 22:34-40; Rom. 8:5; Rom. 11:33-36. Production: Samuel Romano Music: Justin Jollie Communications: chris@vcbcs.org

Today's episode concludes our look into The Vine-Branch illustration found in John 15:1-8 by focusing on the importance of fruit bearing. Fruit producing is an "Eden image." (Gen. 1:28; Gen. 9:1; Gen. 12:3; Isaiah 5:1-2). Fruit is the clearly stated will of the Father (Vinedresser/Gardener) who is personally invested in His vineyard (our lives). Fruit is the result of faithful connection to the True Vine (our life source). Abiding/Remaining in Christ requires: Total Commitment (John 6:56); True Discipleship (John 8:31); Growing in the love of God (John 15:9-10). Production: Jason Romano Music: Justin Jollie Communication: chris@vcbcs.org

Special guest Tara Romano joins the show to continue our look into the importance of abiding in Christ. Today's conversation will emphasize: The importance of maintaining "connection" to the True Vine. Keeping Jesus as the primary "source" and "influence" of our lives. How the overflow of abiding produces a unity in prayer, as well as answered prayer (15:7-8). To study along with us, please reference John 15:1-8! Production: Samuel Romano Music: Justin Jollie Communication: chris@vcbcs.org

John 15:1-8 is one of the most famous and familiar passages in all of Scripture. The simple illustration of the "Vine and Branches" provides every generation of Jesus followers with some amazing and timeless principles. Tune in to today's episode to gain a brief overview of this passage, as well as how it applies to your relationship with Jesus today! Scriptures: John 15:1-8; John 14:9-10; 1 John 4:8; Matt. 11:28-30; 1 Cor. 6:19-20; 1 John 3:1. Production: Samuel Romano Music: Justin Jollie Communications: chris@vcbcs.org

One of the greatest gifts we have been given as believers is the Name of Jesus. As the old song proclaims, "There is just something about that Name!" In this episode, the significance of the Name of Jesus is explored through: The urgency of gaining a fresh vision and perception of the power of His Name. Recognizing that in the Hebrew culture, names reveal a person's identity, character and purpose. What it means to pray in "Jesus Name." MUCH, MUCH more!! Scriptures: Matt. 1:21; Luke 1:31-33; Rom. 10:9-13; Col. 2:9; John 14:13-14; 15:16; 16:23-24; Phil. 2:9-10; Acts 3:1-7; Mark 16:17; Prov. 18:10; Col. 3:17. Production: Samuel Romano Music: Justin Jollie Communications: chris@vcbcs.org

This episode brings to completion the mini-series on the power of the cross and the resurrection by continuing to explore the biblical theme of deliverance. While deliverance is part of the meta-narrative of the entire biblical story, all prior deliverances point to and culminate in the "grand" deliverance that is accomplished in Jesus. As followers of Jesus, what exactly have we been delivered FROM? AND what exactly have we been delivered TO? Tune in today and discover that our deliverance in Christ has a destiny to it! Scriptures: Col. 1:13; 1 Thess. 5:9; Rom. 6:23; Rom. 8:2; Heb. 2:14-15; 1 John 4:18; Rom. 8:1; Gal 3:13; 1 John 3:1; Rom. 8:15-17; Phil. 3:20: Rom. 5:17; Eph. 5:1-2; John 8:32; Gal. 5:1; John 8:36. Production: Samuel Romano Music: Justin Jollie Communications: chris@vcbcs.org

Believers need deliverance? Deliverance is part of discipleship? On this episode of Start2Finish, we explore the theme of deliverance as a pattern that is established in the Hebrew Scriptures and ultimately leading to Jesus as the True Deliverer. In addition to the grand deliverance that Christ produced at the Cross and in His Resurrection, followers of Jesus require an ongoing, consistent deliverance that is available every day by the mercies of God. Scriptures: Judges 3:9-11; Matt. 11:28; Luke 1:67-72; Rom. 12:1; Col. 1:13. Production: Samuel Romano Music: Justin Jollie Communications: chris@vcbcs.org

According to the Apostle Paul, if the Resurrection of Jesus weren't true, then the Christian faith is a sham! Preaching would be emptied of its power and believers would remain dead in their sin (1 Cor. 15:12-19). However, Paul's claim and the claim of the New Testament, is that Christ is risen from the dead! And because He lives victorious over sin and death, believers can have confidence and hope concerning their own future resurrection and eternal place in God's Kingdom. Tune in to today's episode as we briefly explore the significance of the Resurrection of Jesus. Production: Samuel Romano Music: Justin Jollie Communications: chris@vcbcs.org

Our mini-series on the Power of the Cross & the Resurrection continues with this episode entitled, "Pleasing the Father." In considering the "why" of the cross of Christ, it is easy to fixate our minds on how it benefited us. Apart from His grace, all people are lost, hopeless and helpless. Our sin required a Perfect Savior in order to experience salvation. And though Jesus' love and mercy for us certainly motivated His sacrificial act, there was something even more primary that compelled Him. Tune in to today's episode to learn more about Jesus' heart and motivation for dying on the cross. Scriptures: Gal. 1:6; Rev. 13:8; 2 Tim. 1:9; Eph. 5:1-2; Is. 53:10. Production: Samuel Romano Music: Justin Jollie Communication: chris@vcbcs.org

This episode begins a new "mini" series on the power of the cross and resurrection of Jesus. Today's episode will explore: The cross/resurrection as integrated realities that produce the same benefit for those who believe: LIFE! (John 20:30-31). The cross/resurrection as the primary features (MAIN THING) of the apostle's teaching (1 Cor. 15:1-4). The relationship between the love of God and the wrath of God (1 John 3:16; Rom. 5:8-9). The primary result of the cross/resurrection: Rescue from sin's power; Ransom from sin's penalty; Redemption from the curse; Reconciliation from abandonment; Restoration to co-rulership. Production: Jason Romano Music: Justin Jollie Communication: chris@vcbcs.org / vcbcs.org

In today's episode, we welcome worship leader Steven Musso onto the show. Steven is a worship leader, Billboard-charting songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist based in Schenectady, New York. Steven's heart has been stamped with the image from Revelation 7:9-10 of every tribe, nation, and tongue worshipping passionately, and his desire has been to release the sound of heaven through God's people onto the earth. His music incorporates many styles that bridge cultures and generations together to lift up one unified voice to Jesus. Locally, Steven serves as the worship pastor at Redemption Church where him and his wife, Hannah, lead a thriving team of emerging songwriters and worship leaders. You will also hear a brief clip from Steven's recently released song, "On the Waters," which is available NOW on all major streaming platforms. For more info on Steven and Hannah Musso, please visit their website: www.themussos.com You can also find them on their YouTube page: click here Today's Show was produced by: Samuel Romano Intro Music: Justin Jollie For more information on Chris' teaching ministry, please visit: www.vcbcs.org Communications: chris@vcbcs.org

In this episode, we speak with worship leader Gabriel Gibilisco about the importance of worship in the local church. Gabe is the Worship & Creative Director at Hope Church in Winter Garden, Florida. Production: Samuel Romano Music: Justin Jollie Communications: chris@vcbcs.org

The "series finale" on the subject of the Presence of God offers a very practical devotional strategy designed to help believers experience God's Presence, hear His voice and develop consistency in prayer. This ancient-modern practice incorporates 4 main components: Reading. Reflecting. Responding. Resting. Scriptures: Heb. 5:14; Psalm 1:1-3; Joshua 1:8; Psalm 46:10. Production: Samuel Romano Music: Justin Jollie

Today's episode continues to look at practical ways that believers can test and discern the various voices and messages that come their way. In the effort to train and exercise our spiritual senses (Heb. 5:14), several keys are offered to provide listeners with the confidence that they can hear the voice of God. Scriptures: Isaiah 11:2-3; Phil. 2:5; Matt. 5:38-48; Rom. 13:14; Heb. 11:6; Joshua 1:1-9; Matt. 22:39; Gal. 5:22-23; 1 Cor. 13:4; Psalm 27:14; Rom. 6:11-14; Rom. 12:1-2. Production: Samuel Romano Music: Justin Jollie Contact Info: chris@vcbcs.org

Today's episode looks into the ways in which believers can test the various voices that are regularly communicating to them. Is it God who is speaking to me OR is it just me? Even worse, is it the enemy? How can I know with confidence that the voice I'm hearing is God? Scriptures: Psalm 103; 1 Thess. 5:19-21; Eph. 1:17-18; 1 Cor. 2:16; Matt. 16:21-23; Jer. 23:16; 1 John 4:1; John 8:42-47; 1 Cor. 14:1-3, 26; Rom. 8:15-17. Production: Samuel Romano Music: Justin Jollie Contact: chris@vcbcs.org

In today's episode, we explore the spiritual practice of hiding the word of God in our hearts. Based out of Psalm 119:11, an important connection is made between hiding the word in our hearts and hearing the voice of God. Scriptures: Psalm 119:18; Psalm 119:11; Luke 24:32; Matt. 4:4; Deut. 8:3. Music: Justin Jollie Production: Samuel Romano Communication/Correspondence: chris@vcbcs.org

How did God speak in the Bible? How does God speak today? Today's episode considers the various ways (Heb. 1:1) in which God spoke in the past and compares that with the way in which God speaks today. Scriptures: Heb. 1:1-2; Gen. 12:1-3; Job 33:14-16; Acts 13:1-2; Psalm 119:105; 2 Tim. 3:16; Psalm 119:11; John 16:12-14; 2 Cor. 5:17. Music: Justin Jollie Production: Samuel Romano Communication: chris@vcbcs.org

Continuing our theme of the Presence of God, this episode explores the question, "What is the Most Important Word in the Bible?" Production: Samuel Romano Music: Justin Jollie Contact Info: chris@vcbcs.org & visit vcbcs.org

Episode 10 of the series on the Presence of God addresses the question, "Does God Speak to Me?" Many people can grasp the notion that God is a living God and that He has spoken to people in the past (Moses, Abraham, David, Paul, etc.) but they struggle with the notion that God speaks now and that He desires to communicate to "ordinary" people. This episode tackles that issue, as well as the motives behind God's desire to speak and reveal Himself. Scriptures: Gal. 4:19; 1 John 3:1; John 10:1-6; Psalm 61:1-3; Phil. 3:10. Music: "On My Way" & "Sacred Provision" by Justin Jollie Production: Samuel Romano For more information on Dr. Chris' teaching ministry, visit vcbcs.org or email: chris@vcbcs.org

This episode continues the series on the Presence of God by exploring the idea of God as One who is alive and as a personal, speaking God. Not only does God reveal Himself in the past or simply in the Bible, but God speaks NOW and He desires to speak to YOU!

This episode continues the study of the Presence of God by looking into the dwelling place of God in the Church. While Jesus is without question the true and greater Temple (John 1:14), as compared with all of the sacred structures and images in the Old Testament, God desired something more than just dwelling WITH His creation, He wanted to dwell IN them. Through the ascension of Jesus, God provides the promised Spirit who would make a grand entrance on the day of Pentecost (Acts 2) where the church would be born. With the arrival of the Spirit, the followers of Jesus would be freshly baptized, filled and endued with the power and presence of God. The apostle Paul will interpret this reality as the establishing of another "new temple" structure. Using 1 Cor. 3:16-17 & 1 Cor. 6:19-20, he will instruct the early church concerning the importance of their gathered assemblies as well as the sanctity and dignity of their individual lives as dwelling places of God's presence. Music: Intro & Outro- "On My Way," by Justin Jollie; Transitional tracks- "Sacred Provision," by Justin Jollie. Production: Samuel Romano To contact Start2Finish: chris@vcbcs.org For more info on Dr. Chris' teachings and educational programs, please visit: www.vcbcs.org

In today's episode we are continuing our study of the Presence of God throughout the biblical story. In the last several episodes we surveyed the landscape of the Old Testament and discussed how the primary thread that runs throughout the narrative is God's will and purpose to partner with a covenant people who will faithfully represent Him and one that He would intimately dwell in the midst of. Unfortunately, this vision goes unfulfilled in God's relationship with men and in particular, the nation of Israel. As the chapter closes in the Old Testament, while the Jews are physically out of exile, spiritually they are still bound by persistent disloyalty and compromise. However, this story was PREPARATION for the coming of the One who would, in Himself, become the greatest manifestation of the presence of God: Jesus. He is the purest and clearest image of God: God made flesh (John 1:14). God with us (Is. 7:14). The fulfillment of Eve's Seed (Gen. 3:15), the One who would crush the head of the seed of the Serpent; The Promised offspring of Abraham whose arrival would bring blessing to the nations (Gen. 12:3). The Son of David who would sit on the throne in Righteousness and Truth forever (2 Sam. 7:12-16). Jesus is the continuation and fulfillment of the Old Testament story and one of the best pictures of this is seeing Him as "the True and Greater Temple." In the Old Covenant, Moses' tabernacle and Solomon's temple were partial and preparatory images. Their structures contained sections and limitations that separated God's holiness and man's sinfulness. In the New and Better Covenant, Jesus is the presence of God in fullness and completeness. In Himself, there is wholeness, no separation. All are welcome to come to Him and experience God's presence. There is no restrictions. There is no access to some, at the exclusion of others. He is the eternal Word made flesh, who dwelt (tabernacled) among men and displayed the Glory of God (John 1:14). Music: "On My Way, Justin Jollie." Production: Samuel Romano For more information on VCBCS programs and Dr. Chris' teachings, please visit www.vcbcs.org.

How important is the presence of God in the life of a follower of Jesus? How do we understand the presence of God within the context of local church worship services? What is the state of modern worship in the church? Listen in as special guest Justin Jollie, a worship leader from upstate New York, joins Chris on the show to explore these questions and much more. Scriptures: 1 Cor. 6:19-20; 2 Tim. 3:10; 1 Peter 1:10-12; Acts 3:19; Matt. 6:6. Music: "On My Way," by Justin Jollie. Production: Samuel Romano Communication: chris@vcbcs.org For more info on Dr. Chris' teaching & equipping programs, please visit: vcbcs.org

Continuing our series on the Presence of God, today's episode takes one more look at God's presence in the storyline of the Bible as it appears in the Old Testament. In the first portion of the episode, we take a look at the structure of the Old Testament and contrast the layout of our modern, English bibles with the Scriptural framework that 1st century Jewish-Christians would have been familiar with. An important takeaway reveals that the ancient structure actually tells a story, a story that communicates God's unyielding desire to dwell personally among His people. In the second portion of the episode, we illustrate this truth by studying Isaiah 40:1-10. In examining this specific text, God's redemptive program is amplified both nationally for the Jews in Babylonian captivity, as well as spiritually for all of sinful humanity. The prophet dramatically announces that God's presence is about to make an entrance and anyone who has an ear to hear and a heart to obey, should make preparations for His arrival. Scriptures: Luke 24:44; Psalm 30:5; Isaiah 40:1-10. Production: Samuel Romano Music: "On My Way," by Justin Jollie. For more information on Dr. Romano's teaching ministry, please visit vcbcs.org OR contact chris@vcbcs.org.

Today's episode continues to look at the subject of the Presence of God by considering the manner in which God's presence appears in the middle of the bible "bookends": Genesis 1-2 & Rev. 21-22. With the fall of man in Genesis 3, man is separated and exiled from the primary place that God dwelt with man, namely Eden. This banishment is truly the apex of the curse that resulted from Adam's rebellion. Yet, even in God's judgment, there is mercy. God proves to be greater than Adam's sin and through covenants, and particularly the theme of "altars," God take steps to ensure that man could once again return to the presence of God. Scriptures: Gen. 1-2; Rev. 21-22; Gen. 3:22-24; Gen. 17:7; Ex. 6:7; Ezk. 36:28; Rev. 21:3; Gen. 3:21; Gen. 4:1-4; Gen. 8:20; Rom. 6:23. Music: "On My Way," by Justin Jollie. Produced: Samuel Romano For more information on Vision Christian Bible College & Seminary, visit vcbcs.org

While God is both superior and beyond His creation, He is also shown to be present and among His creation. And the greatest evidence of this is in surveying the entirety of the biblical story. Chapter after chapter and page after page unveils the reality of God's presence among human beings. In this episode, we explore the foundation of God's presence among humans in the storyline of Scripture by looking at the Beginning (Gen. 1-2) and the End (Rev. 21-22). A careful reading of these two sections of the Bible will unveil many similarities but the underlying thread that ties the two together is the presence of God with His people in unhindered and unrestricted communion. Listen today as we continue to examine the ever-important subject of the Presence of God. Scriptures: Psalm 84:10; Psalm 73:25-26; Isaiah 66:1; Isaiah 7:14; Colossians 2:9; John 2:19-21; John 1:14; Rev. 21:1-4; James 4:8; Gen. 1 & 2; Rev. 21-22; Habakkuk 2:14. Music: "On my Way," by Justin Jollie. Production: Samuel Romano For more information on Vision Christian Bible College & Seminary, visit www.vcbcs.org.

Today's episode continues the study of the Presence of God by focusing on the Omnipresence of God (God is everywhere present at all times). This attribute of God is typically included in what many theologians refer to as the "manifold perfections" of God, along with His Omnipotence (All Powerful) & Omniscience (All Knowing/Wise). These 3 form the substance and essence of God's deity. It is what makes God, God! By comparison, every human being who has ever lived comes short of these perfections. Man is limited in his power, knowledge and presence. God on the other hand, is not! This is why He is worthy of our worship. This is why He is deserving of our praise. Scriptures: Psalm 90:2; Rev. 1:8; Deut. 10:14; Isaiah 66:1; Psalm 139:7-10. Music: "On My Way," by Justin Jollie. Production: Samuel Romano.

This episode kicks off a brand new series on the subject of The Presence of God. Much like the prior series on the Kingdom of God, this series will tackle a very complex but crucial topic. In future episodes, the focus will be upon the various aspects of God's presence like His Omnipresence, His presence as revealed to the Patriarch's (Abraham, Isaac and Jacob), His presence in the Tabernacle/Temple, His presence in Jesus Christ, His presence in the Holy Spirit, His presence in the Church and His presence within individual believers. But for this initial episode, the emphasis will be on the value of God's presence. As you tune in, you will hear the following: The Presence of God as the ultimate fulfillment of why we are alive. Humans owe their entire existence and being to Him and His presence (Acts 17:27-28). God's constant and unchangeable desire is to dwell among His people (Exodus 25:8). Everything that we learn about the presence of God is purposed to draw us into experiencing the presence of God. The example of Jesus in valuing the presence of God (Mark 1:35). His presence invites us into an encounter with Him that shifts our focus away from our problems and onto beholding His face (Psalm 34:8; Psalm 27:4). In addition to the study, this episode contains a brief testimony by Olivia Smith (Fort Collins, Colorado) a former student of Dr. Chris' at Vision Christian Bible College & Seminary. Olivia talks about the transformative experience that occurred when she devoted herself to becoming a student at VCBCS, as well as committing to the equipping process. To learn more about VCBCS and its spiritual and academic programs, visit vcbcs.org. Music: "On My Way," by Justin Jollie.

This episode is the final episode in the series on the Kingdom of God. Hunter Ray, a graduate and now staff member of VCBCS, joins Dr. Romano in this episode to talk about the impact that the Kingdom has had on his life personally and his ministry. In addition to Hunter's personal testimony, this episode explores: The impact Kingdom has on a believer's identity and purpose. The importance of seeing the gospel as the "Gospel of the Kingdom." The value of grasping the whole narrative of Scripture and viewing the narrative as an unending thread that begins with the creation of man and continues to today through the life of those who have given their loyalty to King Jesus. A look at how the continued reformation of the church must include a return to the proper understanding of the Gospel of the Kingdom. Scriptures Referenced: Mark 1:14-15; 1 John 4:17; John 20:21; 1 Cor. 15:3-5; Matt. 28:19; Rev. 1:5-6. Music: "On My Way," by Justin Jollie.

In this episode, the citizenship of believers is explored in the context of the Kingdom of God. Through the cross, believers have become citizens of the Kingdom of God (Eph. 2:19). That citizenship includes a new heritage, birthright and responsibilities. Like Israel in the Old Testament, followers of Jesus have become God's chosen people (Israel extended, not replaced), a distinct group from the rest of the world (1 Pet. 2:9). With this grace-filled identity, citizens of the Kingdom are given a "royal assignment," that includes 4 primary tasks: Embody the Royal Law/Great Commandment of loving God and loving people (Matt. 28:19; James 2:8). Participate in God's vision for the church: Dwell in unity with fellow believers (John 17:20-23). Invite others to repent and believe in the good news of Jesus' reign. Faithfully commit to producing disciples (Matt. 28:19; 2 Tim. 2:2) All of this is purposed to reveal that the Kingdom is ALL about relationships! God is a personal, relational being and He desires intimacy with His followers. Those who believe, follow and abide in Him will also invest their lives into building these kinds of relationships with the people around them. In this, we prove to be like our King and we provide a picture for others to see how good and beautiful He truly is! Music: "On My Way," by Justin Jollie.

Today's episode completes our look at how the Kingdom is displayed throughout history by focusing on Kingdom in Future Glory. In examining the Kingdom of God, we have considered in past episodes: the eternal King and His eternal reign (Eternity Past); the visible entrance into the earth by God's creative power (Kingdom Inaugurated); the failure of man to hold fast to Kingdom privileges (Kingdom Forfeited); the King's merciful means to reestablish the Kingdom on earth through the covenants He cut with the Patriarchs and through Israel (Kingdom in the O.T.); God's climactic expression of Kingdom authority through the incarnation of Jesus Christ and His victory over sin by means of the cross (Kingdom Re-Inaugurated); And how from the power of the gospel, man's Kingdom identity and purpose is restored as the church exists to live under and extend God's rule throughout the earth (Kingdom in the Church Age). With respect to these essential truths, the Kingdom of God is shown to be present HERE and NOW. However, the full picture of the Kingdom must also be understood in light of its FUTURE consummation. Therefore, the Kingdom is both NOW and NOT YET. Or as bible scholar George Eldon Ladd brilliantly put it, "Fulfillment without Consummation." The reality of this future experience (Matt. 25:31-46; 2 Peter 1:10-11) is cause for great hope for every believer in Christ. The decisive battle against the foreign kingdom of darkness was fought and won by King Jesus (John 19:30). In spite of this, the church remains at war. Therefore, in the "meanwhile" between Kingdom Come and Kingdom Not Yet, it is imperative that all believers: CONTEST Sin. RESIST the Devil. ENDURE Suffering. Music: "On My Way," by Justin Jollie.

Continuing the series on the Kingdom of God, this episode focuses on how the Kingdom was displayed through the life and ministry of Jesus as well as through the church. Following a brief recap of the two previous episodes, Dr. Chris bridges the 400 year gap between the OT and the NT by explaining the historical, socio-political and religious context. Bible readers need to be informed that there are a lot of changes that take place between the books of Malachi (the close of the OT) and the Gospel of Matthew (the opening of the NT). Learning about those changes allows for a much clearer picture when Jesus arrives on the scene and announces "the Kingdom of God is at hand!" Additionally, this episode explores the manner in which Jesus continues and fulfills the Old Testament story (Luke 24:44-45; Matt. 5:17). Through His perfect life, compelling instruction and miraculous works, Jesus not only declares the Kingdom come, but He demonstrates it as well (Matt. 5-7; Matt. 12:28). The climax of Kingdom displayed in Jesus' life/ministry, is the cross, resurrection and ascension. Through His climactic victory, Jesus overcomes the works of darkness and cancels the curse that was upon humanity due to the fall. Restoring what man lost at the fall (dual loss: relationship & rulership), Jesus then commissions His followers to be the conduits of Kingdom character and power to every nation and people group (Matt. 28:18-20; John 20:21). Music: "On My Way," by Justin Jollie.

This week's episode of Start2Finish focuses on the display of the Kingdom of God throughout the Old Testament. While the Kingdom has eternally existed due to God's transcendent and eternal nature, it had a visible entrance in the earth as the book of Genesis chronicles the creation of all things. From Creation to the Fall to the Redemptive Covenants, God continually expresses His reign and authority through individuals, families and eventually a nation (Israel). As the Old Testament shows, while humans will inevitably fail in being true to the covenant promises that God made with them, God will never fail and His purposes to establish His Kingdom through covenant partners will continue. Special interest will be given in this episode to: Adam's royal and priestly role in Eden. The fall as a "dual loss" of both relationship and rulership for Adam. The establishment of the Kingdom of Darkness in the earth (foreign kingdom rooted in the "will of man.") God's strategy to perpetuate His reign through the institution of covenants. The dramatic scene of the Exodus & its role in visualizing the conflicting kingdoms (Kingdom of God & the Kingdom of Darkness). In Israel, as in Adam (and eventually Jesus) the "Kingdom was at hand." Though Israel would fail to be faithful, and end up in exile, God would establish a remnant that would maintain their hope that through the eventual coming of the Messiah, God's Kingdom would come once again to the earth. Scriptures: Psalm 115:16; 1 Pet. 2:9; Rev. 1:5-6; Gen. 2:15; Gen. 3:15; Col. 1:13-14; Gen. 12:1-3; Exodus 1; Ex. 19:5-6; Psalm 24:7-10. Music: "On My Way," by Justin Jollie.

This episode begins a sequence of teachings that will look at how the Kingdom has been displayed throughout history. In today's episode, Dr. Chris observes the way God's Kingdom appeared "before the beginning," in Eternity Past. By nature, God's Kingdom is an everlasting Kingdom and is eternal in nature. It is eternal because God Himself is eternal. It transcends the creation of all things visible because God's nature is transcendent and beyond the physical, earthly scope. As Colossians 1:17-18 reveals about the deity of Christ, "He is before all things and in Him all things consist." God's Kingdom precedes and is before EVERYTHING, both in the heavenly sphere and in the earth below! Scriptures: Lam. 3:22-23; Joshua 1:9; Psalm 145:13; Gen. 1:1; 1 Tim. 1:17; Col. 1:17-18; Psalm 115:3. Music: "On My Way," by Justin Jollie.

This episode contains a portion of Dr. Chris' teaching from a class that He taught on the Kingdom in 2019. In this episode, you will learn about the ESSENCE of God's Kingdom, the NATURE of God's Kingdom, and the EXPRESSION of God's Kingdom. The episode climaxes with a "working definition" of the Kingdom of God: "The Kingdom is the reign and rule of God over and through His human family, over His realm." Scriptures: Psalm 103:19; Psalm 145:10-13; Mark 12:28-34; Luke 17:20-21; John 18:33-37; Matt. 6:10; Gen. 1:26-28 Music: "On My Way," by Justin Jollie.

This episode explores the relationship between the Cross and the Kingdom: The cross is the heart of the Christian faith and the true gospel. The cross is the means by which Christ brought redemption to the world. The cross provides "benefits" to those who receive Christ's perfect work, by faith (see: Psalm 103). The cross is the "key" that unlocks the door to the Kingdom of God in the lives of believers. The cross is not an end, but a means to an end- to bring followers of Jesus into the realm of God's rule and reign. Scriptures: 1 Cor. 15:3-4; 1 Cor. 2:2; Gal. 6:14; Psalm 103; Prov. 22:28; Rom. 5:17; Matt. 28:18-20. Music: "On My Way," by Justin Jollie.

The first and fundamental way that God reveals Himself in the Bible is as KING! This episode explores the topic of God's kingship as a precursor to grasping the ever important subject of the Kingdom of God. From the first verse in the Bible to the last, God has chosen to reveal Himself as the Ruler and Supreme authority in both heaven and earth! Listen in and experience the transforming power of relating to God as King. Scriptures: 1 Chronicles 29:10-13; Gen. 1 & 2; Rev. 21 & 22; Ecclesiastes 8:4; Luke 9:23-25; Mark 1:14-15. Music: "On my Way," by Justin Jollie

This episode revisits the theme of Meta Narratives or "Big Stories" of the Bible by exploring the subject of Kingdom. Along with Covenant, Kingdom is shown to not merely be a subject matter IN the Bible but they essentially form the subject matter OF the Bible. While Covenant is associated with the idea of relationship, Kingdom is closely connected to the idea of representation. In Genesis 1:26-28, the Bible details that God created humans both for Covenant Relationship and Kingdom Representation. To underscore the importance of representing God, Dr. Romano teaches about the importance of image bearing. In short, being an image bearer is the believer's highest calling. Rather than merely a collection of attributes and abilities, being made in the image of God involves carrying a status through which God purposes to reveal Himself and His ways. The episode further looks into the life of Jesus as an image bearer. Throughout His earthly ministry, He perfectly personified what it means to represent and image God by His allegiance and obedience to the Father. It is through His example that we see the picture of Covenant Relationship and Kingdom Representation clearly on display. Further, it is through His death, resurrection and ascension that we find both the fulfillment of God's use of Covenants as a channel of establishing His Kingdom on the earth AND a gateway for Jesus' followers (of every age) to continue the mission of God in expanding the Kingdom throughout all of the earth. In this way, Jesus shares God's rule and authority with His Church and commissions them to faithfully follow His lead in imaging and representing God and His Kingdom in every aspect of their lives. Scriptures: Psalm 118:24; 2 Tim. 3:16-17; Gen. 1:26-28; Gen. 3; John 14:8-9; Matt. 28:18-20. Music: "On My Way," by Justin Jollie.

This episode introduces the subject of Meta Narratives in the Bible. Meta Narratives are the "big stories" of the Bible that provide shape and meaning to the entirety of Scripture. There are two primary meta narratives in Scripture: Kingdom & Covenant. In this show, Dr. Romano explores the ever important, but commonly misunderstood theme of Covenant. Covenant is the way in which God has chosen to relate to all people. It provides the context for relationship with God, as well as properly understanding His love and commitment for us. Tune into this episode to grasp the importance of "big stories," as well as to receive a clear picture of the theme of Covenant. If you really want to comprehend what God has done, what He is doing and what He is after in His dealing with humans of every age, you have to have a grasp on the Meta Narrative of Covenant! Scriptures: Romans 1:16-17; Phil. 3:7-10; 1 Cor. 6:19-20; Hosea 1-3; Romans 5:6-8. Music: "On My Way," by Justin Jollie.

Today's podcast begins our study of the subject of the Kingdom of God. In this episode, Dr. Romano will explore the primary, overarching message of Jesus and why it is critical for all followers of Christ to understand. Scriptures: Matthew 3:1-2; Matthew 4:17, 23; Luke 9:1-2; Luke 4:16-21. Music: "On My Way" by Justin Jollie.

Start2Finish: The Exartizo Podcast is a brand new podcast hosted by Dr. Chris Romano, the President of Vision Christian Bible College & Seminary. Each episode will offer clear and concise teaching from God's Word that will serve to equip real people for real purpose! This episode offers a preview of the podcast and what listeners can expect to gain by tuning in.