Podcasts about Bema

Marty Solomon and Brent Billings look at the third of BEMA's four pillars, being challenged by the historical setting and practice of discipleship.The Life and Times of Jesus the Messiah by Alfred EdersheimNahum M. Sarna — WikipediaShmuel Safrai — WikipediaDavid Flusser — WikipediaQuest for the Historical Jesus — WikipediaAlbert Schweitzer — WikipediaRudolf Bultmann — WikipediaDead Sea Scrolls — WikipediaN. T. Wright — WikipediaE. P. Sanders — WikipediaThe Jesus Quest by Ben Witherington IIISecond Temple Judaism — WikipediaScholasticism — Wikipedia

If you’ve ever struggled to balance the demands of everyday life with an eternal perspective, this conversation is for you. If you’re a believer you know heaven is real. You probably even know you should thInk about living in light of eternal life. But how? If you’ve ever struggled to balance the demands of everyday life with an eternal perspective, this conversation is for you. In this episode, I sit down with storyteller and ministry founder Joe Mayers to talk about what it means to “think forever.” Joe shares how a devastating personal loss deepened his faith, strengthened his hope in heaven, and shaped the mission behind his ministry. We also talk about the judgment seat of Christ, why our daily choices matter more than we realize, and what Joe learned while creating his newest project about the Apostle Paul. This conversation will encourage you to live today with eternity in mind. And remember, I'd love to connect more on Instagram, where you'll find me at @donnaajones. And don’t forget to subscribe so you don’t miss a single episode! Xo, Donna Key Takeaways: 0:00:12 - Donna’s Summer Speaking Tour & Connection Invite 0:03:14 - Think Forever: Using Storytelling for Eternal Perspective 0:04:52 - How “The Bema” Reshapes Life in Light of Eternity 0:10:37 - Losing a Son, Grief, and Making Eternity Personal 0:17:19 - “Zeal”: Paul’s Life, Hidden Years, and Redeemed Passion What We Talk About The mission behind Think Forever The Bema Judgment Seat of Christ Why eternal perspective changes how we live today Joe's personal story of losing his infant son, Obi Finding hope in heaven after tragedy How God brings purpose out of pain Joe's new one-man show, Zeal Lessons from the life of the Apostle Paul The overlooked ten-year season of Paul's preparation How storytelling helps people engage with Scripture Think Forever: Living Today with Eternity in Mind Joe's ministry centers around one simple but powerful idea: Remember that you are an eternal being. Recognize that your daily choices matter forever. Focus on what has lasting value. Live faithfully in the responsibilities God has given you today. Keep your hope fixed on Christ and eternity. Donna’s Resources: Order a copy of my latest book - Healthy Conflict, Peaceful Life: A Biblical Guide to Communicating Thoughts, Feelings, and Opinions with Grace, Truth, and Zero Regret. It is available anywhere books are sold– here is the link on Amazon. If you need a helpful resource for someone exploring faith and Christianity or simply want to strengthen your own knowledge, you’ll want a copy of my book, Seek: A Woman’s Guide to Meeting God. It’s a must for seekers, new believers, and those who want to deepen their faith. Connect with Joe: Think Forever: https://www.thinkforever.org/ Think Forever Podcast https://www.thinkforever.org/podcast Let’s Connect: Instagram: @donnaajones Website: www.donnajones.org Donna’s speaking schedule: https://donnajones.org/events/ Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

The sermon centers on the sobering reality of divine accountability, emphasizing that true faith inevitably produces visible fruit and faithful stewardship, not merely profession. Drawing from James 3's warning against becoming many teachers due to the stricter judgment awaiting those in positions of influence, it unfolds the biblical concept of the Bema Seat—a future judgment not for salvation, but for rewards based on how believers have lived out their faith, invested their gifts, and served others. Through parables like the talents and imagery from 1 Corinthians 3, it illustrates that God evaluates not just actions but motives, rewarding enduring, God-honoring works while exposing the emptiness of inaction and self-centered religion. The message is both a call to faithful obedience and a profound encouragement: though rewards are not earned, they are given to those who serve Christ with sincerity, humility, and perseverance, knowing that every believer will one day give an account before Him.

Main Text: Matthew 21:33–46 (ESV) 33 “Hear another parable. There was a master of a house who planted a vineyard and put a fence around it and dug a winepress in it and built a tower and leased it to tenants, and went into another country. 34 When the season for fruit drew near, he sent his servants to the tenants to get his fruit. 35 And the tenants took his servants and beat one, killed another, and stoned another. 36 Again he sent other servants, more than the first. And they did the same to them. 37 Finally he sent his son to them, saying, ‘They will respect my son.' 38 But when the tenants saw the son, they said to themselves, ‘This is the heir. Come, let us kill him and have his inheritance.' 39 And they took him and threw him out of the vineyard and killed him. 40 When therefore the owner of the vineyard comes, what will he do to those tenants?” 41 They said to him, “He will put those wretches to a miserable death and let out the vineyard to other tenants who will give him the fruits in their seasons.” 42 Jesus said to them, “Have you never read in the Scriptures: “ ‘The stone that the builders rejected has become the cornerstone; this was the Lord's doing, and it is marvelous in our eyes'? 43 Therefore I tell you, the kingdom of God will be taken away from you and given to a people producing its fruits. 44 And the one who falls on this stone will be broken to pieces; and when it falls on anyone, it will crush him.” 45 When the chief priests and the Pharisees heard his parables, they perceived that he was speaking about them. 46 And although they were seeking to arrest him, they feared the crowds, because they held him to be a prophet.Preaching Point: Knowing that God will call our lives into account should move us from a self-focused life to one united with Christ and governed by his authority.Teaching Points:Expect God to Collect (vv. 33-34)Respect God's Ownership (vv. 35-41)Submit to the Son's Authority (vv. 42-46)Application Questions: Write down one observation or application you found helpful from this week's sermon.Read 2 Corinthians 5:10, Romans 14:12, and Luke 12:42–48. What do these passages teach you about your accountability before God for what he has entrusted to you? If Christ scheduled your BEMA judgment for next week, what specific areas of your life would you be most concerned about giving an account for? How can you prepare now to account for those areas in a way that will honor the Lord?Read Romans 1:18–25, Psalm 24:1, and 1 Corinthians 6:19–20. Why is the temptation to live as though your life is your own such a serious offense against God?Where in your life have you been treating something as "mine" when it actually belongs to God? (Marriage, money, kids, time, body, gifts, work, influence, etc.) How do you plan on surrendering these to God?Read Acts 4:11–12 and 1 Peter 2:4–10. Do you live as if Jesus is the cornerstone of your life? Explain.Where are you most tempted to step around Christ's authority rather than build your life on him? What is one specific area of your life you need to bring under Christ's authority today?

Marty Solomon and Brent Billings look at the second of BEMA's four pillars: the commitment to and experience of community.About Impact Campus Ministries (Definition of Success)Loneliness Sucks — Marty Solomon, YouTubeLife Together by Dietrich Bonhoeffer

Saturday, 18 April 2026   “So My heavenly Father also will do to you if each of you, from his heart, does not forgive his brother his trespasses.” Matthew 18:35   “And thus, My Father, the celestial, He will do to you if not you should forgive each, his brother, from your hearts their transgressions.” (CG).   In the previous verse, Jesus completed the substance of His parable concerning the unforgiving servant, having used it as an example of dealings in the kingdom of the heavens.   As noted, His words were a veiled reference to what was coming upon Israel in their state of rejecting Christ, a self-inflicted wound that continues to this day. Understanding this, He next says, “And thus, My Father, the celestial, He will do to you.”   In some texts, the word used to describe the Father is ouranios, heavenly. It is a word already seen five times. However, a different word is used in most texts, epouranios, celestial. It is derived from epi, upon, and ouranos, heaven.   As such, it literally means “upon-heaven,” and, thus, it indicates that which is celestial, meaning what is related to the sky, outer space, or heaven, and which often implies divine, ethereal, or superb quality.   The word is also used once in John 3:12. All other uses are found in Paul's writings and in the book of Hebrews, which is most likely written by Paul. Jesus tells the disciples that this is how they (the word “you” is plural) will be treated “if not you should forgive each, his brother, from your hearts.”   Stating it this way, Jesus brings it to mean each person individually. God will look on all of them, and the ones that don't have the proper attitude in this matter will likewise be treated. It must be remembered that the parable, despite having real implications for the nation of Israel, is still based on the thought of asking for leniency.   The co-servant acknowledged his debt and promised to pay it, begging for time. Nothing was said about outright forgiveness without repayment. A debt was owed, and leniency was requested. At a minimum, it should have been granted.   The words “from your hearts” signify that what is forgiven is to be complete, in both action and mind. Once it is done, it isn't to be called to mind again. With that, the verse and the chapter end with “their transgressions.”   These words are not in many manuscripts, even as far back as the Latin Vulgate. Some believe they were added in to soften the abrupt ending and to align with Matthew 6:15. Either way, some manuscripts include them, some don't. As long as it is understood that this is the case, people have the knowledge of the difference.   This summary thought to the parable does not say that what was forgiven by God will be reimposed upon a person if his attitude is contrary to Jesus' words. It says that the celestial Father will mete out the same treatment to a person that was meted out in the parable. That treatment was –   “And having been angry, his master, he surrendered him to the torturers until that he should pay all the ‘being owed' him.”   In Christ, all debts are paid for our sin. To say this is not true is to say that Christ's shed blood was insufficient to deal with our sin. If all our sin debt is paid, then there is no more sin debt to pay. However, because the parable was speaking of imposing law upon others, even if a person is saved, if he returns to law observance, what does Paul say while using circumcision as a benchmark of this apostasy? It is found in Galatians 5 –   “Stand fast therefore in the liberty by which Christ has made us free, and do not be entangled again with a yoke of bondage. 2 Indeed I, Paul, say to you that if you become circumcised, Christ will profit you nothing. 3 And I testify again to every man who becomes circumcised that he is a debtor to keep the whole law. 4 You have become estranged from Christ, you who attempt to be justified by law; you have fallen from grace. 5 For we through the Spirit eagerly wait for the hope of righteousness by faith. 6 For in Christ Jesus neither circumcision nor uncircumcision avails anything, but faith working through love.” Galatians 5:1-6   A person who returns to the law becomes a debtor to the whole law. That is now what is owed. If the person was saved, there will be no rewards for that person from that point on. When he stands before Christ at the Bema seat, his life and works will go through the fire. Paul says he will be saved, but only as through fire (1 Corinthians 3:12-15).   For the person who was never saved, he bears the full burden of the law, including all of the associated curses that are included in the law. This is what Jesus is ultimately referring to. Be wise. Hold fast to the grace of Christ. And be sure to instruct others on the freedom from law that is found in Christ.   Life application: Matthew 18 follows logically in type after Chapter 17, which poignantly showed that there is a future for Israel. The words of Jesus are given to show who will enter the kingdom of the heavens, meaning people of child-like faith. Such faith is wholly contrary to law observance.   Jesus then proceeded to speak of those who are to be excluded, meaning those who sin against their brother and will not heed the counsel of the offended, nor of his witnesses, nor of the called-out assembly. Such are to be treated as “the ethnicity and the taxmen.”   Jesus then went on to explain who such an offender is in the parable of the unforgiving servant. Even though the words have a surface intent of revealing a cold and unforgiving heart, the root of the parable revealed how Israel got into the mess it remains in, even to this day. They reinserted the law into their national worship after Christ came and fulfilled it.   As such, the debt they owe must be paid. Until it is, by collectively receiving Jesus, they will not enter into the millennium so carefully described in the previous chapter. Once again, we are learning the lesson of the law. It is the great enemy of a relationship with God. What we need is not more law. What we need is Jesus. Let us remember this.   Lord God, help us to be forgiving when asked, willing to let go of the things that cause trouble and division between us and others. And help us to stand fast on the grace that was bestowed upon us through the giving of Jesus. May we never diminish this grace in our lives or in the lives of others. Amen.

Share a comment“Conduct yourselves in fear” might be one of the most misunderstood commands in the Bible. We take 1 Peter 1:17 head-on and redefine holy fear as reverent awe, not nervous terror. When Peter reminds us that the Judge is also our Father, everything changes: holiness stops feeling like a performance and starts looking like everyday Christian living that says, through a thousand small choices, “I belong to God.”From there, we walk into the judgment seat of Christ, the Bema, and clear out a lot of confusion. We separate the Great White Throne judgment for unbelievers from the Bema evaluation for believers, and we anchor assurance of salvation in the finished atonement of Jesus Christ. No condemnation means no heavenly trial to decide your destiny, and no public replay of forgiven sin. Instead, Scripture points to an impartial evaluation of service, motives, and faithfulness that puts weight and meaning on even the most ordinary acts of obedience.We also explore three pictures the New Testament uses for the Bema: a refining fire that reveals quality, an awards platform that honors endurance, and a performance review that measures what was spiritually profitable. If you've ever wondered whether your unseen service matters, or how to live with real reverence without living in dread, this conversation gives you a clear, practical framework for holiness, sanctification, and hope. Subscribe for more, share this with a friend who needs assurance, and leave a review telling us what “holy fear” means to you now.Explore all of our Biblically Faithful Resources at https://www.wisdomonline.org Learn more: https://www.wisdomonline.org/Support the show

Share a comment“Conduct yourselves in fear” might be one of the most misunderstood commands in the Bible. We take 1 Peter 1:17 head-on and redefine holy fear as reverent awe, not nervous terror. When Peter reminds us that the Judge is also our Father, everything changes: holiness stops feeling like a performance and starts looking like everyday Christian living that says, through a thousand small choices, “I belong to God.”From there, we walk into the judgment seat of Christ, the Bema, and clear out a lot of confusion. We separate the Great White Throne judgment for unbelievers from the Bema evaluation for believers, and we anchor assurance of salvation in the finished atonement of Jesus Christ. No condemnation means no heavenly trial to decide your destiny, and no public replay of forgiven sin. Instead, Scripture points to an impartial evaluation of service, motives, and faithfulness that puts weight and meaning on even the most ordinary acts of obedience.We also explore three pictures the New Testament uses for the Bema: a refining fire that reveals quality, an awards platform that honors endurance, and a performance review that measures what was spiritually profitable. If you've ever wondered whether your unseen service matters, or how to live with real reverence without living in dread, this conversation gives you a clear, practical framework for holiness, sanctification, and hope. Subscribe for more, share this with a friend who needs assurance, and leave a review telling us what “holy fear” means to you now.What does it look like to live a holy life? In In Pursuit of Holiness, Stephen shows you how to think clearly, resist sin, and live differently in a culture that pulls you the other way. Move beyond information to real application. Get your copy today and take your next step with Christ. https://bit.ly/4v5aktw Learn more: https://www.wisdomonline.org/Support the show

The first thing to happen when true Christians get to Heaven is a one-on-one with Jesus. He will go over a list of things you did for Him that matter. Here are 3 areas of your outward self that the Bible says will comprise that list.

Marty Solomon and Brent Billings launch a new 12-part reflection on the Four Pillars of BEMA.BEMA 203: You Are HereBEMA 78: Silent Years — EssenesBrent on Instagram

Wie steigert man den Praxisumsatz um über 369.000 € in nur einem Jahr – und das bei sinkendem BEMA-Anteil? In dieser Folge meines Praxis Erfolg Podcasts teile ich eine exklusive Kundengeschichte mit Ihnen, die zeigt, was mit dem richtigen Mindset und Fokus möglich ist. Gemeinsam werfen wir einen Blick hinter die Kulissen einer Zahnarztpraxis, die den Sprung von 1,65 Mio. € auf 2,0 Mio. € Jahresumsatz geschafft hat. Erfahren Sie, warum der Wechsel von BEMA zu GOZ (jetzt 69 % Anteil!) der Schlüssel war und wie allein das Thema Eigenlabor und CEREC für monatliche Zusatzumsätze von 24.000 € sorgt. Möchten Sie herausfinden, wie viel ungenutztes Potenzial in Ihrer Praxis steckt und wie Sie Ihren Gewinn nachhaltig steigern können? Sichern Sie sich hier Ihr persönliches Analysegespräch: https://www.svenwalla.de Ich freue mich auf Sie! Ihr Sven Walla

Pastor Darren picks up his sermon series from the fall season, Longing, and takes us into the Judgement Seat of Christ and how this event isn't something we should be fearful of, but something we should be longing for. Thank you for listening to our podcast! We hope you have been encouraged today.Check us out on social media, or to learn more, you can visit our website at www.freedomcanyon.com.

Is God a communist? We tend to think that all rewards are totally equal in God’s Kingdom, but the Bible teaches the opposite. There are tiers of reward, authority, and glory in Christ’s Kingdom. There are a variety of passages that explain this to us, whether it’s 2 Peter 1:11, Paul’s remarks about the Bema […]

Season 7 Episode 16 "Bema Seat Judgment of Christ"

Monday, 29 December 2025   These are the things which defile a man, but to eat with unwashed hands does not defile a man.” Matthew 15:20   “These, they are, the ‘defiling the man,' but to eat with unwashed hands, not it defiles the man” (CG).   In the previous verse, Jesus gave a list of things that stem from the heart and which defile a person. He confirms this now with the words, “These, they are, the ‘defiling the man.'”   The list from Jesus, as recorded in Matthew, is not all-inclusive. In Mark, rather than seven items, Jesus gives a list of thirteen. It is certain that the list could go on all day as the human heart thinks up new ways of sinning. That is a thought stated by Paul in Romans 1:30, where he notes those who are “inventors of evil things.” In fact, the Lord, through Jeremiah, says –   “The heart is deceitful above all things, And desperately wicked; Who can know it? 10 I, the Lord, search the heart, I test the mind, Even to give every man according to his ways, According to the fruit of his doings.” Jeremiah 17:9, 10   It is the heart where the source of true defilement of a man comes. Jesus continues, saying, “but to eat with unwashed hands, not it defiles the man.”   Here is a new word, aniptos. It is derived from the negative particle a, and the word niptó, to wash or cleanse. Therefore, it signifies unwashed. Jesus explicitly says what He was referring to concerning foods entering the mouth. He was not speaking of the foods themselves, but of the fact that they are unwashed.   Without considering these words, scholars have run ahead of the dispensation's completion and said that Jesus was claiming that all foods are acceptable to be eaten. However, that would be a violation of the Law of Moses, something not yet fulfilled by Him. Having said that, the parallel account in Mark says concerning food –   “...because not it enters him into the heart, but into the stomach and into the john it ejects, cleansing all the foods.” Mark 7:19   Taking this to a wholly unintended extreme, the NIV et al, which is based on the offset of the NU text, thus implying it is the wording of Mark, says, “(In saying this, Jesus declared all foods clean)”. This is not at all what Jesus is saying. He is saying that the food is purified through the process of going through the body. As in Matthew, the context is that of ceremonial washing of foods, not the types of foods.   It is true that during this dispensation, all foods are acceptable –   “For every creature of God is good, and nothing is to be refused if it is received with thanksgiving.” 1 Timothy 4:4   This sentiment is taught by Paul in several ways in Romans 14, 1 Corinthians 8, Colossians 2, etc. But this is not what Jesus is referring to while under the Law of Moses. The distinction must be made and kept separate. Until the law was fulfilled, it had to be obeyed.   Life application: Those who have come to Christ “are not under law but under grace” Romans 6:14. If there is no law, then there can be no imputation of sin (Romans 5:13, 2 Corinthians 5:19, etc.). As this is so, believers cannot lose their salvation.   However, Jesus states moral truths in the verses we have been looking at. The things that we do, which stem from a wicked heart, are wicked. No, we will not be imputed sin and lose our salvation for doing those things. However, we are not blameless either.   In doing such things, we harm our relationship with the Lord, we set a very poor example for the world to see, and we will lose rewards at the Bema seat of Christ. We may also lose our lives, health, savings, etc., in the process of doing such things. These are truths that the Bible proclaims.   We are not given license to do wrong, something those who say the doctrine of eternal salvation necessarily must teach. That is a false dichotomy that is unsupportable from Scripture. Scripture teaches eternal salvation, while it also teaches holiness and consequences for wrongdoing.   Be sure not to get bullied by those who claim you can lose your salvation. They have poor doctrine and nothing biblical to stand on. At the same time, never take your eternal salvation as a license to sin. That is the surest way of making your life miserable. Actions have consequences. Be holy to the Lord and honor Him with your lives.   Lord God, help us to be ready to defend sound doctrine at all times. But may we not be arrogant as we do. Also, Lord, help us to be holy in our thoughts, words, and deeds for the sake of Jesus' name. We can so easily get distracted from these things. So help us in this, O God. Amen.

Niki and Gavin discuss The Bema Seat and The Wedding Supper of the Lamb.Scripture readings:  1 Corinthians 15:51-52, Romans 14:10, 2 Corinthians 5:10, Micah 7:19, John 5:24, 1 Peter 2:24, Hebrews 12:1-3, 1 Corinthians 3:14, Revelation 1:14, 2 Chronicles 16:19, Ephesians 5:15, Colossians 3:23-24, Revelation 19:6-9, Matthew 26:27-29, Zephaniah 3:17, Isaiah 11:6-9, Revelation 3:20Contact Information:  FinalDestinationHeaven@outlook.com

Our Lord speaks of the Judgment of the nations which occurs after the great tribulation and after the 2nd coming of Christ, the Son of Man to the earth. But first, Dr. Mitchell explains 5 judgments found in Scripture. 1. The judgment of sin thru Christ on the cross 1Peter 2:242. The judgment of believers, known as divine discipline or chastisement either for sin or for spiritual growth and education. Heb.123. The judgment of believer's works at the Bema seat. 1Cor.34. The judgment of the living nations seen here in Matthew 25.5. The judgment of the unsaved at the great white throne. Rev.20Dr. Mitchell explains these five separate judgments before moving into Matthew 25 verses 31 thru 46.Helping us to grow in the knowledge of truth, on the Unchanging Word Bible Broadcast, here is Dr. Mitchell, Matthew 25:31.

Marty Solomon, Brent Billings, and Reed Dent discuss courage. The regular episode is preceded by some thoughts on Josh Bossé from Reed and Brent.Support for Sophia and Ronen after the loss of Josh — GoFundMeFor Josh — Text in UsRemembering Josh Bossé — Brent Billings“When I Am Among the Trees” by Mary Oliver in Thirst“The Peace of Wild Things” by Wendell Berry in The Selected Poems of Wendell BerryDaily Prayer with the Corrymeela Community by Pádraig Ó TuamaThe Screwtape Letters by C. S. Lewis“Just Do It” Motivational Speech by Shia LaBeouf — YouTubeBEMA 39: A King After God's Own HeartRocky IV (1985 film) — Letterboxd

We welcome John Brooks today as he looks at various scriptures in discussing the judgment seat of Christ or Bema seat and future judgement for Christians and their rewards.

Brent Billings marks the beginning of our mourning by sharing a final update about our beloved Josh Bossé.BEMA Messenger #79BEMA 465: Qohelet's ReflectionBEMA 405: Practical Shabbat — KeepingJosh's Cancer Journey on CaringBridgeSupport for Sophia and Ronen after the loss of Josh — GoFundMe“How to Sit Shiva” by Anita Diamant — My Jewish Learning

In this sermon, Pastor Snook turns our attention to one of the most significant yet often misunderstood concepts in biblical theology: The Promise of Rewards in Heaven. Our bible text is the foundational passage of II Corinthians 5:10, which states, 'For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ; that every one may receive the things done in his body, according to that he hath done, whether it be good or bad.' We are taught about the  'Judgment Seat of Christ,' known in the Greek as the Bema, and its purpose not as a verdict on salvation—which is settled through faith in Christ—but as an evaluation of the believer's service, faithfulness, and obedience. Join us as we explore the motivations for such service and detail the Five Crowns promised to those who faithfully labor for the Lord.We explore the reasons that should compel us to serve: the personal motivation to please Jesus 4and the practical duty to persuade the lost5. Finally, we detail the Five Crowns—for victory over the flesh, soul-winning, enduring temptation, and more—that faithful servants will receive6666666666666666666666666. Discover what truly matters!Would you like me to find a YouTube video about the "God Did It Tour" or perhaps search for the exact date and location for one of the cities listed in the image?

Brent Billings, Reed Dent, and Josh Bossé dive into the virtues by talking about prudence (or wisdom).Teaching a Stone to Talk by Annie DillardAsking Better Questions of the Bible by Marty SolomonThe Gospel of Being Human by Marty Solomon and Reed DentInspired by Rachel Held EvansBEMA 454: Qohelet Goes OffOrdet (1955 film) — LetterboxdThe Cardinal and the Deadly by Karl Clifton-SoderstromReed on Instagram

Brent Billings, Reed Dent, and Josh Bossé talk about the capital vice known as sloth—or rather, acedia.David Hume's Moral Philosophy: The Natural Virtues — Stanford Encyclopedia of PhilosophyMaking All Things New by Henri NouwenInside Out 2 (2024 film)Glittering Vices by Rebecca Konyndyk DeYoungAcedia & Me by Kathleen NorrisThe Message in the Bottle by Walker PercyBEMA 2: Knowing When to Say “Enough”1 Corinthians 3 — Reed Dent, Campus Christian FellowshipBEMA 400: Talmudic Matthew — SaltBEMA 401: Talmudic Matthew — LightBEMA 402: Talmudic Matthew — Lightly SaltedMark 11 (aroma reference) — Reed Dent, Campus Christian FellowshipWhere the Wild Things Are by Maurice SendakBEMA 136: Each OneThe Book of Delights by Ross Gay“Patient Trust” by Pierre Teilhard de Chardin“Followers, Not Admirers” by Søren Kierkegaard in Bread and Wine: Readings for Lent and EasterPrayer of St. Teresa of Avila — Catholic Health Association of the United StatesLost in the Cosmos by Walker PercyThe Sabbath by Abraham Joshua HeschelThe Screwtape Letters by C. S. LewisCalorie — WikipediaCanada Geese and Diet Dr. Pepper — The Anthropocene Reviewed

Rewards for a job well done are sure nice, especially when they come from Jesus. Here is how to ensure that what you do as a Christian is what matters to Jesus and is worthy of His reward.

Brent Billings and Reed Dent talk about envy.The Talented Mr. Ripley (1999 film) — LetterboxdGlittering Vices by Rebecca Konyndyk DeYoung“The Other Six Deadly Sins” by Dorothy L. SayersThe Cardinal and the Deadly by Karl Clifton-SoderstromNo Exit (1944 play) by Jean-Paul Sartre — WikipediaBEMA 39: A King After God's Own Heart

2 Corinthians

2 Corinthians

Brent Billings, Reed Dent, and Elle Grover Fricks talk about greed.Wall Street (1987 film) — LetterboxdGlengarry Glen Ross (1992 film) — LetterboxdThe Wolf of Wall Street (2013 film) — LetterboxdWishful Thinking by Frederick Buechner“Is Greed Good? On God and Wealth” by Donald Goergen — Church Life JournalTo Have or to Be? by Eric FrommFight Club (1999 film) – LetterboxdBEMA 356: Sabbath Practice — Friendship w/ Derrick James Rohr IIIThe Cardinal and the Deadly by Karl Clifton-SoderstromBEMA 314: Parables — The Barn BuilderLa Pachanga Mexican Restaurant

On this episode of Talking Church, Logan sits down with Marty Solomon, founder of BEMA Discipleship, to wrestle with “deconstruction” and how pastors can guide people toward a historically informed, Jewish lens that reconstructs faith around Jesus. They explore asking hard questions without losing orthodoxy—from Genesis to Paul, paradox to the Holy Spirit—and how to measure teaching by its fruit, not just its system. It's a thoughtful, multi-denominational conversation full of practical language for shepherding a confused body, strengthening resilient faith, and discipling believers in the real world.

Calvary Birmingham is a Free Grace church that teaches the Bible verse by verse and chapter by chapter. Free Grace theology is the view that everlasting life is a free gift that cannot be lost, received by faith alone in Christ alone, apart from works of any kind; assurance of our eternal destiny is based solely on believing Jesus' promise to the believer, and not on looking to our works, experiences, or behavior; believers are accountable for our actions before God, and will be judged at the Bema to determine our eternal rewards, but not our eternal destinies. This is a verse by verse message from Luke 15.

David Forsyth continues his examination of the pretribulational rapture doctrine, presenting five additional biblical reasons supporting this eschatological position. The pretribulational rapture view suggests that the tribulation period primarily serves Jewish purposes, preparing Israel to receive its Messiah and enter the new covenant. This perspective allows for mortal believers to populate the millennial kingdom and accounts for Christ's promise in John 14:1-3 to prepare a place for His followers.Furthermore, the pretribulational rapture provides adequate time for the Bema seat judgment of the church while explaining the notable silence regarding the church in Revelation 6-19. Through careful examination of prophetic terminology and biblical passages, Forsyth builds a comprehensive case that the church will be delivered before the seven-year tribulation period begins, offering believers comfort and hope in Christ's imminent return. ★ Support this podcast ★

Message Date: September 7, 2025 ★ Support this podcast ★

Send us a textWhat do we do with all the mystery, symbolism, and straight-up scary parts of Revelation and “end times” talk? Jess sits down with Pastor Gabe for a practical, hope-filled Q&A covering our most common fears—from destruction and the Antichrist to judgment, the mark of the beast, loved ones who don't believe, and even the fear of dying. If you've wondered, “Could I be left behind?” or “What if I'm not ready when Jesus comes back?”—this one's for you.In this episode:Why Revelation was written—and why it's ultimately a blessing, not a horror story“Left behind” fears vs. the Bible's promise of security in ChristWhat the mark of the beast really requires (and why you won't take it by accident)The Antichrist's fate (spoiler: God wins)Two judgments: Bema for believers (rewards, not condemnation) & Great White ThroneRight standing vs. right living—how to be readySuffering, sovereignty, and trusting God when the future feels out of controlHope for loved ones who don't believe and how to love them wellThe instant hope for believers at death: absent from the body, present with the LordSimple next steps to study Revelation with confidence (and with friends)Key Scriptures referenced:Revelation 1:3; 13Matthew 24; 25John 10; 16:33; 7:17Romans 5:1; 8:1; 8:28Ephesians 1:13–142 Corinthians 5 (Bema seat)Daniel 9Jude (saved “so as by fire”)Helpful next steps:Get your FREE book: Sticky Faith in a Slippery World — grab your copy using this link: https://www.westsidecommunitychurch.com/stickyfaithIf this encouraged you, subscribe, like, and share it with someone who needs peace and clarity about the end times.

Marty Solomon and Brent Billings are joined by the BEMA Kokomo discussion group from Indiana, which launched in 2021, to share their story and give everyone an idea of what a healthy, thriving group can look like.BEMA 317: Asking Better Questions of the Bible w/ Erin GeiselmanBridgeway Church in Kokomo, IndianaAsking Better Questions of the Bible by Marty SolomonEvolving Faith Podcast 1: Evolution, Apocalypse, and Remembering Rachel Held EvansCrossroads Community Church in Kokomo, IndianaTrust Fall by Brent FaulknerReview of Trust Fall — Marty Solomon, GoodreadsCitizenship Papers by Wendell Berry Special Guest: Erin Geiselman.

Today's sermon is The Bema Seat by Mike Focht Find more teaching from Pastor Mike at www.ccphilly.org

Brent Billings, Josh Bossé, and Reed Dent consider the appointed time for everything.BEMA 382: Psalms — Small, Not InsignificantFirst Reformed (2018 film) — JustWatch

Brent Billings, Josh Bossé, and Elle Grover Fricks launch an exploration of one of the least understood books of Tanakh (Ecclesiastes).BEMA 320: The Forgotten Women — Sages and Wise WomenThe Wind Rises (2013 film) — JustWatch

Brent Billings, Elle Grover Fricks, and Josh Bossé truly cap off this series by taking a second gander at the Lord's Prayer.One Thousand Gifts by Ann VoskampBEMA 286: John — The Test of BreadWhy Is Shavuot Celebrated — Aleph Beta

Brent Billings, Elle Grover Fricks, and Josh Bossé close out this series by taking a gander at the Lord's Prayer.BEMA 97: Done in SecretBEMA 332: Andrew DeCort — Flourishing on the Edge of FaithTextus Receptus — WikipediaCodex Sinaiticus — WikipediaCodex Vaticanus — WikipediaAlexandrian Text-Type — WikipediaByzantine Text-Type — Wikipedia“Ancient Amulets with Incipits” — Biblical Archaeology Society“The Lord's Prayer” (Live from Jerusalem in 2001) — Charlotte Church, YouTubeBEMA 325: Sanctuary — Waking Up in the Mishkan

Brent Billings and Elle Grover Fricks step into their prayer closets and shut the door on the babbling pagans.BEMA 97: Done in SecretLares — WikipediaBornless Ritual — Wikipedia

Brent Billings and Elle Grover Fricks take a spin with Jesus's concept of rewards or wages.Wealth, Poverty, and Charity in Jewish Antiquity by Gregg E. GardnerBEMA 97: Done in SecretDe Re Publica, De Legibus by Cicero — Internet ArchivePietas — WikipediaVirtus — WikipediaPolitics by Aristotle — Internet ArchivePolitics (Aristotle) — WikipediaEuergetism — WikipediaSynagogue Wall Decorations — Sardis ExpeditionInscriptions of the Megiddo Mosaic — Museum of the Bible

Marty Solomon, Brent Billings, and Elle Grover Fricks take a crack at what it means to be children of God.“What's Wrong with Winsomeness?” by Russell Moore — Christianity TodayThe Greatest Prayer by John Dominic CrossanBEMA 80: Silent Years — PhariseesBEMA 102: Son of ManMisreading Scripture with Individualist Eyes by E. Randolph Richards and Richard JamesDr. Anna C. Miller — Xavier University

Brent Billings and Reed Dent team up with Elle Grover Fricks to excavate some ancient ideas about enemies.BEMA 96: But I Say Unto YouJesus and Nonviolence by Walter WinkThe Peaceable Kingdom by Stanley HauerwasRise and Kill First by Ronen Bergman1QS 1 (Community Rule) with Matthew 5:43 — Intertextual BibleBEMA 358: Sabbath Practice — PrayerGreek Priest Recreates Excitement of Resurrection Announcement — InstagramGreek Priest Recreates Excitement of Resurrection Announcement — TikTok“‘Flying Priest' Marks Holy Saturday's Liturgy in Greece” by Nick Kampouris — Greek Reporter

Brent Billings, Elle Grover Fricks, and Josh Bossé take a closer look at Jesus's teachings on desire.BEMA 273: John — Pericope of an Honor Contest

Brent Billings joins Elle Grover Fricks to reconsider the topic of reconciliation through a Talmudic lens, featuring Reed Dent.BEMA 36: The Redemption Cycle“Dining in Heaven” by Robin M. Jensen — Biblical Archaeology Society Library

Brent Billings and Elle Grover Fricks search out what life can be found in two short verses from the Sermon on the Mount.Halakha — WikipediaBEMA 95: Abolish or FulfillBook of Tobit — Wikipedia

Marty Solomon and Brent Billings join Elle Grover Fricks to lay the groundwork for another series of Talmudic conversations in Matthew.“Dei Verbum” — Pope Paul VI, November 18, 1965Magisterium — WikipediaA Marginal Jew: Rethinking the Historical Jesus, Volume I, by John P. MeierEarly Jewish Messianism in the New Testament — “Introduction” by Serge RuzerJudah ha-Nasi — WikipediaBEMA 107: Donkeys and Rabbis

Marty Solomon and Brent Billings are with Josh Bossé to travel through Hosea 10, finding instructions for what can be done in the face of such idolatrous vanity.BEMA 109: Which Soil?BEMA 12: A Mission Realized

Marty Solomon and Brent Billings discuss Hosea 9 and the consequences of participating in imperial rebellion against the Lord.1994 Minister's Manual (HarperCollins, 1993). Series by Roger Lovette (Preaching from Hosea: A Gospel for Broken Things). Edited by James W. CoxBEMA 362: Isaiah — Prophetic PathosHyacinth — WikipediaWater Hyacinth — Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission