Podcasts about christian faith

Welcome to today's “Identity in the Battle” series, where we continue our exploration of the powerful image Paul gives us in Ephesians 6: the Armor of God. Stephanie Rousselle dives into the spiritual realities of our identity in Christ and how we're equipped to stand strong in spiritual warfare. In our previous episode, (episode 415) we looked at the first few pieces of this armor. So, how do we live victoriously through our spiritual battles? Let's see what Paul has to teach us through his letter to the Ephesians. Context and Purpose Paul sets the stage by reminding us that as followers of Christ, we're engaged in a real, everyday spiritual battle. The “Armor of God” is not just a metaphor; it's a God-given resource to ground us in our identity, empower us, and unite us as the body of Christ. The Shield of Faith Paul's words to the Ephesians brings the shield to life. In Greek, the word is literally “door,” emphasizing its large, protective nature—big enough to hide a soldier entirely. Roman soldiers would lock shields together, signifying unity and teamwork. Alone, we may stand vulnerable, but joined with others in faith, we're nearly impenetrable. The shield also features hinges—faith is “active,” meant to be flexible, adapting to every circumstance. The shield extinguishes “all the flaming arrows of the evil one.” These arrows primarily serve as distractions. Satan often uses “fiery darts” not just to harm, but mostly to divert our attention, separating us from our main purpose and leaving us vulnerable to further attacks. Stephanie reminds us to recognize life's distractions and stay focused—don't mistake the fire for the real enemy! We are challenged to take stock of how many times our faith has shielded us from attack, and to recognize each as a testimony to God's faithfulness. The Helmet of Salvation Just as medicine must be applied—not merely owned—salvation transforms us when we “put it on” daily. The helmet protects our minds from the enemy's lies, renewing our thoughts through daily application. Our salvation is both a present reality and a future inheritance; we're called to live now with the confidence, hope, and abundance Christ offers, not a mindset of spiritual scarcity. The Sword of the Spirit The “sword” is the Word of God—both Scripture and Jesus Himself. Scripture is not merely ink on paper, but alive and active, shaping us as we wield its truths. So, memorizing, speaking, and applying Scripture is our offensive weapon, capable of cutting through lies, confusion, and spiritual strongholds. Prayer as Our Ultimate Weapon Finally, Paul underscores prayer as the glue of our spiritual arsenal. Prayer is not a formality; it's the relational heartbeat with our Commander-in-Chief, Jesus. To kneel in prayer is the only way to stand firm against the enemy. Conclusion: Victory and Identity As believers, we're not called to fight alone. Armor is meant to be worn in unity, our eyes fixed on Jesus, our victorious leader. We're warriors today—clothed for battle—but one day, we'll trade our armor for bridal garments, celebrating our eternal victory in Christ. Until then, let's stand firm, united, and equipped with every spiritual blessing, living out our new identity in Him. Reflection: What distractions (flaming arrows) are keeping you from focusing on your true spiritual battle? Where do you need to “lock shields” with others? How can you apply the helmet of salvation and wield the sword of the Spirit more intentionally this week? Enjoying these reflection questions? Consider the accompanying workbook as a resource to go deeper, at https://www.gospelspice.com/identity  ----- IDENTITY IN THE BATTLE WORKBOOK ------ You have the option to go beyond listening to this series, and to participate actively. This exclusive Gospel Spice Ministries resource is available at gospelspice.com/identity . You will receive a downloadable, printable workbook containing listening guide for each of the 6 episodes in this series, space for note taking, and discussion questions if you want to do this study with a friend! What better way to enjoy a cup of coffee with a friend this season, than to discuss your identity in the battle together? So, grab a friend or family member, or someone to mentor or be mentored by, and signup together.  Every week, Stephanie shares truth from Scripture and invites you to dig deeper in your faith to delight in the glory of God. PLAY IT FORWARD by SHARING the link with friends and family PAY IT FORWARD by supporting us financially PRAY IT FORWARD by praying for us and those you share it with! Find out more at gospelspice.com We invite you to check out the first episode of each of our series, and decide which one you will want to start with. Go to gospelspice.com for more, and go especially to gospelspice.com/podcast to enjoy our guests! Interested in our blog? Click here: gospelspice.com/blog Identity in the battle | Ephesians https://www.podcastics.com/episode/372022/link/ Malachi: Messenger to Messiah https://www.podcastics.com/episode/356130/link/ Wisdom from the Book of Proverbs https://www.podcastics.com/episode/324347/link/ Come to the Table | The Feasts Jesus celebrated https://www.podcastics.com/episode/309956/link/ THERE ARE SEVERAL WAYS TO PARTNER WITH GOSPEL SPICE TODAY! First, PAY Gospel Spice Forward: Give a tax-deductible gift so others can experience our ministry for free, just like you! You can pay it forward with any debit, credit card, or via PayPal. See below for more details about your impact. Go to https://www.gospelspice.com/payitforward to make a one-time gift, or set up a monthly donation. Also, PLAY Gospel Spice Forward: SHARE the podcast and the studies with your friends and family. FOLLOW, RATE & REVIEW on your favorite podcast app (leave a comment + a star rating on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Pandora, IHeart, Google Podcast, etc…). It REALLY is the best way to help others find this content-rich podcast.  And, last but not least, PRAY Gospel Spice Forward: We pray for you weekly. We covet your prayers for our ministry, the thousands we reach, and our team! Contact us to let us know you are praying for us! Another way to partner with us is to purchase our workbooks and online Bible studies. We keep them at the lowest possible cost, but they require a lot of work from us! For example, - a complete Bible Study requires an average of 500 man-hours. - a workbook for a series requires almost 100 man-hours. MORE ABOUT PARTNERING WITH US FINANCIALLY: Gospel Spice Ministries is a non-profit organization registered under the tax-exempt 501c3 status. Go to https://www.gospelspice.com/payitforward to make a one-time gift, or set up a monthly donation. Our goal is to provide in-depth, high-quality, free Bible resources for all. They are free, but expensive to create! We need your financial support to keep producing and distributing them. Please pay Gospel Spice forward today! For example, a podcast episode takes close to 10 hours of work (and we release 2 each week). They come to you completely free, but we would truly love your support. We want the money to go to those who really need it. Once our operating costs are paid, 100% of your donation is redistributed to our partners who fight human trafficking. Each year, we aim to give as much as we can. For example, Stephanie works more than full time for Gospel Spice, entirely for free. All board members and volunteers are donating time. We limit our operational expenses to the bare minimum. Your pay-it-forward donations are tax-deductible under IRS Section 170. We want to be the best possible stewards of your financial support. Thank you! Go to https://www.gospelspice.com/payitforward to make a one-time gift, or set up a monthly donation. Support us on Gospel Spice, PayPal and Venmo!

In a world where spiritual claims come from every direction—podcasts, platforms, pulpits, and social feeds—it's becoming harder to discern what's truly biblical. Many ideas sound close to Christianity yet miss the mark in ways that quietly reshape what we believe about Jesus.If you've ever heard something that didn't sit right with you, you're not alone—and your instincts matter. And believe it or not… Christians were fighting these same battles 1,700 years ago.In this Candid reflection, Dr. Jonathan Youssef takes us back to one of the most defining moments in church history: the Council of Nicaea (A.D. 325). As the Council marks its 1,700th anniversary, Jonathan invites you into the story behind the Nicene Creed —a confession that has anchored generations of believers in the truth as heresy spread like wildfire.Learn how a single false idea about Jesus sparked a worldwide crisis, why the early Church gathered to defend the truth, and how the creed they forged continues to safeguard our faith today. This isn't dusty theology or ancient trivia. It's the foundation on which your understanding of Jesus' divinity, incarnation, resurrection, and His return still rests.Jonathan also guides you through the creed itself, and together, you'll rediscover why these ancient words still matter today.Vital Questions Answered by this Reflection:Why was the early Church gathered in Nicaea, and what was at stake?What was the Arian controversy, and why did it threaten the heart of the Gospel?How does the Nicene Creed boldly declare the eternal divinity of Jesus?Why does the creed still matter in a world of spiritual influencers and modern heresies?How does confessing ancient truth form a deeper, richer worship life today?Why is grounding your faith in who Jesus truly is the most urgent task of every believer?If You Enjoyed This Episode:Subscribe & Share:If this episode inspired you, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with others.Follow Candid Conversations on social media:Instagram: @candidpodTikTok: @officiallycandidpodYouTube: @CandidPod 

We went through one of the hardest seasons of our marriage, filled with frustration, miscommunication, and doubt. There was a moment when it felt like we wouldn't make it, but God had other plans.In this episode, we share the full story of how God took a broken situation and turned it into something beautiful. If you've ever felt like your marriage is on the edge or you're struggling to understand your spouse, this conversation is for you.God can heal what feels impossible to fix. No matter how far gone things seem, His grace restores and renews.✝️ COACHING WITH DAVID! https://imdavidhammond.com✝️ COACHING WITH MALLORY! https://biblicallyfeminine.com

Is there any redeeming value in reading fantasy literature or literature from the ancient world that is not distinctively Christian? What does Athens have to do with Jerusalem? What does truth have to do with fiction? Our guest again this week, an advocate for classical Christian education, Dr. Louis Markos, believes that reading fantasy or any of the classical works from pagan antiquity is an essential component to a classical Christian education; one that enables students to understand and appreciate the bigger historical and cultural contexts picture related to the origins of Christianity, as well as equips them to better grasp who they are as human beings created in the image of God. We continue to discuss his new book Passing the Torch - An Apology for the Christian Faith. Dr. Louis Markos is an authority on C. S. Lewis, apologetics, and ancient Greece and Rome. He lectures widely for classical Christian and classical charter schools and conferences. Markos is the author of twenty-six books, and is the Robert H. Ray Chair of Humanities at Houston Christian University in Houston, Texas. Free Four-Page Watchman ProfilesNaturalismPantheism Carl Sagan's Cosmos Panpsychism Charles DarwinPrevious Apologetics Profile Episodes with Dr. MarkosThe Myth Made Fact Part OneThe Myth Made Fact Part TwoAdditional ResourcesFREE: We are also offering a subscription to our 4-page bimonthly Profiles here: www.watchman.org/FreePROFILE NOTEBOOK: Order the complete collection of Watchman Fellowship Profiles (around 700 pages -- from Astrology to Zen Buddhism) in either printed or PDF formats here: www.watchman.org/NotebookSUPPORT: Help us create more content like this. Make a tax-deductible donation here: www.watchman.org/GiveApologetics Profile is a ministry of Watchman Fellowship For more information, visit www.watchman.org © 2025 Watchman Fellowship, Inc.

I tackle a question I hear often: *“If it weren't for Donald Trump, would you still be open to the rest of what the GOP/MAGA movement stands for?”* I used to think *yes*. But after 2016, the marriage between the religious right and MAGA woke me up—especially when I saw even “Christian” leaders abandon their convictions overnight.

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Join Chris Montgomery in this insightful sermon on the Book of Jude, focusing on verses 14-16. Explore the teachings about false teachers, the significance of Enoch's prophecies, and the importance of aligning words with actions in the Christian faith. This sermon emphasizes the role of judgment and conviction, offering a deeper understanding of how to identify and address false teachings within the church.

Pastor Billy Calderwood, Christian Content Creator Mike Luso, and educator/ apologist Will Reusch dive into the explanation that business guru Alex Hormozi gave to why he stopped believing in Christian Faith.

This is the first of a series of debate livestreams. The topic was "Christian Faith Isn't Blind," and callers joined to discuss their thoughts. Enjoy!

St. Michael's by-the-Sea is an Episcopal Church located in the coastal Village of Carlsbad, California. As far as churches go, it's kind of a beachy version of the ancient Christian Faith, and is rooted in the Anglo-Catholic tradition. Whether you're in town for a week at the beach or a local pilgrim on a spiritual journey, you are welcome here! www.stmichaelsbythesea.org

Stephanie interviews Elise Tegegne, author of In Praise of House Flies. They discuss finding God's presence, grace, and growth in the ordinary and sometimes challenging moments of daily life. Spiritual growth is cultivated not by spectacular moments, but by surrender, humility, dependence, and wonder woven into the fabric of everyday life. As Elise's experience, book, and wisdom reveal, God meets us in the little things—if we will simply open our eyes and hearts to Him. Elise's story begins with her call to serve as a missionary teacher in Ethiopia—an experience that brought her, for the first time, into the depths of her own inadequacy. Far from home and outside her comfort zone, she quickly realized she could not succeed on her own. Failure and discomfort became a means by which she experienced true intimacy with God. When everything felt overwhelming, the only option was to get “on her knees,” literally and figuratively, praying for help. Elise discusses how being confronted with her own limits brought a new kind of freedom. Growing up as a high-performing student, she hadn't needed to rely on anyone but herself. But in Ethiopia, humility was forced upon her—and it led to spiritual liberation. Humility is the posture that opens us to God's grace. It's not natural or easy—especially for those of us wired for achievement or “Martha” types—but it's essential. Elise points out that praying for humility is scary, but necessary, and God has ways to gently answer that prayer. True humility is not self-deprecation but a realistic acknowledgment of need—opening the way for grace. God “gives grace to the humble” (1 Peter 5:5). Cultivating humility by embracing moments that challenge our sense of control, happens by asking Him for a gentle, transforming touch. Motherhood and daily life made Elise redefine prayer. No longer only reserved for a quiet hour, prayer became integrated into every moment: while nursing her baby, washing dishes, or shopping with her in-laws, who taught her to pray over even the smallest activities. Prayer can permeate our entire day. Turn every activity—however small—into a moment of connection and dependence on God. “In everything, by prayer and supplication, make your requests known to God.” The title of Elise's book, In Praise of House Flies, inspires us to look for God's presence even in the annoyances and the mundane: the “house fly” moments we'd rather swat away. Life is lived not just in the big events, but in myriad little acts of faithfulness, wonder, and surrender. Adopting a childlike wonder, Elise encourages us to practice gratitude, see the holy in the everyday, and recognize God's gifts everywhere. Resist waiting for the “next big thing.” Instead, let's train our attention on the daily opportunities God gives for transformation, gratitude, and worship. Like children, we marvel at the beauty and sacredness embedded in the ordinary. MORE ABOUT ELISE TEGEGNE AND HER BOOK, “IN PRAISE OF HOUSEFLIES” Through the lens of personal experience, Elise Tegegne reflects on the redemptive glimmers in ordinary challenges ranging from canceled flights to insomnia. In Praise of Houseflies gives readers an opportunity to listen for what their own everyday quandaries can teach and to delight in the abundant graces blossoming within them. It is an essential message of hope, joy, and redemption imparted through deep, nourishing reflection. Elise says of herself, “Living alone and young as a high school French teacher in Ethiopia, I found a world that beautifully upended mine. I found God with skin and bones. And I found the one my soul loves. After giving birth to my son, I left my teaching career to pursue the delights of motherhood and writing. Since then I've been listening for God's voice in the rhythms of everyday life, keeping my eyes open for abundant graces—and seeking to capture what I find in words. My first book In Praise of Houseflies: Meditations on the Gifts in Everyday Quandaries (Calla Press) is now available wherever books are sold. I received a BA in Creative Writing and French from Indiana University and hold an MFA from Seattle Pacific University. “ More at https://www.elisetegegne.com/  Support us on Gospel Spice, PayPal and Venmo!

In this episode, Miranda Carls delves into the importance of integrating spiritual disciplines into daily life, especially for busy professionals. Her thoughtful approach will inspire you to re-frame your spiritual practices as essential components of life, fostering a deeper relationship with God. She discusses the challenges and rewards and shares practical advice on how to incorporate these practices into a hectic schedule. Miranda highlights the transformative power of constant communication with God and her insights offer a refreshing perspective on balancing faith and work. About Miranda:Miranda Carls is an author, speaker, executive coach, organizational development consultant, and the Founder of Vertical. Throughout her career, she has provided team and leader development solutions for start-ups, non-profits, churches, mid-size organizations, and Fortune 500 companies. Miranda's career started in the non-profit space, managing the training and professional development functions of a large non-profit organization. She then joined the team at a successful corporate learning strategy firm, where she led large scale employee development initiatives, built adult learning experiences, and served as leader of the firm's learning design function. Currently, Miranda spends much of her time providing executive coaching and team development experiences, as well as training and equipping other coaches.​Miranda's book, The Word at Work, unpacks ten biblical principles for Christian professionals. Her writing on faith, work, and Christian living has been featured through The Gospel Coalition, Moody Radio, Biblical Leadership, and others. In 2023, she teamed up with other St. Louis-based leaders to launch Gateway Faith and Work to provide professional development, spiritual edification, fellowship and networking for Christian professionals.​Miranda lives outside of St. Louis, Missouri with her husband and three sons. She enjoys spending time with her family, leading worship at her local church, cackling with friends, and getting immersed in a good book. ​Invite Miranda to speak: miranda@verticalteamdev.comSupport the showTransforming the workplace one Bible study at a time - GET STARTED today! CONNECT WITH US:B-B-T.org | News | LinkedIn Biblical Business Training (“BBT”) equips busy, working people to grow in the grace and knowledge of Jesus Christ and empowers them in small-group Bible study settings to apply Biblical principles to their every day lives - especially in the workplace. BBT is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization which exists to help people develop their Christian “Faith for Work – Leadership for Life!”

Every one of us was born into a kind of arranged marriage — bound by covenant to God's law. The law was good and righteous, but our sinful hearts turned that holy relationship into one of frustration, guilt, and death. In this sermon by pastor Taylor, we'll hear the apostle Paul explain why our first “marriage” to the law could never bring life, and how through Christ's death and resurrection we have been freed to belong to a far better Husband.Now, joined to Christ by faith, believers are released from condemnation and empowered by the Spirit to bear the fruit of love and obedience that the law always described but could never produce. Come discover how dying to the law and living to Christ transforms duty into delight — freeing us to serve in the newness of the Spirit.Time:EveningMinister:Rev. Taylor KernTexts:Romans 7:1–13Heidelberg Catechism: Lord's Day 44Series:The Three Pillars of the Christian Faith

Don't Whistle At Night welcomes Curley Date: November 2nd, 2025 EP: 028 Topic: A Journey of Faith Takes a Deep Look at Spiritual Protection About Our Guest: Curly is no stranger to the obscure events which are very much a part of Navajo Lore. He is an Oldest Twin ( Monster Slayer) and is of The Clan Towering House People ( One of the original four clans ). Korey grew up as a Christian and became “Traditional” at the age of 18. He eventually went back to his Christian Faith. He's been a Journeyman Lineman for the past 25 yrs and works as a Quality Manager in California.

Doubt can rob you of joy and confidence in your walk with God. In this Friday morning session, Pastor Dean Miller opens 1 John to show how you can have unshakable assurance of salvation. Learn how the finished work of Christ, the witness of the Spirit, and the truth of Scripture give you certainty that you belong to Him.This is the tenth sermon in a special series that will contain all of the sermons and workshops delivered at the 2025 Thee Generation Youth Summit at Falls Baptist Church in Menomonee Falls, WI this past October 8–10, 2025.Don't forget to make plans to join hundreds of other young people next October 14–16, 2026 for our annual meeting in Menomonee Falls, WI. For more information, please visit theegeneration.org/tgys. If you've been encouraged by this podcast, please take the time to give us a five-star rating and write a brief review. That would help tremendously in getting the word out and raising the visibility of the Thee Generation for others. For more faith inspiring resources and information about joining Thee Generation, please visit theegeneration.org.

Sara Billups returns to Shifting Culture to talk about her new book Nervous Systems: Spiritual Practices to Calm Anxiety in Your Body, the Church, and Politics. Together we explore the anxiety running through our lives, our churches, and our culture and what it means to find peace that's deeper than control. Sara shares how Ignatian spirituality and the practice of “holy indifference” can help us let go, stay present, and love well in a restless world. We talk about caregiving, community, mental health, and how the embodied way of Jesus leads us toward healing, trust, and wholeness.Sara Billups is a Seattle-based writer and cultural commentator whose work has appeared in the New York Times, Christianity Today, Aspen Ideas, and others. Sara writes Bitter Scroll, a monthly Substack letter and co-hosts the podcast That's the Spirit. She earned a Doctor of Ministry in the Sacred Art of Writing at the Peterson Center for the Christian Imagination at Western Theological Seminary. Sara works to help wavering Christians remain steadfast through cultural storms and continues to hope for the flourishing of the Church amid deep political and cultural division in America.Her first book, Orphaned Believers, follows the journey of a generation raised in the 80s and 90s of evangelicalism reckoning with the tradition that raised them and searching for a new way to participate in the story of God. Her second book, Nervous Systems, will be released November 4, 2025, from Baker Books.Sara's Book:Nervous SystemsSara's Recommendations:Slow HorsesSemi Permanent by Molly PardenConnect with Joshua: jjohnson@shiftingculturepodcast.comGo to www.shiftingculturepodcast.com to interact and donate. Every donation helps to produce more podcasts for you to enjoy.Follow on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, Threads, Bluesky or YouTubeConsider Giving to the podcast and to the ministry that my wife and I do around the world. Just click on the support the show link below Contact me to advertise: jjohnson@shiftingculturepodcast.com Catch On Fire PodcastsThis channel does a deep dive into the scriptures so as to teach what it means to be...Listen on: Apple Podcasts SpotifySupport the show

As The Healthy Perspectives on Sex series continues on Christian Faith and OCD, Carrie explores what healthy sexual development looks like from birth through age 25. She discusses how OCD can complicate perceptions of sexuality and calls for open, grace-filled dialogue about faith, the body, and healing.Episode Highlights:What healthy sexual development looks like from birth through age 25.How curiosity, modesty, and body awareness naturally evolve as children grow.The importance of teaching age-appropriate boundaries and correct body terminology.How OCD can distort or shame past sexual experiences and thoughts.The effects of sexual abuse on development and the importance of early intervention and healing.Practical, faith-based ways to have open, grace-filled conversations about sex, faith, and identity.Explore the Christians Learning ICBT training: https://carriebock.com/training/ Carrie's services and courses: carriebock.com/services/ carriebock.com/resources/Follow us on Instagram: www.instagram.com/christianfaithandocd/and like our Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/christianfaithandocd for the latest updates and sneak peeks.

In this episode, we explore the covenantal argument for baptism. Throughout Scripture, God makes covenants with His people, and baptism is often viewed as the sign of initiation into that covenant relationship. But how do these two ideas connect? How does a biblical understanding of God's covenants shape the way we think about baptism? We'll argue that, based on our relationship with God under the new covenant, baptism should be administered only to those who profess faith in Christ.Resources156 - The Comfort of Covenants090 - Believer's Baptism (with Bobby Jamieson)089 - Infant Baptism (with Kyle McClellan)Connect With Us providenceomaha.org | Instagram | Facebook Email Us formation@providenceomaha.org

We invite you this week to focus on understanding our identity in Christ as we engage in spiritual battle, highlighting the practical meaning and Old Testament roots of the armor God equips us with. Based on Ephesians 6:13-17, let's consider our identity and readiness in spiritual battle! We invite you to consider purchasing the accompanying workbook here: https://www.gospelspice.com/identity  Context: Identity in the Midst of Battle The Christian life necessarily involves a spiritual battle. The Apostle Paul calls believers to “stand”—not in our own strength, but grounded in our new identity in Christ. Paul's instruction to put on the “full armor of God” isn't new; its roots run deep in the Old Testament, with key imagery borrowed from books like Isaiah and Deuteronomy. In Isaiah 11:5 and 59:17, righteousness, faithfulness, and salvation appear as God's own armor. This armor is now given to us, His adopted children, not as a child's imitation set but as the genuine armor of our commander. Why the Armor Fits—Old and New Testament Connections Paul isn't inventing something new for the church in Ephesians. The same armor God Himself wears in Isaiah—righteousness as a breastplate, salvation as a helmet—is now available to every believer, thanks to our adoption in Christ. In God's army, the commander and soldiers wear the same “colors”—we share in God's strength and righteousness. The armor is also prophetic: Isaiah 59 speaks of the coming of the Messiah like a rushing stream (an echo of Pentecost) and describes how God's Spirit will seal and empower His people. This sealing (see Ephesians 1:13) corresponds with being clothed in God's armor. Seven Elements of the Armor While many list six pieces, Ephesians points to seven, symbolizing fullness and perfection: Belt of Truth: Truth is both light and freedom. It's the foundation that supports all other pieces, anchoring our identity in what God has said and done, not our own perception or the world's lies. Breastplate of Righteousness: This isn't self-righteousness but Christ's righteousness. It's described as a “heart protector,” guarding us against accusations—whether from the enemy or our own self-doubt. Standing in Christ's righteousness, not our own, keeps us from the traps of pride or despair. Shoes of the Gospel of Peace: These boots provide both stability (standing firm) and mobility (readiness to move). They symbolize preparation and the peace rooted in the gospel, enabling us to stand and advance as one body with other believers. Shield of Faith Helmet of Salvation Sword of the Spirit (the Word of God) Prayer—the element that undergirds and animates all the others, keeping us connected to God and alert in the battle. Application: Standing Ready God calls us to “put on” and “take up” these elements daily—not hastily when the enemy attacks, but as preparation for victorious living. The Christian walk is not passive; it's a team endeavor, fought best in community, by truthfully embracing our identity and actively trusting God's provision. The full armor of God is a gift of grace, perfectly suited for each believer, grounding us in truth, righteousness, and peace, and continually energized by prayer. This is how we stand firm and advance in the spiritual battle, secure in our identity as children of God. ----- IDENTITY IN THE BATTLE WORKBOOK ------ You have the option to go beyond listening to this series, and to participate actively. This exclusive Gospel Spice Ministries resource is available at gospelspice.com/identity . You will receive a downloadable, printable workbook containing listening guide for each of the 6 episodes in this series, space for note taking, and discussion questions if you want to do this study with a friend! What better way to enjoy a cup of coffee with a friend this season, than to discuss your identity in the battle together? So, grab a friend or family member, or someone to mentor or be mentored by, and signup together.  Every week, Stephanie shares truth from Scripture and invites you to dig deeper in your faith to delight in the glory of God. PLAY IT FORWARD by SHARING the link with friends and family PAY IT FORWARD by supporting us financially PRAY IT FORWARD by praying for us and those you share it with! Find out more at gospelspice.com We invite you to check out the first episode of each of our series, and decide which one you will want to start with. Go to gospelspice.com for more, and go especially to gospelspice.com/podcast to enjoy our guests! Interested in our blog? Click here: gospelspice.com/blog Identity in the battle | Ephesians https://www.podcastics.com/episode/372022/link/ Malachi: Messenger to Messiah https://www.podcastics.com/episode/356130/link/ Wisdom from the Book of Proverbs https://www.podcastics.com/episode/324347/link/ Come to the Table | The Feasts Jesus celebrated https://www.podcastics.com/episode/309956/link/ Support us on Gospel Spice, PayPal and Venmo!

Raising Expectations with Pastor Joe Schofield, Stefanie and Dr Craig Thayer, Dr Paul Hall, and Ron Greer Guest, Teri Werner - spiritual and emotional preparedness for the coming holidays Part 1 Friends, Teri Werner “Train wreck to Triumph” on Raising Expectations! We are so pleased to have Author, influencer, visionary business coach and media revenue strategist Teri Werner with us on the show this week! She and her husband Dave are another special part of our Raising Expectations Family! We thank God for her Christian Faith and committed life which is a source of strength and inspiration to countless people through her work, writings and faithfulness each day! She will be sharing her expertise and leading our discussion on spiritual and emotional preparedness for the coming holidays. Where are you - deep down inside when it comes to family gatherings and get togethers? Also this week on part 2 of her sharing, we will take a look at and discuss the “ how to” of forgiving and rebuilding relationships in our families and lives! The Team! Pastor Joe Schofield,  Dr. Paul Paul Hall,  Stef Stefanie Shaw Thayer,  Dr. Craig Craig Tank Thayer,  Pastor Ron Ron Greer.

Summary Join Hidden Chapters as we delve into the origins and evolution of Halloween, exploring its connections to ancient traditions, particularly Samhain and Druidic practices. They discuss the myths surrounding Halloween, including the origins of trick-or-treating and jack-o'-lanterns, and examine the implications for Christians celebrating the holiday.   00:00 The Origins of Samhain and Halloween02:54 Halloween: A Modern Perspective05:53 Debating Halloween's Pagan Roots11:14 The Role of Druids in Halloween's History16:52 The Evolution of Halloween Traditions22:21 Speculation vs. Historical Fact25:37 The Origins of Halloween Traditions28:56 The Evolution of the Jack-o'-Lantern30:30 Trick-or-Treating: A Historical Perspective35:16 Cultural Practices and Christian Perspectives39:51 Intentions Behind Halloween Celebrations45:14 Navigating Cultural Symbols and Christian Faith

In this week's episode, Caleb is joined by Matt Smethurst (MDiv, The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary) lead pastor of River City Baptist Church in Richmond, Virginia, to discuss his new book Tim Keller on the Christian Life: The Transforming Power of the Gospel. Together they discuss the most prominent works and themes from Keller's teaching and ministry. Resources: Tim Keller on the Christian Life: The Transforming Power of the Gospel by Matt SmethurstThe Prodigal God: Recovering the Heart of the Christian Faith by Tim KellerCounterfeit Gods: The Empty Promises of Money, Sex, and Power, and the Only Hope that Matters by Tim KellerPrayer: Experiencing Awe and Intimacy with God by Tim KellerEncounters with Jesus: Unexpected Answers to Life's Biggest Questions by Tim Keller Making Sense of God: Finding God in the Modern World  by Tim KellerWhat Is Wrong with the World?: The Surprising, Hopeful Answer to the Question We Cannot Avoid by Tim KellerWalking with God through Pain and Suffering by Tim Keller

Time:EveningTexts:Psalm 15Heidelberg Catechism: Lord's Day 43Series:The Three Pillars of the Christian Faith

St. Michael's by-the-Sea is an Episcopal Church located in the coastal Village of Carlsbad, California. As far as churches go, it's kind of a beachy version of the ancient Christian Faith, and is rooted in the Anglo-Catholic tradition. Whether you're in town for a week at the beach or a local pilgrim on a spiritual journey, you are welcome here! www.stmichaelsbythesea.org

Pastor Derek shares the dramatic story of Christ raising Lazarus from the dead after 4 days in John 11, a great prophetic Sign of His victory over both spiritual and physical death. By this Messianic Miracle, Jesus validated His claim to be (1) the Resurrection and (2) the Life, the One who will raise us from both (1) physical and (2) spiritual death, if we believe (trust) in Him.

Pastor Derek shares the dramatic story of Christ raising Lazarus from the dead after 4 days in John 11, a great prophetic Sign of His victory over both spiritual and physical death. By this Messianic Miracle, Jesus validated His claim to be (1) the Resurrection and (2) the Life, the One who will raise us from both (1) physical and (2) spiritual death, if we believe (trust) in Him.

Check out all the great resources below that CEO Aaron Abramson mentioned in the interview. The Jews for Jesus Classroom Aaron's Book Mission Design Jews for Jesus' Website In this enlightening episode of the Radio Coffee House, host Clint Armitage sits down with Aaron Abramson, the CEO of Jews for Jesus, to delve into the unique mission of this organization and its impact on the Jewish community. Aaron shares the inspiring history of Jews for Jesus, founded by Moishe Rosen in the early 1970s, and how it seeks to connect Jewish people with their Messiah through various outreach efforts, including community coffee shops and digital resources. Listeners will gain insight into the challenges faced by Messianic Jews, including historical rejection and modern-day anti-Semitism, as well as the growing openness among Jewish communities to discuss faith and the Gospel. Aaron discusses the significance of understanding Jewish customs and holidays, highlighting how these traditions connect deeply with the teachings of Jesus and enrich the Christian faith. Throughout the conversation, Clint and Aaron emphasize the importance of building relationships and showing genuine love and support for Jewish individuals, especially in light of current global tensions. They explore the transformative power of faith and the hope that can emerge from understanding and dialogue between communities. Join Clint and Aaron for this thought-provoking discussion that not only sheds light on the mission of Jews for Jesus but also encourages listeners to engage with their Jewish neighbors in meaningful ways. This episode is a call to action for Christians to share the love of Jesus and foster understanding across cultural and religious divides.

In this episode, Chris McCurley talks with Lindsy Bailey, a loving mother and coach in the Lebanon School District (MO), about the powerful journey of adoption. Lindsy shares her personal story of faith, family, and how God's love is beautifully reflected in the adoption process. Together, they discuss the challenges, blessings, and deep spiritual lessons that come from opening your heart and home to a child in need.   Connect with Us: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dearchurch_podcast/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61564673680147 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DearChurch   Website: https://www.rippleoflight.org/ ROL Facebook: http://facebook.com/rippleoflight ROL Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rippleoflight ROL YouTube: http://youtube.com/rippleoflight ROL Rumble: http://rumble.com/rippleoflight   Have a question? Email Chris at chris.mccurley@rippleoflight.com.   #DearChurchPodcast #Adoption #FaithAndFamily #ChristianParenting #RippleOfLight

Join Jenna Mayo and Lori Drury as they navigate the complexities of faith-based executive coaching. Jenna offers a deep dive into her coaching philosophy, which blends faith with strategic business insights to help clients thrive both personally and professionally. Lori candidly shares her experiences with mindset challenges, highlighting the ongoing journey of self-improvement and grace. This episode is a heartfelt conversation about the transformative power of faith, the art of asking the right questions, and the courage to embrace vulnerability in leadership. About Jenna:Jenna Mayo is a mom of 3 daughters, a wife, Catholic Speaker, Professional Executive Coach, triathlete and avid skier. She is the owner of Jenna Mayo Coaching, creator of Executive Leadership Development workshops and a Motherhood Program titled “From Helicopter to Propeller: Propelling Your Kids Forward in Mindset, Identity, and Faith”, she also travels the US as a keynote speaker.Jenna leads from the stage, phone, and video calls empowering and emboldening individuals to find their path forward guided by their faith.Jenna's Mission is to “teach others how to live the life they dream and not the one they are told they have to live.”Living into her value pillars of courage, humility, and faith, Jenna invites individuals and audiences to visualize and live out virtue and value through living at the pace of the Holy Spirit, in the midst of the chaos of the modern world. Support the showTransforming the workplace one Bible study at a time - GET STARTED today! CONNECT WITH US:B-B-T.org | News | LinkedIn Biblical Business Training (“BBT”) equips busy, working people to grow in the grace and knowledge of Jesus Christ and empowers them in small-group Bible study settings to apply Biblical principles to their every day lives - especially in the workplace. BBT is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization which exists to help people develop their Christian “Faith for Work – Leadership for Life!”

A big and bold Christian faith is more subtle, nuanced, and emotionally intelligent than we would think. Boldness in God's kingdom isn't always loud and showy. Sometimes it looks like stopping, aligning with God, and following His lead. Open a Bible to Joshua 5 and follow along with Pastor Kyle!

What if God really looks like Jesus? Not partly loving and partly wrathful, but fully revealed in the crucified Christ. In this conversation, Greg Boyd helps us reimagine everything - our picture of God, how we read Scripture, and how we live in the world. We talk about what it means to see the cross as the center of revelation, how to wrestle with violence in the Bible, and how the way of Jesus invites us into nonviolence, humility, and love for our enemies. Greg also reflects on what it means to be kingdom people within an empire, to follow the Lamb instead of the sword, and to build communities that look more like Jesus.Greg Boyd is the Founder and Senior Pastor of Woodland Hills Church, Maplewood MN. Former professor of theology at Bethel University (St. Paul, MN) and Northern Seminary (Chicago, iL). Author or co-author of 22 books and numerous articles. He and his wife Shelley have been married for 44 years. They have three adult children, six grandchildren, and an adorable though highly eccentric dog. His hobby is drumming in a rock band.Greg's Book:God Looks Like JesusSubscribe to Our Substack: Shifting CultureConnect with Joshua: jjohnson@shiftingculturepodcast.comGo to www.shiftingculturepodcast.com to interact and donate. Every donation helps to produce more podcasts for you to enjoy.Follow on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, Threads, Bluesky or YouTubeConsider Giving to the podcast and to the ministry that my wife and I do around the world. Just click on the support the show link below Contact me to advertise: jjohnson@shiftingculturepodcast.com Support the show

In this powerful message, Pastor Armando Palazzo unpacks the Apostle Paul's bold statement in 1 Corinthians 9:27 — “I discipline my body and keep it under control.”Learn what Paul really meant when he said he beats his flesh into submission, and discover how spiritual discipline, self-control, and integrity are essential for every believer and leader today.Whether you're battling temptation, struggling with consistency, or simply hungry for a deeper walk with God, this teaching will equip you to live with focus, victory, and purpose.

In this episode, Chris McCurley sits down with Dr. Christie Southerland, Director of Schools for the Dickson County School District, to discuss the powerful intersection of faith and education. Dr. Southerland shares insights from her years in public education, exploring how faith shapes leadership, decision-making, and the way we influence the next generation. Together, they discuss the challenges and blessings of serving in education while holding firm to Christian values.   Connect with Us: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dearchurch_podcast/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61564673680147 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DearChurch   Website: https://www.rippleoflight.org/ ROL Facebook: http://facebook.com/rippleoflight ROL Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rippleoflight ROL YouTube: http://youtube.com/rippleoflight ROL Rumble: http://rumble.com/rippleoflight   Have a question? Email Chris at chris.mccurley@rippleoflight.com.   #DearChurchPodcast #FaithAndEducation #ChristianLeadership #PublicSchools #RippleOfLight

Welcome to this episode of our “Identity in the Battle” series, based on an exploration of Ephesians 6:10-13. The focus is on understanding our identity as followers of Christ and what it means to engage in spiritual warfare by putting on the full armor of God. We invite you to consider purchasing the accompanying workbook here: https://www.gospelspice.com/identity  Let's break down the main themes and lessons from this episode: Context: Our Identity and the Reality of Battle Stephanie begins by grounding us in the overall theme of the series: Identity in the Battle. She reminds listeners that Paul's letter to the Ephesians moves from teaching about who we are in Christ (chapters 1-3) to how we act because of our identity (chapters 4-6). As Paul closes his letter, he introduces the imagery of spiritual armor, summarizing the main points and equipping believers for spiritual warfare. Paul's message isn't just for specific groups—it's for everyone who claims Christ, regardless of gender, age, or role. If you are in Christ, you are called to be a warrior, not fragile china hidden away. This call is universal across the body of believers. Understanding the Battle Paul urges us to "be strong in the Lord and in His mighty power,” highlighting that our strength comes not from ourselves, but from being in Christ. This is not a battle for our salvation—Christ has already won that war on the cross—but a fight for our effectiveness and witness as believers. Satan cannot take our salvation, but he can undermine our impact if we're unprepared. Stephanie emphasizes that the true battle is spiritual—not against flesh and blood, but against unseen spiritual forces. Personal struggles, relationship challenges, or internal battles are surface-level; behind them is a deeper spiritual conflict. Recognizing this shifts our focus from blaming people or circumstances to standing guard against spiritual opposition. Equipping Ourselves: The Armor of God Paul uses two key actions: “put on” and “take up” the full armor of God. At salvation, we “put on” this armor permanently (sealed with the Holy Spirit), but we must also “take it up” daily, making a conscious choice to stand firm each day. The armor equips us to resist the devil's schemes, knowing the victory is assured through Christ. Stephanie illustrates that we should not wait until the enemy is upon us to prepare; the armor must be worn in readiness. Just as Roman soldiers were only as effective as their preparation, so we must be spiritually ready. Our Posture: Standing by Kneeling The repeated exhortation from Paul is to “stand.” Stephanie challenges us to see that the only way to stand against spiritual attacks is first to kneel before God in submission. Standing in the Lord's strength means a posture of dependence on Him, not self-reliance. If we kneel to God, we can stand against the enemy. If we refuse, we risk kneeling to the enemy by default. Victory and Intentional Living Finally, know that the war is already won. Satan has lost, though he fights to claim small victories day-to-day. We cannot lose our salvation, but we must fight to maintain our effectiveness. The invitation is to daily put on the armor, resist the enemy, and live out our victorious identity in Christ—standing firm in faith and ready for spiritual battle. Takeaway: As a believer, you are a spiritual warrior. Your true battle is not against people or circumstances, but against spiritual forces seeking to undermine your effectiveness. The key to standing strong is daily surrender to God, putting on His armor, and living confidently in the victory Christ has secured. ----- IDENTITY IN THE BATTLE WORKBOOK ------ You have the option to go beyond listening to this series, and to participate actively. This exclusive Gospel Spice Ministries resource is available at gospelspice.com/identity . You will receive a downloadable, printable workbook containing listening guide for each of the 6 episodes in this series, space for note taking, and discussion questions if you want to do this study with a friend! What better way to enjoy a cup of coffee with a friend this season, than to discuss your identity in the battle together? So, grab a friend or family member, or someone to mentor or be mentored by, and signup together.  Every week, Stephanie shares truth from Scripture and invites you to dig deeper in your faith to delight in the glory of God. PLAY IT FORWARD by SHARING the link with friends and family PAY IT FORWARD by supporting us financially PRAY IT FORWARD by praying for us and those you share it with! Find out more at gospelspice.com We invite you to check out the first episode of each of our series, and decide which one you will want to start with. Go to gospelspice.com for more, and go especially to gospelspice.com/podcast to enjoy our guests! Interested in our blog? Click here: gospelspice.com/blog Identity in the battle | Ephesians https://www.podcastics.com/episode/372022/link/ Malachi: Messenger to Messiah https://www.podcastics.com/episode/356130/link/ Wisdom from the Book of Proverbs https://www.podcastics.com/episode/324347/link/ Come to the Table | The Feasts Jesus celebrated https://www.podcastics.com/episode/309956/link/ Bonjour! Gospel Spice exists to inspire our generation to delight in God. We do this through the podcast, online Bible studies, leadership trainings, and more. We want to serve Christ-followers who seek to live a life spiced with the gospel. We want to love God, because He first loved us. We want to experience the fullness of life with Him—and not be content with stale, boring, leftover faith. Jesus tells us that the most important thing is to love the Lord our God, so we take Him seriously. He adds that we are to love our neighbor as ourselves. Now, there are many ways to do that, but I have always personally felt deep compassion for victims of human trafficking – it is modern day slavery, and it revolts the heart of God. And so, they are our particular neighbors here at Gospel Spice. We want to play our part in raising awareness and then financially supporting those who fight this great evil.   Now we would love to invite you to join the team in one of three ways: 1, pray Gospel Spice forward – pray for our guests, our listeners and participants, and for us too! 2, play Gospel Spice forward by telling your friends about us, and by please leaving positive reviews and comments on your podcast listening app; and 3rd, PAY GospelSpice forward. Less than 1% of our listeners are supporting us financially. We need your help! Please pay Gospel Spice forward today. It can be a one-time donation, or a monthly one, for the amount of your choice. Your donation is fully tax-deductible in the US. Plus, once we cover our costs, a significant portion of your donation will be given back to Christian organizations that fight human trafficking, and that we vet thoroughly. So, you can know that every dime you give is used for the Kingdom of God. Every little bit helps. So, be part of the spice of the gospel by becoming a financial partner today! Support us on Gospel Spice, PayPal and Venmo!