Podcast appearances and mentions of Dallas Willard

Can you experience God's peace while still struggling with anxiety?In this special conversation, John Ortberg is joined by his daughter, Laura Turner, to explore one of the deepest themes in Dallas Willard's The Renovation of the Heart: peace. Together they discuss why peace is more than the absence of worry, how acceptance differs from giving up, and why receiving God's love often matters more than getting everything right.If you've ever wondered whether anxiety means you're failing spiritually, this honest conversation offers hope, wisdom, and a fresh perspective on what it means to live at peace with God, yourself, and others.

What do you do when your life feels like it's falling apart?In Episode 4 of our Become New series, John Ortberg continues exploring Dallas Willard's The Renovation of the Heart by examining one of Scripture's most encouraging promises: "In Christ all things hold together." Even when our relationships, health, finances, or emotions feel fractured, Jesus offers a deeper kind of stability that circumstances cannot destroy.Discover how God's vision of wholeness, or shalom, provides lasting hope in a fragmented world and why spiritual formation is ultimately about becoming whole in Christ.Continue the journey as we walk through The Renovation of the Heart together.

Fear dominates much of modern life. But Jesus offers something deeper than optimism.In Episode 3 of our Become New series (2022), John Ortberg continues exploring Dallas Willard's The Renovation of the Heart, asking why every human solution eventually falls short of changing the human heart. From ancient philosophy to politics, psychology, and self-improvement, people have searched for lasting hope. Jesus offers something radically different: transformation from the inside out.Discover why Dallas Willard called Jesus the greatest revolutionary in history and how becoming His apprentice changes not only individual lives but the world itself.Follow along as we continue this 15-part journey through The Renovation of the Heart.

In Episode 2 of our Become New series, John Ortberg continues exploring Dallas Willard's The Renovation of the Heart by unpacking Proverbs 4:23: "Guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it." Together, we examine why our responses to life often expose the deeper formation taking place within us and how Jesus invites us into lasting transformation from the inside out.If you've ever wondered why you keep reacting the same way, despite your best intentions, this conversation offers a hopeful framework for understanding spiritual formation and learning to let Christ shape your heart.Subscribe and follow along as we continue this 15-part journey through The Renovation of the Heart.

What if lasting spiritual transformation isn't about trying harder?In this opening episode of our Become New series, John Ortberg introduces Dallas Willard's classic The Renovation of the Heart and explores Jesus' invitation to become people whose lives are transformed from the inside out. Rather than focusing on behavior modification, this conversation examines the deeper renovation of the heart, the nature of spiritual thirst, and the promise of living water that satisfies our deepest longings.If you've ever felt stuck, spiritually dry, or frustrated by repeated attempts to change yourself, this episode offers a hopeful vision of how genuine transformation happens through life with Jesus.Subscribe for the rest of this 15-part journey through The Renovation of the Heart as we explore what it truly means to become new.

Aprenda como a verdadeira transformação cristã vai além da mudança de comportamento e alcança o coração. A partir da obra “A Gentileza que Cativa”, de Dallas Willard, o curso apresentará os fundamentos bíblicos da formação espiritual do caráter cristão, que deve ser marcado pela gentileza, mansidão, humildade e graça. Examine os processos pelos quais Deus forma Seus filhos à imagem de Cristo, moldando pensamentos, atitudes e relacionamentos. Desenvolva hábitos espirituais que cooperem com a ação transformadora do Espírito Santo, tornando a gentileza uma expressão visível do Evangelho na família, na igreja, no trabalho e na sociedade.

Last week we explored "waiting without answers." This week we're looking at a different kind of uncertainty: not knowing which way to go. Summer is often a season of transition. Decisions need to be made. Some of you are facing big questions: Should I take this job? Should I move? Should I change directions? Should I stay where I am? How do I care for my aging parents? How do I prepare for retirement? You're praying. You're seeking direction. You're hoping God will make the path clear. Unlike last week's message, this uncertainty involves choice. You're not just waiting for something to happen; you're trying to discern what you should do. And that's its own kind of burden. Every decision opens some doors and closes others, and you want to choose wisely. One of the greatest explorers in history understood what it was like to need direction. In 1914, Sir Ernest Shackleton's ship, Endurance, became trapped and crushed by Antarctic ice, leaving his crew stranded in one of the harshest places on earth. Months later, Shackleton and five companions climbed into a 22-foot lifeboat and set out on an astonishing 800-mile voyage across the Southern Ocean to bring rescue to the rest of the crew. Their survival depended on the navigator, Frank Worsley. There was no GPS, no radar, no electronic navigation. Most days the sky was completely overcast. But whenever the clouds parted—even for a few seconds—Worsley would quickly take a reading of the sun and determine their course. Those brief glimpses of light kept them from drifting hundreds of miles off course. He didn't need sunlight all day. He just needed enough light for the next bearing. I think that's where many of us live. We wish God would hand us a detailed roadmap for the next ten years. Instead, He often gives us enough light for the next faithful step. That's exactly where David finds himself in Psalm 25. David wrote this psalm when he was lost—spiritually, emotionally, and practically. He needed direction, and he brought that need to God in prayer: "Show me Your ways, LORD, teach me Your paths. Lead me in Your truth and teach me, for You are the God of my salvation; for You I wait all the day long." (Psalm 25:4–5) Notice what David asks for. He doesn't ask for a map. He asks for a Guide. And that's one of the great lessons of this psalm. Seeking God's direction is not primarily about getting an immediate answer. It's about becoming the kind of person who trusts God enough to follow Him, even when the whole path isn't yet visible. Today we'll discover that God's guidance is less about revealing every step ahead and more about walking closely with the Shepherd who already knows the way. THE PSALM: LISTEN TO DAVID'S PRAYER FOR GUIDANCE Psalm 25:1-5, “To You, O Lord, I lift up my soul. O my God, I trust in You; do not let me be ashamed; do not let my enemies exult over me. Indeed, none of those who wait for You will be ashamed; those who deal treacherously without cause will be ashamed. Make known to me Your ways, O Lord; teach me Your paths. Lead me in Your truth and teach me, for You are the God of my salvation; for You I wait all the day long.” Notice the movement. David starts by lifting his soul to God. He's not trying to figure this out alone. He's bringing his confusion to God. Then he makes a declaration: “I trust in You.” Not “I feel like I trust You.” But “I choose to trust You.” Then comes the request: “Make known to me Your ways. Teach me Your paths. Lead me in Your truth.” He's asking for guidance. But notice—he's also asking to be taught. He's asking to understand, not just to know the right move. Then verse 8-10: “Good and upright is the Lord; therefore He instructs sinners in the way. He leads the humble in justice, and He teaches the humble His way. All the paths of the Lord are lovingkindness and truth, to those who keep His covenant and His testimonies.” David is reminding himself of something true: God is good. God wants to guide us. God leads the humble. THE CHALLENGE: THE PATH ISN'T ALWAYS CLEAR Here's the reality that no one talks about: Sometimes God makes the path crystal clear. A door opens. An opportunity presents itself. The answer is obvious. But sometimes—and maybe more often than not—God doesn't make the path completely clear. You're standing at a crossroads. Both directions seem possible. Both have merit. One has security but less meaning. One has meaning but more risk. You're praying. You're seeking. And the answer still isn't obvious. Both feel right and wrong at the same time. And that's when doubt creeps in. You find yourself thinking: If God really wanted to guide me, wouldn't He make it obvious? If He cared about this decision, wouldn't He remove all the uncertainty? But that's not how God usually works. Psalm 25 teaches something different. It teaches that God's guidance often comes through a process. Through seeking. Through prayer. Through wisdom from others. Through testing. Through small clarities that add up to a direction. Notice that David doesn't ask for a thunderbolt. He asks to be led and taught. “Lead me in Your truth and teach me.” He's asking for an ongoing process of being guided and learning, not a one-time answer that settles everything. And notice verse 9: “He leads the humble in justice, and He teaches the humble His way.” God leads the humble. Humility is the key. Humility means admitting you don't have all the answers. Humility means trusting God enough to take the next step even when you can't see the whole path. APPLICATION: SEEKING DIRECTION IN UNCERTAINTY Some of you are facing a decision right now. Maybe it's a big one. A job change. A relationship decision. A move. A calling you're sensing but can't quite name. Maybe it's smaller—how to spend your time, what to invest in, where to go next. You've prayed. You've sought counsel. You've searched the Scriptures. Yet the answer still isn't crystal clear. I think of a man who spent two years wrestling with whether to leave a secure career for work that better aligned with his faith and sense of calling. He kept waiting for God to send a lightning bolt of certainty—but it never came. Instead, clarity came gradually. Trusted people affirmed his gifts. An unexpected opportunity opened. The inner conviction grew stronger until he realized he couldn't ignore it any longer. He didn't have complete certainty before he stepped out in faith. But he had enough light for the next step. Looking back, he realized something important: the certainty came after the step of obedience, not before it. That's often how God guides us. He rarely hands us a detailed roadmap. Instead, He gives us enough light for the next faithful step. As we walk in obedience, He provides the light for the step after that. THE DISCIPLINE OF SEEKING Psalm 25 teaches us that seeking God's direction is itself a spiritual practice. It's not something you do once and move on from. It's something you return to whenever you're at a crossroads. It's also not passive. You're not sitting back hoping God will telegraph the answer. You're seeking. You're asking. You're praying. You're listening. You're seeking counsel from wise, godly people who know you well. You're exploring opportunities and paying attention to how God opens and closes doors. Dallas Willard once wrote, "The life of faith is not about having all the answers. It's about learning to trust the One who does." That's the heart of Psalm 25. You don't need to see the entire path. You need to trust God enough to take the next faithful step. And often, as you take that step, more clarity comes. Here's what's remarkable: the seeking itself strengthens your faith. As you pray, listen, and seek wise counsel, you're not merely looking for an answer—you're learning to know God. You're learning to recognize His voice, trust His character, and discern His guidance through Scripture, circumstances, godly counsel, and the quiet work of the Holy Spirit. Some people think of guidance as a transaction: "God, just tell me what to do." But Psalm 25 presents something much richer. Guidance is relational. In seeking God's will, you're drawing near to Him, and in the process, He is shaping you into the kind of person who can follow Him faithfully whether the path is clear or not. That's why David prays, "Teach me." He doesn't simply want directions—he wants to become the kind of disciple who knows the Shepherd's voice. THE PROMISE: GOD LEADS THE HUMBLE Here's the promise of Psalm 25: "He leads the humble in what is right and teaches the humble His way" (Psalm 25:9). God leads the humble—not those who have everything figured out, but those who admit they need His guidance. Those who are willing to be taught. Those who trust that God sees what they cannot. If you're facing uncertainty today, you're in exactly the right place to be led by God. Your confusion isn't necessarily a sign that God is silent. It may be His invitation to deeper humility and greater trust. And here's the beautiful part: the path God leads is always marked by "steadfast love and faithfulness" (Psalm 25:10). The destination may not be what you expected, and the journey may not be easy, but it will be good because it is guided by the loving heart of God. That's a promise worth trusting. HOW TO PRAY THIS PSALM First: Pray it when you're facing a decision. Use David's own words if they help: "Show me Your ways, Lord. Teach me Your paths. Lead me in Your truth and teach me." Sometimes borrowing Scripture's prayers is easier than finding your own. Second: Don't rush the answer. Our culture tells us to decide quickly and move on. Psalm 25 invites us into a process: seek, pray, ask wise people, explore possibilities, and give God time to work. His guidance often comes gradually, not instantly. Third: Pay attention to how God opens and closes doors. Sometimes His guidance comes more through providence than through a dramatic feeling. An unexpected opportunity, wise counsel, or a door that quietly opens may be how He is leading. Fourth: Remember that God is good. "All the paths of the Lord are steadfast love and faithfulness." Even when His path is difficult or unexpected, it is marked by His goodness and loving care. Fifth: Be willing to take the next step without seeing the whole path. David prays, "Lead me...and teach me," describing an ongoing journey. As you walk in faith, God often provides the light for the step after that. Finally: Don't confuse waiting with passivity. Seek wise counsel. Search the Scriptures. Pray. Explore your options. Waiting on God isn't doing nothing—it's faithfully doing what you can while trusting God to do what only He can do. CONCLUSION Some of you will come out of your season of uncertainty soon. The decision will become clear. You'll see which way to go. And you'll step forward with confidence, knowing that God led you. Others of you may remain in uncertainty for longer. The answer might not come quickly. You might have to live with ambiguity while you continue seeking. And that's okay. God's timeline for clarity is not always our timeline. Either way, Psalm 25 teaches you this: God is not far away. God has not forgotten you. God is willing to guide the humble. And your seeking itself is a form of prayer that God honors. Your willingness to admit you don't know, to seek wisdom, to listen carefully—that's the kind of humble faith God loves to guide.

On Life With God, Nathan has a fascinating conversation with author Mark Buchanan about his WWII novel, What Is Left of the Night—why he wrote it, what he learned, and how it offers a vision of kingdom living we can carry into present-day crises.

If God already knows everything...why pray?In this reflection on Psalm 74, John Ortberg wrestles with one of the oldest questions about prayer.Can our prayers actually matter?Drawing on insights from Walter Brueggemann and Dallas Willard, John explores the difference between the ancient philosophical idea of the "Unmoved Mover" and the God revealed in Scripture—the God who listens, responds, and is deeply moved by His people.This episode explores:- Psalm 74 and communal lament- Psalms of orientation and disorientation- Why the church needs lament- God's unchanging character and responsive heart- Dallas Willard's "Most Moved Mover"- Why your prayers matterScriptures:- Psalm 74#psalm74  #JohnOrtberg #Prayer #WalterBrueggemann #DallasWillard #Lament #SpiritualFormation #ChristianFaith #BibleStudy #God

What if the cure for loneliness isn't finding more people... but learning to be alone?In this reflection on Psalm 139, John Ortberg explores one of the deepest realities of being human: our longing to be fully known and never abandoned.Drawing on the wisdom of Dallas Willard, John explains why we spend so much energy avoiding solitude—and why silence may actually become the place where we discover God's loving presence most deeply.This episode explores:Psalm 139 and being fully known by God- The difference between aloneness and loneliness- Why we distract ourselves with constant noise- Dallas Willard's "strange cure for loneliness"- Romans 8 and God's inseparable love- How solitude leads to deeper communityScriptures:- Psalm 139- Romans 8:35–39- Hebrews 13:5#Psalm139 #JohnOrtberg #DallasWillard #Loneliness #Solitude #Prayer #SpiritualFormation #ChristianFaith #BibleStudy #GodKnowsYou

Who really gets the good stuff?In this reflection on Psalm 113, John Ortberg explores what Dallas Willard called the Law of Inversion—one of the great themes running through the entire Bible.Again and again, God overturns the world's prestige system.The first become last.The overlooked become honored.The humble are lifted up.From Abel to Jacob, Hannah to Mary, the Beatitudes to Jesus washing His disciples' feet, Scripture tells one remarkable story: God's kingdom operates differently.This episode explores:- Psalm 113 and God's care for the overlooked- The Law of Inversion- The world's pecking order- Hannah's prayer and Mary's Magnificat- The Beatitudes- Jesus' upside-down kingdom- Why every person has access to "the good stuff"Scriptures:- Psalm 113- Genesis- Exodus 15- 1 Samuel 2- Luke 1- Matthew 5- John 13- Philippians 2#Psalm113 #JohnOrtberg #DallasWillard #KingdomOfGod #Beatitudes #Prayer #SpiritualFormation #ChristianFaith #BibleStudy #Humility

At Redeemer, we take seriously Jesus' call to "Go and make disciples of all nations baptizing them in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you." Apprenticeship to Jesus is not a one time decision, but a lifelong journey of following Jesus as our master-teacher. Since the goal of the Christian life is maturity in Jesus, apprenticeship must be deep and holistic, transforming the spiritual, physical, emotional, social, and vocational parts of men and women. Apprenticeship to Jesus is learning to practice the way of Jesus in our homes, relationships, neighborhoods, and jobs. We believe Christlikeness is cultivated as we implement spiritual practices, live in community with other believers, and submit to the Word and the Spirit. We agree with Dallas Willard who said, "that the gospel is opposed to earning, not effort." As we move towards cultivating a life of loving God and people, we trust Christ will mature us into his likeness. https://redeemerwichita.church/

Aprenda como a verdadeira transformação cristã vai além da mudança de comportamento e alcança o coração. A partir da obra “A Gentileza que Cativa”, de Dallas Willard, o curso apresentará os fundamentos bíblicos da formação espiritual do caráter cristão, que deve ser marcado pela gentileza, mansidão, humildade e graça. Examine os processos pelos quais Deus forma Seus filhos à imagem de Cristo, moldando pensamentos, atitudes e relacionamentos. Desenvolva hábitos espirituais que cooperem com a ação transformadora do Espírito Santo, tornando a gentileza uma expressão visível do Evangelho na família, na igreja, no trabalho e na sociedade.

Is denial always a bad thing?In this reflection on Psalm 39, John Ortberg explores one of the Bible's strangest prayers:"Look away from me."Why would anyone pray that?Drawing on insights from Dallas Willard, Søren Kierkegaard, and Greg Ten Elshof, John explains the surprising difference between healthy denial and unhealthy denial, and why God often reveals truth gradually rather than all at once.This episode explores:- Psalm 39 and radical honesty- Why Job, Peter, and Jonah wanted distance from God- Healthy vs. unhealthy denial- Self-deception and procrastination- Why Jesus said, "You cannot bear it now"- The grace of gradual transformationScriptures:- Psalm 39- Job 7- Luke 5- Jonah 1- John 16#psalm39  #JohnOrtberg #DallasWillard #SelfDeception #Prayer #SpiritualFormation #ChristianFaith #BibleStudy #Truth #Healing

James Bryan Smith has a Things Above conversation with Dr. Keas Keasler about his book, Kingdom Apprenticeship – Dallas Willard’s Formational Theology and Missional Vision A Groundbreaking Analysis of Dallas Willard’s Theology of Spiritual Formation Dallas Willard's formational theology begins with the claim that the aim of God in human history is the formation of a community of loving persons apprenticed to Jesus—and ends with the promise that such apprenticeship prepares us to share in God's governance of the cosmos. This apprenticeship to Jesus is the path to human flourishing, the renewal of the church, and the healing of the world.  In Kingdom Apprenticeship, Keas Keasler offers the first comprehensive study of Willard's theology of spiritual formation. He argues that while the three D's of disciples, discipleship, and disciplines made Willard famous, his formational theology is much deeper than that. Willard's unique grammar of transformation is grounded in ordinary life, for it is in our present reality that we are trained to participate in God's eternal purposes. Mining Willard's philosophical works, theological writings, recorded lectures, and unpublished papers, Keasler shows: Willard’s theology serves as a practical curriculum for spiritual growth, offering a remedy for the character crisis we see in the church and in society. Apprenticeship to Jesus is both for growth in Christlikeness and preparation for reigning with God in the fullness of his kingdom. Spiritual formation is not secondary or supplementary to God's mission; it is its very strategy. Against the drift of modern theology into abstraction, Willard calls the church back to a clinical theology—one aimed at the transformation of character through an interactive life with God. Formation and mission, contemplation and action, inner renewal and outward vocation—all are inseparably linked in Willard's vision. Kingdom Apprenticeship offers a fresh and urgent call: to recover apprenticeship to Jesus as the heart of the Christian life—and the hope of the world. Interested in donating to the Things Above Podcast? Donate here! Recent Episodes: 1. Formation Writers Guild 2. Conversation with Liz Hall and Kelly Kapic 3. No Condemnation 4. Spiritual World 5. Conversation with Dr. Kelly Flanagan The post Conversation with Keas Keasler appeared first on Apprentice Institute.

Is the opposite of fear really courage?In this reflection on Psalm 27, John Ortberg offers a surprising answer:No. The opposite of fear is God's presence.Drawing on the wisdom of Dallas Willard, John explains why Jesus could repeatedly tell His followers, "Do not be afraid," and what that invitation actually means.This episode explores:- Psalm 27 and trusting God- Why courage isn't the ultimate antidote to fear- The difference between emotional states and character traits- The powerful "Then what?" exercise- A practical prayer for anxious moments- Learning to be hidden in God's presenceScriptures:- Psalm 27- Exodus- Esther- Matthew 1- 1 Samuel 17#Psalm27 #JohnOrtberg #Fear #TrustGod #Prayer #DallasWillard #SpiritualFormation #ChristianFaith #BibleStudy #Anxiety

What if faith was never meant to be a private belief you keep separate from the rest of your life?In week 5 of James: Faith At Work, we sit with one of the more difficult and controversial passages in the New Testament: James 2:14-26. James asks, to paraphrase, "What good is a claim of faith while ignoring a brother or sister in need?" He presses against a faith that separates us from our neighbors, from ourselves, and from God--faith that merely confesses the truth, all while leaving daily life untouched.This teaching reflects on James' warning about dead faith, his examples of Abraham and Rahab, and the deeper beauty underneath the warning: living faith is not performance. It is not self-justification. It is the whole person moving toward Christ. Faith is brought to fullness as the implanted word works through us in love, mercy, provision, and ordinary obedience.Questions for Reflection:What areas of my life have I separated from my faith?How is my faith at work in my daily life and community?What would tomorrow look like if I responded to faith at work within me?Scripture References: James 2:14-26, James 1:18, James 1:21, James 1:27, Matthew 25:34-40, John 13:35, Genesis 15:6, Genesis 22, Romans 3:28, Deuteronomy 6:4, Philippians 2:12-13, Psalm 107:1-9Voices/Quotes: Douglas J. Moo, The Letter of James; Dallas Willard, The Divine Conspiracy; Eugene Peterson, The Message and A Long Obedience in the Same Direction; Martin Luther; The BibleProject; Common Prayer: A Liturgy for Ordinary RadicalsSermon Notes & Liturgy | James: Faith at Work---Tired of consumer Christianity? So are we.Come rest in Jesus. Sundays at 10:10AM642 Brookhurst Dr, Dallas, TX 75218.Christ City Church is a faith family following Jesus together in east Dallas.Learn more at www.christcity.lifeFollow us on...IG: @christcitylifeX: @christcitylifeTH: @christcitylifeFB: christcitychurchdallasYT: @christcitylife

What actually makes someone a good person?In this reflection on Psalm 51, John Ortberg explores one of the most important differences between religion and the teaching of Jesus.David doesn't simply pray,"Forgive my sins."He prays,"Create in me a clean heart."Drawing on insights from Dallas Willard and the remarkable story of Joni Eareckson Tada, John explains why God is after something far deeper than behavior modification. He wants transformation from the inside out.This episode explores:- Psalm 51 and David's prayer- The difference between behavior and the heart- Jesus' teaching in the Sermon on the Mount- Why outward obedience isn't enough- Joni Eareckson Tada's powerful insight about sin- Becoming the kind of person who naturally desires what is goodScriptures:- Psalm 51- Matthew 5- Matthew 23- 2 Samuel 11–12#Psalm51 #JohnOrtberg #JoniEarecksonTada #DallasWillard #Prayer #SpiritualFormation #ChristianFaith #BibleStudy #HeartTransformation #SermonOnTheMount

We're talking about the motivation of the Founding Fathers and Framers of the Constitution. It's a theory of the mentor of my Con Law mentor, himself an historian at Claremont Graduate School in the 1960s who taught my Con Law mentor Dr. Michael M. Uhlmann, Ph.D., LLB. Happy 250th Anniversary of 'Murica. You're in for a treat . This is part 1 of multiple. This episode broaches the topic of what explained and motivated the Founders of America and Framers of the Constitution. "It is my argument that the lust for the psychic reward of fame, honor, glory, after 1776 becomes a key ingredient in the behavior of Washington and his greatest contemporaries." So ends Adair's first section in this speech which we cover today. We're going to make a fair use, do a transformative reading of the this selection, "Fame and the Founding Fathers," the speech Dr. Adair gave in Kansas City to the Organization of American Historians in the mid-1960s. It's chapter 1 in a volume by the same title and made available by Liberty Fund, Inc., of Indianapolis, Indiana. Support publishers when they make something worth reading. Support the publisher and throw some bidness their way. Support your brick and mortar book dealer. This episode was filmed Monday 6 July 2026 years after Jesus in the backyard of my long-time (nearly a quarter of a century) Epistemology mentor Dr. Doug Geivett (PhD, USC under Dallas Willard), a student himself of the famous late-great Republican professor, the late-great Dallas Willard of USC's Philosophy Department. The Republican Professor is a pro-correctly-and-adequately-articulating-the-major-influences-on-American-politics podcast. Therefore, welcome, through his writing, Dr. Douglas Adair, Ph.D., of the history department at Claremont Graduate School in the 1960s. The Republican Professor is produced and hosted by Dr. Lucas J. Mather, Ph.D. Warmly, Lucas J. Mather, Ph.D. The Republican Professor Podcast The Republican Professor Newsletter on Substack https://therepublicanprofessor.substack.com/ https://www.therepublicanprofessor.com/podcast/ https://www.therepublicanprofessor.com/articles/ YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@TheRepublicanProfessor Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheRepublicanProfessor Twitter: @RepublicanProf Instagram: @the_republican_professor

Aprenda como a verdadeira transformação cristã vai além da mudança de comportamento e alcança o coração. A partir da obra “A Gentileza que Cativa”, de Dallas Willard, o curso apresentará os fundamentos bíblicos da formação espiritual do caráter cristão, que deve ser marcado pela gentileza, mansidão, humildade e graça. Examine os processos pelos quais Deus forma Seus filhos à imagem de Cristo, moldando pensamentos, atitudes e relacionamentos. Desenvolva hábitos espirituais que cooperem com a ação transformadora do Espírito Santo, tornando a gentileza uma expressão visível do Evangelho na família, na igreja, no trabalho e na sociedade.

At Redeemer, we take seriously Jesus' call to "Go and make disciples of all nations baptizing them in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you." Apprenticeship to Jesus is not a one time decision, but a lifelong journey of following Jesus as our master-teacher. Since the goal of the Christian life is maturity in Jesus, apprenticeship must be deep and holistic, transforming the spiritual, physical, emotional, social, and vocational parts of men and women. Apprenticeship to Jesus is learning to practice the way of Jesus in our homes, relationships, neighborhoods, and jobs. We believe Christlikeness is cultivated as we implement spiritual practices, live in community with other believers, and submit to the Word and the Spirit. We agree with Dallas Willard who said, "that the gospel is opposed to earning, not effort." As we move towards cultivating a life of loving God and people, we trust Christ will mature us into his likeness. https://redeemerwichita.church/

We're talking about the debate about the use the Bible in schools during the Founding generation. Happy 250th Anniversary of 'Murica. You're in for a treat . This is part 3 of multiple on the Second Chapter "The English and American Public Culture." This is episode 7 of the series on the book. This episode broaches the debate among the Founders on the use of the Bible in schools, for example in the election of 1800 of Thomas Jefferson, discussing pp. 34 to 42. "The American Founders read the Bible," Oxford University Rhodes Scholar Daniel Dreisbach says in his first sentence of his Oxford University Press book. "They knew the Bible from cover to cover." "Its ideas shaped their habits of mind." "The Bible left its mark on the political culture of the era." Dreisbach's first sentence in his chapter 2 is: Ready ? "Anglo-Americans are people of the Book, and that Book is the Bible." WOW ! We had the author, Dr. Daniel L. Dreisbach, D.Phil. (Oxford), JD (University of Virginia Law School) on the podcast for Thanksgiving, Fall 2022. We're going to make a fair use, do a transformative reading of the book. We'd like to thank Dr. Dreisbach for writing this, and thank Oxford University Press for making it available. Support publishers when they make something worth reading. Support the publisher and throw some bidness their way. Support your brick and mortar book dealer. This episode was filmed Friday 3 July 2026 years after Jesus in the backyard of my long-time (nearly a quarter of a century) Epistemology mentor Dr. Doug Geivett (PhD, USC under Dallas Willard), a student himself of the famous late-great Republican professor, the late-great Dallas Willard of USC's Philosophy Department. The Republican Professor is a pro-correctly-and-adequately-articulating-the-Bible's-appropriate-influence-on-American-politics podcast. Therefore, welcome again, through his writing, Dr. Daniel L. Dreisbach, D.Phil., J.D. The Republican Professor is produced and hosted by Dr. Lucas J. Mather, Ph.D. Warmly, Lucas J. Mather, Ph.D. The Republican Professor Podcast The Republican Professor Newsletter on Substack https://therepublicanprofessor.substack.com/ https://www.therepublicanprofessor.com/podcast/ https://www.therepublicanprofessor.com/articles/ YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@TheRepublicanProfessor Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheRepublicanProfessor Twitter: @RepublicanProf Instagram: @the_republican_professor

Send us Fan Mail“Be still and know that I am God.” Psalm 46:10What does it mean to “Be Still”?On the page “Scriptural Grace,” I came across a reference to this scripture:“Be Still” comes from the Hebrew word 'raphah,' which means to relax, beweak, let go, and release. It is a command from God to surrender all thatconcerns us and to understand that God is in control.”“Be still” is also about"Silence" — being silent for a while or simply being present in stillness.In a book, "Sabbath Is a Way of Life -by Dallas Willard. I found an excellentquote.“Silence means quietness, freedom from sounds except for natural ones,such as breathing, bird songs, and the movement of wind and water. It alsomeans not talking. Silence completes solitude, for without it, you cannot bealone. You remain subject to the pulls and pushes of a world that exhaustsyou and keeps you in bondage, distracting you from God and your ownsoul. Far from being a mere absence, silence allows the reality of God tostand in the midst of your life. It is like the wind of eternity blowing in yourface. Not for nothing does the Psalmist say: “Be still and know that I amGod.” God does not ordinarily compete for our attention. In silence, wecome to attend.”https://renovare.org/articles/sabbath-is-a-way-of-lifeAs a young mom, I was so preoccupied with “stuff” that I often repeated to mychildren, when they needed my attention, “I am busy!” to the point that one ofmy sons, who was about 5 and is now married, would reply to my requests with“I'm busy.” Looking back, I see how my repeated statement “I am busy”created a pattern that caused chaos rather than peace — the opposite ofstillness.I thought of what I learned from Michelle Thielen in her book “Stretching YourFaith”“Jesus had an open heart while walking this Earth. He graciously receivedinterruptions and distractions as opportunities. In today's world, how manyof us don't have even a little margin available because we are so busy?BUSY means;BuriedUnderSatan'sYoke”Lately, I have been pondering current events near me and around the world,including wars, climate impacts, illnesses among dear friends and familymembers, and struggles of various kinds that are difficult to comprehend. Mostof the time, it feels like “there is no answer.” But I do know that God is mindful ofit all, and I find peace in Him.In Psalm 3:5-6“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding;In all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.”Today, my heart is full of gratitude to the Lord for the wisdom I gain from thescriptures. I know He is mindful of my desires, yet He understands what mighthelp me improve and become who I was called to be.When I choose to dedicate my time to serving and remember to “Be still” andtrust, I see His hand in everything. Whenever I feel discouraged or doubts arise, Irepeat "Be Still" and "Look unto me, doubt not, fear not"www.kasiasmusic.comwww.kasiasfaithjourney.comhttps://www.facebook.com/kasiasfaithjourney/

How does God actually guide His people?In this reflection on Psalm 32, John Ortberg explores one of Scripture's most comforting promises:"I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go."Drawing on insights from Dallas Willard and the story of Peter in the book of Acts, John explains the difference between mechanical control and personal guidance—and why God desires relationship more than coercion.This episode explores:- Psalm 32 and God's guidance- Mechanical vs. personal guidance- Learning to recognize God's voice- The Holy Spirit and spiritual discernment- Peter's vision in Acts 10- Why discovered truth often changes us more than presented truthScriptures:- Psalm 32- Acts 10#Psalm32 #JohnOrtberg #DallasWillard #Guidance #Prayer #SpiritualFormation #ChristianFaith #BibleStudy #HolySpirit #Discernment

In this episode, Brandon explores how religious, political, and cultural purity codes can become a trap—turning morality into anxiety management and faithfulness into control. Through a Zen parable, John 9, Dallas Willard, and original blessing, he invites us beyond sin obsession and into the deeper morality of love, life, healing, and freedom.

At Redeemer, we take seriously Jesus' call to "Go and make disciples of all nations baptizing them in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you." Apprenticeship to Jesus is not a one time decision, but a lifelong journey of following Jesus as our master-teacher. Since the goal of the Christian life is maturity in Jesus, apprenticeship must be deep and holistic, transforming the spiritual, physical, emotional, social, and vocational parts of men and women. Apprenticeship to Jesus is learning to practice the way of Jesus in our homes, relationships, neighborhoods, and jobs. We believe Christlikeness is cultivated as we implement spiritual practices, live in community with other believers, and submit to the Word and the Spirit. We agree with Dallas Willard who said, "that the gospel is opposed to earning, not effort." As we move towards cultivating a life of loving God and people, we trust Christ will mature us into his likeness. https://redeemerwichita.church/

We invite you to enter a time of prayer with Nathan Foster as he works through the Litany of Humility's three movements and expands them with his own meditations. The prayer begins, “O Jesus! meek and humble of heart, hear me.”

Happy 250th Anniversary of 'Murica. You're in for a treat . This is part 2 of multiple on the Second Chapter "The English and American Public Culture." This episode broaches the English Bible's profound role on American Literacy Education, discussing pp. 29-34. "The American Founders read the Bible," Oxford University Rhodes Scholar Daniel Dreisbach says in his first sentence of his Oxford University Press book. "They knew the Bible from cover to cover." "Its ideas shaped their habits of mind." "The Bible left its mark on the political culture of the era." Dreisbach's first sentence in his chapter 2 is: Ready ? "Anglo-Americans are people of the Book, and that Book is the Bible." WOW ! We had the author, Dr. Daniel L. Dreisbach, D.Phil. (Oxford), JD (University of Virginia Law School) on the podcast for Thanksgiving, Fall 2022. We're going to make a fair use, do a transformative reading of the book. We'd like to thank Dr. Dreisbach for writing this, and thank Oxford University Press for making it available. Support publishers when they make something worth reading. Support the publisher and throw some bidness their way. Support your brick and mortar book dealer. This episode was filmed Thursday 28 May 2026 years after Jesus in the backyard of my long-time (nearly a quarter of a century) Epistemology mentor Dr. Doug Geivett (PhD, USC under Dallas Willard), a student himself of the famous late-great Republican professor, the late-great Dallas Willard of USC's Philosophy Department. The Republican Professor is a pro-correctly-and-adequately-articulating-the-Bible's-appropriate-influence-on-American-politics podcast. Therefore, welcome again, through his writing, Dr. Daniel L. Dreisbach, D.Phil., J.D. The Republican Professor is produced and hosted by Dr. Lucas J. Mather, Ph.D. Warmly, Lucas J. Mather, Ph.D. The Republican Professor Podcast The Republican Professor Newsletter on Substack https://therepublicanprofessor.substack.com/ https://www.therepublicanprofessor.com/podcast/ https://www.therepublicanprofessor.com/articles/ YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@TheRepublicanProfessor Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheRepublicanProfessor Twitter: @RepublicanProf Instagram: @the_republican_professor

Do you ever struggle with doubt?In this teaching on Psalm 91, John Ortberg explores faith, trust, doubt, works, and what it really means to believe.Drawing heavily from the teachings of Dallas Willard, John introduces a powerful framework for understanding belief and asks a challenging question:What do your actions reveal that you actually trust?This episode explores:- Psalm 91 and trusting God- Three different kinds of belief- The relationship between faith and works- Dallas Willard's concept of a mental map- Peter's denial of Jesus- What saving faith really means- How trust grows through practiceScriptures:- Psalm 91- James 2- Matthew 25- John 7#Psalm91 #JohnOrtberg #Faith #TrustGod #DallasWillard #SpiritualFormation #ChristianFaith #BibleStudy #Psalms #SavingFaith

At Redeemer, we take seriously Jesus' call to "Go and make disciples of all nations baptizing them in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you." Apprenticeship to Jesus is not a one time decision, but a lifelong journey of following Jesus as our master-teacher. Since the goal of the Christian life is maturity in Jesus, apprenticeship must be deep and holistic, transforming the spiritual, physical, emotional, social, and vocational parts of men and women. Apprenticeship to Jesus is learning to practice the way of Jesus in our homes, relationships, neighborhoods, and jobs. We believe Christlikeness is cultivated as we implement spiritual practices, live in community with other believers, and submit to the Word and the Spirit. We agree with Dallas Willard who said, "that the gospel is opposed to earning, not effort." As we move towards cultivating a life of loving God and people, we trust Christ will mature us into his likeness. https://redeemerwichita.church/

“Values are the goods we prize and pursue—the things we regard as genuinely worth having, becoming, and giving ourselves to.” —Dallas WillardWe must take the time to ask ourselves: How do the values we profess align with the values of God's Kingdom?Core values quietly shape our lives. They influence what captures our attention, how we spend our time, what we celebrate, what we resist, and who we are becoming. They form the culture of our homes, our communities, and our organizations long before they ever appear on a website or in a mission statement.Values are aspirational. They do not simply describe who we are today; they help orient us toward who we long to become.Some of our values are explicit. Many are not. Whether we recognize them or not, we are all being formed—every day—by the values our culture rewards, the stories we believe, and the practices we repeat. The invitation is not to shame ourselves for this reality, but to become more awake to it.In this next episode of the Become Good Soil Foundations Series, we invite you into a conversation that has been unfolding in our own lives for more than two decades. Together, we'll explore the core values that have gradually emerged as guides for the work of Become Good Soil—and, more importantly, for our own apprenticeship to Jesus.Living our values is deeply personal. No two lives will embody them in exactly the same way. Sometimes it is surprisingly difficult to trace a straight line between what we do and the values quietly shaping those choices. Unearthing and reorienting those hidden values asks us to slow down, pay attention, and become curious about the formation already taking place within us.Over the years, we've come to recognize roughly a dozen values that we hope increasingly inform everything we do at Become Good Soil. We certainly haven't mastered them. In many ways, these values continue to expose us, invite us, and call us further up and further in. While each deserves an episode—or perhaps a lifetime of reflection—we are grateful for the opportunity to begin the conversation.What follows is a two-part introduction to the core values we hope will continue to shape our lives, our work, and, perhaps, offer a companion for your own journey and the life of your community.It's all been prologue. The best is yet to come.For the Kingdom,Morgan & Cherie

How do you actually learn to love God?In this reflection on Psalm 31, John Ortberg explores one surprising pathway to loving God more deeply: curiosity.Drawing from theologian Cornelius Plantinga Jr., relationship researcher John Gottman, and Dallas Willard, John invites us to think about building a "love map" for God.This episode explores:- Psalm 31 and loving God- Curiosity as a spiritual discipline- John Gottman's concept of love maps- Fascinating biblical images of God- The mystery and wonder of God's character- Learning to love God with all your mindScriptures:- Psalm 31- Deuteronomy 6:5- Matthew 22:37- Luke 23:46- Psalm 78#Psalm31 #JohnOrtberg #Prayer #LoveGod #SpiritualFormation #DallasWillard #JohnGottman #BibleStudy #Psalms #ChristianFaith

We trace Paul's claim in 1 Corinthians 3 that God chooses to dwell in a people, not just impressive structures, and we face the warning that breaking unity is a serious attack on God's temple. We return to the gospel as the only foundation, then ask what it looks like to build faithfully with God while trusting him for growth and outcomes. • God's presence as something shared between us, not sequestered in a special place • The warning against destroying God's temple by jealousy, quarreling, and factionalism • The gospel of Jesus as saving and sustaining wisdom, always and only • What “the flesh” means as our default mode apart from God's Spirit • Church as a garden to be tended, not a machine to be managed • Building on the foundation of Christ with work that endures the fire • Grace and effort through Dallas Willard's line about earning versus effort • The wisdom of the cross as the end of boasting in people • “All things are yours” as comfort for life, death, present stress, and future uncertainty Say yes to him today. Support the show

At Redeemer, we take seriously Jesus' call to "Go and make disciples of all nations baptizing them in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you." Apprenticeship to Jesus is not a one time decision, but a lifelong journey of following Jesus as our master-teacher. Since the goal of the Christian life is maturity in Jesus, apprenticeship must be deep and holistic, transforming the spiritual, physical, emotional, social, and vocational parts of men and women. Apprenticeship to Jesus is learning to practice the way of Jesus in our homes, relationships, neighborhoods, and jobs. We believe Christlikeness is cultivated as we implement spiritual practices, live in community with other believers, and submit to the Word and the Spirit. We agree with Dallas Willard who said, "that the gospel is opposed to earning, not effort." As we move towards cultivating a life of loving God and people, we trust Christ will mature us into his likeness. https://redeemerwichita.church/

Help bring to life a new Renovaré course: renovare.org/streams.Nathan Foster talks with author and priest Ragan Sutterfield on the sacramental nature of birding and other patient pursuits which train our attention so that we can live awake to our transcendent God and the invisible realm of his kingdom.

What is the secret to deep relationships?In this teaching on Psalm 133, John Ortberg explores intimacy, connection, loneliness, and the small daily habits that strengthen relationships.Drawing from the work of relationship researcher John Gottman, John explains the powerful idea of "bids for connection"—the small invitations people make every day to share life together.This episode explores:- Psalm 133 and unity- What intimacy really means- The epidemic of loneliness- John Gottman's relationship research- Turning toward connection- Jesus as the master of connection- God's invitation to relationship throughout ScriptureFeaturing reflections on:- John Gottman- Dallas Willard- Robert PutnamScriptures:- Psalm 133- Genesis 2- Genesis 3- Genesis 4#Psalm133 #JohnOrtberg #Relationships #Connection #Intimacy #SpiritualFormation #ChristianFaith #JohnGottman #BibleStudy #Psalms

In this episode, Brant Hansen argues that holding onto offense is killing us - spiritually, physically, and relationally. He had to decide whether the offense he experienced as a young person should be held on to or if he should release it. It led him to a simple, uncomfortable conclusion: righteous human anger doesn't exist in scripture, and the anger we carry, however justified it feels, is not what faithful people are called to hold. We talk about forgiveness, hypocrisy in the church, and what Jesus actually intended when he told us to love our enemies.Brant is an author of several bestselling books, including Unoffendable, and a syndicated radio host on more than 200 stations. His podcast, “The Brant and Sherri Oddcast” has more than 20 million downloads. He's been featured many times on outlets like Focus on the Family, Family Life Today, and Good Morning America.Brant and wife Carolyn live in South Florida. His latest book, Living Unoffended releases June 9.Brant's Book:Living UnoffendedBrant's Recommendation:The Matter With ThingsConnect 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 YouTubeSupport the podcast and the ministry that my wife and I do around the world. Just click on the support the show link below Support the show

At Redeemer, we take seriously Jesus' call to "Go and make disciples of all nations baptizing them in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you." Apprenticeship to Jesus is not a one time decision, but a lifelong journey of following Jesus as our master-teacher. Since the goal of the Christian life is maturity in Jesus, apprenticeship must be deep and holistic, transforming the spiritual, physical, emotional, social, and vocational parts of men and women. Apprenticeship to Jesus is learning to practice the way of Jesus in our homes, relationships, neighborhoods, and jobs. We believe Christlikeness is cultivated as we implement spiritual practices, live in community with other believers, and submit to the Word and the Spirit. We agree with Dallas Willard who said, "that the gospel is opposed to earning, not effort." As we move towards cultivating a life of loving God and people, we trust Christ will mature us into his likeness. https://redeemerwichita.church/

Seth and Luke talk about what it means to abide or remain in Christ, how we can do that, and some of Dallas Willard's wisdom on practicing spiritual disciplines.

Help bring to life a new Renovaré course: renovare.org/streams.In this bonus episode we share a conversation from a Renovaré webinar called Shaped by the Word. Host Carolyn Arends speaks with Tim Mackie and Carla Harding about how Scripture functions in the lives of Jesus' disciples to form us and draw us into a living relationship with Father Son and Spirit. 

Can you really live without lack?In this reflection on Psalm 23, John Ortberg draws from Life Without Lack to explore one of the most beloved passages in all of Scripture.What does it mean to say, "The Lord is my shepherd"? What if "I shall not want" is not a promise that life will be easy, but an invitation to stop being driven by fear, scarcity, and unsatisfied desire?This episode explores:- Psalm 23 and the Kingdom of God- Dallas Willard's vision of life without lack- Freedom from fear and anxiety- God's presence as the center of the spiritual life- Green pastures, still waters, and restored souls- Goodness and mercy following us every dayFeaturing reflections from:- Dallas Willard- Charles Spurgeon- C.S. Lewis- Walter BrueggemannScriptures:- Psalm 23- Matthew 6:33- John 4:14- Matthew 5:44#Psalm23 #JohnOrtberg #DallasWillard #LifeWithoutLack #Prayer #SpiritualFormation #ChristianFaith #BibleStudy #Psalms #KingdomOfGod

Got a question? Let us know!Host: HeatherGuests: Doug, Joe, ChelleWEEKEND CHITCHATQuick catch-up: What did y'all get into this weekend?BIBLE READING CHALLENGEWhat stood out to you from this week's reading?Wrapped up 1 ChroniclesBegan 2 ChroniclesContinued through the Gospel of JohnSUNDAY DISHDoug, this week you continued Losing Myself by walking through Moses' first painful encounter with Pharaoh in Exodus 5 and 6. Moses obeys God, Pharaoh makes things worse, and the people suffer, raising a question many of us have asked: What do we do when faithfulness seems to fail? The invitation was to stop naming our failures, bring our frustrations honestly to God, and keep trusting the God who has a name, hears our groans, and keeps His promises.Q1: Harder Than ExpectedLet's start light.What's something you've tried to get better at that ended up being way harder than you expected?Q2: The Need to Prove OurselvesDoug, you talked about losing yourself as letting go of proving yourself and learning to trust Jesus instead.What do you think people are most often trying to prove—and why?Q3: When Obedience Doesn't Change the SituationPharaoh asks, "Who is the Lord?" and later God responds by revealing His name, His nearness, and His promises.How does that help us understand what God is doing when obedience hasn't changed the situation yet?Follow-up:Where do you see people today needing God to reveal not just an answer, but Himself?Q4: Formation Before ResultsYou referenced Dallas Willard's idea that we often want the right outcomes without embracing the kind of life that forms them.Why does spiritual growth often expose our untrained habits before it produces visible change?Follow-up:What's one ordinary practice that helps bridge that gap without turning faith into self-improvement?Q5: When Becoming Feels Like FailureThe big idea was:"Losing yourself may feel like failure before it feels like becoming."Doug, you illustrated that through Ransom's karate belt test.How does that idea hit you personally, especially in seasons when obedience, repentance, or growth seems to make life messier instead of better?Follow-up:How can we help people stay in the process instead of labeling themselves as failures?Q6: Becoming Someone NewDoug, you invited us to fill in the blank:"Jesus is helping me become ______."What's the wisdom in naming what Jesus is forming in us instead of only focusing on what we're doing wrong?Follow-up:What might one small step toward that becoming look like this week—even if the first board doesn't break?JOIN US SUNDAY!That's all the time we have for today!We're excited about this coming Sunday as we continue our Losing Myself series.Be sure to share this episode, and maybe invite someone you've been thinking about bringing with you. We'll be here at 9 and 10:45, and we'd love to connect with you and your guests. If you can't join us in person, catch us on YouTube at 1PM.Until then, don't forget—we're here for good.Go BE LOVE!Stay Connected Website: https://believerschurch.org/ Bible Reading Plan: https://believerschurch.org/bible-reading-plan/Believers Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/believerschurch.va/ Believers Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/believers_church/Subscribe to The Outlet: https://believerschurch.us13.list-manage.com/subscribe?u=66f00f86238de86688d2480e6&id=729c3f381f

At Redeemer, we take seriously Jesus' call to "Go and make disciples of all nations baptizing them in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you." Apprenticeship to Jesus is not a one time decision, but a lifelong journey of following Jesus as our master-teacher. Since the goal of the Christian life is maturity in Jesus, apprenticeship must be deep and holistic, transforming the spiritual, physical, emotional, social, and vocational parts of men and women. Apprenticeship to Jesus is learning to practice the way of Jesus in our homes, relationships, neighborhoods, and jobs. We believe Christlikeness is cultivated as we implement spiritual practices, live in community with other believers, and submit to the Word and the Spirit. We agree with Dallas Willard who said, "that the gospel is opposed to earning, not effort." As we move towards cultivating a life of loving God and people, we trust Christ will mature us into his likeness. https://redeemerwichita.church/

Happy 250th Anniversary of 'Murica. You're in for a treat . This is part 1 of multiple on the Second Chapter "The English and American Public Culture." "The American Founders read the Bible," Oxford University Rhodes Scholar Daniel Dreisbach says in his first sentence of his Oxford University Press book. "They knew the Bible from cover to cover." "Its ideas shaped their habits of mind." "The Bible left its mark on the political culture of the era." Dreisbach's first sentence in his chapter 2 is: Ready ? "Anglo-Americans are people of the Book, and that Book is the Bible." WOW ! We had the author, Dr. Daniel L. Dreisbach, D.Phil. (Oxford), JD (University of Virginia Law School) on the podcast for Thanksgiving, Fall 2022. We're going to make a fair use, do a transformative reading of the book. We'd like to thank Dr. Dreisbach for writing this, and thank Oxford University Press for making it available. Support publishers when they make something worth reading. Support the publisher and throw some bidness their way. Support your brick and mortar book dealer. This episode was filmed Thursday 28 May 2026 years after Jesus in the backyard of my long-time (nearly a quarter of a century) Epistemology mentor Dr. Doug Geivett (PhD, USC under Dallas Willard), a student himself of the famous late-great Republican professor, the late-great Dallas Willard of USC's Philosophy Department. The Republican Professor is a pro-correctly-and-adequately-articulating-the-Bible's-appropriate-influence-on-American-politics podcast. Therefore, welcome again, through his writing, Dr. Daniel L. Dreisbach, D.Phil., J.D. The Republican Professor is produced and hosted by Dr. Lucas J. Mather, Ph.D. Warmly, Lucas J. Mather, Ph.D. The Republican Professor Podcast The Republican Professor Newsletter on Substack https://therepublicanprofessor.substack.com/ https://www.therepublicanprofessor.com/podcast/ https://www.therepublicanprofessor.com/articles/ YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@TheRepublicanProfessor Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheRepublicanProfessor Twitter: @RepublicanProf Instagram: @the_republican_professor

Corrie ten Boom once said, “If the devil can't make you sin, he'll make you busy.” That's a sobering thought, especially in a world where many of us feel like life is moving faster than we can keep up. Deadlines, family responsibilities, bills, errands, emails, appointments, and unexpected needs can make every day feel like a sprint. And when life moves that fast, it's easy to make financial decisions on the fly. We don't always neglect stewardship out of carelessness. Sometimes, we neglect it because we're tired. We stop paying attention. We spend reactively instead of prayerfully. We put off conversations we need to have. We ignore creeping lifestyle inflation. We delay generosity until things “settle down.” Before long, the pace of life begins shaping our financial decisions more than the wisdom of God does. The Spiritual Danger of Distraction Busyness can be more spiritually dangerous than it first appears because it doesn't always oppose faithfulness with rebellion. Sometimes it opposes faithfulness with distraction. Jesus warned about this in Luke 8, when He described the seed that fell among the thorns. He said it was choked by “the cares and riches and pleasures of life” (Luke 8:14). In other words, ordinary life can become so crowded that it chokes out what truly matters. We can spend hours worrying, scrolling, comparing, impulse buying, chasing the next opportunity, or reacting to every headline while neglecting the simple habits that build faithful stewardship: planning, giving, saving, communicating, and trusting God. Jesus highlights a similar tension in Luke 10. Martha is working hard, serving diligently, and doing good things. But Mary is sitting at Jesus' feet, listening. Jesus gently says, “Martha, Martha, you are anxious and troubled about many things, but one thing is necessary” (Luke 10:41–42). Martha wasn't doing something sinful. She was doing something useful. But even useful things can become disordered things when they crowd out what matters most. That applies to stewardship, too. It's possible to work hard, earn income, pay bills, and stay active, yet slowly lose sight of the heart of stewardship: trusting God, aligning our resources with His priorities, and handling money with wisdom and intentionality. Stewardship Is Worship Stewardship is never just about transactions. It's about worship. Every dollar we earn, spend, save, or give becomes an opportunity to express what we believe about God. Do we trust Him? Do we believe He is our provider? Do we see money as ours to control—or His to manage? That's why financial faithfulness requires more than good intentions. It requires margin—not just margin in your bank account, but margin in your soul. Dallas Willard once said, “Hurry is the great enemy of spiritual life in our day.” That certainly has implications for our finances as well. Hurry can lead to impulse spending, neglected planning, avoidable debt, forgotten generosity, and anxiety-driven decisions. When our lives are hurried, our money often becomes hurried, too. So what does it look like to remain financially faithful in a busy season? Slow Down Long Enough to Notice Proverbs 27:23 says, “Know well the condition of your flocks, and give attention to your herds.” In an agrarian society, a person's wealth was often tied up in flocks and herds. To know their condition meant slowing down enough to count them, care for them, and manage them wisely. Today, your “flock” may be your bank account, budget, bills, giving plan, savings, or debt. Awareness is often the first step toward wisdom. You can't faithfully steward what you never stop to notice. Prioritize What Matters Most If generosity, saving, debt reduction, or wise planning matter to you, don't leave them to chance. Put them on the calendar. Automate what you can. Schedule the budget conversation. Decide in advance what you will give. Review your spending before the month gets away from you. What gets scheduled often gets done. What gets ignored often drifts. Faithful stewardship rarely happens by accident, especially in a busy season. Simplify Where Possible Sometimes the problem isn't just a busy calendar. It's an overcomplicated life. Too many commitments. Too many subscriptions. Too many obligations. Too many purchases to manage and maintain. Simplicity can be an act of stewardship. It creates room to pay attention, to say yes wisely, to say no faithfully, and to focus your resources on what God has truly entrusted to you. Remember That Small Faithfulness Matters You may not have time today for a complete financial overhaul. But you may have time to review one statement, cancel one unnecessary expense, pray over one decision, or have one honest conversation. Small acts of faithfulness matter. Over time, small decisions can reshape your habits, your household, and your heart. The goal isn't to do everything at once. The goal is to take the next faithful step. Keep the Goal in View The goal of stewardship is not perfect financial performance. It's faithfulness. God is not asking you to control every outcome or master every detail. He is inviting you to trust Him, seek His wisdom, and handle what He has entrusted to you with care. So in a busy season, don't let hurry make your financial decisions for you. Slow down. Pay attention. Make room for what matters. And remember: faithful stewardship begins not with a frantic rush to do more, but with a quiet willingness to seek God first. On Today's Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions: I'm 71½ and have been using CDs to make charitable gifts. Is there a way to know whether Roth conversions from my IRA still make sense? Is now an optimal time to do more conversions? And once I begin taking RMDs, can I still do Roth conversions? My husband and I are setting up a trust, but he doesn't know much about my health. I'd like to name another relative as my medical power of attorney. Is that allowed, and could my husband override that decision? Also, is the ‘Five Wishes' document a good tool for end-of-life and medical preferences? I'm 67 and receiving Social Security and Medicare. My wife is 60, works part-time as a teacher, and is on Obamacare. If she retires at 62 and starts Social Security, will my benefit be reduced? And can she stay on Obamacare until 65, or does she need to enroll in Medicare at 65? We own two homes in different states and plan to sell one in the next three to four years. For the capital gains exclusion on a primary residence, do the two years of ownership and use have to be consecutive, or can they be any 24 months within the last five years? And if we split time between both homes, can we still qualify? My husband and I are 70 and 72, and we own five rental properties. We may sell them when he's around 78. From a tax and Medicare premium standpoint, is it better to sell them all in one year or spread the sales over multiple years? Resources Mentioned: Faithful Steward: FaithFi's Quarterly Magazine (Become a FaithFi Partner) Five Wishes Our Ultimate Treasure: A 21-Day Journey to Faithful Stewardship by Rob West Wisdom Over Wealth: 12 Lessons from Ecclesiastes on Money Look At The Sparrows: A 21-Day Devotional on Financial Fear and Anxiety Rich Toward God: A Study on the Parable of the Rich Fool Find a Certified Kingdom Advisor® (CKA) FaithFi App Remember, you can call in to ask your questions every workday at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. You can also visit FaithFi.com to connect with our online community and partner with us as we help more people live as faithful stewards of God's resources. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. 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At Redeemer, we take seriously Jesus' call to "Go and make disciples of all nations baptizing them in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you." Apprenticeship to Jesus is not a one time decision, but a lifelong journey of following Jesus as our master-teacher. Since the goal of the Christian life is maturity in Jesus, apprenticeship must be deep and holistic, transforming the spiritual, physical, emotional, social, and vocational parts of men and women. Apprenticeship to Jesus is learning to practice the way of Jesus in our homes, relationships, neighborhoods, and jobs. We believe Christlikeness is cultivated as we implement spiritual practices, live in community with other believers, and submit to the Word and the Spirit. We agree with Dallas Willard who said, "that the gospel is opposed to earning, not effort." As we move towards cultivating a life of loving God and people, we trust Christ will mature us into his likeness. https://redeemerwichita.church/

Three Renovaré staff members—Carolyn Arends, Monty Harrington, and Brandan Spencer—joined Nathan on Life with God to describe the team's pilgrimage to Montgomery to give sustained attention to injustice against Black people in the United States and celebrate the legacy of God-empowered resistance and resilience.

What does bowling have to do with spiritual life?In this teaching on Psalm 19, John Ortberg explores anxiety, surrender, creation, grace, and the deep human longing for soul rest.Using a surprisingly powerful bowling illustration, John reflects on how most people continue trying to control outcomes long after the “ball” has already left their hands. Psalm 19 offers another way: let go, trust God, delight in creation, and allow your soul to rest.This episode explores:- Why modern people struggle with rest- The connection between anxiety and control- Creation as medicine for the soul- Why the law of God is actually a gift- Soul fragmentation and divided living- How love restores wholenessFeaturing reflections on:- Dallas Willard- Theodore Roosevelt- Martin Luther- Psalm 19Scriptures:-Psalm 19-Matthew 22:37–39-James 2:8#Psalm19 #JohnOrtberg #Prayer #DallasWillard #SoulRest #Anxiety #SpiritualFormation #ChristianFaith #BibleStudy #Psalms

Nathan talks with Grace Pouch about her new book Savoring Childhood and how small steps toward a slower, simpler lifestyle create space for a deeply rooted life of love for God and others.Grace's book Savoring ChildhoodA few excerpts:A sample chapter from the publisher"Animal Friends""Simple Tastes""Joy is in the Waiting" on Christianity TodayGrace's website gracepouch.comFollow along for reflections on family life, spiritual formation, and the slow work of renewal on Grace's Substack @GrapplePie, and on Instagram @Grace.Pate.Pouch 

On Sunday, Pastor Russell Johnson continued through the book of Nehemiah, covering chapter 8 and a crisis that came from inside the community rather than from its enemies. Pastor Russell opened with the story of American contractors from Vermont and New York during the War of 1812 who supplied two-thirds of the advancing British army because the profits were too good to refuse — "myopic, self-defeating, and imprudent at the deepest level." Before entering the text, he established Proverbs 9:10 as the lens for the chapter, defining wisdom as "the skill of living well" and the fear of the Lord as "a settled, life-shaping orientation toward God." He then walked through three layers of economic devastation inside Jerusalem — families unable to eat, landowners mortgaging everything to survive a famine, and families whose children were already enslaved to pay crushing debts — all caused by wealthy Jewish nobles exploiting their own people. Pastor Russell called it "what the absence of the fear of God produces — it makes you dumb and can even make you mean." He traced Nehemiah's response as wisdom in action: anger proportional to the wrong, deliberate reflection before speaking, a public assembly to confront a community-wide sin, and an immediate demand for full restoration. He then walked through Nehemiah's twelve-year record as governor — declining his food allowance, feeding 150 people daily at his own expense, refusing to acquire land — all driven by the fear of God rather than political calculation. Pastor Russell closed with an honest acknowledgment that injustice among God's people is real, a direct apology to those wounded by the church, and a Dallas Willard quote defining disciples as "people who are constantly revising their affairs to carry through on their decision to follow Jesus."