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Episode 9 - Diocletian - "Villains of the Early Church: And How They Made Us Better Christians" In this episode, Mike Aquilina and Kris McGregor discuss Diocletian and the threat of a "police state" to religious freedom. Mike makes suggestions on what the Christian can do to stay true to the faith in times of religious persecution. The post VEC9 – Diocletian – Villains of the Early Church with Mike Aquilina – Discerning Hearts Podcast appeared first on Discerning Hearts Catholic Podcasts.
The Poem of the Man God is a retelling of the Gospel story of Jesus of Nazareth as recorded in the private revelations of Maria Valtorta. In this episode, we see Jesus and the Apostles at the Temple on Preparation Day. Original music by Angela Marie (Mohammed). Messiah. Savior. Passion of Christ. Religion. Wisdom. Miracles. Catholic Christian Theology. Apostles. Disciples. Believers. Followers. Early Church. Communion. Healing. Suffering Sacrifice. New Testament.
What is eternal subordination? Why is it good to pray to the saints and is there biblical evidence for it? How can we trust accounts of the Early Church? and more on today's Open Line with Colin Donovan. (Originally aired on 12/22/23)
The Poem of the Man God is a retelling of the Gospel story of Jesus of Nazareth as recorded in the private revelations of Maria Valtorta. In this episode, we see Jesus and the Apostles on the the morning of Preparation Day. Original music by Angela Marie (Mohammed). Messiah. Savior. Passion of Christ. Religion. Wisdom. Miracles. Catholic Christian Theology. Apostles. Disciples. Believers. Followers. Early Church. Communion. Healing. Suffering Sacrifice. New Testament.
A 3rd-century Christian hymn was discovered among the Oxyrhynchus papyri, and the hymn contains worship offered to the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. This episode explores the Greek hymn, examines how it illustrates the one God, and demonstrates why it is not evidence for belief in the Trinity during the late 200s. Instead, the hymn appears to best fit a modalistic understanding of God. To view the video version of this episode, go here: https://youtu.be/F7E5rf6Cpq4 Visit Amazon to buy your copy of A Systematic Theology of the Early Church: https://amzn.to/47jldOc Visit Amazon to buy your copy of Wisdom Christology in the Gospel of John: https://amzn.to/3JBflHb Visit Amazon to buy your copy of The Son of God: Three Views of the Identity of Jesus: https://amzn.to/43DPYey To support this podcast, donate here: https://www.paypal.me/10mintruthtalks Episode notes: https://docs.google.com/document/d/11At1ZRu50GM_UrFdSN29NqV5XwXJRQjirATLPN8vCyQ/edit?usp=sharing Subscribe to me on YouTube at: https://www.youtube.com/@BiblicalUnitarianPodcast Follow me on X (Twitter): https://twitter.com/OneGodPodcast
Mike Aquilina and Kris McGregor on Celsus, early critics of Christianity, and how ancient challenges continue to shape Christian thought, faith, and the relationship between reason, history, and science. The post VEC8 – Celsus – Villains of the Early Church with Mike Aquilina – Discerning Hearts Podcast appeared first on Discerning Hearts Catholic Podcasts.
Paul raises Eutychus in Acts 20! We discuss apostolic succession, the 80/20 rule for encouragement, and how spiritual leaders pass the torch amidst danger.For the study resources and manuscript go to messiahbible.org
In this episode of Transfigured, biblical scholar Dr. Dustin Smith joins the show to discuss his new book, A Systematic Theology of the Early Church. The conversation explores a "filterless" approach to the Bible, examining how the earliest Christians understood the nature of God, the agency of Jesus, and the role of the Holy Spirit. Dr. Smith challenges traditional creedal assumptions by rooting his systematic theology strictly in first-century historical and scriptural contexts.Dustin's Channel - @BiblicalUnitarianPodcast Amazon Book Link - https://www.amazon.com/Systematic-Theology-Early-Church-ebook/dp/B0FVG68CDD
The Poem of the Man God is a retelling of the Gospel story of Jesus of Nazareth as recorded in the private revelations of Maria Valtorta. In this episode, we pick up where we left in Book Three: Jesus on the Thursday before Passover in Johanna of Chuza's house.Note: Thank you for your patience; having technical difficulties.Original music by Angela Marie (Mohammed). Messiah. Savior. Passion of Christ. Religion. Wisdom. Miracles. Catholic Christian Theology. Apostles. Disciples. Believers. Followers. Early Church. Communion. Healing. Suffering Sacrifice. New Testament.
The Poem of the Man God is a retelling of the Gospel story of Jesus of Nazareth as recorded in the private revelations of Maria Valtorta. In this episode, we see Jesus and the Apostles on the Thursday before Passover: the evening.Original music by Angela Marie (Mohammed). Messiah. Savior. Passion of Christ. Religion. Wisdom. Miracles. Catholic Christian Theology. Apostles. Disciples. Believers. Followers. Early Church. Communion. Healing. Suffering Sacrifice. New Testament.
https://archive.org/details/bookofpopesliber00loom/page/n17/mode/2up https://www.expressnews.com/news/texas/article/texas-megachurch-christmas-show-criticism-19995279.php https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Romans%2014%3A5-12&version=KJV https://hymnary.org/person/Neale_JM https://www.earlychristianwritings.com/text/ignatius-magnesians-lightfoot.html#google_vignette https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Quartodecimanism
When Christians don't "get with the times," they change empires. __________ To support the prodcution of Breakpoint and receive exlusive benefits, visit colsoncenter.org/monthly
In Acts 20:1–16: Discover the five activities of a spiritual leader. See how Paul models how to build up the church, feed the sheep, and mentor the next generation.For the study resources and manuscript go to messiahbible.org
In this thought-provoking edition of Rob McConnell Interviews, Rob welcomes Brian Griffith, historian and author of Correcting Jesus, a bold and scholarly exploration of how cultural forces, political agendas, and early church editors may have reshaped the message of Jesus over time. Griffith examines the contrast between the historical figure and the later doctrinal constructions built around him, inviting listeners to consider how teachings on compassion, justice, and human dignity evolved—and in some cases, diverged—from their original context. Through a balanced and meticulously researched discussion, he challenges long-held assumptions while encouraging open-minded inquiry into the roots of Christianity. This compelling conversation offers fresh insight into faith, history, and the enduring power of interpretation.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-x-zone-radio-tv-show--1078348/support.Please note that all XZBN radio and/or television shows are Copyright © REL-MAR McConnell Meda Company, Niagara, Ontario, Canada – www.rel-mar.com. For more Episodes of this show and all shows produced, broadcasted and syndicated from REL-MAR McConell Media Company and The 'X' Zone Broadcast Network and the 'X' Zone TV Channell, visit www.xzbn.net. For programming, distribution, and syndication inquiries, email programming@xzbn.net.We are proud to announce the we have launched TWATNews.com, launched in August 2025.TWATNews.com is an independent online news platform dedicated to uncovering the truth about Donald Trump and his ongoing influence in politics, business, and society. Unlike mainstream outlets that often sanitize, soften, or ignore stories that challenge Trump and his allies, TWATNews digs deeper to deliver hard-hitting articles, investigative features, and sharp commentary that mainstream media won't touch.These are stories and articles that you will not read anywhere else.Our mission is simple: to expose corruption, lies, and authoritarian tendencies while giving voice to the perspectives and evidence that are often marginalized or buried by corporate-controlled media
Mike Aquilina's discussion on Valentinus, an early Gnostic teacher whose exclusive doctrines challenged the Church and helped clarify core Christian beliefs about the incarnation, the body, Scripture, and the communal nature of the faith. The post VEC7 – Valentinus – Villains of the Early Church with Mike Aquilina – Discerning Hearts Podcast appeared first on Discerning Hearts Catholic Podcasts.
Gabriel's announcement to Mary contains several simple christological truths. This week's episode unpacks the exchange between the angel and Jesus' mother, examining the promised titles of Jesus, his role as the climax of the Davidic Covenant, Jesus' relationship with the Most High, and how the Holy Spirit brings Jesus into existence in Mary's womb. The Gospel of Luke produces a christology of a fully human Jewish Messiah, the son of God. To view the video version of this episode, go here: https://youtu.be/kRGdpnRD3sc Visit Amazon to buy your copy of A Systematic Theology of the Early Church: https://amzn.to/47jldOc Visit Amazon to buy your copy of Wisdom Christology in the Gospel of John: https://amzn.to/3JBflHb Visit Amazon to buy your copy of The Son of God: Three Views of the Identity of Jesus: https://amzn.to/43DPYey To support this podcast, donate here: https://www.paypal.me/10mintruthtalks Episode notes: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1A9OLd5JXy6AFGOh2RUUgDspWqXmvEEQmqMJ2oa70D6E/edit?usp=sharing Subscribe to me on YouTube at: https://www.youtube.com/@BiblicalUnitarianPodcast Follow me on X (Twitter): https://twitter.com/OneGodPodcast
The final teaching in our 'Jesus & the Early Church' series as we transition to the Acts and Apostles!
The early church was a ragtag group of disciples with little strength…until the Holy Spirit descended upon them in power!
Can good things like family and romance become idols? We discuss how 'intrinsically good' gifts turn into dangerous functional gods that displace Jesus.For the study resources and manuscript go to messiahbible.org
- Trump's New National Security Strategy (0:10) - Economic and Geopolitical Shifts (2:22) - Venezuela's Strategic Importance (3:30) - Europe's Dependence on U.S. Gas (4:52) - AI and Robotics in Different Cultures (8:58) - AI's Role in Society (19:04) - China's AI Innovation (26:20) - India's Embrace of AI (33:14) - Russia and Eastern Europe's AI Potential (37:54) - The Future of Robots (39:54) - AI and Human Survival (55:58) - Digital Library and Christmas Gift Idea (56:17) - Introduction of Health Ranger Store and Corporate Sponsorship (1:22:28) - Interview with Matthew McWhorter on Canon Crossfire (1:25:04) - Exploring Different Christian Denominations and Bibles (1:27:38) - Challenges in Identifying the True Bible (1:28:22) - The Role of the Early Church in Authenticating Scripture (1:54:29) - The Importance of Preserving Knowledge and Scripture (1:54:41) - Comparing Christian Narratives with Other Religions (1:58:29) - The Role of the Resurrection in Authenticating Christianity (2:00:57) - Final Thoughts and Personal Experiences (2:13:09) For more updates, visit: http://www.brighteon.com/channel/hrreport NaturalNews videos would not be possible without you, as always we remain passionately dedicated to our mission of educating people all over the world on the subject of natural healing remedies and personal liberty (food freedom, medical freedom, the freedom of speech, etc.). Together, we're helping create a better world, with more honest food labeling, reduced chemical contamination, the avoidance of toxic heavy metals and vastly increased scientific transparency. ▶️ Every dollar you spend at the Health Ranger Store goes toward helping us achieve important science and content goals for humanity: https://www.healthrangerstore.com/ ▶️ Sign Up For Our Newsletter: https://www.naturalnews.com/Readerregistration.html ▶️ Brighteon: https://www.brighteon.com/channels/hrreport ▶️ Join Our Social Network: https://brighteon.social/@HealthRanger ▶️ Check In Stock Products at: https://PrepWithMike.com
Today on Nephilim Death Squad, we're joined again by Jamie Dyer—researcher, author, and co-host of Jay's Analysis—for a deep dive into the Cults of the First Century and how ancient goddess worship, mystery religions, Rome, Babylon, and early Christian persecution mirror exactly what we're seeing in culture today.We cover:
Pastor Louis concludes our ‘Unstoppable' series by looking at the breathtaking identity God gives His people. In 1 Peter, Peter takes Old Testament language once spoken over Israel and applies it to non-Jewish believers in Asia Minor – declaring that through Jesus, they too are God's chosen people, His royal priesthood, His holy nation. Explore the beauty and the challenge of that calling. Jesus is the chief cornerstone on whom everything rests. Each of us must choose whether He will be the foundation of our lives or a stumbling block we resist. Jew and Gentile alike, all are invited; all must decide. As we trace the fulfilment of God's story across Scripture, we discover the miracle of the Early Church: people from every background becoming one family in Christ. Adopted. Included. Secure. Called together to declare God's praises and reflect His glory. Join us as we step into the wonder of who we are in Him and the unstoppable mission He entrusts to His people.
Send us a textJoin us as we dive deeper into what it truly means to be a disciple of Jesus. In light of the Great Commission to make disciples of all nations, we'll explore what a disciple looks like and how being discipled can transform every part of your life.
Acts 19:21-41: Mass Hysteria! Demetrius starts a riot to save his profits. We explore the clash of theology and economics and smash modern idols like money.For the study resources and manuscript go to messiahbible.org
The Early Church Headquarters on Mount Zion: Colleague James Tabor discusses archaeology on Mount Zion revealing a first-century foundation beneath a medieval church, likely the headquarters of the early movement, describing this as the home where James led the church and Mary hosted pilgrims, with Mary possibly living long enough to witness James's martyrdom. 1950 BEERSHEBA
As we begin the Advent season, Dan and Rachael welcome writer and theologian Blaine Eldredge back to the podcast for a sweeping, story-rich journey into history, theology, and the fierce hope of the incarnation. If you love church history or the nuance of theological debate, this episode is a feast. And if you don't consider yourself a scholar, you're still fully invited in, because the questions raised here reach all of us who long for God-with-us in turbulent times. They approach Advent by way of one of the most compelling figures of the early church: Athanasius, the fourth-century bishop whose devotion to the incarnation shaped Christian belief for generations. This episode invites you to consider what it means that God took on flesh amid conflict, upheaval, and hope that refuses to be extinguished. It's a rich, timely conversation for this season of waiting and wonder.
Living Truth Christian Fellowship Podcast
Are you a Christian by tradition or truth? We explore Acts 19, the missing Holy Spirit in the 12 disciples, and why ignorance isn't bliss for your walk with Jesus.For the study resources and manuscript go to messiahbible.org
“Why did the Jews deny Jesus as the Messiah and the early Church?” This question delves into the historical and theological reasons behind the Jewish rejection of Jesus. Additionally, the discussion touches on the Church of the Holy Sepulchre’s origins, Peter’s role in the early Church, and the fate of Mary Magdalene, providing a rich exploration of early Christian history. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 05:15 – Why did the Jews deny and miss Jesus as the Messiah in the times of the early Church? 12:52 – When the Church of the Holy Sepluchre was erected, was it considered a Byzantine? 21:43 – How did the early Church view Peter's role? 29:38 – What happened to Mary Magdalene? 32:58 – Did Paul assume Sola Scriptura in 1.Timothy 3:15? 49:00 – How did the Early Church communicate the gospel?
Athenagoras of Athens was a second-century Christian convert who wrote a famous apology in which he defends his understanding of God against claims of atheism. This week's episode explores what he believed about God, Jesus, and the Holy Spirit. The resulting conclusion is that Athenagoras was a Logos theologian with a unitarian understanding of God. To view the video version of this episode, go here: https://youtu.be/jeSnw-aeAEo Visit Amazon to buy your copy of A Systematic Theology of the Early Church: https://amzn.to/47jldOc Visit Amazon to buy your copy of Wisdom Christology in the Gospel of John: https://amzn.to/3JBflHb Visit Amazon to buy your copy of The Son of God: Three Views of the Identity of Jesus: https://amzn.to/43DPYey To support this podcast, donate here: https://www.paypal.me/10mintruthtalks Episode notes: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1GAOoLIOfZEVpRlmc41fuyP9wghiyml1GIVMlzKUp82A/edit?usp=sharing Subscribe to me on YouTube at: https://www.youtube.com/@BiblicalUnitarianPodcast Follow me on X (Twitter): https://twitter.com/OneGodPodcast
Living Truth Christian Fellowship Podcast
“Did the Early Church Know About Apostolic Succession?” This question opens a discussion on the beliefs of the early Christians regarding the continuity of church authority. Other topics include the magisterium’s authority over other religions and the reasons behind the split of the Coptic Church, providing a broad view of early church dynamics and teachings. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 02:30 – Did the Early Church Believe in Apostolic Succession? 14:59 – Level of authority that the magisterium have with regards to what other religions teach? 24:25 – Why is there not more emphasis on the split of the coptic church? And what caused the split? 33:05 – Join the Catholic Answers Cruise on the Rhine! 41:45 – What’s the moral difference in investing and usury? 50:40 – How does doctrinal development affect how we read the early Church and who have they accepted the developments?
Discover how second-century figure Marcian used wealth and personal interpretation to reshape Christianity, creating a parallel movement that rejected the Old Testament—and what his story teaches about doctrine, humility, and spiritual responsibility. The post VEC6 – Marcion – Villains of the Early Church with Mike Aquilina – Discerning Hearts Podcast appeared first on Discerning Hearts Catholic Podcasts.
Living Truth Christian Fellowship Podcast
In this week's episode, we dive deep into Acts 10 and talk all about what it looks like to love people who are different from us. We're talking about real, Spirit-led community—the kind that crosses lines of comfort, culture, and even conviction. From Jewish-Gentile divides in the early church to our own hidden biases today, this story of Peter and Cornelius challenges us to open our homes and hearts wider. We laugh a lot, but we're also honest about how the Spirit gently convicts us to live differently. Whether it's choosing curiosity over judgment, or inviting someone new to your dinner table, this episode will inspire you to take your next step toward radical love. Let's be girls who live it out—who ask God to search our hearts and then act on what He reveals. In This Episode [04:00] Church Talk [08:00] What's Your Bible Study Personality? [13:30] Vulnerability, Overthinking, and Speaking Up [17:00] Introduction to Acts 10: The Story of Peter & Cornelius [21:00] A Vision, A Visitor, and a Shift in the Early Church [26:00] The Spirit Falls on the Gentiles—The Church Expands [30:00] The Gospel Isn't Just for People Like Us [35:00] How Hidden Bias Shows Up in Our Lives [40:00] Dinner Tables, Diversity, and Teaching Our Kids [45:00] Living This Out: Curiosity Over Judgment [50:00] Final Challenge: Ask God to Search You ORDER OUR NEW STUDY! This seven-week, verse-by-verse study through the book of Acts invites you to embrace the unpredictable, sometimes challenging adventure of Spirit-led living that characterized the early church. Thanks to Our Sponsors Operation Christmas Child: Operation Christmas Child, a project of Samaritan's Purse, partners with churches to collect and distribute gift-filled shoeboxes to millions of children around the world, telling them the Good News of Jesus Christ, God's Greatest Gift. NIV Application Study Bible - Grab your copy today! Winshape: Learn more or submit your application today! If you'd like to partner with For The Girl as a sponsor, fill out our Advertise With Us form! Follow us!
The Identity of the Early Church | Real Christianity (Week 10) | Tim Gardner by Grace Fellowship Church
Most of us grew up with “getting saved” in one night: gospel presentation → raise your hand → pray the sinner's prayer → maybe get baptized later. But when you actually read Acts conversion looked very different. In this teaching we'll walk through the major conversion accounts in the book of Acts and then trace how the process evolved into the 1–3 year discipleship process practiced by the ancient church. If you've ever wondered: ✅ Should churches do same-day baptisms? ✅ Is the modern sinner's prayer biblical? ✅ What process could churches put in place to provide a wise on-ramp for new believers? …this teaching is for you. Part of the Everyday Evangelism teaching series.
Presenting the Gospel of the Kingdom; Early Church network; Islamic Threats?; Property tax elimination?; "Legal title"; What do you have to learn?; "life"; Denying truth; Seeking a kingdom point of view; "Saved by the blood"; Repentance; Understanding Paul; Providing for the whole truth; "Faith"; Witchcraft; Spirit gives life; Debt; Crafts of state; Tern story; Caring for neighbor; Character of Christ; 1 Sam 8 corruption; Property rights; Stolen land?; Driftwood example; Q from Andrew M: Owning property and paying taxes; Removing property tax by the government; Beneficial interest; County operations; Stanek vs White; "Highly refined dirt"; Christians owning land?; Owning labor?; Coveting is not okay; Learning the Gospel; Taking oaths?; Q from Katwellair: Church 501(c)3? - 1023 form; "Church" exceptions; Conforming to Christ; Katwellair: What if accused are innocent?; They must prove you are guilty in U.S.; Having a strong network behind you; Advantage: Holy Spirit; Why God doesn't hear you; Showing up for neighbor; Bullies; Faith is a gift; Immersing yourself in the care of others; Humility; "CORE"; Following Christ; Tens, Hundreds and Thousands; Minister connections; Faith, hope and charity; No socialism; Belonging to God; Walking with the LORD; Fear not!; Avoid anger; Advice for conflict; Stolen land?; Louisiana Purchase?; Texas purchase from Mexico; Colonial charters; Republic vs Democracy; Slave ownership; Cloward and Piven; Doing what Christ said to do; Free assemblies; Following orders?; Meditation; Letting God work through you; Going into bondage; Learning to be Israel; Autism links; Seek His kingdom and His righteousness.
“Who Thought the Eucharist Was Just Symbolic? ” This episode delves into the early Church’s beliefs about the Eucharist, exploring questions like the origins of the symbolic view and whether early Church Fathers spoke symbolically. We also tackle the significance of “breaking bread” in the early Church and the implications of transubstantiation. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 03:30 – Where did the symbolic view of the Eucharist come from? 05:13 – Didn't some early Church Fathers speak symbolically about the Eucharist? Doesn't that challenge the idea of unanimous early belief? 07:30 – Didn't the disciples fail to object during the Last Supper because they understood Jesus metaphorically? 09:00 – If “breaking bread” was common in the early Church, doesn't that just suggest a fellowship meal, not a literal body and blood? 15:25 – The Eucharist doesn’t seem to do anything to believers? 20:30 – How Do I Properly Receive the Eucharist? 21:50 – How does transubstantiation actually work—and why does it rely on medieval Aristotelian philosophy rather than Scripture? 29:05 – How do we know that the early Church actually believed in transubstantiation and not just a spiritual or symbolic presence? Why does the Catholic View win out? 35:22 – The priesthood is against going directly to God. We don't need Earthly priests. 42:20 – Does the Eucharist cause more division than Unity? 48:08 – Is the Eucharist just an adaptation of pagan rituals?
What did the early church believe about the atonement? David Bercot takes us through the early church writers to show that they didn't think of the atonement through the same frameworks we have about the atonement. David explains that the ante-Nicene Fathers did not teach penal substitutionary atonement (PSA); rather, PSA is a modern interpretation read back into the original texts.Our episode with Dean TaylorDavid Bercot's series on the atonementDictionary of Early Christian BeliefsChristus Victor: An Historical Study of the Three Main Types of the Idea of AtonementOrthodox Study Bible with the SeptuagintThis is the 295th episode of Anabaptist Perspectives, a podcast, blog, and YouTube channel that examines various aspects of conservative Anabaptist life and thought.Sign-up for our monthly email newsletter which contains new and featured content!Join us on Patreon or become a website partner to enjoy bonus content!Visit our YouTube channel or connect on Facebook.Read essays from our blog or listen to them on our podcast, Essays for King JesusSubscribe on your podcast provider of choiceSupport us or learn more at anabaptistperspectives.org.The views expressed by our guests are solely their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of Anabaptist Perspectives or Wellspring Mennonite Church.
This episode unpacks Jesus' place in Matthew's genealogy and birth narrative and, in the process, draws attention to how Jesus was brought into existence in Mary's womb. The begetting of Jesus, in other words, rules out any manner of conscious preexistence. To view the video version of this episode, go here: https://youtu.be/7LsU_rZJZz8 Visit Amazon to buy your copy of A Systematic Theology of the Early Church: https://amzn.to/47jldOc Visit Amazon to buy your copy of Wisdom Christology in the Gospel of John: https://amzn.to/3JBflHb Visit Amazon to buy your copy of The Son of God: Three Views of the Identity of Jesus: https://amzn.to/43DPYey To support this podcast, donate here: https://www.paypal.me/10mintruthtalks Episode notes: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1XbvvPEsn7JWoNX6VRnFihdi-u_dU9Gc--GjCB-MRiJY/edit?usp=sharing Subscribe to me on YouTube at: https://www.youtube.com/@BiblicalUnitarianPodcast Follow me on X (Twitter): https://twitter.com/OneGodPodcast
Mike Aquilina's discussion of Nero from the Discerning Hearts podcast, examining early Christian persecution, the witness of martyrs like Peter and Paul, and how historical villains reveal spiritual lessons for today. The post VEC5 – Nero – Villains of the Early Church with Mike Aquilina – Discerning Hearts Podcast appeared first on Discerning Hearts Catholic Podcasts.
Rediscovering Advent: Light in the DarknessIn this episode, journey back to the fourth century and explore the origins of Advent. Discover how early church leaders grappled with preparing for Christ's coming amidst societal turmoil and how their profound question of 'how to prepare for God becoming human' still resonates today. Understand the staggering impact of depression, anxiety, and political polarization in 2025 and how Isaiah's promise of light offers hope. Learn about the roots and significance of Advent as a season of active waiting, not just for Christ's birth, but for His promised return. Watch and be inspired to embrace Advent as a time of acknowledging darkness, practicing active anticipation, and keeping Christ as the blazing light in our modern world.00:00 Setting the Scene: The Fourth Century Church00:54 Modern Struggles and Ancient Questions02:06 Isaiah's Prophecy: Light in Darkness03:31 The Messiah's Unexpected Arrival04:57 The Early Church's Waiting Game06:06 The Birth of Advent07:03 Advent's Relevance Today08:38 Practical Steps for Advent09:39 The Promise of Light
What did the early Christians actually expect about the future? Were they vague or symbolic, or did they have a clear picture of what was to come? In this episode, Dr. Michael Svigel shares insights from his book Fathers on the Future, revealing that second-century leaders like Irenaeus anticipated a real, visible kingdom, Christ's return, and a renewed world. We'll explore: How the early church imagined the future Common misunderstandings about their expectations What we can learn about hope and faith from their perspective Even if you're not familiar with debates about the “millennium” or the end times, this conversation offers a fascinating window into how the first Christians lived in light of what they believed was coming. Purchase Michael's Book: https://a.co/d/jjeZz2K Learn more about Michael's work: https://fathersonthefuture.com/ Support the Podcast Support us on Patreon Website: thatllpreach.io IG: thatllpreachpodcast YouTube Channel
Fr. Mike draws our attention to the cultural division present in the early Church and the origin of the ordination to the diaconate. He also discusses Paul's frustration with those who didn't recognize Jesus as the Christ and offers consolation to those who experience this in the hearts and minds of those close to them, as Paul did. Today's readings are Acts 6, Romans 9-10, and Proverbs 27:10-12. For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/bibleinayear. Please note: The Bible contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.
Looking back at church history may not sound exciting to some, but it's vital to understanding how God has worked through time. Ray, E.Z., Mark, and Oscar reflect on the church as the story of believers, emphasizing that history reveals God's ongoing movement beyond the book of Acts. Though historians tell it in an exciting way, church history shows the evidence of faith lived out in different eras. Biographies of faithful men and women remind Christians of how the Lord worked through ordinary people to accomplish extraordinary things, inspiring believers to live with the same devotion today.Oscar begins by discussing Paul's conversion, a pivotal moment in the spread of the gospel. The guys trace how the church grew organically from that point, not emerging centuries later as some assume. E.Z. focuses on the Council of Nicea, which addressed theological controversy and affirmed Christ's deity. While Constantine allowed Christianity to be practiced, he did not truly Christianize the empire. Oscar highlights Basil, credited as the father of the first hospital, whose compassion reflected the image of God in all people. His example shows that true faith always leads to action and care for others.The fall of Rome marks another turning point, when the church preserved art and literature but also took on roles it was never meant to hold. The guys note how pagan influences crept into traditions over time and stress that truth must come from Scripture alone. Ray points out that Acts remains the blueprint for the church, calling believers back to gospel proclamation and discipleship. The modern church, he warns, risks valuing entertainment over genuine transformation. The group agrees that true renewal comes from giving prominence to God's Word and from pursuing historical theology rather than trends or rituals.Finally, they explore the Protestant Reformation. Martin Luther's stand against the Catholic Church, sparked by his 95 theses, ignited a call for revival rather than rebellion. Though the Catholic Church branded him a troublemaker, Luther sought to restore biblical truth through Scripture, faith, and grace alone. The Reformation was not about creating something new but recovering what had been lost. Reformers relied on Scripture and the writings of the early church fathers to return Christianity to its roots. Their courage paved the way for believers today to read God's Word freely and pursue authentic faith. Through these key moments, the guys remind listeners that understanding history deepens gratitude for the gospel and renews passion to live it out now.Send us a textThanks for listening! If you've been helped by this podcast, we'd be grateful if you'd consider subscribing, sharing, and leaving us a comment and 5-star rating! Visit the Living Waters website to learn more and to access helpful resources!You can find helpful counseling resources at biblicalcounseling.com.Check out The Evidence Study Bible and the Basic Training Course.You can connect with us at podcast@livingwaters.com. We're thankful for your input!Learn more about the hosts of this podcast.Ray ComfortEmeal (“E.Z.”) ZwayneMark SpenceOscar Navarro
Episode 4 - Simon the Magician - "Villains of the Early Church: And How They Made Us Better Christians" In this episode, Mike Aquilina and Kris McGregor discuss Simon the Magician and learning pride and hubris. An excerpt from Villains of the Early Church: IF THERE had been supermarket tabloids in Rome of the first century, Simon Magus, or Simon the Magician, would have been on the front pages every week. His story gives us zombies, levitation, a talking dog, a jewel heist, and a prophesying baby, just to name a few of the highlights. But it all begins with a true story in the Acts of the Apostles. The post VEC4 – Simon the Magician – Villains of the Early Church with Mike Aquilina – Discerning Hearts Podcast appeared first on Discerning Hearts Catholic Podcasts.
Welcome to The Church period! Jeff Cavins joins Fr. Mike to discuss the final time period of the Bible Timeline. They discuss the historical context of the early Church, why Rome and the early martyrs are so significant, and how the Holy Spirit takes on a major role. They also explain the differences between Acts, the epistles, and the book of Revelation. For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/bibleinayear. Please note: The Bible contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.
Today, we begin the age of the church, transitioning from the Gospel of Luke to the beginning of the book of Acts. Fr. Mike draws our attention to the Ascension of Jesus and encourages us to respond to Christ's call to participate in his mission. He invites us to be part of his story and not be ashamed of the Gospel. Today's readings are Acts 1, Romans 1, and Proverbs 26:24-26. For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/bibleinayear. Please note: The Bible contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.