Podcast appearances and mentions of Jesus movement

Kay Hiramine chats with Steve Reiter. Welcome to Holy Smokes, the podcast where we explore the intersections of faith, friendship, fine tobacco, and drinks. In this episode, we are thrilled to have a candid and inspiring conversation with Kay Hiramine, the founder of Holy Smokes, as he joins host Steve Reiter for a rapid-fire discussion. Broadcasting from Papa P's Smoke Shop and Lounge in Franklin, Tennessee, Kay shares his experiences with cigars, recounting unforgettable memories and the profound impact of his faith and community. Kay's journey is filled with wisdom, humor, and heart, from his first taste of a La Flor Dominicana to the power of prayer and the importance of finishing well. As we dive deep into his life and passions, we also discuss his favorite cigars, the spiritual significance of Holy Smokes, and the people who've shaped his path. Whether you're a seasoned cigar aficionado or someone seeking inspiration in a faith-driven lifestyle, this episode promises a rich blend of stories, laughs, and insights. So grab your favorite smoke and drink, settle in, and join us for another incredible episode of Holy Smokes! Outline:  (00:00) Dominican Cigar Experience (03:49) Cigar Nostalgia in Havana (09:31) Candid Conversations Among Friends (11:48) Star Wars and Star Trek Nostalgia (16:08) Nickname Origin: Nana (19:26) Influential Leadership and Faith Books (20:14) Life-Changing Impact of Generosity (26:30) Gratitude Amid Health Challenges (36:15) Encounter with Jesus Movement (39:39) Reunion Sparks Emotional Revelation (44:01) "It's About Jesus, Not Me" (45:52) "Letting God Lead Through Community" About the Guest:  Kay Hiramine is a connoisseur of fine cigars, particularly fond of the Partagas Series D number two or four. This preference is steeped in a memorable experience from five or six years ago during a Holy Smokes cruise. The journey included a stop in Havana, where Kay indulged in one of these cigars while sitting in the gardens of the Grand Hotel, a place once frequented by Ernest Hemingway. This unique moment, surrounded by history and the aromatic ambiance of Havana, solidified Kay's appreciation for the Partagas Series D cigars.

Why is this generation so spiritually curious? Is social media fueling faith or flattening it into content? How do we tell the difference between a move of God and a moment of trend?And perhaps the biggest question of all — what does real revival look like in a culture obsessed with visibility and virality?---------------------Interested in the Steiger Missions School? Click HERE to apply for the SMS.----------------------Do you ever struggle to share your faith with those who won't walk into a church?Ben has completely revised and updated his powerful book, Jesus in the Secular World: Reaching a Culture in Crisis—a must-read guide for anyone longing to reach those who may never step foot in a church. Packed with real-world insights and practical strategies, this book could be the breakthrough you've been searching for.Don't wait—get your copy today!Click HERE to check it out on Amazon.For more information, go to: jesusinthesecularworld.com------------------------Questions, comments, or feedback? We'd love to hear what you think! Send them to provokeandinspire@steiger.org, or send us a message on Instagram.Click HERE to receive news, thought-provoking articles, and stories directly in your inbox from Ben, David, Luke, and Chad!Click below to follow the regulars on Instagram!Ben PierceDavid PierceChad JohnsonLuke GreenwoodSend us a text

In this episode, we explore the deep roots and evolving expressions of what it means to be "Spiritual But Not Religious" (SBNR), especially through the lens of Christian mysticism and contemplative history. We ask: What does it truly mean to be SBNR? Where did these spiritual instincts come from? And can we trace a meaningful lineage that validates the SBNR experience as more than just a modern reaction, but part of a legitimate spiritual path? The conversation journeys through the lives and legacies of figures like Emerson, Thoreau, John Muir, and the Quakers—spiritual seekers who shaped an evolving Christian spirituality that was less institutional and more experiential. We touch on the influence of Calvinist Puritanism, the rise of Transcendentalism, and the period that became known as The Jesus Movement. Ultimately, this episode invites listeners to consider how the SBNR impulse—often seen as post-religious—is in fact deeply rooted in the Christian mystical and contemplative tradition. It's not about rejecting religion entirely, but about seeking a more integrated, soulful, and embodied way of being. Whether you're inside, outside, or somewhere in between institutional religion, this is a conversation for anyone on a spiritual path. Stay connected! Follow us on Facebook or Instagram @natureasbeloved. Send us your ideas, questions, or feedback: natureasbeloved@gmail.com.

Have you ever heard a "crazy God story"??  Well, you hear plenty of them here, but there are TONS AND TONS of them all around.  People love to share them.  Today you'll meet Chris Randall who has the IG @crazygodstory as well as a daily Patreon devotional Monday through Friday.  It was truly a joy to interview him and bring you this interview.Be blessed!Scripture mentioned:1 Cor 11:1        Ps 119         Eph 1:6     Heb 4:15-17   1 Cor 12:11-12Phil 2:12, 13        Act 1:8     John 10      Heb 11:6         2 Cor 1:3  2 Cor 4Hebrews 2:1     2 Peter 1:13Reach Out to Me:Website: www.dontignorethenudge.comPatreon: www.patreon.com/dontignorethenudgeIG: @dontignorethenudgepodcastPrivate FB group to WATCH interviews: www.dontignorethenudge.com/facebook__________________________________________________________________________________________Business/Personal Coaching with Cori:www.corifreeman.com(951) 923-2674

Have you ever heard a "crazy God story"??  Well, you hear plenty of them here, but there are TONS AND TONS of them all around.  People love to share them.  Today you'll meet Chris Randall who has the IG @crazygodstory as well as a daily Patreon devotional Monday through Friday.  It was truly a joy to interview him and bring you this interview.Be blessed!Scripture mentioned:1 Cor 11:1        Ps 119         Eph 1:6     Heb 4:15-17   1 Cor 12:11-12Phil 2:12, 13        Act 1:8     John 10      Heb 11:6         2 Cor 1:3  2 Cor 4Hebrews 2:1     2 Peter 1:13Reach Out to Me:Website: www.dontignorethenudge.comPatreon: www.patreon.com/dontignorethenudgeIG: @dontignorethenudgepodcastPrivate FB group to WATCH interviews: www.dontignorethenudge.com/facebook__________________________________________________________________________________________Business/Personal Coaching with Cori:www.corifreeman.com(951) 923-2674

Summary of Sermon: The Everyday Evangelist Series: Talking Jesus – Week 1 | Pastor Torry Sheppard Introduction Pastor Torry Sheppard launches a new series at Gateway Church titled Talking Jesus, addressing the call for every believer to step into the role of an everyday evangelist. He begins by acknowledging the cultural uncertainty and spiritual fatigue of our time—pandemics, polarization, and digital overload. Yet, he proposes that this cultural low point may actually be the perfect moment for spiritual awakening. Drawing from historical revivals such as the First Great Awakening and the Jesus Movement of the 1960s, Pastor Torry emphasizes that God often breathes life into the Church during moments of apathy and unrest. His central question: If the Spirit is blowing, will we lift our sails? Evangelism as an Overflow of Identity Pastor Torry challenges the modern view of evangelism as something reserved for professionals, instead grounding it in the biblical identity of every believer. Referencing 1 Peter 2:9, he reminds the congregation that Christians are a “chosen people, a royal priesthood,” called to proclaim the praises of God. Evangelism, then, is not a task but a byproduct of who we are in Christ. The early Church modeled this identity-based ministry, where pastors and teachers equipped everyday believers to carry the message of the gospel in their ordinary lives. Evangelism in Modern Tension Acknowledging the discomfort many feel around evangelism, Pastor Torry addresses common fears—being rejected, saying the wrong thing, or being labeled. Many Christians, he says, avoid sharing their faith due to insecurity or cultural pressure. However, he warns against outsourcing evangelism to pastors or influencers, reminding the Church that spiritual impact belongs to every believer. He encourages the Gateway family to shift their mindset from fear and hesitation to identity and calling. Four Marks of an Everyday Evangelist Pastor Torry distills the message into four key qualities—postures of the heart that enable believers to carry the gospel naturally and powerfully in daily life. These are not about personality, skill, or charisma, but spiritual posture and openness to God. 1. Spirit-Led Evangelists must be attentive to the Holy Spirit's promptings. Pastor Torry highlights Romans 8 and the story of Philip in Acts 8. Philip leaves a fruitful revival to follow the Spirit's call to a desert road, ultimately leading to the conversion of an Ethiopian official. This obedience births an entire faith movement. The point: being Spirit-led requires spiritual sensitivity, even in inconvenient moments. Evangelism happens when we say yes to divine detours. 2. Personal Holiness Holiness, Pastor Torry explains, is not perfection or legalism but closeness to God. It's about living a life set apart, one that radiates the presence of Jesus. Drawing from 1 Peter 1:15–16 and Isaiah 43:19, he emphasizes that personal transformation is essential to effective evangelism. When our walk with Christ is fresh, our witness is compelling. He invites those feeling spiritually stale to re-engage with God's renewing work, pointing to the woman at the well in John 4 as a powerful example: she shared her encounter with Jesus—not a perfect life, but a transformed one. 3. Prayer Prayer prepares our hearts for evangelism and transforms how we see others. Using Colossians 4:2–4, Pastor Torry explains that prayer opens doors and softens hearts. He warns of the danger of losing compassion for the lost, noting that over time, some Christians grow more repelled by sin than concerned for sinners. Evangelists must see others through God's eyes. Prayer reshapes our posture—turning frustration into empathy and distance into intercession. 4. Urgency Evangelism must carry a sense of holy urgency. In Romans 10, Paul outlines the chain of faith: how will they believe if no one tells them? Pastor Torry shares a personal story of when his daughter Palmer went missing. In the panic, everything else faded—because when someone you love is lost, finding them becomes the only priority. He connects this moment to our calling: spiritually lost people matter to God, and they must matter to us. We don't need panic—but we do need passion. Two Invitations As the message concludes, Pastor Torry extends two invitations. First, to those who feel lost themselves—disconnected, broken, or spiritually adrift—he offers hope and a way home. Jesus is always ready to meet people right where they are. Second, to believers who have been spiritually passive or disengaged, he offers a call to action: step forward with a “Here I am, send me” spirit. Citing Isaiah 6:8, he reminds listeners that God isn't looking for perfect people, just willing ones. Closing Challenge The message ends with a call for Gateway Church to be a people who actually talk to others about Jesus. As the Spirit moves, the Church must move too. Evangelism isn't about forceful arguments or public platforms—it's about walking closely with Jesus and being ready to speak when the moment comes. Pastor Torry charges the church to carry the message of the cross with humility, clarity, and urgency—because the world is hungry for hope, and we've been entrusted with it.

Are we about to see a repeat of the Jesus Movement of the 1970s? How did a school teacher become a full-time YouTuber?Ben talks to Nate Sala from Wise Disciple about the current cultural zeitgeist and how we can act accordingly as Christians.----------------------Interested in the Steiger Missions School? Click HERE to apply for the SMS.Do you ever struggle to share your faith with those who won't walk into a church?----------------------Ben has completely revised and updated his powerful book, Jesus in the Secular World: Reaching a Culture in Crisis—a must-read guide for anyone longing to reach those who may never step foot in a church. Packed with real-world insights and practical strategies, this book could be the breakthrough you've been searching for.Don't wait—get your copy today!Click HERE to check it out on Amazon.For more information go to: jesusinthesecularworld.com------------------------Questions, comments, or feedback? We'd love to hear what you think! Send them to provokeandinspire@steiger.org, or send us a message on Instagram.Click HERE to receive news, thought-provoking articles, and stories directly in your inbox from Ben, David, Luke, and Chad!Click below to follow the regulars on Instagram!Ben PierceDavid PierceChad JohnsonLuke GreenwoodSend us a text

John Fischer was making "Jesus Music" in the mid-1960s - before it was even a "thing." At a recent live event in Fullerton California, JJT invited Fischer to join the conversation and talk about those early countercultural days and how it all came together. Before there was an industry, a genre, or even a movement, there were kids with guitars and a desire to experience God in a meaningful, tangible way. Fischer went on to become one of the accidental innovators of a new style of music. But when the counterculture became a subculture - and a movement became a market - he never lost that fire in his belly. What might the counterculture of the 60s have to tell us about our troubled times today - and what might a new Jesus Movement look - and sound - like if it was to break out now?  Find John Fischer's website HERE.  For full Show Notes (include a list of the songs featured on this episode) visit TrueTunes.com/Fischer or click HERE. If you want to support the show, please join our Patreon community or drop us a one-time tip and check out our MERCH!  

We try, at all costs, to avoid the things that break our hearts. It's in our nature to run away from sorrow. Today Pastor Ricky reminds us just how amazing Jesus truly is. Not only did He not run away from being beaten and crucified but He pursued it His entire life. It wasn't something that He was looking forward to per se but He knew that it was necessary. So well a story about a man being falsely convicted and suffering for it breaks our hearts, we can also see that it was essential to our salvation and we can be so grateful for Him.

Just weeks after October 7, 2023—the worst moment in Jewish history since the Holocaust—Pastor Jeff Durbin of Apologia Studios released a video discussing the massacre. In it, he argued that Jewish people who do not believe in Jesus are not truly Jewish and are not God's chosen people. Instead, he claimed that Christians are the true Jews—that Christians are Israel. Through this video, Pastor Jeff Durbin fuels and spreads antisemitism. The video you are about to watch is a Messianic Jewish response, correcting the gross errors Pastor Jeff makes and offering a careful exegesis of the biblical passages he misuses to support his claims.0:00 – Responding to Pastor Jeff Durbin taking advantage of October 7th to promote replacement theology7:00 – Showing why Pastor Jeff Durbin's interpretation of Romans 2.27–29 is incorrect and exegeting the text 26:53 – Responding to Pastor Jeff Durbin's antisemitic comments29:43 – Showing why Pastor Jeff Durbin's interpretation of Romans 9:6 is incorrect and exegeting the text46:24 – What God says about Israel in the Tanakh 47:31 – What Paul says about Israel Original clip You can also watch on our YouTube channelFollow us on Social Media: FacebookInstagramIf you are looking for a way to support us and gain early access to our content, you can become a monthly supporter on Subscribestar We also have: PayPal___________________________ Resources:David J. Rudolph, “Zionism in Pauline Literature: Does Paul Eliminate Particularity for Israel & the Land in His Portrayal of Salvation Available for All the World?” in New Christian Zionism Fresh Perspectives on Israel and the Land, ed. Gerald R. McDermott (Downers Grove: InterVarsity, 2016), 167–194. Mark D. Nanos, “‘The Gifts and the Calling of God Are Irrevocable' (Romans 11.29): If So, How Can Paul Declare That ‘Not All Israelites Truly Belong to Israel' (9.6)” SCJR 11 (2016): 1–17. Matthew Thiessen, “Paul's Argument against Gentile Circumcision in Romans 2.17–29,” Novum Testamentum 56, no. 4 (2014): 373–391. Matthew V. Novenson, Paul, Then and Now (Grand Rapids: Eerdmans, 2022), 91–117.Ryan D. Cullman, Apostle to the Foreskin: Circumcision in the Letters of Paul (Berlin: de Gruyter, 2023), 148–196. Ryan D. Cullman, "(Un)Making a Theological Mountain Out of a Cardiological Mohel: Heart-Circumcision in Paul's Epistles,” Journal for the Jesus Movement in its Jewish Setting, no. 10 (2023): 89–105. “Are Christians ‘the True Jews?'”“Is the Church the ‘True Israel'?”Our interview with Michael Jones of Inspiring Philosophy addressing the question: “Is the New Testament Antisemitic?” For an excellent movie documenting October 7, 2023, and the antisemitism that has been raging since, watch October 8

Have you ever been truly forsaken? Sometimes we feel alone or unloved but feeling it and it being true are two different things. When you know love and lose it can shatter you. Today Pastor Ricky reminds us that that was exactly what Jesus went through by being crucified. His entire life, He knew the love of His father intimately but when the time came for Him to die, it required Jesus to take all of our sin that caused God so much wrath and take it on Himself. He knew the wrath of God so that you might be saved from it.

Bonus ep 1 - https://www.patreon.com/posts/bonus-what-is-123011688 Bonus ep 2 - https://www.patreon.com/posts/bonus-did-paul-125106095 Why does Paul's voice dominate the New Testament? How did his letters become so central to Christian theology, and what happens when we begin to question that authority? Are all the Pauline epistles actually written by Paul? What if the Paul we know today is a constructed figure—reshaped by the church over time to fit emerging doctrines? And what about the voices that didn't get amplified—texts like James or the Didache that present a very different version of the Jesus movement? Nate and Shel explore how canon formation, authorship debates, and theological evolution all intersect in the story of Paul, and why rethinking his role might change how we read the entire Bible. (Paul Part 1, Part 2, Part 3) Thoughts, questions, stories? Please email  contact@almostheretical.com Become a member and get: 1. Bonus episodes and aftershows 2. All full-length, ad-free episodes 3. Access to Heretical Together (our private community of 350+ listeners) Become a member: almostheretical.com/premium Chapters 00:00 The Battle of the Texts 04:08 Paul's Authentic Letters 07:22 The Gospels and Their Influence 12:40 The Book of Acts: A Retrospective 28:25 The Jerusalem Movement's Legacy 29:19 The Jesus Movement vs. The Christ Movement 35:11 Understanding the Oral Tradition and Textual Limitations 41:23 The Impact of the Jewish-Roman War on Early Christianity 45:36 Exploring Alternative Early Christian Texts 48:20 The Canonization Process and Its Implications 53:31 Paul's Dominance in Early Christianity Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We often let society's narrative translate our actions in order to feel better about them. We think about sin as this big thing when in reality we all sin every day. Pastor Ricky reminds us today how important it is to not downplay our sin because it is a big deal and it's only when we recognize the weight of our sin that we can truly appreciate the weight of what Christ carried on our behalf. We have to see our sin through God's perspective in order to understand what He did for us and to be truly thankful.

We don't always choose the wisest options in life. In fact, we often choose the option that we know isn't wise just because we're curious or because we don't think through the consequences. Pastor Ricky reminds us that even though Pilate tried to sway the crowd into releasing Jesus instead of a murderer, it was to no avail. They would rather see a dangerous man walk amongst them than an innocent one who threatened their way of life. And check your pride, because you would have done the same.

We all know what it's like to mess up but we still think of ourselves as the protagonist. We may be self-critical but at the end of the day, we're still selfishly inclined. What Pastor Ricky is going to remind us of today, is to have a little perspective. If you'd lived in Jesus' day, you would have been shouting along with the rest of the crowd to crucify Him. Don't think that you would have been brave enough to stand up and defend Him. We're all responsible for His crucifixion, not just the people who were there.

We don't always respond the way we should. When someone comes at us with harsh words, we feel the need to not only defend ourselves but often to strike back. Today Pastor Ricky reminds us of our Savior who endured everything for our sake and through it all, He never responded in sin. Not once did He speak biting words for the sake of hurting somebody. Instead, He responded only in calm silence and honesty. Don't doubt your Savior because He's proven His faithfulness to us a hundredfold.

There are people out there who don't mind going against the crowd but not everyone is comfortable with it. It can be a scary thing to speak out against so many voices. Today Pastor Ricky reminds us that going against the flow is essential to the Christian life. There are going to be times when you feel all alone in your principles. Remember that even the apostles couldn't always stand the pressure. But know that there are a sea of people that are clinging to the same rock as you, the solid rock of Christ.

What would you do in order to save your most valued possession? We don't always realize what we hold most dear until we realize that we're terrified to give it up. Today Pastor Ricky reminds us just how valuable Jesus is to us, even if we don't realize it. We owe Him everything. If the thought of giving Him up doesn't terrify you, then you don't fully understand all that He's done for you. Without Him, there is no hope, no love, no peace. We need to check our hearts and be sure that we value Christ above all else.

Anita Coon was a child of the sixties. Like her peers she explored the hippie lifestyle. She came to faith in the height of the Jesus Movement. However, it wasn't long until Anita found herself in a dangerous cult that she had to escape. Others faith might have been challenged by such an experience, but Anita recounts how she clung to Jesus and how He continued to safeguard, keep her, and bless her. Today Anita Kuhn leads the women's prayer ministry at her church, teaches Bible studies, and leads group discussions.

To find him is like finding the PEARL OF GREAT PRICE.Or, like the man who knew that an unbelievable spiritual treasure was buried in the field but not knowing exactly where. So he went and bought the whole field! He wanted to make sure that he found that treasure, the Lord Jesus Christ.And you, have you found Him? Do you know the joy of here, and eternal fellowship, with the Son of the Living God? Whatever you have to give up or do to make this incredible PERSONAL SPIRITUAL FINDING, you should do it immediately if you have not already done so. He bled and died for you. He rose again, and has returned to the Father where:FOR YOUhe now prepares an eternal place:FOR YOU.Even Hollywood, so empty spiritually, so dependent upon sex and drugs, glamour and fame, and those actors and actresses who populate the Hollywood swamp, searching for meaning, for love, for real fulfillment, now in so many ways:COME TO JESUS.Have you? Has your family, spouse, children, grandparents, grandchildren, have they hopefully, like you, found the Living Lord? The secular world, often satanically driven, hopes you and they have not. But HE, loving you, is always there, ALWAYS!There may well be at work a revival, a spiritual revival, in Hollywood. It may be slow in happening, imperceptible at times, but there everywhere, waiting like HE is.But perhaps the Jesus Movement 2025 grows and in some cases, grows aggressively. There seems to be a new quest for eternal truth among youth, millennials, Gen-Z'rs, knowing as so many do that marijuana and cocaine, and in fact all drugs, can never satisfy. They become attracted by the eternal love and forgiveness of Jesus of Nazareth, the Christ of Glory. Such a Hollywood-er is LOLA SHEEN, daughter of actor Charlie Sheen and Denise Richards. Lola Sheen brought to Hollywood and the entire world this testimony:JESUS SAVED ME!At the ripe old age of 19 after, in her words, hitting rock bottom and suffering from the horrible disease of:IMMENSE HOPELESSNESS.Lola Sheen was so happy and thrilled with her new life, now full of happiness, peace, and eternal joy, JESUS JOY!Lola Sheen testified that she grew up with parents who were dedicated to the Hollywood industry, and as a result she said:I ALWAYS FELT SUPER ALONE.She said she could never find something that felt like home, both temporal and spiritual. Lola Sheen, like 40% of high school students so says the CDC, felt sad and hopeless, not knowing of any remedy. Therapy, drugs, nothing helped. She openly shares an incredible testimony. She said of her encounter with Jesus Christ:“I really don't know how else to put it except the fact that Jesus came in my room. His presence came to me. I felt this overwhelming sense of peace.”We can be sure that Hollywood ridiculed that epiphany, but to Lola Sheen, nothing in her life was more real. Her life, she said, is “forever changed.”There really is a youth revival at work. At the University of Kentucky, hundreds upon hundreds of youths were baptized as Christians. THE POWER OF THE LIVING CHRIST IS INDEED AT WORK IN THE GREAT YEAR 2025.Even in the secular, often anti-Christian Hollywood swamp, there comes a new enlightenment with regard to entertainment product which caters to the FAITH AND FAMILY AUDIENCE. That cinematic neglect forced Christian and family-friendly entertainment production companies to independently create outside the traditional system. Often these faith-based films, produced on flimsy budgets, delivered stunning profit margins and incredible attendance, evidencing the hunger of so many Christians and others indeed for such films. Now, PRIME, an Amazon streaming platform, will release the TV series:HOUSE OF DAVIDwhich essentially chronicles the fall of King Saul and the rise of Israel's most famous king, King David. 3000 years after his death, Hollywood will now pay honor and tribute to this incredible biblical hero and servant of the great God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. DAVID AND GOLIATH will come back to life! The saga of the shepherd boy and the giant lives again.It is so rewarding for us as Christians to know that there is at least a small part of Hollywood which recognizes the value of anything Jesus, faith-based, value-laden, and perhaps, God-willing, there is more to come. There may be as one writer said, a seismic, star-aligning shift in Hollywood's willingness to bring Biblical content into the mainstream fold. May it be so.You should watch this epic series HOUSE OF DAVID on Prime TV.You should also watch:THE CHOSEN,another excellent series based on the life and the followers of Jesus Christ and search the various streaming platforms for more faith-based content, which is there in some form or another.I for one say, PRAISE THE LORD, the great Almighty and the great I AM for the spiritual influence and motivation which makes this radical and extremely necessary change-back happen. The bottom line of these new cinematic adventures has one essential spiritual and eternal priority:TO GOD BE THE GLORY!

Sometimes things are only valuable to certain people. We get sentimental and attached to objects because they're worth something to us, even if they don't mean anything to anyone else. Today Pastor Ricky reminds us that now and then, our values become skewed. We see a much smaller scope compared to God and our values aren't as selective as they should be. If you're to see God for who He is, you'd realize that everything you have to give doesn't even begin to compare to all that He's given to you.

Many of us, knowing a deadline, wait until the last moment to do the important work that's necessary before the deadline. Jesus knew this about humanity and so clearly stated that we won't know the day or hour that He's coming. But as Pastor Ricky teaches us today, we do know that Jesus could come back at any time. Jesus encourages every believer to live like it could be at any moment. So don't waste your life in comfort or apathy. Live with an urgency to share the gospel with as many people as you can, while you can.

That day. Jesus talks on His way to the cross of “that day”. The day when He returns to gather believers together. Today Pastor Ricky will encourage you to remember that when you're torn and battered as a believer in Christ in this world, you have a cherished hope. Don't despair and feel powerless in the world around you. Jesus, the almighty King, will come in great power and glory on “that day” to gather His church and to rescue all those who believe in Him forever. God's story doesn't end here in the evil chaos. It ends with Him reigning forever.

In the days that we're living in now, Jesus said that there would be difficult days and terrible circumstances that we must go through as believers in Him. Fear, anxiety, anger, they're going to try and rise and fill your mind and heart. But as Pastor Ricky teaches today, God uses these hard times for a good purpose. God will use you as a witness, to share His goodness as you trust Him in difficulties. In all things, let the opposition turn into opportunities for the gospel witness. Let your faith and relationship to Christ shine through so the world can know Him.

The things that have been going on in our world in recent years are definitely troubling - wars, death, division, sickness, and poverty amongst many other evil things. It can seem like God has lost control and we're all doomed. But as Pastor Ricky teaches us today, Jesus said that these things would happen as His return draws nearer in order to prepare believers so that we wouldn't fear. We're in what He calls the “last days”. It's important in these turbulent last days to hold on tight to Him and confidently believe that God is still in control.

Anita Coon was a child of the sixties. Like her peers she explored the hippie lifestyle. She came to faith in the height of the Jesus Movement. However, it wasn't long until Anita found herself in a dangerous cult that she had to escape. Others faith might have been challenged by such an experience, but Anita recounts how she clung to Jesus and how He continued to safeguard, keep her, and bless her. Today Anita Kuhn leads the women's prayer ministry at her church, teaches Bible studies, and leads group discussions.

The scribes and Pharisees of Jesus' day were experts of scripture. They should have always been on the lookout and the first to see and recognize Jesus was the Messiah. Yet as Pastor Ricky teaches us today, they didn't recognize, and they certainly didn't acknowledge Jesus as the prophesied Messiah. Sadly, most of us today are much like the scribes. We know about Jesus but so often we want to hold onto and build our own kingdom and power. Are you willing to surrender your life to God, in order that you might be saved?

What if what you're hoping for from God isn't too big but is in fact too small? The religious leaders of the time were simply looking for a descendant of David to come and subdue their Roman oppressors. But as Pastor Ricky will teach us today, God had a much bigger and more spectacular plan than that. Human plans were far too narrow for the Messiah who is to come. God's plan was for the rescue and redemption of mankind from the enemy of sin and death. God's plans are bigger and better than anything that you can imagine.

Looking for more? Stay connected, even online! Find all kinds of resources from SouthPark Church at southparkchurch.com. Who is SouthPark Church in Charlotte, NC? We want to help those around us live life to the full. Jesus inspires us, especially when he says, “I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full” (John 10:10). We are a group of imperfect people seeking to live abundant, full lives. Full life is all about loving relationships with God and each other. We'd love to hear from you. Connect with us at www.southparkchurch.com/contact Owner holds Streaming License and Copyright License through CCLI.

The way things are nowadays, it can be easy to despair about politicians and leaders in control of our country. Yet as Pastor Ricky will explain today, God will ultimately hold leaders accountable for the choices they make. God is the ultimate authority and is in control of all things, and He's worthy of our trust and faith. And when you do trust God in all things, you experience a greater sense of peace and rest in the difficult seasons. So don't allow fear and despair to overtake you, rest in God. He's in control.

The political culture of today is divisive and full of conflict. Just about every earthly leader is full of pride and contempt and no one seems to want to obey authority anymore. But as Pastor Ricky teaches us today, all leaders, all circumstances, and all authority on earth is under the authority of God Almighty. The government isn't your god. God is God. You don't need to fear or idolize authority because ultimately God is in control and is above all things. No one can thwart His plans.

The crowds that cheered Jesus into Jerusalem wanted a powerful king who would rescue and save them from their Roman oppression. They wanted very specific things from this man that they assumed to be the Messiah. Today Pastor Ricky points out that the people were missing the fact that they had a much deeper need for salvation from sin, hell, and judgment than they did from Rome at the time. Jesus came to His people to give them a better and deeper, truer rescue and salvation than they were hoping for. Have you accepted that rescue yet?

Jed Mullenix is the President of Within Reach, dedicated to uniting the church for the good of the community. With 15 years in church leadership across New England and Omaha, he's passionate about developing leaders and teams for mission. He and his wife, Beth, have five children and enjoy the outdoors, travel, and gathering with friends. To learn more about the podcast or access the show notes, visit www.redletterpodcast.com. Today's episode is brought to you by Children's HopeChest. Being a church partner with HopeChest is an amazing two-way transformational experience for your whole church. Not only do you and your church get the joy of knowing you are making a difference, but you also get to experience the love of a community and learn from their community through multiple mission trips to your community overseas.HopeChest's model gets into a community, they establish a multi-year partnership, and then build up local leaders in the areas they work with. They develop community plans with clear exit strategies, focusing on empowerment of the local people, not a forever dependence on those of us who want to help. It truly is the “helping without hurting” model that I know as a pastor I looked for a long time in my global mission work. In my mind, they check all the right boxes.Take a first step and get to know this organization more by going on a vision trip. They are getting ready for some summer vision trips to Guatemala, Uganda, and Ethiopia. You can find out about them and sign up at www.hopechest.org/lutheran. Thanks again to HopeChest for being our Season 8 Sponsor.Resources mentioned in the episode: www.withinreach.comJed MullenixCoPilotState of the City Book by Within Reach and Barna ResearchBarna ResearchAlpha To Transform A City: Whole Church, Whole Gospel, Whole City by Eric SwansonKey insights from the episode: How can we create strategic intersections for pastors running in their own lanes? - Jed MullenixIt can be easier to ask church leaders for their money than their time. - Pastor Chris JohnsonWe learned to listen rather than do. - Jed MullenixPeople want to experience Jesus as good before they believe Jesus is true. - Jed MullenixThe school is the greatest portal into the community. - Jed MullenixBe a chief celebrator of your city. - Jed MullenixJed Mullenix's Challenge: Abide where you are. Live out Jesus's most basic command wherever you are. Are you following Jesus? Many want to be greater followers of Jesus but don't know how. We extensively studied everything Jesus commanded of us and located five key targets to which Jesus invited His followers. The five targets are Being, Forgiving, Serving, Giving, and Going.In partnership with LifeWay Research, we created a Red Letter Challenge Assessment that will measure you according to these five targets. And the best news of all: it's free! You will receive your results immediately and be presented with the next steps to help you become an even greater follower of Jesus.You can take the FREE Red Letter Challenge Assessment here.This is another Hurrdat Media Production. Hurrdat Media is a podcast network and digital media production company based in Omaha, NE. Find more podcasts on the Hurrdat Media Network by going to HurrdatMedia.com or the Hurrdat Media YouTube channel!See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

People today have all sorts of different understandings and viewpoints as to who Jesus was - an old religious teacher, a good man, a prophet, a quack, or to some, a king and savior. The crowd at the gates of Jerusalem shouted “Hosanna!” because they wanted a powerful warrior king who would conquer the world for them. But as Pastor Ricky teaches today, Jesus did wear a crown but it was a crown of thorns. However, Jesus was a truer and better King than they could ever have imagined. Is He the king over your life?

It goes against every human instinct to admit that you can't do it, that you need help, that you're weak or incapable. Our proud hearts really struggle to admit those types of things. Yet as a sinner, you just can't work your way out of the judgment of God on your own. Today Pastor Ricky will explain how Jesus, the King of All, humbled Himself, came to earth to serve you, and give His life as a ransom for yours. You must bow your knee in humility and let Jesus serve you in this way. Let Him save you. Iit's why He came.

 March 16 – Miracle: Walking in the Wonder of Jesus: Movement of Freedom from Floris UMC on Vimeo. Second Sunday of Lent Miracle: Movement of Freedom John 5:1-15 Religion can […] The post Miracle: Walking in the Wonder of Jesus appeared first on Floris United Methodist Church.

Those considered great in this world are the rich, the super talented, and the famous. They're envied and admired. But as Pastor Ricky will explain today, society's definition isn't God's definition, nor is the pursuit of that type of greatness what God desires for you. Longing for worldly greatness leads only to ruin and God sees the posture of your heart. He knows if you want to be great in the eyes of the world. Instead, he longs for you to look to Jesus, to humble yourself, and to seek to serve others. That's what will make you great in God's eyes.

God designed marriage between man and woman in order to illustrate and display His love for His people. That's why He created marriages to last forever. But in our world, it doesn't always happen that way. Today Pastor Ricky will challenge you to examine how you view marriage. It requires a huge amount of humility and sacrifice for another and it needs a lot of grace demonstrated towards each other. Will you resolve today to show God's love for His bride, the church, in and through your marriage?

God's design for marriage was to be a beautiful union between a man and a woman, demonstrating the love that God has for His people but mankind has warped and changed the value of marriage so much so that divorce is commonplace today. God never intended marriage to end in divorce. This world is broken by sin and marriage has been greatly affected. Pastor Ricky will explain today that divorce shouldn't be happily pursued but Jesus did outline how it's permissible in this fallen world, despite His desires for lifelong marriages.

The concept of marriage is quickly becoming viewed as out of date and restrictive in society today so culture tries to change it, redefine it, or swap out who it's for. But as Pastor Ricky teaches us today, God designed marriage and His design is good. It's radically countercultural. He created marriage to be a complete union between a man and a woman and no matter how much you change up or redefine marriage, you'll never get back to the goodness and blessing of God's design for this union.

There's a lot of debate and some really high emotions around the issue of gender today. Culture shouts that anyone can be anything, any gender or even non-gender, and anything to the contrary isn't just out of date but downright wrong. But as Pastor Ricky teaches today, God In His glorious wisdom created man and woman as two distinct beings. Men and women are designed to complement and improve each other in beautiful and unique ways. The way that God designed humanity is for our ultimate good and for His own glory.

The last time you were with us, Pastor Ricky began dismantling the idea that in order to be great we have to step on and over anyone in our way. We learned that Jesus set the supreme example by serving, not being served. So as you listen today you're going to be challenged to ask yourself, “Am I serving those around me? Am I serving my family? Am I serving my co-workers?”. Those are some difficult questions to answer as the answers themselves can be incriminating but nevertheless, Jesus says that in order to be great you must be the servant of all.

The American dream is fueled by a dog-eat-dog mentality. You just have to step on the person next to you to get ahead. Make sure that you get that promotion before anyone else. When it's raised like that it doesn't sound very nice but we all know that is true. Today Pastor Ricky flips this completely upside down as he shares with us just how different the kingdom economy actually is. Jesus says that if you want to be great in His kingdom you have to learn to serve, to be below, to be less than.

How do you respond when faced with circumstances that seem impossible? Do you immediately begin to question the goodness of God and why He even allowed a struggle in your life to begin with? Well, today Pastor Ricky shares that learning to see your circumstances through the lens of an all-powerful God is key to seeing God move. It begins with believing that you, in and of yourself, are insufficient. You need God to move on your behalf. That kind of faith will move the heart of God.

There's a really big difference between wondering whether God can do something and declaring that He can't do something. Today you learn that God has pretty broad shoulders. He can take your doubts. The important distinction is to not allow your doubts to turn into unbelief, where you simply believe that God can't do something. Pastor Ricky will share that God is so, so sufficient while we are completely insufficient. This helps us to see our great need for God and to depend only on Him.

Sadly, pulpits all across America blur the message if you believe in God enough, you'll be healthy and wealthy. You'll never have a bad day in your life. If you've been told this message, you've been told a lie. In fact, Jesus actually promised the exact opposite. He said that you would experience trouble in this life. Today Pastor Ricky brings some clarity to the murky waters of suffering. You'll learn just because you're suffering doesn't mean that you're outside of God's will or being punished by God.

There's no way around it. The creation reveals the glory of God. It's impossible to pierce through the lens of a telescope and see the vastness of the universe and not be drawn to the idea of a creator. It's impossible to dig your toes into the sand and gaze out into the ocean and not imagine that an intelligent creator made everything that we see. Today Pastor Ricky says that each of us has this longing inside to see God's hand, we're wired for it. The wonderful truth you'll learn today is that Jesus made all of this possible.

Stop and think about the last time that you had unexpected guests over. You might have gotten a call on the drive home from work that there's going to be some extra seats needed at the dinner table. You frantically race home and you clean up the house in a whirlwind and now as the friends arrive there are probably some places where you've crammed some of the mess that you don't want them to see. Today Pastor Ricky asks, are there places in your life and in your heart that you don't want Jesus to see?

Bishop Todd shares his journey from a culturally Christian upbringing to becoming an Anglican Bishop. He reflects on the influences that shaped his faith—including the Jesus Movement and key figures in Anglicanism—while advocating for a deep, formative engagement with Anglican practices. What You'll Learn in This Episode: • Intentionality in worship is crucial for spiritual transformation. • The missional heart [...]

Bishop Todd shares his journey from a culturally Christian upbringing to becoming an Anglican Bishop. He reflects on the influences that shaped his faith—including the Jesus Movement and key figures in Anglicanism—while advocating for a deep, formative engagement with Anglican practices. What You'll Learn in This Episode: • Intentionality in worship is crucial for spiritual transformation. • The missional heart [...]