Podcasts about jonny ardavanis

Join us for a conversation with Jonny Ardavanis, Lead Pastor of Stonebridge Bible Church, President and Founder of Dial In Ministries, and author of 'Consider the Lilies: Finding Perfect Peace in the Character of God.' Consider the Lilies Book: https://us.10ofthose.com/product/9780310368243/consider-the-lilies-paperback Dial In Ministries: https://dialinministries.org

Is God sovereign in salvation, or is man responsible? This is one of the most asked questions in theology. In this episode, we dive into Scripture to answer whether Calvinism or Arminianism is correct.We explore key passages like John 3, John 6, Romans 9-10, and Matthew 11 to show how God's sovereignty and human responsibility are both clearly taught in Scripture. You'll learn:✅ What hyper-Calvinism gets wrong ✅ Why human responsibility matters for evangelism ✅ How election and "whosoever believes" work together ✅ What an antinomy is (and why it's not a paradox) ✅ How to answer "Am I one of the elect?"Whether you're wrestling with predestination, struggling with evangelism, or just want to understand what the Bible actually teaches about salvation, this conversation will ground you in Scripture.SCRIPTURE REFERENCES: John 3:3-7, 16 | John 6:37-47 | Romans 8:29-30 | Romans 9:15-18 | Romans 10:9-17 | Matthew 11:27-28 | Ephesians 1:4-11 | Ephesians 2:1-10

What does it mean to have biblical wisdom? In this episode, we dive deep into James 3:13-18 to explore the 8 characteristics of wisdom from above versus worldly wisdom.

In this message, we're reminded to fix our minds on the hope of heaven — the home Christ has prepared for His people. So often we study destinations on earth while giving little thought to the eternal one waiting for us. But Scripture calls us to set our hearts on things above, to live now in light of the world to come.In this sermon, we explore what awaits us in eternity: 1. We Will Worship 2. We Will Reign 3. We Will Serve Him and Work 4. We Will Rest and ExploreHeaven isn't a vague dream — it's a real, renewed creation where believers will live in resurrected bodies, dwell in the presence of Jesus, and experience everlasting joy, purpose, and peace.

Mission Sunday is a moment to remember what God has done and to look ahead in faith to what He will continue to do. At Stonebridge Bible Church, we begin with gratitude—just as Samuel, Nehemiah, and Paul did—acknowledging that the Lord has been faithful every step of the way and will remain faithful as we move forward. God has provided us with a building, and now we trust Him to provide through the generous hearts of His people as we take the next steps toward building out the space for ministry.This message centers on our mission and constant prayer: to preach the Bible, equip the saints, serve the body, and reach the lost so that our people, our city, and the world might know and worship Jesus Christ. It reminds us that everything we do as a church is not out of self-determination but out of dependence on the power of the Holy Spirit. From the preaching of God's Word, to the equipping and discipling of believers, to acts of service and compassion, to reaching those who do not yet know Christ, every part of our mission flows from the heart of God Himself.As we move into this new chapter together, we do so with confidence that the same God who has helped us “thus far” will continue to lead, provide, and build His church for generations to come.

What does it mean to fear God? And why is it essential for gaining biblical wisdom? In this episode, we dive deep into Proverbs 8 and explore the foundational principle that the fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom.In this video, we discuss:✓ What biblical wisdom really means (it's more than just knowledge)✓ The true definition of fearing God and why it matters✓ How the fear of the Lord transforms your daily life✓ Practical steps to grow in godly wisdom✓ Why wisdom is more valuable than wealth✓ The difference between being afraid of God vs. fearing God✓ How God's forgiveness leads to greater awe and reverenceKey Scripture References:Proverbs 8:1-11 - Wisdom calls out to youProverbs 1:7 - The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledgeProverbs 9:10 - Fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdomPsalm 86:11 - Prayer for an undivided heart2 Corinthians 7:1 - Perfecting holiness in the fear of the LordWhether you're facing difficult decisions, seeking direction, or wanting to live more faithfully, this conversation will help you understand why fearing God is the foundation for everything else in the Christian life.

What is biblical courage and why does God command it? In this episode, we explore one of the most overlooked commands in Scripture: "Be strong and courageous."When Moses died, Joshua faced an impossible task—leading Israel into the Promised Land without their greatest leader. God's response? A repeated command to be courageous. This isn't just ancient history—it's a blueprint for Christian living today.In this video, you'll discover:The biblical definition of courage (it's not what you think)Why courage is a command, not just a personality traitHow God equipped Joshua to defeat 31 kingsThe two ingredients for living courageously as a ChristianWhy courage requires community, not isolationHow to overcome fear through God's Word and His presenceKEY SCRIPTURE: Joshua 1:6-9, Deuteronomy 31, Matthew 28:20Courage in the Bible isn't the absence of fear—it's obedience to God despite fear. Whether you're facing spiritual battles, living with conviction in a compromised world, or sharing the Gospel, God calls every Christian to spirit-filled courage.

What comes to your mind when you think about heaven? For many, it feels distant, vague and unimaginable. Yet Scripture tells us that God has revealed to us what He has prepared for those who love Him. In this message, we explore the hope, beauty, and reality of heaven not as a fantasy, but as the true home prepared by our Savior for His people.Through passages like John 14, 1 Corinthians 2, and Revelation 21, we're reminded that heaven is not an abstract idea, but a real place. A Father's house filled with the glory of God, radiant beauty, and everlasting peace. It's the promise that steadies us through every storm and the reality that shapes how we live today.Key Points: 1. What Is Heaven? 2. What Is Heaven Like? 3. What's Awaiting Me in Heaven? 4. Who Is in Heaven? 5. How Do I Get to Heaven?If you're in Christ, your future is secure. And if you don't yet know Him—He's inviting you today. Don't leave without knowing where you'll spend eternity.

Are you making the most of the time God has given you? In this episode, we dive deep into Ephesians 5:15-16 and explore what it means to "redeem the time" as followers of Christ.Key Topics Covered: • What does "redeeming time" really mean in Scripture • Why time is your most precious commodity • 5 biblical reasons you need to redeem your time NOW • 7 practical ways to steward your time wisely • The difference between rest and wasting time • How to walk in a manner worthy of the gospelScripture Focus: Ephesians 5:15-16 - "Be careful how you walk, not as unwise men, but as wise, making the most of your time, because the days are evil."Practical Takeaways: • Limit screen time (average person spends 7 hours/day on screens!) • Create a daily schedule • Learn to say no to good things for the best things • Build godly discipline and rhythm into your life • Practice biblical restThe average person will spend 6.5 years of the next 20 years looking at screens. What if you could redeem that time for God's glory? Your time is short, uncertain, and once it's gone, it's gone forever. Learn how to steward it wisely.Subscribe for more biblical teaching and practical discipleship content!

In this episode of Counsel the Word Dr. Keith Palmer talks with Dr. Brent Osterberg on the book titled Consider the Lilies by Jonny Ardavanis. Check out the book here

In this sermon from John 13:31–38, Jesus gives His disciples a command that would define the Christian life for generations to come — “Love one another; as I have loved you.”As Judas departs into the night, Jesus turns to His remaining disciples and speaks of His coming glorification — a glory revealed not through power or prestige, but through the humility and sacrifice of the cross. In that moment, the love of God is displayed in its fullest measure — holy, just, patient, sovereign, and good.This passage reminds us that love is not merely a feeling or ideal, but the living evidence of a heart transformed by the gospel. Through the power of the Holy Spirit, believers are called and enabled to love with the same kind of love Christ has shown — one that serves humbly, forgives freely, sacrifices deeply, and endures patiently.Sermon Points: 1. The Command to Love 2. The Expression of Love 3. The Power of Love 4. The Fruit of LoveWhen we love one another as Christ has loved us, the world sees the beauty of the gospel and the reality of a Savior who changes hearts.

In this episode, Seth reviews a video by Dial In Ministries on marriage and discusses the different narratives that are being pushed toward the younger generation on what marriage is and what it offers. To access the sources for this episode, visit: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hDMEML2Op5A&list=PLqXPXGGcbW9e3LOL4pjZ_iN2I9KBx8qX-&index=59To become a subscriber of this podcast, visit:⁠⁠https://anchor.fm/seth-hensley/subscribe⁠

In this episode, Seth reviews a video by Dial In Ministries on marriage and discusses the different narratives that are being pushed toward the younger generation on what marriage is and what it offers. To access the sources for this episode, visit: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hDMEML2Op5A&list=PLqXPXGGcbW9e3LOL4pjZ_iN2I9KBx8qX-&index=59To become a subscriber of this podcast, visit:⁠⁠https://anchor.fm/seth-hensley/subscribe⁠

In this eye-opening conversation, Jeremy Vuolo (Campus Pastor & Dean of Athletics at The Master's University) sits down with Jonny Ardavanis and breaks down one of the most misunderstood topics in Christianity: legalism vs. grace-driven obedience.KEY TOPICS COVERED: • What legalism actually means (and why it's not in the Bible) • The difference between legalism and biblical holiness • Understanding antinomianism (anti-law mentality) • How to pursue sanctification without falling into performance-based Christianity • Why God's commands are for our good, not bondage • Assurance of salvation: how to know you're truly saved • The role of the Holy Spirit in Christian obedience • Grace-powered vs. self-powered righteousnessYOU'LL LEARN: • How to escape the legalistic trap while pursuing holiness • Why loving obedience is different from rule-keeping • The biblical balance between law and grace • How regeneration changes our relationship with God's commands • Practical guidance on Christian liberty and conscienceSCRIPTURE REFERENCES: Romans 6-7, 1 John, Galatians 6, John 15, Ezekiel 36, 2 Corinthians 3:18

Discover the profound wisdom of Moses in Psalm 90 about making every day count. In this episode with Jonny Ardavanis, we explore how understanding life's brevity leads to true wisdom and purposeful living.

In this message from John 13:18–30, we witness the supreme tragedy of betrayal—Judas turning from the Savior. The passage exposes the deceptive progression of sin and the sobering reality of a heart that looks religious on the outside yet is far from Christ.This sermon walks through the tragic steps that led Judas to his eternal ruin: 1. Love Money 2. Sear Your Conscience 3. Reject Jesus' Love 4. Feel Remorse Without RepentanceIt is a sober warning to examine our hearts, but also a gracious reminder that even the darkest betrayal cannot thwart God's redemptive plan. In the face of Judas' night, Jesus still offers life, forgiveness, and hope to all who repent and believe.

In John 13:2–17, we witness one of the most startling and beautiful moments in Scripture—Jesus, the King of Kings, stooping to wash the feet of His disciples. On the eve of His crucifixion, with betrayal at hand and His glory before Him, He sets the ultimate example of humility, service, and love.This message walks through: 1. The Setting 2. The Scene 3. The Symbol 4. The ApplicationWe see the backdrop of pride, betrayal, and selfish ambition contrasted with the majesty of Christ's love. We behold the act itself—the Master of the universe doing what only a servant would do. We uncover the deeper meaning, that this washing points to the greater cleansing at the cross. And finally, we hear the call to follow His example, laying down our pride to joyfully serve others.In this powerful text, we are reminded that Jesus not only washes us clean from sin, but also calls us to live as people marked by humility, love, and selfless service.

In this episode, Seth reviews a video by Dial In Ministries on marriage and discusses the different narratives that are being pushed toward the younger generation on what marriage is and what it offers. To access the sources for this episode, visit: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hDMEML2Op5A&list=PLqXPXGGcbW9e3LOL4pjZ_iN2I9KBx8qX-&index=59To become a subscriber of this podcast, visit:⁠⁠https://anchor.fm/seth-hensley/subscribe⁠

How do you actually fix your anxiety issues? Ever wondered if therapy is wrecking more marriages than it's repairing?

Are you struggling with doubts about your salvation? You're not alone. In this powerful message, we explore the 6 biblical birthmarks of genuine saving faith that can give you confidence in your eternal destiny. To clarify, we must not ever confuse the fruit of salvation with the root of our salvation, which is faith in Jesus Christ.

In John 13, we find Jesus on the eve of His crucifixion. As He shares His final moments with His disciples, the apostle John reminds us of the love of Christ—love that goes to the very end. This is not a shallow or fleeting affection, but a divine, eternal love: a love that is everlasting, exclusive, faithful, real, and sacrificial. This message reflects on the depth of God's love shown through Christ—love that began before time, love that endures through our failures, love that is fully real by the Spirit, and love that is ultimately proven at the cross. As we open Scripture together, we are called to remember, celebrate, and rest in the unshakable love of Jesus, a love that has no end and no equal.

Are you truly saved, or are you deceived about your standing before God? In this powerful episode, we dive deep into John Chapter 8 where Jesus confronts religious people who thought they were saved but weren't.Key Topics: False assurance, true salvation, Christian faith, biblical assurance, John 8 commentary, spiritual deception, children of God vs children of the devil, religious but lost.This isn't about being a "bad person" - it's about the difference between religious activity and genuine faith in Christ. Many people assume they're saved based on church attendance, family heritage, or moral behavior, but Jesus reveals the heart condition that matters.Perfect for: Christians questioning their salvation, pastors, Bible study groups, anyone seeking biblical clarity on assurance of faithBible Passages Discussed: John 8:12-59, Romans 10, 1 John 3:10, Ephesians 2:3

In this insightful conversation, Jonny Ardavanis sits down with missionary Brooks Buser to discuss the local church's vital role in global missions. Brooks, who served 13 years as a missionary among the Yembi people, shares practical wisdom on:Key Topics Covered: • Why missions should flow from local churches, not independent efforts • The four primary lanes of modern missions work • How to move from "naval gazing" to global vision as a church • Practical ways families can "hold the rope" for missionaries • Creating sustainable missions budgets and policies • Quality vs. quantity: Why fewer, deeper partnerships work better • What missionaries actually need when they return homePerfect for: • Pastors developing missions strategies • Church members wanting to engage in global missions • Anyone interested in biblical approaches to sending and supporting missionariesBrooks emphasizes that effective missions requires both "goers and senders" working together, with local churches serving as the primary sending agents rather than just financial supporters.

Why was Jesus' death necessary? In this powerful explanation, Pastor John MacArthur wits down with Jonny Ardavanis and breaks down the biblical foundation for Christ's sacrifice and answers the crucial question: "Why does sin require death?"

Are you struggling with how to share your faith? In this powerful conversation, Mark Spence from Living Waters shares practical evangelism tips that will help you overcome fear and become confident in gospel sharing.

Discover the way ahead at Indiana Wesleyan University. Learn more here. Are your kids going to be all right? Is your job secure? Will your marriage get better? We live in an age marked by worry and anxiety for adults and kids. Many who wrestle with anxiety know the Bible calls them to trust God, but how does that actually work? Pastor and author Jonny Ardavanis invites us to open God's Word for answers. In this conversation about his book, Consider the Lilies, you'll learn:  3:30 I had a front row seat to teen anxiety as a camp director  5:25 If you're a parent, this is what you need to know 7:00 Even if your child doesn't suffer from anxiety, he or she lives in a performance stressful culture  8:30 How can we protect the minds of our kids?  10:45 One of the main schemes of Satan is to make sin look normal and righteousness seem strange 15:00 Every worry is an invitation to get closer to God  17:10 What's the difference between a good godly concern and an ungodly worry?  20:00 We were told our daughter had a syndrome with strokes and seizures 24:00 When your kids have sports injuries  27:55 God allows you to go through trials because… Jonny Ardavanis is the pastor of Stonebridge Bible Church in Franklin, TN. He's the founder and president of Dial In Ministries serving the next generation. He has served as camp director at Hume Lake Christian Camps and as a dean at The Master's College. He and his wife have two young daughters. Today, we're talking about his book, Consider the Lilies: Finding Perfect Peace in the Character of God.  Learn more about Dial In Ministries https://dialinministries.org/ Get Jonny's book, Consider the Lilies https://www.amazon.com/Consider-Lilies-Finding-Perfect-Character/dp/0310368243/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&dib_tag=se&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.yBlnH-e3bSsBJoLo-Hv3vz_bwdX2IgWB9ezQ8PNYtkaw7ElP9_sLVDpE9it02M9F.-mnpeyrtjwUwqjpImQmTFaHlktyPYWQe-SMuf20w318&qid=1722298799&sr=1-1&ref=dialinministries.org Subscribe to Arlene's free email list https://www.happyhomeuniversity.com/subscribe Have a question for Arlene to address on the podcast? Please email Arlene your questions and the topics you want covered on the show! speaking@arlenepellicane.com Save the date: Arlene's next Parents Rising Conference in San Diego, September 6, 2025

Are you ready for marriage or just think you are? This eye-opening conversation reveals the crucial questions every Christian man should answer before pursuing a serious relationship.Key Topics Covered:- The #1 question that reveals if a man is trustworthy in relationships- Why 85% of Christian college men fail this critical test- How to date in a way that honors God and your future spouse- Biblical boundaries that protect your heart and purity- What fathers really look for in their daughters' boyfriends- Breaking free from Hollywood's distorted view of attractionGame-Changing Insights:"Who do you submit to?" - The question that changes everythingWhy community accountability matters more than you thinkHow to treat your girlfriend as someone else's future wifeThe difference between godly character and surface-level attractionPerfect for: Young Christian men considering marriage, fathers of daughters, anyone seeking biblical wisdom on relationships and datingFeatured: Practical advice from a father of two daughters and experienced Christian counselor on building Christ-centered relationships that honor God.

Pastor Jonny Ardavanis provides helpful clarity to the gift of singleness by answering the following questions: What is the gift of singleness and what are common misconceptions about this gift? How can we maintain a balanced view of both the gift of singleness and the gift of marriage, and why is that important? Extended singleness has become more common even in the church.  How can we think biblically about this trend? There is a temptation for people to be critical of members of the opposite sex in how they steward their singleness or relationships.  How can we guard against that spirit of resentment, and have a Christ-like perspective instead? How would you encourage a single woman to cultivate a desire for marriage, while also not making it an idol? What are ways you've seen Christian women leverage their singleness? Website: smilingatthefuturepodcast.com Email: smilingatthefuturepodcast@gmail.com Support The Podcast: ⁠⁠⁠https://donorbox.org/smiling-at-2024Jonny's Ministry and Podcast: https://dialinministries.org/

In this powerful conversation, Dr. Paul Twiss explores what the Bible teaches about sexuality, marriage, and God's design for intimate relationships. We discuss the biblical response to sexual sin, pornography, homosexuality, and how the church should address these challenging topics with both truth and grace.Key Topics Covered: • Biblical view of marriage and sexuality • Understanding sexual sin and its consequences • How to talk about sex in the church appropriately • The gospel's power to heal sexual brokenness • Genesis and God's design for relationships • Responding to the sexual revolution with truth • Freedom from shame through Christ's forgivenessWhether you're struggling with sexual sin, seeking to understand biblical sexuality, or looking for wisdom on how to discuss these topics, this episode offers hope, healing, and biblical guidance.

Kevin interviews Jonny Ardavanis, author of "Consider the Lilies: Finding Perfect Peace in the Character of God." They discuss what happens when Christians fail to fix their gaze on God, and deal with anxiety or depression. How can Christians learn to replace their anxiety with trust in God? This program includes: 1. The World View in 5 Minutes with Adam McManus (Fewer Americans receiving COVID-19 boosters, Trump upset with India for doing business with Russia, Church of Wales selects lesbian "Archbishop") 2. Generations with Kevin Swanson

We live in a culture that glorifies constant hustle, distraction, and exhaustion. But God's Word offers a better way—a sacred rhythm of work and rest designed not just for survival, but for deep, soul-level flourishing.In this sermon, we explore the biblical foundation for Sabbath and the kind of rest God invites us into—not just physical rest, but emotional, spiritual, and relational renewal. From Genesis to the Gospels, we see that rest isn't optional or outdated; it's a gift from a loving Father who knows our limits, our wanderings, our longings, and our noise-saturated lives.This isn't about legalism or checking a box. It's about recovering what's been lost in our modern pace of life: margin, wonder, delight, and worship. It's about remembering who we are—and more importantly—who God is.Whether you're feeling burned out, distracted, or just tired of running on empty, this message offers a deeply encouraging and convicting reminder: God has created us not only to work with purpose but to rest with intention.Watch now to rediscover the life-giving power of Sabbath and the joy of resting in the One who holds all things together.

Are you waiting for the "perfect" financial situation or career milestone before getting married? Dr. Paul Twiss reveals why this dangerous mindset is causing young Christians to miss out on one of God's best gifts.

Laziness is more than just a lack of productivity—it's a spiritual danger that distorts the image of the God who created us to work, serve, and worship through our lives. In this message, we turn to the book of Proverbs to examine the serious consequences of slothfulness and what Scripture says about living a life of diligence and purpose. This sermon unpacks five marks of a lazy person: 1. The lazy person makes excuses 2. The lazy person loves ease 3. The lazy person doesn't finish what they started 4. The lazy person is self-deceived 5. The lazy person needs to be prodded Through wisdom from Proverbs and a biblical theology of work, we're reminded that our calling is not to comfort and complacency but to usefulness for God's glory and the good of our neighbor. If you've been coasting spiritually, mentally, or physically—this is your call to wake up. Laziness isn't neutral. But by God's grace, we can live lives marked by intentionality, discipline, and devotion.

Discover why the book of Genesis is absolutely CRITICAL to understanding your identity, purpose, and the entire Bible!In this powerful conversation with Dr. Paul Twiss (Professor at The Master's Seminary), you'll learn:Why Genesis is the "backbone" of all Scripture What it truly means to be made in God's image How sin distorts our role as image bearers The prophetic thread of the coming King from Genesis to Christ Why understanding Genesis transforms how you read the entire Bible How this biblical worldview changes everything about how you liveDr. Twiss breaks down complex theological concepts into practical, life-changing truths that will revolutionize your understanding of:Your identity and purpose as an image bearerThe nature of sin and redemptionChrist as the perfect King and image bearerHow the Gospel fulfills God's original mandateWhether you're a new believer or have been walking with Christ for years, this episode will give you fresh eyes to see the beautiful drama of Scripture unfolding from Genesis to Revelation.

What does the Bible say about your work—whether you're a stay-at-home parent, a student, an employee, or a CEO? In this sermon, we explore a biblical theology of work, reminding us that whatever we do, we are called to do it for the glory of God.From the opening pages of Scripture, we see that God is a worker—and we are made in His image. Work is not a result of the Fall, but part of our original design and dignity. Yet sin has distorted our view of work, tempting us toward pride, idolatry, or apathy.But through Christ, our work gains new purpose.This message walks through: 1. Work's Designer: God, the joyful Creator. 2. Work's Design: Our calling to create, subdue, and cultivate. 3. Work's Distortion: How sin complicates our labor. 4. Work's New Dimension: A redeemed perspective, identity, and motivation. 5. Practical Marks of God-honoring Work: Enthusiasm, enjoyment, excellence, integrity, and gratitude.Whether your job is in the spotlight or behind the scenes, this sermon will remind you: every task can be sacred when it's done for the Lord.

Dive deep into the most beloved passage in the Bible with this verse-by-verse study of Psalm 23. Discover 7 powerful truths about God as your shepherd that will transform how you view His care, protection, and love for you.

"I loved John MacArthur. He was my friend, my mentor, and my pastor. Hard to put into words.Although there are a number of words that you could employ to describe him, no word encapsulates his life and ministry as - faithful.Nothing about him was passionless. He was a great man. A hero. And yet, so normal and kind.Grateful he is in glory. He ran the race and now he joins the crowd of witnesses.A life well lived." - Jonny Ardavanis

A recent study found that over 40 million adults grapple with some form of anxiety or worry. Chances are, this includes you or someone you love. But don't we all find ourselves worrying from time to time? I know I do! So, what's really causing our worry, and how do we know when our legitimate concerns cross the line into worry? Well, today on the 4:13, Pastor Jonny Ardavanis gets honest about the underlying issues with worry and where we ultimately find our hope: in the character of God. With pastoral compassion and answers anchored in Scripture, Jonny explains how the antidote to anxiety isn't just trying harder not to worry, but learning to truly trust God's unchanging character. Because walking this out in faith isn't just about believing in God, but in believing God. So, if you're grasping for peace and starved for hope, listen in! You'll get something far better than a quick fix—you'll learn to fix your gaze on your Heavenly Father who loves you. SHOW NOTES: 413Podcast.com/358  Enter to win the GIVEAWAY and read the episode TRANSCRIPT in the show notes. Get my weekly email, Java with Jennifer, to be notified when a new podcast episode releases. Subscribe HERE.

What books have truly shaped your faith and transformed your life? In this episode, I share the 13 books that have profoundly impacted my walk with God - from classics on knowing God's character to practical guides on fighting sin and living with eternal perspective.As Charles Spurgeon said, "Visit many good books, but live in the Bible." These books have deepened my understanding of God's character, helped me fight sin, and equipped me to live with eternal perspective - but they should never replace your commitment to God's Word.Whether you're looking to grow in holiness, understand God's sovereignty, or learn how to trust Him in difficult times, these books offer biblical wisdom that can transform your life.What books have shaped your faith? Drop your recommendations in the comments below!

Why does work often feel so frustrating, unfulfilling, or even futile?In this sermon, we take an honest look at the reality of work in a world marred by sin. While God designed work as a meaningful and creative expression of His image in us, Genesis 3 reminds us that the fall has distorted everything — our relationship with God, with each other, and with our labor. We now face thorns, sweat, pride, envy, and disillusionment in our daily grind.But Scripture doesn't leave us hopeless. This message explores how the Bible realistically acknowledges the pain of our work while offering a better way forward — a calling to work unto the Lord, even in broken systems and imperfect conditions. We were made for more than toil and chasing the wind. And in Christ, even our labor is not in vain.Join us as we examine the tension of living “East of Eden” and discover the redemptive hope God offers for our daily work.

Does God Choose Who Gets Saved? Predestination vs Free Will EXPLAINED | Pastor John MacArthurIn this powerful theological discussion, Pastor John explains: ✅ Biblical evidence for predestination - What Scripture actually says ✅ Human responsibility in salvation - Why unbelievers are still accountable
✅ How both truths coexist - Understanding God's infinite mind vs. finite understanding ✅ Practical application - How to know if you're among the electKey Topics Covered • Predestination before the foundation of the world • The Lamb's Book of Life • Election and chosen people • Dead in trespasses and sin • Sovereign grace and human faith • Biblical paradoxes explained • Assurance of salvation

In this message, we go back to the very beginning to explore God's original design for work and purpose. Long before the Fall, before brokenness or burnout, God was working—crafting, shaping, and cultivating a good world. And then He made us in His image… to do the same.Through Genesis 1 and 2, this sermon unpacks what it means to be image-bearers of a working God—called not just to survive, but to build, design, innovate, and create beauty in the world around us. From the artistry of nature to the development of glass, architecture, and instruments, we see that cultivating culture is part of our divine assignment.This isn't just about your job. It's about seeing all of life—parenting, gardening, city planning, entrepreneurship, and even changing diapers—as meaningful in the eyes of God.God didn't just make a world to admire. He made a world to build upon. You were created to cultivate.

Discover the life-changing power of God's grace in this deep biblical study!In this episode, we explore 5 essential features of God's grace that every believer needs to understand:✅ God's Saving Grace - Why salvation is entirely by grace, not works✅ God's Sanctifying Grace - How grace transforms us into Christ's image
✅ God's Sustaining Grace - Finding strength in weakness through trials ✅ God's Serving Grace - How spiritual gifts are expressions of grace ✅ The Ordinary Means of Grace - Scripture, prayer, and Christian communityKey Bible Verses Discussed: • 1 Corinthians 15:10 • Titus 3:4-6 • Romans 5:15-21 • 2 Corinthians 12:9 • Ephesians 4:7-11Perfect for: • Bible study groups • New Christians seeking to understand grace • Anyone struggling with works-based salvation • Christians wanting deeper theological understandingTimestamps: 0:00 Introduction to God's Grace 5:30 Saving Grace vs. Works 12:15 Sanctifying Grace & Transformation
18:45 Sustaining Grace in Trials 25:20 Serving Grace & Spiritual Gifts 30:10 Practical Applications

Is work just a necessary evil, or could it be something sacred?In this opening message from our summer series at Stonebridge, we dive deep into a topic rarely preached on but incredibly relevant to all of us: work. From Genesis to Jesus, we discover that the God of the Bible is not just a distant deity—He is a working God. He creates, sustains, and rules—and He calls us to do the same.This sermon explores: 1. How God's identity as Creator, Sustainer, and Worker shapes our view of work 2. Why work is not a result of the fall but part of God's original design for humanity 3. The danger of both laziness and workaholism in a culture confused about rest and purpose 4. How Jesus' life as a carpenter and His mission-driven ministry reflect the sacredness of work 5. What it means to bear God's image by bringing order, beauty, and fullness into the world through what we doWhether you're a CEO or a stay-at-home parent, a tradesperson or a student—your work matters. You were made in the image of a God who works. And your work, done in faith and for His glory, is a sacred calling.

What does it really mean to follow Jesus Christ? In this powerful conversation, we explore the uncomfortable truths about discipleship that many churches avoid discussing.Key Topics Covered:Why Jesus never hides the demands of the gospel in "fine print"What it truly means to deny yourself and take up your cross dailyThe difference between adding Christ to your life vs. giving your life to ChristHow to practically live for God's glory instead of your own recognitionWhy persecution and difficulty are promised parts of following Jesus

Are you struggling with prayer? Feel like your prayers are just going through the motions? In this episode, we dive deep into why prayer often feels difficult for Christians and provide practical, biblical guidance on how to transform your prayer life.

In this eye-opening conversation, biblical counselor Greg Gifford exposes the fundamental lies being told about mental health diagnoses and reveals why Christians need to be more skeptical of secular therapeutic culture.

Wondering what red flags to watch for when dating? In this episode, we discuss personal, familial, relational, and spiritual warning signs to consider in Christian relationships.Learn about setting healthy boundaries, how to evaluate potential partners, and get practical advice on questions like "How long should I date?" and "What if there's no one at my church?" We dive into important topics like handling someone's past, financial readiness for marriage, and whether Christian dating apps are a good option.This conversation covers essential dating wisdom including:- Key personal red flags like social awareness and financial stewardship- How to navigate family dynamics in relationships- Spiritual maturity indicators to look for in a partner- Practical answers to common Christian dating questionsWhether you're looking for your first relationship or trying to make better dating choices, this episode provides biblical perspective on finding a godly partner who demonstrates the character traits that lead to a healthy marriage.

Learn how to put on the full armor of God to stand against spiritual attacks and the schemes of the devil. In this powerful teaching, we break down Ephesians 6:10-18 and provide practical strategies for spiritual warfare in your daily Christian life.This episode explores:- Why understanding Satan as your enemy is essential for spiritual victory- The six pieces of God's armor - belt of truth, breastplate of righteousness, gospel boots, shield of faith, helmet of salvation, and sword of the Spirit- How to maintain personal integrity as your first line of defense- The power of Scripture memorization to combat specific temptations- Why your position in Christ is your strongest protection- Practical applications of faith in daily spiritual battles"For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places." - Ephesians 6:12Subscribe for more biblical teaching that equips you to stand firm in your faith and live victoriously through Christ!Watch VideosVisit the Website Buy Consider the LiliesFollow on Instagram

What does the Bible really say about gay marriage, homosexuality, and transgenderism? In this thought-provoking panel debate, Catholic host Michael Knowles is joined by Protestant pastor Jonny Ardavanis of Stonebridge Bible Church, alongside Revs. Brandon Robertson and Alexandre da Silva Souto, two LGBTQ-affirming Christian leaders, to tackle one of the most divisive theological debates of our time.  Is LGBTQ acceptance supported by Scripture? Does traditional Christian teaching conflict with modern views on identity? What is the biblical foundation for marriage? - - - Today's Sponsor: Hallow - Put your relationship with God first. Head over to https://hallow.com/knowles for three months free today!