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In this episode, we compare the church in the book of Acts with the church Joseph Smith built—showing how the LDS ‘restoration' actually rebuilds the hierarchy, temples, and priesthoods Jesus fulfilled and the Reformers fought to remove. It's not a return to the New Testament but a reversal of the freedom Christ brought.--The Unveiling Mormonism podcast pulls back the curtain on Mormon history, culture and doctrine. Join us for new episodes every Monday. Find resources to talk about these episodes at pursueGOD.org/mormonism.Help others go "full circle" as a follower of Jesus through our 12-week Pursuit series.Click here to learn more about how to use these resources at home, with a small group, or in a one-on-one discipleship relationship.Got questions or want to leave a note? Email us at podcast@pursueGOD.org.Donate Now --SUMMARYLatter-day Saints teach that after the apostles died, the church fell into total apostasy—losing authority, truth, and the gospel—and that Joseph Smith “restored” the original church in 1830.But when we compare the Bible, early church history, and the medieval church, a clear pattern emerges: the LDS system doesn't look like the church in the book of Acts. It looks like the institutional system that developed centuries later.This episode walks through that history and shows why Mormonism isn't a restoration of the New Testament—it's a rebuilding of the very system Jesus fulfilled and the Reformers worked to correct.1. What the Early Church Actually Looked Like (Book of Acts)No templesNo priestly hierarchyNo prophet-presidentNo exclusive priesthood lineageBelievers met in homes, prayed, broke bread, and studied ScriptureLeadership was shared among elders/pastorsEvery believer was a priest (1 Peter 2)Access to God came directly through Jesus, not through mediatorsBottom line: The early church was simple, Spirit-led, and centered entirely on Jesus.2. How the Church Drifted in the Middle AgesBy the 4th century, especially after Constantine:The church became tied to political powerBishops became rulersPriests acted as mediatorsSalvation was tied to rituals and sacramentsA single head (the Pope) claimed God-given authorityThis system dominated medieval Christianity and buried the gospel under layers of tradition and hierarchy.3. The Reformation: Returning to ScriptureLuther, Calvin, Zwingli, and the Anabaptists didn't invent a new church.They removed the medieval layers and returned to:Scripture aloneGrace aloneChrist aloneFaith aloneReal renewal happens when ordinary believers open the Bible again.4. Joseph Smith Recreates the Medieval SystemDespite claiming to “restore” the church, Joseph Smith introduced:A layered priesthood (Aaronic & Melchizedek)A prophet-president with final authorityTemple rituals and restricted accessOrdinances required for salvationCentralized headquarters claiming exclusive truthThis mirrors the medieval Catholic model, not the church in Acts.5. The LDS Temple: The Most Striking IronyJesus
In this episode, we compare the church in the book of Acts with the church Joseph Smith built—showing how the LDS ‘restoration' actually rebuilds the hierarchy, temples, and priesthoods Jesus fulfilled and the Reformers fought to remove. It's not a return to the New Testament but a reversal of the freedom Christ brought.--The Unveiling Mormonism podcast pulls back the curtain on Mormon history, culture and doctrine. Join us for new episodes every Monday. Find resources to talk about these episodes at pursueGOD.org/mormonism.Help others go "full circle" as a follower of Jesus through our 12-week Pursuit series.Click here to learn more about how to use these resources at home, with a small group, or in a one-on-one discipleship relationship.Got questions or want to leave a note? Email us at podcast@pursueGOD.org.Donate Now --SUMMARYLatter-day Saints teach that after the apostles died, the church fell into total apostasy—losing authority, truth, and the gospel—and that Joseph Smith “restored” the original church in 1830.But when we compare the Bible, early church history, and the medieval church, a clear pattern emerges: the LDS system doesn't look like the church in the book of Acts. It looks like the institutional system that developed centuries later.This episode walks through that history and shows why Mormonism isn't a restoration of the New Testament—it's a rebuilding of the very system Jesus fulfilled and the Reformers worked to correct.1. What the Early Church Actually Looked Like (Book of Acts)No templesNo priestly hierarchyNo prophet-presidentNo exclusive priesthood lineageBelievers met in homes, prayed, broke bread, and studied ScriptureLeadership was shared among elders/pastorsEvery believer was a priest (1 Peter 2)Access to God came directly through Jesus, not through mediatorsBottom line: The early church was simple, Spirit-led, and centered entirely on Jesus.2. How the Church Drifted in the Middle AgesBy the 4th century, especially after Constantine:The church became tied to political powerBishops became rulersPriests acted as mediatorsSalvation was tied to rituals and sacramentsA single head (the Pope) claimed God-given authorityThis system dominated medieval Christianity and buried the gospel under layers of tradition and hierarchy.3. The Reformation: Returning to ScriptureLuther, Calvin, Zwingli, and the Anabaptists didn't invent a new church.They removed the medieval layers and returned to:Scripture aloneGrace aloneChrist aloneFaith aloneReal renewal happens when ordinary believers open the Bible again.4. Joseph Smith Recreates the Medieval SystemDespite claiming to “restore” the church, Joseph Smith introduced:A layered priesthood (Aaronic & Melchizedek)A prophet-president with final authorityTemple rituals and restricted accessOrdinances required for salvationCentralized headquarters claiming exclusive truthThis mirrors the medieval Catholic model, not the church in Acts.5. The LDS Temple: The Most Striking IronyJesus
Welcome back to the podcast! We're in week number five of our series on David!--The PursueGOD Truth podcast is the “easy button” for making disciples – whether you're looking for resources to lead a family devotional, a small group at church, or a one-on-one mentoring relationship. Join us for new episodes every Tuesday and Friday. Find resources to talk about these episodes at pursueGOD.org.Help others go "full circle" as a follower of Jesus through our 12-week Pursuit series.Click here to learn more about how to use these resources at home, with a small group, or in a one-on-one discipleship relationship.Got questions or want to leave a note? Email us at podcast@pursueGOD.org.Donate Now --Big Idea:God's route to His promises is rarely efficient—it's fruitful. When Ziklag burns and hope falters, don't quit. Strengthen yourself in the Lord, inquire of the Lord, and obey the Lord—and you'll find the promise is closer than you think.ARTICLE When life feels slow, confusing, or painfully inefficient, many of us wish God acted more like a navigation app. Apps like Waze or Google Maps always chase the fastest route from Point A to Point B. But God doesn't choose the fastest route; He chooses the forming route. That truth sits at the center of David's story in 1 Samuel 27–30. After twenty years of running from Saul, David was exhausted. Scripture says “David kept thinking to himself…” (1 Samuel 27:1 NLT). His inner narrative was slipping, and discouragement was shaping his choices.We've all been there—moments where shortcuts look tempting, where God's promise looks distant, and where the path feels like a zigzag instead of a straight line. But David's journey shows us how to stay faithful when you're one step away from giving up.Settling for ZiklagDiscouragement often begins with unsubmitted self-talk. David “thought to himself” that Saul was going to kill him and concluded that escaping to the Philistines was his best option (1 Samuel 27:1–2 NLT). Without God's voice grounding his heart, David drifted into enemy territory.That's how he ended up in Ziklag.Ziklag—likely meaning “zigzagging”—was a Philistine town that became David's base for about sixteen months (1 Samuel 27:6–7 NLT). For a man who had been running for years, Ziklag felt like success. He finally had stability, safety, and a loyal army. It looked like arrival.But Ziklag wasn't the promise. It was provision—but not inheritance. God had spoken something bigger over David's life: a kingdom, a throne, and divine leadership over Israel. Ziklag was comfortable, but comfort can quietly become compromise. Sometimes the most dangerous place isn't the valley—it's the almost.Don't confuse the interim with the inheritance. Don't let a tired heart write your theology. God's promises may take time, but delay is not denial.When Ziklag BurnsThen came the breaking point. While David and his men were away, the Amalekites raided and burned Ziklag to the ground, kidnapping every woman and child (
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In this episode, we trace how small movements, bold revivals, and ordinary believers shaped the explosive growth of Protestant Christianity from Europe to America—and created the denominational family tree we're part of today.--The PursueGOD Truth podcast is the “easy button” for making disciples – whether you're looking for resources to lead a family devotional, a small group at church, or a one-on-one mentoring relationship. Join us for new episodes every Tuesday and Friday. Find resources to talk about these episodes at pursueGOD.org.Help others go "full circle" as a follower of Jesus through our 12-week Pursuit series.Click here to learn more about how to use these resources at home, with a small group, or in a one-on-one discipleship relationship.Got questions or want to leave a note? Email us at podcast@pursueGOD.org.Donate Now --Episode SummaryIn today's final episode of our Church History series, we trace how Protestantism crossed the Atlantic, sparked massive revival movements, and gave rise to the denominational landscape we see today. From the Moravians and the First Great Awakening to Pentecostalism and the modern church, this episode connects the dots and shows how the global church family took shape.1. The Moravians: The Spark Behind Modern MissionsWhere we left off last time.• Descendants of John Hus (the Hussites / Unity of the Brethren)• Refugees who fled to Count Zinzendorf's estate in Saxony (3–600 people total)Why they mattered:• Experienced a powerful renewal on Aug 13, 1727• Launched a 24/7 prayer chain that lasted 100 years• Sent more missionaries than all Protestants combined by 1760• Known for radical sacrifice—including missionaries willing to sell themselves into slavery• Mission field spread across the West Indies, Africa, Asia, and North AmericaThe John Wesley connection:• Wesley encountered Moravians during a terrifying storm at sea in 1736• Their fearless faith pushed him toward his own conversion• This eventually shaped the Methodist movement—the largest U.S. denomination by the 1850s2. The First Great Awakening (1730s–1740s)A transatlantic revival that birthed the modern evangelical identity—people committed not only to studying Scripture but sharing the gospel.The Big ThreeJohn Wesley – The Organizer• Anglican priest, Oxford “Holy Club” leader• Had his conversion at Aldersgate (“heart strangely warmed”)• Formed Methodist societies and class meetings• Emphasized holiness, discipline, and new birth• By his death: 72k British & 57k American MethodistsGeorge Whitefield – The Preacher• Electrifying communicator; could preach to 20k–30k without amplification• Crossed the Atlantic seven times, preaching across all 13 colonies• Popularized the phrase “born again”• First international Christian “celebrity”• Outdoor, mass evangelism pioneerJonathan Edwards – The Thinker• Pastor, theologian, philosophical genius• Sparked revival in Northampton (1734–35)• Wrote Religious Affections, the defining book of revival theology• Fired for restricting communion to true believers• Later became president of what is now Princeton• Legacy...
In this episode, we trace how small movements, bold revivals, and ordinary believers shaped the explosive growth of Protestant Christianity from Europe to America—and created the denominational family tree we're part of today.--The PursueGOD Truth podcast is the “easy button” for making disciples – whether you're looking for resources to lead a family devotional, a small group at church, or a one-on-one mentoring relationship. Join us for new episodes every Tuesday and Friday. Find resources to talk about these episodes at pursueGOD.org.Help others go "full circle" as a follower of Jesus through our 12-week Pursuit series.Click here to learn more about how to use these resources at home, with a small group, or in a one-on-one discipleship relationship.Got questions or want to leave a note? Email us at podcast@pursueGOD.org.Donate Now --Episode SummaryIn today's final episode of our Church History series, we trace how Protestantism crossed the Atlantic, sparked massive revival movements, and gave rise to the denominational landscape we see today. From the Moravians and the First Great Awakening to Pentecostalism and the modern church, this episode connects the dots and shows how the global church family took shape.1. The Moravians: The Spark Behind Modern MissionsWhere we left off last time.• Descendants of John Hus (the Hussites / Unity of the Brethren)• Refugees who fled to Count Zinzendorf's estate in Saxony (3–600 people total)Why they mattered:• Experienced a powerful renewal on Aug 13, 1727• Launched a 24/7 prayer chain that lasted 100 years• Sent more missionaries than all Protestants combined by 1760• Known for radical sacrifice—including missionaries willing to sell themselves into slavery• Mission field spread across the West Indies, Africa, Asia, and North AmericaThe John Wesley connection:• Wesley encountered Moravians during a terrifying storm at sea in 1736• Their fearless faith pushed him toward his own conversion• This eventually shaped the Methodist movement—the largest U.S. denomination by the 1850s2. The First Great Awakening (1730s–1740s)A transatlantic revival that birthed the modern evangelical identity—people committed not only to studying Scripture but sharing the gospel.The Big ThreeJohn Wesley – The Organizer• Anglican priest, Oxford “Holy Club” leader• Had his conversion at Aldersgate (“heart strangely warmed”)• Formed Methodist societies and class meetings• Emphasized holiness, discipline, and new birth• By his death: 72k British & 57k American MethodistsGeorge Whitefield – The Preacher• Electrifying communicator; could preach to 20k–30k without amplification• Crossed the Atlantic seven times, preaching across all 13 colonies• Popularized the phrase “born again”• First international Christian “celebrity”• Outdoor, mass evangelism pioneerJonathan Edwards – The Thinker• Pastor, theologian, philosophical genius• Sparked revival in Northampton (1734–35)• Wrote Religious Affections, the defining book of revival theology• Fired for restricting communion to true believers• Later became president of what is now Princeton• Legacy...
Welcome back to the podcast! We're in week four of our David series!--The PursueGOD Truth podcast is the “easy button” for making disciples – whether you're looking for resources to lead a family devotional, a small group at church, or a one-on-one mentoring relationship. Join us for new episodes every Tuesday and Friday. Find resources to talk about these episodes at pursueGOD.org.Help others go "full circle" as a follower of Jesus through our 12-week Pursuit series.Click here to learn more about how to use these resources at home, with a small group, or in a one-on-one discipleship relationship.Got questions or want to leave a note? Email us at podcast@pursueGOD.org.Donate Now --DAVID: How to Keep Your Heart Clean (Even When You've Been Done Dirty)Everyone will go through hurt—but not everyone will grow through hurt. David knew betrayal, fear, and injustice more than most. One day he was the nation's hero with songs written about him (1 Samuel 18:6–7 NLT). The next, Saul was hurling spears at him (1 Samuel 18:10–11 NLT). Soon David found himself hunted, hungry, and hiding in the wilderness (1 Samuel 21–22 NLT).Psalm 52 is David's response to one of the darkest betrayals of his life—the moment Doeg the Edomite informed Saul about David's visit to the priest Ahimelech (1 Samuel 21:7 NLT). That single moment set off a horrific chain reaction. Saul, spiraling in jealousy and paranoia, ordered Doeg to slaughter the priests of the Lord (1 Samuel 22:9–10, 17–18 NLT). David was devastated. His choices weren't perfect, but the injustice was real and brutal.But instead of letting bitterness rot his soul, David wrote Psalm 52—nine verses that show how to keep a clean heart even when you've been done dirty. If you've ever been betrayed, slandered, ghosted, passed over, lied about, or wounded by someone close, Psalm 52 speaks directly to you.This short psalm gives us five steps for guarding your heart when life cuts deep.1) Take Your Pain to GodDavid begins by naming the wrong and naming the offender. “Your tongue cuts like a sharp razor… you love evil more than good” (Psalm 52:1–4 NLT). This isn't gossip—it's biblical lament. It's honesty aimed heavenward. Before David tells people what happened, he tells God.Psalm 62:8 (NLT) says, “Pour out your heart to him, for God is our refuge.”If we don't take our pain to God, our pain will take us. Lament turns our emotional chaos into prayer instead of bitterness. Trade passive-aggressive posts for honest conversation with your Father.2) Make Room for God's JusticeDoeg's betrayal and Saul's massacre were horrific. Yet David doesn't seek revenge. He entrusts justice to God: “But God will strike you down…” (Psalm 52:5–7 NLT).Scripture is clear:“Never take revenge… ‘I will pay them back,' says the Lord.” Romans 12:19 NLT.Vengeance chains you to the very thing God wants to free you from. Instead, Scripture calls us to bless when insulted (1 Peter 3:9 NLT) and overcome evil with good (Romans 12:20–21 NLT).Letting God judge doesn't mean ignoring boundaries. Proverbs 4:23 (NLT) calls us to guard our hearts with wisdom—but without bitterness.3) Own Your PartDavid wasn't blameless in the Nob incident. He lied to the priest (1 Samuel 21:2 NLT). That didn't excuse Saul or Doeg, but it meant David had to face his own heart: “But as for me...” (Psalm 52:8 NLT).Being wronged doesn't automatically make us right. Jesus teaches us to go...
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This episode shows how the church moved from state-controlled religion to voluntary, Scripture-governed communities—and how the Baptists, Congregationalists, Evangelical Free, and eventually Methodists emerged.--The PursueGOD Truth podcast is the “easy button” for making disciples – whether you're looking for resources to lead a family devotional, a small group at church, or a one-on-one mentoring relationship. Join us for new episodes every Tuesday and Friday. Find resources to talk about these episodes at pursueGOD.org.Help others go "full circle" as a follower of Jesus through our 12-week Pursuit series.Click here to learn more about how to use these resources at home, with a small group, or in a one-on-one discipleship relationship.Got questions or want to leave a note? Email us at podcast@pursueGOD.org.Donate Now --How England's Reformation Took a Very Different PathWhile Luther and Calvin led theological reform on the continent, England's story began with politics.Henry VIII wanted a male heir, the Pope refused to annul his marriage, and the king broke from Rome.The Act of Supremacy (1534) created the Church of England—but it simply replaced the pope with a king. It wasn't a movement of revival; it was a power play.After Henry, England spun between Protestant and Catholic identities depending on the monarch. Edward VI pushed Protestant reforms, Mary I violently restored Catholicism, and Elizabeth I settled for a middle-way Anglicanism. The constant whiplash raised a crucial question:If kings can change doctrine overnight, where does true faith come from—crown or conscience?Puritans, Separatists, and the Search for a Church Governed by ScriptureTwo groups rose in response:Puritans — Anglicans who wanted deeper biblical reform.Separatists (Pilgrims) — Puritans who believed the system was beyond repair.King James I shut down most Puritan reforms (except authorizing the King James Bible). He made Anglican worship mandatory by law, and that pressure pushed both groups out of England.The Separatists, who fled first, would shape the future of the church in profound ways.The Birth of the Baptists and CongregationalistsThe Gainsborough Group escaped to Amsterdam and encountered the Anabaptists—believers who rejected state-run religion and emphasized personal faith. John Smyth and Thomas Helwys embraced these ideas and in 1609 founded the first Baptist church. They insisted:Faith must be personalBaptism belongs to believersLocal churches should govern themselvesGovernment must never control conscienceHelwys returned to England in 1612 and founded the first Baptist church on English soil, writing boldly to the king, “You have no power over the souls of your subjects.”Another group—the Scrooby Separatists—fled to Holland, then boarded the Mayflower and founded Plymouth Colony in 1620. Their self-governing church became the root of Congregationalism, shaping early American values of freedom, conscience, and community.Europe's Crisis and the Rise of PietismMeanwhile, Europe erupted into the Thirty Years' War (1618–1648) over forced religion. Millions died. When the war finally ended, the dream of a unified Christendom...
This episode shows how the church moved from state-controlled religion to voluntary, Scripture-governed communities—and how the Baptists, Congregationalists, Evangelical Free, and eventually Methodists emerged.--The PursueGOD Truth podcast is the “easy button” for making disciples – whether you're looking for resources to lead a family devotional, a small group at church, or a one-on-one mentoring relationship. Join us for new episodes every Tuesday and Friday. Find resources to talk about these episodes at pursueGOD.org.Help others go "full circle" as a follower of Jesus through our 12-week Pursuit series.Click here to learn more about how to use these resources at home, with a small group, or in a one-on-one discipleship relationship.Got questions or want to leave a note? Email us at podcast@pursueGOD.org.Donate Now --How England's Reformation Took a Very Different PathWhile Luther and Calvin led theological reform on the continent, England's story began with politics.Henry VIII wanted a male heir, the Pope refused to annul his marriage, and the king broke from Rome.The Act of Supremacy (1534) created the Church of England—but it simply replaced the pope with a king. It wasn't a movement of revival; it was a power play.After Henry, England spun between Protestant and Catholic identities depending on the monarch. Edward VI pushed Protestant reforms, Mary I violently restored Catholicism, and Elizabeth I settled for a middle-way Anglicanism. The constant whiplash raised a crucial question:If kings can change doctrine overnight, where does true faith come from—crown or conscience?Puritans, Separatists, and the Search for a Church Governed by ScriptureTwo groups rose in response:Puritans — Anglicans who wanted deeper biblical reform.Separatists (Pilgrims) — Puritans who believed the system was beyond repair.King James I shut down most Puritan reforms (except authorizing the King James Bible). He made Anglican worship mandatory by law, and that pressure pushed both groups out of England.The Separatists, who fled first, would shape the future of the church in profound ways.The Birth of the Baptists and CongregationalistsThe Gainsborough Group escaped to Amsterdam and encountered the Anabaptists—believers who rejected state-run religion and emphasized personal faith. John Smyth and Thomas Helwys embraced these ideas and in 1609 founded the first Baptist church. They insisted:Faith must be personalBaptism belongs to believersLocal churches should govern themselvesGovernment must never control conscienceHelwys returned to England in 1612 and founded the first Baptist church on English soil, writing boldly to the king, “You have no power over the souls of your subjects.”Another group—the Scrooby Separatists—fled to Holland, then boarded the Mayflower and founded Plymouth Colony in 1620. Their self-governing church became the root of Congregationalism, shaping early American values of freedom, conscience, and community.Europe's Crisis and the Rise of PietismMeanwhile, Europe erupted into the Thirty Years' War (1618–1648) over forced religion. Millions died. When the war finally ended, the dream of a unified Christendom...
Welcome back! We're in week three of our David series, and today we'll be talking about the trap of comparison that plagues humanity, and we'll be using David's troubled relationship with King Saul as an example!--The PursueGOD Truth podcast is the “easy button” for making disciples – whether you're looking for resources to lead a family devotional, a small group at church, or a one-on-one mentoring relationship. Join us for new episodes every Tuesday and Friday. Find resources to talk about these episodes at pursueGOD.org.Help others go "full circle" as a follower of Jesus through our 12-week Pursuit series.Click here to learn more about how to use these resources at home, with a small group, or in a one-on-one discipleship relationship.Got questions or want to leave a note? Email us at podcast@pursueGOD.org.Donate Now --DAVID: THE COMPARISON TRAPComparison is the silent killer of joy. It slowly steals your confidence, shifts your focus, and leaves you spiritually drained. In 1 Samuel 18, we see this clearly in the lives of Saul and David. David's moment of victory should have united Israel—but instead, it exposed the dangerous power of comparison in Saul's heart. His story warns us that comparison doesn't just affect how we feel; it affects who we become.The Celebration That Turned Into JealousyWhen David returned from defeating Goliath, the nation erupted with music, dancing, and praise. The women sang:“Saul has killed his thousands, and David his ten thousands!” (1 Samuel 18:7, NLT)This wasn't a protest song or a political statement—it was a celebration of God's deliverance. But Saul heard something different. Instead of hearing gratitude, he heard threat. Instead of celebrating God's victory, he fixated on David's recognition.“So from that time on Saul kept a jealous eye on David.” (1 Samuel 18:9, NLT)Comparison took a moment of unity and turned it into a moment of insecurity.1. Comparison Strangles Your JoySaul had every reason to be joyful—his nation was safe, his army victorious, and his reputation still strong. But when he looked sideways at David, his joy collapsed.The same thing happens to us. Social media has made comparison effortless. Studies show people—especially Gen Z—often feel worse after scrolling, not better. We see what others have and suddenly forget what God has given us.Scripture reminds us:“Those who seek the Lord will lack no good thing.” (Psalm 34:10, NLT)If God hasn't given it, we don't need it—not yet, and maybe not ever. Joy isn't rooted in what others have; it's rooted in who God is.Joy grows in gratitude, not in comparison.2. Comparison Stunts Your GrowthSaul's jealousy didn't just affect his emotions—it affected his leadership. The day after the celebration, he tried to kill David (1 Samuel 18:10–11). Instead of mentoring the young man God had raised up, Saul made him an enemy.Proverbs warns us:“A peaceful heart leads to a healthy body; jealousy is like cancer in the bones.”(Proverbs 14:30, NLT)Jealousy slowly eats away at your capacity to grow. Jesus had to correct Peter on this very issue. When Peter asked about John's future, Jesus answered:“What is that to you? As for you, follow me.” (John 21:22, NLT)You can't follow Jesus while watching someone else's calling.You can't grow while...
In this episode, we learn how understanding attachment theory can help couples grow closer to one another as they reflect the steadfast love and reliability of God.--The PursueGOD Family podcast helps you think biblically about marriage and parenting. Join Bryan and Tracy Dwyer on Wednesday mornings for new topics every week or two. Find resources to talk about these episodes at pursueGOD.org/family.Help others go "full circle" as a follower of Jesus through our 12-week Pursuit series.Click here to learn more about how to use these resources at home, with a small group, or in a one-on-one discipleship relationship.Got questions or want to leave a note? Email us at podcast@pursueGOD.org.Donate Now --Attachment theory is one of the most studied and trusted frameworks in relational psychology. It was developed by John Bowlby and expanded by Mary Ainsworth. At its core, it explains how the earliest bonds we form with our caregivers shape the way we understand love and connection later in life. As children, the consistency—or inconsistency—of a caregiver's attention and responsiveness teaches us how to view ourselves and others. Those early impressions don't disappear; they resurface in adulthood, often getting triggered in the context of our romantic relationships.Attachment TypesSecure: A secure attachment means you can trust that the people you love will be there for you. It forms when, as a child, your caregiver consistently responded to your needs with care and reliability. That steady presence builds confidence that you are worthy of love and that others can be trusted. As an adult, secure attachment shows up as the ability to build healthy, balanced relationships—where closeness feels safe, independence isn't threatening, and conflict doesn't shake the foundation of trust.Anxious Attachment: Anxious attachment develops when love feels uncertain or inconsistent. As children, those with anxious attachment often had caregivers who were sometimes responsive and other times distracted or unavailable. This unpredictability creates confusion and insecurity about whether their needs will be met. As adults, people with an anxious attachment style tend to crave closeness but fear abandonment, which can lead to clinginess, overanalyzing, or difficulty trusting their partner's commitment. Avoidant Attachment: Avoidant attachment develops when closeness feels unsafe or unnecessary. As children, those with this style often had caregivers who were emotionally distant, neglectful, or dismissive of their needs. To cope, they learned to rely on themselves and minimize their need for comfort or support. As adults, people with avoidant attachment tend to value independence so highly that intimacy can feel uncomfortable or even threatening. They may pull away when relationships get too close, struggle to express emotions, or downplay the importance of love altogether. The Attachment Alarm When your partner feels distant or inconsistent, your “attachment system” goes off. This is the brain's way of monitoring whether you are safe and secure in the relationship. Anxious attachments are particularly sensitive to this. Once activated, the anxious will engage in protest behaviors which means doing whatever it takes to feel safe again (calling, what's wrong, imagination runs wild). If an avoidant, you will likely push away and might think your spouse is overreacting and can be...
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In this episode, we trace how the Reformation rediscovered the gospel—from Luther's 95 Theses to the rise of Protestant movements—and how God used ordinary people, Scripture, and the printing press to bring His Word back to the world.--The PursueGOD Truth podcast is the “easy button” for making disciples – whether you're looking for resources to lead a family devotional, a small group at church, or a one-on-one mentoring relationship. Join us for new episodes every Tuesday and Friday. Find resources to talk about these episodes at pursueGOD.org.Help others go "full circle" as a follower of Jesus through our 12-week Pursuit series.Click here to learn more about how to use these resources at home, with a small group, or in a one-on-one discipleship relationship.Got questions or want to leave a note? Email us at podcast@pursueGOD.org.Donate Now --Episode SummaryBy the early 1500s, the Catholic Church had become powerful, wealthy, and deeply political. Salvation was treated like a transaction through rituals and indulgences, and the gospel was buried under centuries of human authority. The Bible was locked away in Latin, unreadable to most people. But God was preparing a movement of rediscovery—the Protestant Reformation.In this episode, we'll see how men like Martin Luther, Ulrich Zwingli, John Calvin, John Knox, and the lesser-known Anabaptists helped bring Christianity back to the simple gospel of faith in Jesus Christ.The Reformation wasn't rebellion—it was rediscovery. It was a return to the gospel buried under layers of religion.The Reformation BeginsMartin Luther, a German monk, struggled with guilt and never felt good enough for God. While reading Romans 1:17, he discovered that righteousness is a gift from God—received by faith, not earned by works. Around that time, the Church was selling indulgences to raise money for St. Peter's Basilica, claiming that people could buy forgiveness. Outraged, Luther wrote his 95 Theses and nailed them to a church door in Wittenberg on October 31, 1517.The document spread quickly thanks to the newly invented printing press, and a movement was born. Luther stood before church authorities and declared, “My conscience is captive to the Word of God. Here I stand. I can do no other.” While hiding from persecution, he translated the Bible into German so ordinary people could read it for themselves.Other Reformers Across EuropeWhile Luther led in Germany, others joined the cause across Europe:Ulrich Zwingli in Switzerland preached directly from Scripture, opposed indulgences, and emphasized simple, Bible-centered worship.John Calvin in France and later Geneva wrote The Institutes of the Christian Religion, organizing Christian theology and emphasizing God's sovereignty, grace, and the authority of Scripture.John Knox in Scotland, a student of Calvin, boldly preached the gospel to kings and queens and helped establish the Presbyterian Church, governed by elders with Christ as its head.William Tyndale in England translated the Bible into English so people could read it in their own language.The Reformation spread rapidly, dividing Europe between those who followed the old system and those who embraced this rediscovered gospel of...
In this episode, we trace how the Reformation rediscovered the gospel—from Luther's 95 Theses to the rise of Protestant movements—and how God used ordinary people, Scripture, and the printing press to bring His Word back to the world.--The PursueGOD Truth podcast is the “easy button” for making disciples – whether you're looking for resources to lead a family devotional, a small group at church, or a one-on-one mentoring relationship. Join us for new episodes every Tuesday and Friday. Find resources to talk about these episodes at pursueGOD.org.Help others go "full circle" as a follower of Jesus through our 12-week Pursuit series.Click here to learn more about how to use these resources at home, with a small group, or in a one-on-one discipleship relationship.Got questions or want to leave a note? Email us at podcast@pursueGOD.org.Donate Now --Episode SummaryBy the early 1500s, the Catholic Church had become powerful, wealthy, and deeply political. Salvation was treated like a transaction through rituals and indulgences, and the gospel was buried under centuries of human authority. The Bible was locked away in Latin, unreadable to most people. But God was preparing a movement of rediscovery—the Protestant Reformation.In this episode, we'll see how men like Martin Luther, Ulrich Zwingli, John Calvin, John Knox, and the lesser-known Anabaptists helped bring Christianity back to the simple gospel of faith in Jesus Christ.The Reformation wasn't rebellion—it was rediscovery. It was a return to the gospel buried under layers of religion.The Reformation BeginsMartin Luther, a German monk, struggled with guilt and never felt good enough for God. While reading Romans 1:17, he discovered that righteousness is a gift from God—received by faith, not earned by works. Around that time, the Church was selling indulgences to raise money for St. Peter's Basilica, claiming that people could buy forgiveness. Outraged, Luther wrote his 95 Theses and nailed them to a church door in Wittenberg on October 31, 1517.The document spread quickly thanks to the newly invented printing press, and a movement was born. Luther stood before church authorities and declared, “My conscience is captive to the Word of God. Here I stand. I can do no other.” While hiding from persecution, he translated the Bible into German so ordinary people could read it for themselves.Other Reformers Across EuropeWhile Luther led in Germany, others joined the cause across Europe:Ulrich Zwingli in Switzerland preached directly from Scripture, opposed indulgences, and emphasized simple, Bible-centered worship.John Calvin in France and later Geneva wrote The Institutes of the Christian Religion, organizing Christian theology and emphasizing God's sovereignty, grace, and the authority of Scripture.John Knox in Scotland, a student of Calvin, boldly preached the gospel to kings and queens and helped establish the Presbyterian Church, governed by elders with Christ as its head.William Tyndale in England translated the Bible into English so people could read it in their own language.The Reformation spread rapidly, dividing Europe between those who followed the old system and those who embraced this rediscovered gospel of...
True Beauty is not about the mirror—it's about the soul.In a world that screams that your outward appearance is your ultimate value, God is calling His daughters to a radically different standard. Pastor Dennis references the story of Queen Esther, a woman who rose above her peers not because of a flawless exterior, but because of a fierce and distinguished inward beauty—the beauty of character, courage, and a surrendered spirit.The world's definition of beauty is a cruel, ticking clock. It demands perfection, promises satisfaction, and then inevitably fades, leaving behind insecurity and disappointment. We all know that no amount of external glamour can stop the relentless march of time, but the world continues to chase a temporary illusion.This message challenges every woman to shift her focus from the fleeting to the forever. Esther's true crown wasn't the one placed on her head, but the one forged in her heart. She was prepared, not just with royal treatments, but with a deep, inner work that would equip her to save a nation.
Welcome back to the truth podcast! We're in week two of our Davis series, and this week we look at how God led David from boyhood toward his most famous moment: his battle with Goliath, and how that shaped his future.--The PursueGOD Truth podcast is the “easy button” for making disciples – whether you're looking for resources to lead a family devotional, a small group at church, or a one-on-one mentoring relationship. Join us for new episodes every Tuesday and Friday. Find resources to talk about these episodes at pursueGOD.org.Help others go "full circle" as a follower of Jesus through our 12-week Pursuit series.Click here to learn more about how to use these resources at home, with a small group, or in a one-on-one discipleship relationship.Got questions or want to leave a note? Email us at podcast@pursueGOD.org.Donate Now --Big Idea: God's promises always come with a process. The making of a man or woman of God happens long before the moment of recognition — in hidden places, through faithful obedience, and in God's perfect timing.The Development ProcessAfter Saul's rejection as king in 1 Samuel 15:23, God sent Samuel to anoint David. But even though David was chosen, it would take over 20 years before he would sit on the throne. That gap between promise and fulfillment was the development process — the “darkroom” where God forms character away from the spotlight.David's story reminds us that God develops His people like a photograph. There's an image already imprinted — His image — but if exposed too soon, it's ruined. God's kingdom grows through faithfulness in little things, not instant promotion. “Well done, my good and faithful servant.” (Matthew 25:21)David's great moment began with a simple errand: “Take this basket of grain and these ten loaves of bread” (1 Samuel 17:17-20). Before Goliath, before the crown, there was cheese delivery. God often tests us in ordinary moments to see if we'll serve before we shine.If you're too big to serve, you're too small to lead.Faithfulness in obscurity prepares us for influence in the open. Private obedience shapes public impact.Private Victories Protect Public CallingsDavid's courage before Goliath wasn't random; it was rehearsed in the field. When he fought lions and bears to protect his sheep (1 Samuel 17:34–37), he learned that God rescues and sustains His people even when no one is watching. His confidence wasn't arrogance — it was built through history with God.Every believer faces “lions and bears”: private temptations, hidden sins, and heart battles that no one else sees. Conquering them is how faith matures. Private compromise, on the other hand, always leads to public downfall. (James 1:15; Proverbs 28:13)Life doesn't change that much — the stakes just get higher.So deal with sin in secret before it grows. Confess it to a trusted believer (James 5:16; 1 John 1:7). Every hidden victory builds strength for your future battles.Learn to Walk in Your Own ArmorWhen Saul offered David his armor (1 Samuel 17:38–40), it didn't fit. David had to fight with what God had already given him — his shepherd's tools. Likewise, we must resist the urge to imitate others. The gifts, skills, and experiences God has given you are exactly what He intends to use.If you...
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Talk about it: pursueGOD.org/ac
Talk about it: pursueGOD.org/ac
Talk about it: pursueGOD.org/ac
In this episode, we explore the courageous men who paved the way for Martin Luther—followers of Jesus who, long before the Reformation, risked everything to return the church to the authority of Scripture.--The PursueGOD Truth podcast is the “easy button” for making disciples – whether you're looking for resources to lead a family devotional, a small group at church, or a one-on-one mentoring relationship. Join us for new episodes every Tuesday and Friday. Find resources to talk about these episodes at pursueGOD.org.Help others go "full circle" as a follower of Jesus through our 12-week Pursuit series.Click here to learn more about how to use these resources at home, with a small group, or in a one-on-one discipleship relationship.Got questions or want to leave a note? Email us at podcast@pursueGOD.org.Donate Now --Big Idea:Long before Martin Luther nailed his 95 Theses, God was already stirring reform in the hearts of ordinary believers. From Peter Waldo to John Wycliffe, Jan Hus, and William Tyndale, the spark of reformation began not in cathedrals but in the conviction that the Bible—not the pope—was the true authority of the church.Episode OverviewFormation → Conformation → Deformation → ReformationThe first-century church was formed as a grassroots gospel movement led by the apostles (Acts 2).The following centuries saw conformation through creeds and councils that clarified core doctrine.After the fall of Rome, the church experienced deformation—institutional corruption, superstition, indulgences, and a Bible out of reach for the common person.Yet even in the “Dark Ages,” God raised reformers who called His people back to the Word.Key ReformersPeter Waldo (1170 AD)A wealthy merchant who gave up his riches after reading Matthew 19:21.Funded the first vernacular translation of Scripture into French.His followers—the Waldensians—preached repentance, memorized Scripture, and survived centuries of persecution.John Wycliffe (1320s–1384)Oxford scholar who rediscovered the gospel of grace through Scripture.Declared that “Scripture alone, not popes or councils, is the final authority.”Produced the first complete English Bible (translated from the Latin Vulgate).His followers, the Lollards, secretly spread handwritten English Bibles and published the Twelve Conclusions (1395)—early “theses” against corruption, indulgences, and unbiblical traditions.Jan Hus (1369–1415)Czech priest inspired by Wycliffe's writings.Preached the gospel in Czech so people could understand the Bible.Wrote On the Church, teaching that Christ alone—not the pope—is head of the church.Burned at the stake for refusing to recant, proclaiming, “You may roast this goose, but in a hundred years a swan will arise whose song you will not silence.”A century later, Martin Luther would see himself as that “swan.”His followers, the Hussites, became the Moravians, who later influenced John Wesley and the Methodist Revival.William Tyndale (1494–1536)Scholar fluent in seven languages, determined to make Scripture accessible to every English speaker.Translated the Bible...
In this episode, we explore the courageous men who paved the way for Martin Luther—followers of Jesus who, long before the Reformation, risked everything to return the church to the authority of Scripture.--The PursueGOD Truth podcast is the “easy button” for making disciples – whether you're looking for resources to lead a family devotional, a small group at church, or a one-on-one mentoring relationship. Join us for new episodes every Tuesday and Friday. Find resources to talk about these episodes at pursueGOD.org.Help others go "full circle" as a follower of Jesus through our 12-week Pursuit series.Click here to learn more about how to use these resources at home, with a small group, or in a one-on-one discipleship relationship.Got questions or want to leave a note? Email us at podcast@pursueGOD.org.Donate Now --Big Idea:Long before Martin Luther nailed his 95 Theses, God was already stirring reform in the hearts of ordinary believers. From Peter Waldo to John Wycliffe, Jan Hus, and William Tyndale, the spark of reformation began not in cathedrals but in the conviction that the Bible—not the pope—was the true authority of the church.Episode OverviewFormation → Conformation → Deformation → ReformationThe first-century church was formed as a grassroots gospel movement led by the apostles (Acts 2).The following centuries saw conformation through creeds and councils that clarified core doctrine.After the fall of Rome, the church experienced deformation—institutional corruption, superstition, indulgences, and a Bible out of reach for the common person.Yet even in the “Dark Ages,” God raised reformers who called His people back to the Word.Key ReformersPeter Waldo (1170 AD)A wealthy merchant who gave up his riches after reading Matthew 19:21.Funded the first vernacular translation of Scripture into French.His followers—the Waldensians—preached repentance, memorized Scripture, and survived centuries of persecution.John Wycliffe (1320s–1384)Oxford scholar who rediscovered the gospel of grace through Scripture.Declared that “Scripture alone, not popes or councils, is the final authority.”Produced the first complete English Bible (translated from the Latin Vulgate).His followers, the Lollards, secretly spread handwritten English Bibles and published the Twelve Conclusions (1395)—early “theses” against corruption, indulgences, and unbiblical traditions.Jan Hus (1369–1415)Czech priest inspired by Wycliffe's writings.Preached the gospel in Czech so people could understand the Bible.Wrote On the Church, teaching that Christ alone—not the pope—is head of the church.Burned at the stake for refusing to recant, proclaiming, “You may roast this goose, but in a hundred years a swan will arise whose song you will not silence.”A century later, Martin Luther would see himself as that “swan.”His followers, the Hussites, became the Moravians, who later influenced John Wesley and the Methodist Revival.William Tyndale (1494–1536)Scholar fluent in seven languages, determined to make Scripture accessible to every English speaker.Translated the Bible...
We're kicking off a 6-week series on one of the most recognizable figures in the Bible—David. But before we meet the shepherd who became king, we have to meet the man who came before him: Saul, Israel's first king. Saul looked like a king on the outside, but his heart drifted from God on the inside. His story reminds us that it's possible to look the part but lack the power.--The PursueGOD Truth podcast is the “easy button” for making disciples – whether you're looking for resources to lead a family devotional, a small group at church, or a one-on-one mentoring relationship. Join us for new episodes every Tuesday and Friday. Find resources to talk about these episodes at pursueGOD.org.Help others go "full circle" as a follower of Jesus through our 12-week Pursuit series.Click here to learn more about how to use these resources at home, with a small group, or in a one-on-one discipleship relationship.Got questions or want to leave a note? Email us at podcast@pursueGOD.org.Donate Now --We're kicking off a 6-week series on one of the most recognizable figures in the Bible—David. But before we meet the shepherd who became king, we have to meet the man who came before him: Saul, Israel's first king. Saul looked like a king on the outside, but his heart drifted from God on the inside. His story reminds us that it's possible to look the part but lack the power.Israel wanted a king “like the nations.” God warned them it would bring problems, but they insisted. Saul looked the part—“a head taller than anyone else”—but he didn't have the heart. 1 Samuel 13:14 (NLT) says, “The Lord has sought out a man after his own heart.” Sadly, that man wasn't Saul.Today we'll contrast Saul's heart and David's heart to see what it takes to have a heart after God. Saul's downfall exposes three spiritual drift patterns we all face: fear, expedience, and pride.1. A heart after God moves from fear to trust.When God doesn't show up when or how we expect, will we still wait?Saul couldn't. Surrounded by enemies and losing soldiers, he panicked and offered a sacrifice himself instead of waiting for Samuel.1 Samuel 13:12 (NLT) – “So I felt compelled to offer the burnt offering myself before you came.”Fear always tries to justify disobedience. Saul's math was simple: scattering soldiers + late prophet + looming enemy = act now, ask later.Samuel's response cut deep: “You have not kept the command the Lord your God gave you… The Lord has sought out a man after his own heart.” (1 Samuel 13:13–14)Every sin begins as a failure to trust. Faith waits when fear wants to rush. Trust trades the best I can do for the best God can do.2. A heart after God moves from expedience to obedience.Expedience means taking the convenient shortcut even if it's not right. Saul did this when God told him to destroy everything from the Amalekites—but he spared what “appealed to them.”1 Samuel 15:9 (NLT) – “They destroyed only what was worthless or of poor quality.”Saul tried to spin his compromise as worship: “My troops brought in the best of the sheep and cattle to sacrifice to the Lord.” (1 Samuel 15:21)But Samuel said it plainly:1 Samuel 15:22 (NLT) – “Obedience is better than sacrifice, and submission is better than offering the fat of rams.”God's commands aren't arbitrary; they're descriptions of reality. Break them, and you break yourself. Saul had titles but no truth-tellers. He was surrounded by people who agreed, not people who corrected. You can...
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In this episode, we'll talk about how marriage isn't just destroyed by the big blowups—but more often by the small, everyday moments when we ignore each other's bids for connection, and how learning to “turn toward” instead of “turn away” can change everything.--The PursueGOD Family podcast helps you think biblically about marriage and parenting. Join Bryan and Tracy Dwyer on Wednesday mornings for new topics every week or two. Find resources to talk about these episodes at pursueGOD.org/family.Help others go "full circle" as a follower of Jesus through our 12-week Pursuit series.Click here to learn more about how to use these resources at home, with a small group, or in a one-on-one discipleship relationship.Got questions or want to leave a note? Email us at podcast@pursueGOD.org.Donate Now --Many couples believe that divorce comes from big, explosive issues—infidelity, money problems, or major betrayals. But according to renowned marriage researcher Dr. John Gottman, it's often not the big things that break a marriage. It's the small, everyday moments—missed chances to connect—that slowly build up into bitterness and resentment over time.What Is a “Bid” for Connection?Gottman calls these small moments “bids.” A bid is any attempt from one partner to get attention, affection, affirmation, or support from the other. Bids can be loud or quiet, obvious or subtle.Examples:“How do I look?” (Translation: Can I have your attention?)“Getting the kids to bed is hard.” (Translation: Can I have your help?)A spouse sitting down next to you on the couch. (Translation: Can I be near you?)Whether you notice these bids and how you respond to them will shape the health of your marriage—far more than you might think.The 3 Ways to Respond to a BidEvery time your spouse makes a bid for connection, you have three ways to respond. Over time, your pattern of responses becomes the emotional climate of your relationship.1. Turning TowardThis is the healthy response. When you turn toward a bid, you engage with your partner's attempt to connect. It could be as simple as answering their question, offering a smile, or stopping what you're doing to give them your attention.Example:Spouse: “Look at this funny video.”Turning Toward: “Haha! That's great. Show me another.”What it does: Builds trust, intimacy, and love. Each “turning toward” moment is like a small deposit in the bank account of your marriage.Proverbs 15:1 – “A gentle answer deflects anger, but harsh words make tempers flare.”Kind responses create peace and connection.2. Turning AwayThis is the neutral-to-negative response. You ignore the bid, act distracted, or give a half-hearted answer.Example:Spouse: “Can we talk after dinner?”Turning Away: “Uh-huh…” (while scrolling your phone)What it does: Over time, this makes your partner feel invisible or unimportant. They may stop reaching out altogether.Philippians 2:4 – “Don't look out only for your own interests, but take an interest in others, too.”Marriage thrives when both spouses make each other a priority.3. Turning AgainstThis is the harmful response. You react with sarcasm, criticism, or irritation. It not only ignores the bid, but...
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In this episode, we trace how one global faith became divided between East and West — from the councils of Nicaea, Chalcedon, and Constantinople to the final break in 1054 — and discover what it means to return to the unified, Spirit-led Church Jesus originally envisioned.--The PursueGOD Truth podcast is the “easy button” for making disciples – whether you're looking for resources to lead a family devotional, a small group at church, or a one-on-one mentoring relationship. Join us for new episodes every Tuesday and Friday. Find resources to talk about these episodes at pursueGOD.org.Help others go "full circle" as a follower of Jesus through our 12-week Pursuit series.Click here to learn more about how to use these resources at home, with a small group, or in a one-on-one discipleship relationship.Got questions or want to leave a note? Email us at podcast@pursueGOD.org.Donate Now --Last week, we ended with a coronation that changed history.In 800 A.D., Pope Leo III placed a crown on the head of Charlemagne, declaring him “Emperor of the Romans.” It was the rebirth of a Christian Rome — what we now call the Holy Roman Empire.It seemed like a moment of triumph for the Church, but it came with a cost.That act blurred the line between heaven and earth — between spiritual authority and political control. The pope gained protection. Charlemagne gained divine legitimacy. But the partnership that promised unity in the West sent shockwaves through the East.In Constantinople, Christian leaders looked on in disbelief. The Eastern emperor was already the rightful heir of Rome — so who gave a Western pope the right to crown another? It was more than a political power play; it was the outworking of deeper cracks that had been forming for centuries.So before we move forward to the Great Schism of 1054, we're going to back up — to the early councils of the Church, when East and West still sat at the same table.We'll see how questions about who Jesus is, who leads the Church, and how truth is defined began to pull believers in different directions long before anyone realized the family was breaking apart.From One Empire to Two WorldsWhen Emperor Constantine moved the capital of the Roman Empire to Constantinople in 330 A.D., the center of gravity in the Christian world began to shift. Rome was still revered as the old seat of power, but Constantinople — “New Rome” — quickly became the heart of a thriving, educated, and deeply spiritual East.In the West, life revolved around survival. As the empire crumbled under invasions and chaos, the Church became the glue that held society together. Latin was the common language, law and order were prized, and the bishop of Rome — later known as the pope — grew in influence as emperors disappeared. By the time Rome finally fell in 476 A.D., it was the Church, not the state, that provided leadership and stability.In the East, the story looked very different. The Byzantine Empire remained strong and sophisticated, speaking Greek, preserving classical learning, and weaving theology into every part of public life. The emperor saw himself not just as a ruler, but as a protector of the...
In this episode, we trace how one global faith became divided between East and West — from the councils of Nicaea, Chalcedon, and Constantinople to the final break in 1054 — and discover what it means to return to the unified, Spirit-led Church Jesus originally envisioned.--The PursueGOD Truth podcast is the “easy button” for making disciples – whether you're looking for resources to lead a family devotional, a small group at church, or a one-on-one mentoring relationship. Join us for new episodes every Tuesday and Friday. Find resources to talk about these episodes at pursueGOD.org.Help others go "full circle" as a follower of Jesus through our 12-week Pursuit series.Click here to learn more about how to use these resources at home, with a small group, or in a one-on-one discipleship relationship.Got questions or want to leave a note? Email us at podcast@pursueGOD.org.Donate Now --Last week, we ended with a coronation that changed history.In 800 A.D., Pope Leo III placed a crown on the head of Charlemagne, declaring him “Emperor of the Romans.” It was the rebirth of a Christian Rome — what we now call the Holy Roman Empire.It seemed like a moment of triumph for the Church, but it came with a cost.That act blurred the line between heaven and earth — between spiritual authority and political control. The pope gained protection. Charlemagne gained divine legitimacy. But the partnership that promised unity in the West sent shockwaves through the East.In Constantinople, Christian leaders looked on in disbelief. The Eastern emperor was already the rightful heir of Rome — so who gave a Western pope the right to crown another? It was more than a political power play; it was the outworking of deeper cracks that had been forming for centuries.So before we move forward to the Great Schism of 1054, we're going to back up — to the early councils of the Church, when East and West still sat at the same table.We'll see how questions about who Jesus is, who leads the Church, and how truth is defined began to pull believers in different directions long before anyone realized the family was breaking apart.From One Empire to Two WorldsWhen Emperor Constantine moved the capital of the Roman Empire to Constantinople in 330 A.D., the center of gravity in the Christian world began to shift. Rome was still revered as the old seat of power, but Constantinople — “New Rome” — quickly became the heart of a thriving, educated, and deeply spiritual East.In the West, life revolved around survival. As the empire crumbled under invasions and chaos, the Church became the glue that held society together. Latin was the common language, law and order were prized, and the bishop of Rome — later known as the pope — grew in influence as emperors disappeared. By the time Rome finally fell in 476 A.D., it was the Church, not the state, that provided leadership and stability.In the East, the story looked very different. The Byzantine Empire remained strong and sophisticated, speaking Greek, preserving classical learning, and weaving theology into every part of public life. The emperor saw himself not just as a ruler, but as a protector of the...
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