Podcasts about pursuing god

Connect with God — on Abide, a Christian meditation app that provides a biblically grounded place to experience peace and progress in your relationship with Christ. Use this biblical meditation, narrated by James Seawood, to center yourself on the truth in God's word. Feeling insecure or inadequate for what’s ahead of you today? Hear the words of Paul in Colossians 2:10. Allow the music & nature sounds, deep breathing, prayer, and scripture help you connect with God in a new way. For a 30 day free trial of our premium ad-free content, your trusted friend for meditation is right here: https://abide.com/peace Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Earthly prizes fade, but Paul reminds us in 1 Corinthians 9 that the reward of helping someone find Jesus lasts forever. One day, crowns will be placed at the feet of Christ in worship, and those moments will make every sacrifice worth it. Don't just run aimlessly. Run for the prize that never fades.Pursuing God with Gene Appel is designed to help you pursue God, build community, and unleash compassion. Grounded in Scripture and shaped by Eastside's conviction that God's grace is for everyone, each episode invites you to discover God's presence and activity in your life.

Not every evangelist looks the same. Scripture shows six distinct styles — confrontational, intellectual, testimonial, interpersonal, invitational, and service. Each one is valid, and each one is needed. Discover how God has uniquely shaped you to share Jesus in your own way, with people only you can reach.Pursuing God with Gene Appel is designed to help you pursue God, build community, and unleash compassion. Grounded in Scripture and shaped by Eastside's conviction that God's grace is for everyone, each episode invites you to discover God's presence and activity in your life.

Paul reminds us in 1 Corinthians 9 that just like athletes train with discipline to win, we also need to prepare well to share our faith. That is why preparation matters in evangelism and how God has uniquely designed you to reach people who can only be reached by someone just like you.Pursuing God with Gene Appel is designed to help you pursue God, build community, and unleash compassion. Grounded in Scripture and shaped by Eastside's conviction that God's grace is for everyone, each episode invites you to discover God's presence and activity in your life.

Paul challenges us in 1 Corinthians 9 to run the race of evangelism with focus and intensity — not aimlessly, and not just shadowboxing. The prize isn't money or possessions; it's people who need Jesus. It is sometimes easy to lose sight of this goal so we need to refocus on what matters most: helping others encounter Christ.Pursuing God with Gene Appel is designed to help you pursue God, build community, and unleash compassion. Grounded in Scripture and shaped by Eastside's conviction that God's grace is for everyone, each episode invites you to discover God's presence and activity in your life.

What a Word we heard

God's Holiness – Motivation For Godly Living 1 Peter 1:15-19 NKJV 15 but as He who called you is holy, you also be holy in all your conduct, 16 because it is written, “Be holy, for I am holy.” 17 And if you call on the Father, who without partiality judges according to each one's work, conduct yourselves throughout the time of your stay here in fear; 18 knowing that you were not redeemed with corruptible things, like silver or gold, from your aimless conduct received by tradition from your fathers, 19 but with the precious blood of Christ, as of a lamb without blemish and without spot. To Be Holy You Must Be: 1) Set apart from ungodliness 2) Pursuing God's highest purpose for your life. I. God's Holiness - Motivation For Godly Living Vs. 16 says, “Be holy, for I am holy” God's Holiness - Motivation For Godly Living When God touches Your Life - You Become Uncommon II. Holy, Holy, Holy Isaiah 6:1 In the year that King Uzziah died I saw the Lord sitting upon a throne, high and lifted up; and the train of his robe filled the temple. Vs. 3 says, And one called to another and said:” Holy, holy, holy is the Lord of hosts; the whole earth is full of his glory! Woe is me Isaiah 6:8  And I heard the voice of the Lord saying, “Whom shall I send, and who will go for us?” Then I said, “Here I am! Send me.”  

When you hear the word evangelist, do you picture yourself? Many don't — and that's the problem. In 1 Corinthians 9, Paul uses the imagery of running a race to remind us that sharing Jesus isn't one-size-fits-all. This week we examine how God has uniquely shaped you to reach people only you can reach. The question isn't if you should share the good news - it's how.Pursuing God with Gene Appel is designed to help you pursue God, build community, and unleash compassion. Grounded in Scripture and shaped by Eastside's conviction that God's grace is for everyone, each episode invites you to discover God's presence and activity in your life.

What did you think of today's message? Support the showWith Northgate Online, you can join us every Sunday live at 9:00a and 11:00a, and our gatherings are available on-demand starting at 7p! Join us at https://thisis.churchSubscribe to our channel to see more messages from Northgate: https://www.youtube.com/@Northgate2201 —If you would like to give, visit https://thisis.church/give/—Check out our Care Ministries for prayer, food pantry, memorial services and more at https://thisis.church/care—You are welcome at Northgate just like you are. Life may be going great for you or you may have hurts, hang-ups, and habits. No matter where you are on your spiritual journey, you are welcome at Northgate. We value the process of journey. We believe in the transformative power of Christ. Northgate has a clear vision of transforming our homes, communities, and world by Pursuing God, Building Community, and Unleashing Compassion.—Follow Northgate on Instagram: https://instgram.com/ngatecfFollow Northgate on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ThisIsNorthgate/Follow Larry Davis: https://www.instagram.com/sirlawrencedavisSubscribe to Northgate's Podcast (Apple): https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/northgate/id1583512612Subscribe to Northgate's Podcast (Google): https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9mZWVkcy5idXp6c3Byb3V0LmNvbS81ODE2ODAucnNzShare your experience with Northgate by leaving a review: https://g.page/r/CRHE7UBydhxzEBM/review...

In Acts 28, Paul and his companions spend three months on Malta—a season of healing before continuing their journey. Gene reminds us today that deep wounds don't heal overnight, and God doesn't rush the process. Hurts that take time can become the very places where we're equipped to walk alongside others in their pain. The church isn't meant to be a showcase for perfect people but a refuge for real people—scarred, grieving, learning to heal. And as Isaiah 53 declares, “By his stripes we are healed.” In God's time, our scars can become the source of someone else's hope.Pursuing God with Gene Appel is designed to help you pursue God, build community, and unleash compassion. Grounded in Scripture and shaped by Eastside's conviction that God's grace is for everyone, each episode invites you to discover God's presence and activity in your life.

What do we do when it feels like God isn't on our side? In this episode of Shifting Culture, I talk with Joshua Ryan Butler about his new book God Is On Your Side and the ways he's wrestled with that very question through seasons of heartbreak, illness, and despair. Josh takes us into the Gospel of John, where one-on-one encounters with Jesus become mirrors for our own stories - the paralyzed man, the woman at the well, the man born blind, Lazarus in the tomb. Each scene reveals a God who sees us before we see Him, who calls us beloved, and who can turn even the hardest places into holy places. This conversation is about finding hope in the dark, learning to trust God in uncertainty, and remembering that we are never abandoned.Joshua Ryan Butler is a Teaching Pastor with the Willamette family of churches in the Portland area and the author of God is On Your Side, The Party Crasher, Beautiful Union, The Skeletons in God's Closet, and The Pursuing God. Josh loves shifting paradigms, to help people who wrestle with tough topics of the Christian faith by confronting popular caricatures and replacing them with the beauty and power of the real thing. He and his wife, Holly, along with their three children, live in Portland, Oregon. They enjoy spending time with friends over great meals and exploring the scenic beauty of the Pacific Northwest.Josh's Book:God is On Your SideJosh's Recommendations:Art of MemoirUnbrokenSubscribe to Our Substack: Shifting CultureConnect with Joshua: jjohnson@shiftingculturepodcast.comGo to www.shiftingculturepodcast.com to interact and donate. Every donation helps to produce more podcasts for you to enjoy.Follow on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, Threads, Bluesky or YouTubeConsider Giving to the podcast and to the ministry that my wife and I do around the world. Just click on the support the show link belowThe Balance of GrayFaith That Challenges. Conversations that Matter. Laughs included. Subscribe Now!Listen on: Apple Podcasts SpotifySupport the show

In Acts 28, Paul heals the father of Publius instantly with the touch of his hand—but the very next verse describes others who were “cured” through a longer, therapeutic process. Gene points out today that God sometimes works in moments, but often He works through months of care, recovery, and time. Just as Paul and the shipwreck survivors needed three months on Malta to heal, we sometimes need extended space to grieve, adjust, and recover. Healing is not about faking that you're fine—it's about giving God time to bring you through.Pursuing God with Gene Appel is designed to help you pursue God, build community, and unleash compassion. Grounded in Scripture and shaped by Eastside's conviction that God's grace is for everyone, each episode invites you to discover God's presence and activity in your life.

In Acts 28, after Paul shakes off a poisonous snake without harm, the islanders quickly shift their opinion of him—first calling him a murderer, then a god. Gene points out today how fickle public opinion can be and how unjust criticism often lands hardest on those already hurting. Proverbs 10:19 reminds us, “When words are many, sin is not absent.” Sometimes the wisest response is simply presence, not advice. In seasons of healing, what matters most is the steady love of Jesus—unchanging, even when people's opinions swing wildly.Pursuing God with Gene Appel is designed to help you pursue God, build community, and unleash compassion. Grounded in Scripture and shaped by Eastside's conviction that God's grace is for everyone, each episode invites you to discover God's presence and activity in your life.

After the shipwreck of Acts 27, Paul and 275 others wash ashore on Malta—a name that means “place of refuge.” Gene reminds us today that we all need our own Malta: a space to recover, be refreshed, and heal. But as Paul's story shows, refuge isn't always simple. At first, the islanders extend unusual kindness, offering warmth and care. Moments later, when a viper latches onto Paul's hand, the same people heap unjust criticism, assuming he must deserve it. Healing seasons often bring both kindness and misunderstanding, but Scripture reassures us that calamity is not punishment—it's part of living in a broken world.Pursuing God with Gene Appel is designed to help you pursue God, build community, and unleash compassion. Grounded in Scripture and shaped by Eastside's conviction that God's grace is for everyone, each episode invites you to discover God's presence and activity in your life.

What did you think of today's message? Support the showWith Northgate Online, you can join us every Sunday live at 9:00a and 11:00a, and our gatherings are available on-demand starting at 7p! Join us at https://thisis.churchSubscribe to our channel to see more messages from Northgate: https://www.youtube.com/@Northgate2201 —If you would like to give, visit https://thisis.church/give/—Check out our Care Ministries for prayer, food pantry, memorial services and more at https://thisis.church/care—You are welcome at Northgate just like you are. Life may be going great for you or you may have hurts, hang-ups, and habits. No matter where you are on your spiritual journey, you are welcome at Northgate. We value the process of journey. We believe in the transformative power of Christ. Northgate has a clear vision of transforming our homes, communities, and world by Pursuing God, Building Community, and Unleashing Compassion.—Follow Northgate on Instagram: https://instgram.com/ngatecfFollow Northgate on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ThisIsNorthgate/Follow Larry Davis: https://www.instagram.com/sirlawrencedavisSubscribe to Northgate's Podcast (Apple): https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/northgate/id1583512612Subscribe to Northgate's Podcast (Google): https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9mZWVkcy5idXp6c3Byb3V0LmNvbS81ODE2ODAucnNzShare your experience with Northgate by leaving a review: https://g.page/r/CRHE7UBydhxzEBM/review...

Called To Be Holy 1 Peter 1:13-16 ESV 13 Therefore, preparing your minds for action, and being sober-minded, set your hope fully on the grace that will be brought to you at the revelation of Jesus Christ. 14 As obedient children, do not be conformed to the passions of your former ignorance, 15 but as he who called you is holy, you also be holy in all your conduct, 16 since it is written, “You shall be holy, for I am holy.”  I. Live Like You're Born Again! II. Therefore Verse 13. Therefore, preparing your minds for action, and being sober-minded, set your hope fully on the grace that will be brought to you at the revelation of Jesus Christ.  Think Before You Act.  Being Holy: 1) Set apart from ungodliness 2) Pursuing God's highest purpose for your life.  III. Do Not Be Conformed Vs. 14, As obedient children, do not be conformed to the passions of your former ignorance. Paul brings up the same topic.  Romans 12:1-2, ESV says, I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that you present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God, which is your reasonable service. 2 And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God. Christ's Kingdom Is Not Of This World Vs. 13 says, set your hope fully on the grace that will be brought to you at the revelation of Jesus Christ. 

After Paul's shipwreck in Acts 27, we find him in Acts 28 entering a season of healing. Luke, the physician who recorded the book of Acts, reminds us that recovery—whether physical, emotional, or spiritual—often requires time. Gene shares today that just as Hippocrates once wrote, “Healing is a matter of time,” Scripture echoes that truth: there is “a time to heal” (Ecclesiastes 3). If you've ever wrestled with hurts, grief, or struggles you couldn't just “snap out of,” this episode is a reminder that you're not alone—and that God can meet you in the slow work of healing.Pursuing God with Gene Appel is designed to help you pursue God, build community, and unleash compassion. Grounded in Scripture and shaped by Eastside's conviction that God's grace is for everyone, each episode invites you to discover God's presence and activity in your life.

In the first of our 'Vineyard Values' series, Lynda talks about the importance of pursuing God's presence. For more information on Vineyard Church Dungannon go to vineyarddungannon.co.uk

As Acts 27 reaches its climax, Paul turns a shipwreck into a survival story. He activates everyone on board—giving each person a role so fear doesn't paralyze them but purpose sustains them. And when the ship finally breaks apart, Paul's absolute faith in God's promise carries all 276 people safely to shore. Gene reminds us today that effective leaders don't just organize plans—they empower people and trust God's power to bring those plans to life.Pursuing God with Gene Appel is designed to help you pursue God, build community, and unleash compassion. Grounded in Scripture and shaped by Eastside's conviction that God's grace is for everyone, each episode invites you to discover God's presence and activity in your life.

In Acts 27, as the storm raged and panic spread, Paul shifted the crew's focus. Instead of obsessing over the obstacles ahead, he pointed to the objective: survival. He urged them to eat, regain strength, and prepare for what was coming. Gene reminds us today that effective leaders see beyond the hurdles to the finish line. And like Paul, they don't just speak courage—they model it. True leadership is proven when actions match words, especially in crisis.Pursuing God with Gene Appel is designed to help you pursue God, build community, and unleash compassion. Grounded in Scripture and shaped by Eastside's conviction that God's grace is for everyone, each episode invites you to discover God's presence and activity in your life.

In Acts 27, Paul not only survives the storm—he strengthens others in the middle of it. Even as the ship is breaking apart, he points the crew to God's presence and promises, reminding them to take courage. Gene shows us today that effective leaders build others up when fear takes hold. And just as Paul refused to let the sailors abandon ship, true leaders never compromise on the absolutes of God's Word. Integrity may cost you, but it also secures the trust and courage of those you lead.Pursuing God with Gene Appel is designed to help you pursue God, build community, and unleash compassion. Grounded in Scripture and shaped by Eastside's conviction that God's grace is for everyone, each episode invites you to discover God's presence and activity in your life.

Visit our website to learn more about The God Centered Concept. The God Centered Concept is designed to bring real discipleship and spreading the Gospel to help spark the Great Harvest, a revival in this generation. www.godcenteredconcept.comKingdom Cross Roads Podcast is a part of The God Centered Concept.In this episode of Kingdom Crossroads, host T.S. Wright interviews John Gifta, who shares his incredible journey of faith, survival, and ministry. John recounts his miraculous survival against all odds as a baby, transformative encounters with God, and his calling to start an international ministry. He discusses the challenges he faced, including spiritual warfare, and emphasizes the importance of understanding one's purpose and identity in Christ. John also highlights the unique ways he uses his passion for Scooby Doo to connect with others and share the gospel. The conversation concludes with encouragement to pursue God and embrace one's unique calling.TakeawaysJohn's survival story is a testament to God's power.Transformative encounters with God can change one's life.Pursuing God's calling often requires stepping out in faith.Spiritual warfare is a real and present challenge.Understanding one's identity in Christ is crucial for purpose.Using unique gifts can enhance ministry effectiveness.God's blessings are meant to be shared with others.Adversity can strengthen faith and resolve.The importance of being in sync with God's will.Every believer has a unique purpose to fulfill.John Giftah's Information:YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@JohnGiftahInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/johngiftah/Link to my books on Amazon - https://www.amazon.com/s?k=john+giftah&crid=3AE6Z8AYOU4WR&sprefix=john+gift%2Caps%2C508&ref=nb_sb_noss_2Podcast - https://podcasts.apple.com/in/podcast/fuel-for-the-soul-with-john-giftah/id1588234296 Mentioned in this episode:Buffalo, NY Shoutout25/40 Campaign

In Acts 27, Paul steps up even as a prisoner on a storm-battered ship. First, he takes initiative—warning the crew of dangers ahead. Later, when fear has gripped every man on board, Paul speaks with authority, sharing God's promise of protection and courage. Gene reminds us today that true leaders don't just point out problems; they step forward to meet needs. And when storms come, they ground others with the unshakable authority of God's Word.Pursuing God with Gene Appel is designed to help you pursue God, build community, and unleash compassion. Grounded in Scripture and shaped by Eastside's conviction that God's grace is for everyone, each episode invites you to discover God's presence and activity in your life.

Thank you for listening. If you've been challenged or encouraged by what you've heard, be sure to share this podcast by taking a screen shot and sharing it on instagram or facebook and tag us @cvcmadera. If you really enjoyed the podcast, be sure to subscribe. If you'd like to contribute to the ministry of Central Valley Church, click here: cvcmadera.churchcenter.com/giving

What did you think of today's message? Support the showWith Northgate Online, you can join us every Sunday live at 9:00a and 11:00a, and our gatherings are available on-demand starting at 7p! Join us at https://thisis.churchSubscribe to our channel to see more messages from Northgate: https://www.youtube.com/@Northgate2201 —If you would like to give, visit https://thisis.church/give/—Check out our Care Ministries for prayer, food pantry, memorial services and more at https://thisis.church/care—You are welcome at Northgate just like you are. Life may be going great for you or you may have hurts, hang-ups, and habits. No matter where you are on your spiritual journey, you are welcome at Northgate. We value the process of journey. We believe in the transformative power of Christ. Northgate has a clear vision of transforming our homes, communities, and world by Pursuing God, Building Community, and Unleashing Compassion.—Follow Northgate on Instagram: https://instgram.com/ngatecfFollow Northgate on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ThisIsNorthgate/Follow Larry Davis: https://www.instagram.com/sirlawrencedavisSubscribe to Northgate's Podcast (Apple): https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/northgate/id1583512612Subscribe to Northgate's Podcast (Google): https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9mZWVkcy5idXp6c3Byb3V0LmNvbS81ODE2ODAucnNzShare your experience with Northgate by leaving a review: https://g.page/r/CRHE7UBydhxzEBM/review...

Today Gene begins our journey through Acts 27, where the apostle Paul sets sail for Rome as a prisoner. Though ranked last among 276 people, Paul rises to the top when storms hit—not because of authority, but because he earned trust. Leadership, Gene reminds us, isn't about titles or rank; it's about character proven in crisis.Pursuing God with Gene Appel is designed to help you pursue God, build community, and unleash compassion. Grounded in Scripture and shaped by Eastside's conviction that God's grace is for everyone, each episode invites you to discover God's presence and activity in your life.

As Paul closes his prayer in Ephesians 1, Gene reminds us that every believer has a heavenly account overflowing with spiritual wealth. We've learned to calculate the balance, understand the currency, and cash the checks of purpose, privilege, and power. The key to living this out? Prayer — praying these truths into our hearts so we walk daily with confidence, identity, and strength. It's time to stop searching for what we already have and start living like the rich people we are in Christ.Pursuing God with Gene Appel is designed to help you pursue God, build community, and unleash compassion. Grounded in Scripture and shaped by Eastside's conviction that God's grace is for everyone, each episode invites you to discover God's presence and activity in your life.

In Ephesians 1:18–19, Paul prays that the eyes of our hearts would be opened to the spiritual wealth available to us in Christ. Gene explains three “checks” we can cash right now: a significant purpose, a family privilege as children of the King, and unequaled power—the same power that raised Jesus from the dead. When we see life through this lens, we walk with hope, identity, and confidence that everything over our heads is already under His feet.Pursuing God with Gene Appel is designed to help you pursue God, build community, and unleash compassion. Grounded in Scripture and shaped by Eastside's conviction that God's grace is for everyone, each episode invites you to discover God's presence and activity in your life.

Visit our website to learn more about The God Centered Concept. The God Centered Concept is designed to bring real discipleship and spreading the Gospel to help spark the Great Harvest, a revival in this generation. www.godcenteredconcept.comKingdom Cross Roads Podcast is a part of The God Centered Concept.In this episode, TS Wright delivers a powerful message on the Parable of the Sower from Matthew 13, focusing on the condition of the heart. He explores four types of hearts: the hard heart, the confused heart, the busy heart, and the fertile heart, emphasizing the importance of spiritual growth and perseverance in faith. The conversation culminates in a call to action, encouraging listeners to reflect on their own hearts and pursue their calling in alignment with God's will.TakeawaysThe condition of our hearts is crucial to God.God measures us by the intent of our hearts.A hard heart does not absorb the truth.A confused heart is overwhelmed by competing ideologies.A busy heart allows life's distractions to choke faith.You cannot pursue comfort and God simultaneously.A fertile heart produces a significant spiritual harvest.Pursuing God, promoting Him, and persevering are key.We are all called to make disciples in some capacity.Prayer is essential for spiritual growth and direction.

In Ephesians 1:17, Paul prays that believers would receive the Spirit of wisdom and revelation so they could know God better. Gene unpacks what it means to understand the true “currency” of our spiritual wealth — not focusing on external circumstances, but seeing life from God's perspective. With a fresh lens, even our problems look different when viewed in light of our position in Christ.Pursuing God with Gene Appel is designed to help you pursue God, build community, and unleash compassion. Grounded in Scripture and shaped by Eastside's conviction that God's grace is for everyone, each episode invites you to discover God's presence and activity in your life.

In Ephesians 1, Paul reminds us that our spiritual “checkbook” is overflowing because of what we've already received in Christ through the Holy Spirit. But instead of being satisfied, Paul prays that we would keep pressing deeper into God, growing in faith and love. Today, Gene explores how Paul's prayer challenges us to recognize our heavenly wealth and to pray not only in times of trouble, but especially for those faithfully living on the front lines of faith.Pursuing God with Gene Appel is designed to help you pursue God, build community, and unleash compassion. Grounded in Scripture and shaped by Eastside's conviction that God's grace is for everyone, each episode invites you to discover God's presence and activity in your life.

Connect with God — on Abide, a Christian meditation app that provides a biblically grounded place to experience peace and progress in your relationship with Christ. Use this biblical meditation, narrated by Tyler Boss, to center yourself on the truth in God's word. What does it mean to live the Spirit-filled life? Meditate on Romans 8:6. Allow the music & nature sounds, deep breathing, prayer, and scripture help you connect with God in a new way. For a 30 day free trial of our premium ad-free content, your trusted friend for meditation is right here: https://abide.com/peace Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Gene begins a new series from Ephesians with a reminder of what it means to live in light of our spiritual inheritance. Just as Will in The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air had to learn to live like he belonged in his new family, followers of Jesus often forget the wealth already given to us through the Holy Spirit. In this episode, Gene shows how the Holy Spirit is God's promise of redemption and why our lives should reflect the identity and future we already have in Christ.Pursuing God with Gene Appel is designed to help you pursue God, build community, and unleash compassion. Grounded in Scripture and shaped by Eastside's conviction that God's grace is for everyone, each episode invites you to discover God's presence and activity in your life.

What did you think of today's message? Support the showWith Northgate Online, you can join us every Sunday live at 9:00a and 11:00a, and our gatherings are available on-demand starting at 7p! Join us at https://thisis.churchSubscribe to our channel to see more messages from Northgate: https://www.youtube.com/@Northgate2201 —If you would like to give, visit https://thisis.church/give/—Check out our Care Ministries for prayer, food pantry, memorial services and more at https://thisis.church/care—You are welcome at Northgate just like you are. Life may be going great for you or you may have hurts, hang-ups, and habits. No matter where you are on your spiritual journey, you are welcome at Northgate. We value the process of journey. We believe in the transformative power of Christ. Northgate has a clear vision of transforming our homes, communities, and world by Pursuing God, Building Community, and Unleashing Compassion.—Follow Northgate on Instagram: https://instgram.com/ngatecfFollow Northgate on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ThisIsNorthgate/Follow Larry Davis: https://www.instagram.com/sirlawrencedavisSubscribe to Northgate's Podcast (Apple): https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/northgate/id1583512612Subscribe to Northgate's Podcast (Google): https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9mZWVkcy5idXp6c3Byb3V0LmNvbS81ODE2ODAucnNzShare your experience with Northgate by leaving a review: https://g.page/r/CRHE7UBydhxzEBM/review...

Connect with God — on Abide, a Christian meditation app that provides a biblically grounded place to experience peace and progress in your relationship with Christ. Use this biblical meditation, narrated by Michelle Donnelly, to center yourself on the truth in God's word. What’s the next step? Meditate on Philippians 2:13. Allow the music & nature sounds, deep breathing, prayer, and scripture help you connect with God in a new way. For a 30 day free trial of our premium ad-free content, your trusted friend for meditation is right here: https://abide.com/peace Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

As we wrap up the story of the paralyzed man in Mark 2, Gene reminds us that once we've experienced God's forgiveness, we're called to extend it to others. Just as Jesus told the man to carry his mat as a reminder of grace, we too can remember what God has forgiven in us when we're tempted to hold on to hurt. Forgiveness isn't easy, but when we recall how deeply we've been forgiven, it becomes possible to reconcile, heal relationships, and live in freedom.Pursuing God with Gene Appel is designed to help you pursue God, build community, and unleash compassion. Grounded in Scripture and shaped by Eastside's conviction that God's grace is for everyone, each episode invites you to discover God's presence and activity in your life.

Today Gene shares the second step in truly experiencing God's forgiveness: confessing our sins, not just to God, but to another person. Just as the paralyzed man in Mark 2 heard Jesus say, “Your sins are forgiven,” we often need to hear those words spoken aloud to fully believe them. Through Scripture and story, Gene reminds us that when we confess and receive assurance of God's grace, we walk in freedom not because of what we've done, but because of what Christ has done for us.Pursuing God with Gene Appel is designed to help you pursue God, build community, and unleash compassion. Grounded in Scripture and shaped by Eastside's conviction that God's grace is for everyone, each episode invites you to discover God's presence and activity in your life.

Today Gene talks about the first step toward experiencing deep forgiveness: honestly acknowledging our need for it. None of us are as good as we appear, and guilt, regret, and shame can quietly weigh us down. Through Scripture, stories, and grace, Gene reminds us that God invites us out of hiding to receive His mercy and the freedom of true forgiveness.Pursuing God with Gene Appel is designed to help you pursue God, build community, and unleash compassion. Grounded in Scripture and shaped by Eastside's conviction that God's grace is for everyone, each episode invites you to discover God's presence and activity in your life.

Yesterday we met the paralyzed man in Mark 2 whose friends lowered him through a roof to see Jesus. Instead of healing his body, Jesus first said, “Son, your sins are forgiven.” Sometimes what we think we need most isn't our deepest need. In this episode, Gene reminds us that real freedom comes through forgiveness and grace.Pursuing God with Gene Appel is designed to help you pursue God, build community, and unleash compassion. Grounded in Scripture and shaped by Eastside's conviction that God's grace is for everyone, each episode invites you to discover God's presence and activity in your life.

What did you think of today's message? Support the showWith Northgate Online, you can join us every Sunday live at 9:00a and 11:00a, and our gatherings are available on-demand starting at 7p! Join us at https://thisis.churchSubscribe to our channel to see more messages from Northgate: https://www.youtube.com/@Northgate2201 —If you would like to give, visit https://thisis.church/give/—Check out our Care Ministries for prayer, food pantry, memorial services and more at https://thisis.church/care—You are welcome at Northgate just like you are. Life may be going great for you or you may have hurts, hang-ups, and habits. No matter where you are on your spiritual journey, you are welcome at Northgate. We value the process of journey. We believe in the transformative power of Christ. Northgate has a clear vision of transforming our homes, communities, and world by Pursuing God, Building Community, and Unleashing Compassion.—Follow Northgate on Instagram: https://instgram.com/ngatecfFollow Northgate on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ThisIsNorthgate/Follow Larry Davis: https://www.instagram.com/sirlawrencedavisSubscribe to Northgate's Podcast (Apple): https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/northgate/id1583512612Subscribe to Northgate's Podcast (Google): https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9mZWVkcy5idXp6c3Byb3V0LmNvbS81ODE2ODAucnNzShare your experience with Northgate by leaving a review: https://g.page/r/CRHE7UBydhxzEBM/review...

Today, Gene reflects on the paralyzed man in Mark 2 who spent years confined to a mat until four friends carried him to Jesus. For him, that mat represented weakness and limitation — but it also became the place where he experienced healing and hope.Pursuing God with Gene Appel is designed to help you pursue God, build community, and unleash compassion. Grounded in Scripture and shaped by Eastside's conviction that God's grace is for everyone, each episode invites you to discover God's presence and activity in your life.

Connect with God — on Abide, a Christian meditation app that provides a biblically grounded place to experience peace and progress in your relationship with Christ. Use this biblical meditation, narrated by Dianne Jackson, to center yourself on the truth in God's word. How is God meeting you in your longing to know Him? Meditate on Acts 10:2. Allow the music & nature sounds, deep breathing, prayer, and scripture help you connect with God in a new way. For a 30 day free trial of our premium ad-free content, your trusted friend for meditation is right here: https://abide.com/peace Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

This week, Jacob Crolla (Life Church Edinburgh) teaches from Genesis 28 – looking at the promise and purpose of God's blessing, and our call to pray for his manifest presence for the sake of our city.

This is our final episode in our week about dealing with gray areas in Christian living. We've established that love should guide our decisions when the Bible doesn't give clear direction, we've seen Paul's example of voluntary limitation, and we've talked about making introducing people in our lives to Jesus our ultimate priority. Today, we'll discuss how to make these decisions practically, without falling into legalism or insensitivity to others, with six practical guidelines for navigating the gray areas.Pursuing God with Gene Appel is designed to help you pursue God, build community, and unleash compassion. Grounded in Scripture and shaped by Eastside's conviction that God's grace is for everyone, each episode invites you to discover God's presence and activity in your life.

Today we'll focus on the ultimate goal that should drive all of our decision-making: We should be trying to get as close to Jesus as we can. Paul said, "I am not seeking my own good, but the good of many, that they may be saved." This is the heart attitude that should characterize our approach to gray areas.Pursuing God with Gene Appel is designed to help you pursue God, build community, and unleash compassion. Grounded in Scripture and shaped by Eastside's conviction that God's grace is for everyone, each episode invites you to discover God's presence and activity in your life.

Connect with God — on Abide, a Christian meditation app that provides a biblically grounded place to experience peace and progress in your relationship with Christ. Use this biblical meditation, narrated by James Seawood, to center yourself on the truth in God's word. What have you been afraid of bugging God about? Meditate on Matthew 7:7. Allow the music & nature sounds, deep breathing, prayer, and scripture help you connect with God in a new way. For a 30 day free trial of our premium ad-free content, your trusted friend for meditation is right here: https://abide.com/peace Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Can faith and perseverance really transform a life from survival to success?In this inspiring episode of Parenting Great Kids, Dr. Meg Meeker welcomes Angela “Stikks” Adams—a single mom turned successful model and founder of the Christian Models Association. Angela opens up about her incredible story of overcoming hardship, staying grounded in her Christian faith, and choosing purpose over popularity.From battling poverty to breaking into the modeling industry without compromising her values, Angela shares the real-life lessons and God-centered strategies that helped her rise above. She also explains how parents can pass on "God-confidence" instead of self-confidence to help their children walk in truth and strength.If you're a single mom, a parent trying to raise faith-filled kids, or someone searching for hope during hard times, this episode will speak directly to your heart.

Connect with God — on Abide, a Christian meditation app that provides a biblically grounded place to experience peace and progress in your relationship with Christ. Use this biblical meditation, narrated by James Seawood, to center yourself on the truth in God's word. Are you hungry for Jesus? Meditate on John 6:35. Allow the music & nature sounds, deep breathing, prayer, and scripture help you connect with God in a new way. For a 30 day free trial of our premium ad-free content, your trusted friend for meditation is right here: https://abide.com/peace Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Coleton preached from Luke 19:1–10, the story of Zacchaeus, to show how Jesus transforms lives through love, not guilt or fear. Zacchaeus, a wealthy tax collector despised by others, was radically changed when Jesus chose to stay at his house. His response—giving to the poor and repaying those he wronged—demonstrates how experiencing Christ's love leads to deep transformation. Coleton emphasized that this is how the gospel works: it is God's power to change us, not our willpower or religious effort. Many try to change through fear, guilt, selfishness, or striving for God's approval, but true transformation comes only by experiencing His love. Two Cultures Coleton Wants for C3 Church     1.    A Culture Saturated with the Gospel     •    The gospel reveals God's deep love for us. The more it saturates our hearts and minds, the more it transforms us into people of forgiveness, generosity, and love.     •    This also corrects our distorted views of God. Jesus revealed the Father as merciful, kind, and gracious, not condemning or distant.     •    Practices like communion, confession, discipleship groups, preaching, and worship exist to root us in God's love and remind us that with Him we are safe, forgiven, and deeply loved.     2.    A Culture of Pursuit     •    God invites us to seek Him, and He responds to those who do. Scripture testifies that He rewards those who pursue Him (Hebrews 11:6; Matthew 6:33).     •    Pursuit is about encountering God in the present—not just being grateful for salvation in the past or hopeful for heaven in the future. Like the people Jesus healed, we can have present-tense testimonies of how He works in our lives today.     •    Coleton called for building rhythms of prayer, worship, discipleship, and spiritual practices so that seeking God becomes natural. These create space for God's presence, power, and blessing to shape us. Ultimately, Coleton's vision is for C3 to be a church so different from the world that stepping into it feels like culture shock—an environment formed by the gospel and pursuit of God where lives are continually transformed. ⸻ Discipleship Group Discussion Questions 1.    Zacchaeus' life was transformed not by fear or guilt but by experiencing Jesus' love. How have you personally experienced God's love transforming you? 2.    Which of the four “religious motivators” (fear, guilt, selfishness, or trying to earn God's love) do you most struggle with? How does the gospel (how God actually loves you) free you from that? 3.    In what ways has your view of God been distorted in the past? How does Jesus reshape that view? 4. If someone asked you today, “What has Jesus done for you recently?” what story would you be able to share? 5. Pursuing God requires intentional effort. What practices (prayer, Scripture, accountability, worship) help you stay consistent in seeking Him? Where are you struggling to pursue Him right now? 6. How can your group help each other create a “culture of pursuit”—seeking God not just individually but together? ⸻ Quotes from Authors     •    Leon Morris: “The gospel is not advice to people, suggesting that they lift themselves. It is power. It lifts them up. Paul does not say that the gospel brings power, but that it is power.”     •    Greg Boyd: “Despite our sin our creator thinks that we are worth experiencing a hellish death for. It was for the joy of spending eternity with us that Jesus endured the cross. In other words Calvary reveals our unsurpassable worth and significance to God. At the core of our being, this is what we long for.”     •    A.W. Tozer, The Pursuit of God: “Why do some people ‘find' God in a way that others do not? Why does God manifest His Presence to some and let multitudes of others struggle along in the half-light of imperfect Christian experience? Certainly the will of God is the same for all. He has no favorites. All He has ever done for any of His children He will do for all of His children. The difference lies, not with God, but with us.”     •    Craig Dykstra: “Practices are the nuclear reactors of the Christian faith, arenas where the gospel and human life come together in energizing, explosive ways. Practices create openings in our lives where the grace, mercy, and presence of God may be made known to us.”  

Joshua Ryan Butler is a Teaching Pastor with the Willamette family of churches in the Portland area and the author of The Party Crasher, Beautiful Union, The Skeletons in God's Closet, The Pursuing God, and his most recent book, God is On Your Side. To listen to our "extra innings" conversation, head over to Theology in the Raw's Patreon page to become a member of the Theology in the Raw community. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.